The next morning in Odemira, we enjoyed a relaxed breakfast filled with sweet treats while observing the ever-changing weather. Although rain was forecasted for the week, which beautifully accentuated the coastline, the sun soon peeked out, prompting us to explore more of this stunning area in Portugal.
After a quick exploration of our hotel in Odemira, including a visit to the indoor pool I missed the previous day, we set off in our car toward the Algarve. This region was a place I had heard a lot about but never considered visiting until now due to my superficial curiosity about Lagos in the Algarve, a city sharing the name with where I was born.
Thankfully, my curiosity led us here because this part of Portugal is breathtaking. As soon as you arrive, you quickly see why it’s a favored holiday destination for Europeans. Our adventure began in Ponta da Piedade, known for its impressive jagged rock formations rising from the ocean around Lagos.
Lagos itself is a charming Portuguese town rich in history and beautiful beaches. Although it is tricky to navigate by car because of its narrow streets, it’s worth parking outside and exploring on foot.
After a quick and uneventful lunch, we headed to Sagres, the edge of Europe. This small village is more renowned for its natural beauty and its significant contrast between the calmer waters to the east and the rougher seas to the west, making it a famous surfing spot.
We spent some time relaxing here, enjoying the sunset with Sagres beers, before making our way back to Aljezur for dinner at Gulli Bistrot, an Italian/Mediterranean restaurant. The food was incredibly delicious, explaining why we couldn’t get a table the first night. We indulged in various dishes, particularly the linguine, which was so flavorful that it was hard not to lick the bowl clean.
Our meal extended beyond three hours, likely due to our multiple orders and the generous servings of sangria. Reflecting on the day spent enjoying the Algarve’s sunshine and delicious meals, I was grateful for deciding to venture beyond Lisbon to discover more of Portugal’s remarkable beauty.