Lagos holidays

Known for its local ingredients taken from the land and sea, there’s something distinct about this region’s flavours. Mainly known for its Mediterranean dishes, a number of products were also brought to the area from North Africa including olive oil, tomatoes and a range of spices. Fish and seafood can be found just about everywhere in the Algarve, particularly grilled sardines and salted cod. The famous piri piri chicken is also found here, but be warned it’s spicer than what we’re used to back home. Hearty stews are also popular from beef options to bean alternatives for vegetarians. And don’t forget to wash it down with a glass of wine – after all, you’re in one of the area’s main wine producing spots.

You’re not short of drinking and dining opportunities in this bustling hotspot either. O Mexilhao is the place to head for delectable seafood with its garlic bathed prawns and melt in your mouth sea bass fillets. International options are also on hand, and Nah Nah Bah is the home of the burger, after it was ranked among one of the 50 best burger spots in the world. With a good-time atmosphere, it’s often mistaken as a bar. The nightlife is also pumping with lively spots like Three Monkeys, Eddie’s Bar and Nox Club all worth a mention.

Lagos is a beach paradise with a great range of sand spots to show for itself. Ponta da Piedade is definitely worth a visit, even if you just come here to admire its backing of limestone cliffs, craggy archways and hidden grottos, which look even more beautiful against the shore’s emerald waters. Praia do Camilo isn’t much further and it’s just as eye-catching with its yellow meets red backdrop. Found at the bottom of 200 steps, it’s not the easiest shore to reach. On the other end of the beach scale, you’ll find Meia Praia, whose six kilometres of sand stretches all the way to the resort of Alvor. Backed by dunes with a wide body, there’s plenty of space to spread out when you’re not taking a dip in its pleasant waters. Conveniently located close to the Old Town, Praia de Dona Ana is another roomy spot where bathers are protected by the rocks, meaning waters remain calm, making it a great spot for families with little ones.

Lagos is one of those places that has something for everyone, whether you come here to soak up the sun from its first-class beaches, sample its late-night bar scene, admire its brightly painted architecture or make a beeline for its family-focused attractions and watersports.

Discover the resort’s historical side: With a historical centre showing off the Lagos’ traditional character, there’s plenty of ancient findings dotted across the resort. Among its most striking structures is the Church of St Anthony, whose whitewashed exterior, twin bell towers and Baroque style instantly demand your attention. Castelo dos Governadores and Forte da Ponta da Bandeira are just the spots if you want to see how the town protected itself from the threat of pirates. The marina is also home to a museum exhibiting the Age of Discovery, while the science museum in the centre is just as fascinating with its 3D printers and educational playground, a great addition for keen to learn children.

Spot wildlife at the zoo: If you’re a lover of wildlife, then a trip to Zoo de Lagos will be worthwhile. With 140 species taken from five continents along with a monkey island and small farm housing dwarf zebras, there’s so much to see here. Little ones will love getting involved in the animal feedings, while the penguin beach is a treat for all ages. Nature enthusiasts are also in luck with 200 plant species growing within the park, plus the well-being of the animals is a real highlight with spaces created to mimic their natural habitat. There’s also a tunnel which spans for 60 metres where visitors can see tropical birds in flight.