Thursday 9th March - Praia do Amado

Today we are taking a trip following up on the advice of ex.pat. local inhabitants, Rachel and David, a few days ago.  One of their top 'must sees' is Praia do Amado. This is considered one of Portugal's best surfing beaches, attracting surfers from all over the world and hosting International competitions. Perhaps the most surprising thing about Praia do Amado is that is is entirely unspoiled.  There are no shops or cafes (well, one restaurant about half a mile up the coast).  Just a few surf shacks offering surfing lessons.  The beach is wonderfully peaceful and the waves mesmerizing.

The track to Praia do Amado, set in beautiful countryside

Restaurante Sitio Do Forno

Having spent a couple of hours walking along the beach we headed off along the rough track that traces the line of the headland.  We stopped off at Restaurant Sitio Do Forno which has a view to die for.  As we had bought our lunch with us today, we only had a coffee this time but the seafood looked excellent.

We continued our drive along the bumpy headland track, with spectacular sea views our constant companion.  Whilst the way is bumpy, a significant amount of money has been spent on laying down board walk and steps all along the headland to ensure safe access to as many beaches and coves as possible.  

The last leg of our trip is to Monchique and Marmelete.  Monchique and Marmelete are high up in a thickly wooded mountain range that separates the Algarve from Alentejo.  As promised by Rachel and David, this journey offered a vista and terrain very different from the Algarve and even more spectacular views.

What a splendid day we've had.

View to Portimão and the sea (some 30 km away)
from the road to Monchique

Note: Click on photos for an enlarged view.   Feel free to post a comment on the blog.