Ferragudo

The basics

Ferragudo is an appealing, laid-back base for visitors exploring the Algarve. The riverfront area is lined with seafood restaurants, as is the pretty cobbled square of Praça Rainha Dona Leonor. The nearest beach is the estuary-side Praia da Angrinha, which hosts fishermen’s huts at the northern end, while the larger Praia Grande, situated a little further south, is also within easy reach.

Boat tours departing from nearby marinas typically stop at picturesque beauty spots along the coast—such as the Ponta da Piedade cliffs and the Benagil caves. The Arade estuary area is also popular among walkers, who can trek by salt marshes, pastures, and promontories to see local birdlife.

Things to know before you go

• Ferragudo is a must for travelers looking to experience a more traditional side of the Algarve.
• The town’s two beaches, Praia da Angrinha and Praia Grande, are sheltered and suitable for swimming.
• Water taxis can carry passengers across the river to Portimão.

How to get there

Ferragudo is situated on the east bank of the Arade River, opposite Portimão. Driving from Faro airport will take about an hour. Alternatively, take a train or bus from Faro to Portimão, then hop on a water taxi from the marina.

When to get there

Like much of the Algarve, Ferragudo sees most visitors in June, July, and August. May, September, and early October promise pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds, and little rainfall.

Castle of Arade

The 17th-century Castle of Arade stands to watch from its strategic clifftop perch between Praia da Angrinha and Praia Grande. It’s the sister fort to Santa Catarina Fortress in Praia da Rocha; together the two were designed to protect Portimão from pirates and invaders. Though the Castle of Arade is now privately owned, the historic fort can still be admired from the outside and is visible from both Ferragudo's beaches.