Portugal Villa Holiday Rentals Algarve Apartments Alto Club Alvor

Lagos

Lagos centre

Lagos was once the capital of the Algarve but is now the third largest town, being steeped in history. The Romans were the first to occupy the town, with many of their remains having been found throughout the Lagos area. These were then followed by The Moors. The old part with its cobbled streets and flower-decked squares has been beautifully restored. For two centuries, Lagos was the region's capital and home port of many explorers who charted the routes to India. The seafaring tradition of Lagos dates back to the 15th century when Henry the Navigator had his ships built here for his voyages of discovery into the unknown world. Fishing has always featured strongly as an industry of Lagos. In the middle ages, whales were brought ashore and as whaling declined, tuna replaced this as the main catch, being caught in large funnel nets. These nets were set up off the coast of Lagos so that the fish were then trapped as they migrated to the Mediterranean. As tuna became more scarce, the fishermen of Lagos had to place their nets further out to sea, as sardines now became the main catch. During the late 19th century, there were four sardine canning factories in the area but only the chimney stacks now remain. Look up at these, and you may well see the storks nesting!

Lagos was also the site of the first slave market in Europe and the building where the slave auctions took place can still be seen. It is possible to walk around the old city walls, some of them dating back to the 15th and 16th centuries.

Dom Sebastiao

Strolling through Lagos market square, you cannot fail to notice the impressive stone statue of the young boy-king, Dom Sebastiao.He became king of Portugal at the tender age of 14yrs, replacing his established ministers with inexperienced headstrong young men. During his reign, he made several errors of judgement, the most serious resulting in his death, leaving Portugal with no monarch and an opportunity for King Phillip II of Spain to seize the leadership of the Portuguese citizens, which lasted for 60yrs.You will also spot talented street artists in the square, from portrait artists to scenic.

one of the many street artists

Lagos town has markets selling a variety of fresh products and is the ideal place to purchase your fresh fish, meat and vegetables. As well as a wide choice of restaurants and cafes, there are also several boutiques to suit all tastes and budgets , pottery and gift shops. Street entertainers add to the evening atmosphere and it is well worth a visit into town at night. Along the Algarve coast are also many beautiful sandy beaches, stretching from Alvor in the east, to Praia da Luz in the west.

The new marina da Lagos is a hive of activity wihin easy walking distance of the centre and is used by local boat owners and holiday makers. Here you will also find a good choice of bistros, bars and restaurants where you can admire the yachts, cruisers and catamarans. Thrilling, high speed rib inflatable boat trips out to sea also leave from here, to see the dolphins, an ideal trip for the young and adventurous of any age! Or, why not relax with grilled sardines and wine, then take a trip to the grottos in the cliffs at nearby Ponte da Piedad?

The marina, Lagos

In the evening time, Lagos comes alive with many bars and restaurants catering for all tastes and a friendly atmosphere can be enjoyed until the early hours, taxis are cheap and plentiful. The atmosphere is relaxed and friendly and provides the perfect escape from the pressures of modern life.

Lagos has a cosmopolitan feel and although you will find many people from the UK and other European countries, the town is still the home of many Portuguese folk engaged in traditional industries such as fishing as well as catering for the modern tourist.

Evening in Lagos

Lagos is about an hours drive from Faro airport along the new motorway. Car hire and/or airport transfers from Faro can be arranged by us on request. We have a large selection of villas, apartments and holiday resorts, within a few kilometers of Lagos, most with pools. Independent Villas' friendly sales team have many years' local knowledge of Lagos and the West Algarve and would be delighted to discuss your individual requirements and make it easy for you to book the individual holiday you have always wanted. Why not give us a call and see what we can do for you!