Portugal
We have been spending the winters in Portugal since 2016. This was the first (since the Pandemic) that we didn’t spend at least 2 months. My normal rental was under repair and was supposed to be complete, but didn’t get done (welcome to Portugal). We ended up spending a lovely 3 weeks with a friend who very graciously hosted us. A few top things to do, should you end up staying in the Western Algarve.
Go to the farmers markets - Lagos (Levante Lagos Market) Saturday market is packed full of amazing produce, veggies, olives, and baked goods. The Wednesday market is all organic and various makers (including crafts). It opens officially at 4 pm - though you can go early…and do, especially if you want to get a table to have dinner there. I love this market and make an effort to make it every week.
The berry guy’s line is LONG, but his are really the best and you get a ton for a great price. He also is at the Wednesday night market.
Saturday also has the bread lady - she makes the most amazing seed bread and these spicy, cheesy breads. You will see the line.
2. Get the carrot cake or other at Sweet Home - this is the perfect post-market breakfast. yes, cake for breakfast.
You will thank me - it is delicious and she makes a good coffee and/or tea. They frequently open a bit later than the posted hours and are closed all of January - I think she opens back up a few days before Valentines day.
If you are there when she is closed, go right next door to the farmers market (Mercearia Bio Café Lagos) - great coffee and amazing ginger biscuits.
3 Walk the beaches and see the grottos
All are lovely and worth it - do check out the tide charts, as some are not accessible during high tide!
Some of the most amazing sites and cliffs are on the west side, north of Sagres - you must rent a car to do this and I can 100% recommend Luzcar for rentals. They provide full coverage and multiple drivers all for the same price. It is the one company that I’ve never had to have the full video of the car ahead of time. Seriously, they are great.
4 Go to Sagres
It is a lovely town. See the fort and the light house. The cliffs are really amazing to look out over the ocean.
5 Pottery shopping
Ceramica Paraiso is my favorite and they have other items as well ← they only take cash!
