Just in from the coast, far away from the hustle and bustle of the coastal resort towns that line the Algarve shores, you will find the sleepy little town of Lagoa. The area is well known for its wine production and as such, you can expect to see many vineyards stretched out throughout the countryside that surrounds Lagoa.
Lagoa is known for its wine industry and it is present in every tavern and restaurant in the city. You will find many different guided tours that will take you through the many different wineries and vineyards. The best time to visit though is in the summer time when the city is home to the annual Fatacil fair.
Praia da Senhora da Rocha, Lagoa, Algarve, Portugal
The city itself is filled with the taste of the days of old. As you walk down the ancient cobblestone paths and pass the whitewashed buildings that line the streets, you will definitely feel as if you have stepped back in time to a place where life was just a little simpler.
The city got its name from an ancient lagoon which used to be located atop a local hill. While no signs of this lagoon exist today, the name still stands as a testament to the workmanship of the past civilizations which called Lagoa home.
You will find the Our Lady of the Light parish church which was destroyed by the 1755 earthquake and was rebuilt during the 18th century but still features many artifacts that date back to the 16th century; the time of its original construction. There is also the St. Joseph’s Convent which was built in the 18th century and is now a cultural center. In the gardens you will find a menhir which has been dated back to the 4th century B.C.
While being quite secluded from the coasts, Lagoa is also home to several beach side resorts that sit atop the cliffs that line the shores of Algarve. These luxurious resorts and hotels offer some breath-taking views of the sea and surrounding coastline. They are just a short trip outside of the city’s center, but offer some of the most current amenities that many vacationers are seeking. There are spas and golf courses that are bound to keep you busy all day long. After spending the days tasting wine throughout Lagoa, it’s good to know that you can relax by the sea in luxury.