Marie Patterson rediscovers local beauty, hidden gems, and seafood worth walking for
– August 14, 2025 | Text Marie Patterson | Photos Charlotte Cockayne/Open Media Group
There’s something deeply refreshing about rediscovering the place you call home.
As locals in the Algarve, we’re often so wrapped up in daily routines that we forget we’re living in one of the most stunning coastal regions in Europe.
So this month we decided to hit pause, lace up our trainers, and once again become tourists in our own backyard – taking on the breathtaking clifftop walk from Carvoeiro to Ferragudo.
The trail begins in Carvoeiro, heading west along the rugged cliffs that define this stretch of coastline.
The views are absolutely astonishing – panoramic vistas of the Atlantic that stretch endlessly, with waves crashing far below and the salty sea breeze filling the air.
It’s a moment that reminds you just how lucky we are to call this place home.
The route takes you past Praia de Vale da Lapa, a peaceful and often overlooked gem tucked between more popular beaches, only accessible by foot. Continuing onward, the scenery only gets better.
As you approach Praia dos Caneiros – easily one of the most iconic beaches in the region – the halfway point comes into sight.
This is the perfect spot to take a break and soak it all in. A chilled drink here is almost essential; it’s a reward well-earned, and there’s something magical about sipping something cold whilst gazing out over this picturesque beach.
With spirits lifted and legs rested, the walk continues past Praia do Pintadinho, another postcard-worthy stop where you may even catch a glimpse of dolphins if you’re lucky. Before long, you reach one of the walk’s highlights: the jetty at the mouth of the Arade River.
Here, you can overlook the entire bay of Portimão, with fishing boats, catamarans, and water taxis weaving their way across the water – a buzzing marine scene contrasted by the calm of the sea beyond.
As you arrive in Ferragudo, the path winds along the beach and past the iconic medieval-style São João do Arade Castle.
Then comes one of the most charming parts of the adventure: a meander through the cobbled backstreets of Ferragudo itself.
With its whitewashed houses, colourful window frames, and flower-filled balconies, the village invites you to slow down and explore. Each turn offers a new postcard view or a tiny shop to peek into.
Hunger kicked in just in time for a well-deserved meal, and we found our way to Ferragudu’s Terrace – a family-run seafood restaurant that instantly feels like a local secret.
Run by two brothers who clearly care deeply about their craft, the food is fresh, flavourful, and unfussy.
Multiple platters of a variety of seafood, chilled cocktails, and a light breeze made it one of those perfect Algarve moments.
After lingering a little longer than planned, we set off for the journey back to Carvoeiro.
There are two options here: retrace your steps along the clifftops, or take the road route for a slightly easier walk home. Either way, it’s a scenic and satisfying way to end the day.
A word of caution – whilst this walk is undoubtedly beautiful, it’s also exposed. Be sure to pack plenty of water, wear a hat and sunscreen, and avoid starting in the middle of the day when the sun is at its fiercest.
Early mornings or late afternoons are ideal for both comfort and lighting – golden hour views along the cliffs are simply unforgettable.
This clifftop walk reminded us that you don’t always need to travel far to find adventure. Sometimes, the best way to fall in love with a place all over again is to explore it like a visitor.
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