THINGS TO DO & TO KNOW
Walks
Vinha Velha comprises 140 hectares situated in the middle of the Mata National Forest, bordering the idyllic Barao de Sao Joao. By foot you can reach the village in about 40 minutes.
Those who like the scent of eucalyptus, pine and acacia trees, should definitely take time for a walk in the area. On the trail you will find stone sculptures and engraved poetic messages by artists from the region.
Beaches
A variety of beaches can be reached by car in less than half an hour.
Salema, Figueira, Burgau and Boca do Rio (south coast), Carrapateira, Amado, Monte Clerigo (west coast).
Sagres is the most south-westerly point in Europe from which the Portuguese sailors once planned their voyages of discovery. The Fortaleza de Sagres, situated on the imposing cliffs, are worth a visit.
Markets
Every first Sunday of the month there is a flea market in Lagos, which attracts visitors with its international but also traditional flair. Every 4th sunday zou will find another flea market in Barao de Sao Joao.
Saturday morning there’s a market in Lagos where local farmers sell their vegetables and fruits. You can also find hand woven baskets, aloe vera products, soaps, and home made bread, sold by members of the international and local community;
Every Tuesday closer buy, you can find a small vegetabl market in Barão de São João.
“Vivó Mercado” in Lagos, is an initiative, promoted by different entities interested in the growth of the local biological market in cooperation with C.M.L.
Was started in 2018 and nowadays it has grown in such a way that you can buy biological and regional products, such as handicrafts, natural medicines, vegan products and even craft beer from the region. Every Wednesday from 5pm to 10pm with live music by artists .
There is a Fish Market in Vila do Bispo and Lagos from Tuesday to Saturday morning
Outings
If you're interested in Permaculture you can visit the eco resort Vale da Lama, close to Odiaxere. Check the calendar on their website: http://www.valedalama.net/en. In the summer months they organize regularly concerts, open days, pizza nights, etc.
On the way to Vale da Lama you can find a organic wine yard Monte do Alem. Better book in advance for a wine tasting: http://www.monte-do-alem.com/en/
In Sargaçal there is another organic vineyard - Monte de Castelejo.
The Pizzaria Pizza Paza situated in he restored little village Pedralva located on the West Coast, is definitely worth a visit! https://www.tripadvisor.pt/Restaurant_Review-g12536775-d1060419-Reviews-Pizza_Pazza-Pedralva_Faro_District_Algarve.html
A popular excursion into the midland of the Algarve leads to Monchique. From the highest point “foia”, you have a beautiful view all over the coast. https://www.algarvetips.com/cities/monchique/
If you want to relax, you can do so in the thermal baths of Caldas de Monchique. There you can also visit a gallery or one of the restaurants on site.
