Historical Algarve

by coach & on foot

Departing Portimão, you will head south to Cape St. Vincent, which is where Nelson defeated the French in 1797. With its coastline of rugged cliffs being constantly beaten by the relentless breakers of the Atlantic, this is a formidable coastal area. There is a lighthouse situated on top of the cliffs, providing a guiding beam that safely directs the hundreds of ships that pass the Cape every year.

Your journey will continue to Sagres, a small port where Prince Henry the Navigator (1394-1460) is thought to have had his headquarters, the School of Navigation — although the exact location is still disputed. Here you will see the Old Hermitage, dating back to the 17th century, where the Royal Prince Dom Henrique occasionally prayed.

You will visit the 17th century fortress, which was heavily damaged in the great earthquake of 1755, but has been largely restored in more recent times. Near the entrance you can see a column topped by a coat of arms and a cross, which explorers used to mark territories they claimed for their king and country. During your visit you will see the Rosa dos Ventos, or ‘Rose of the Winds’ — a giant compass dial made of pebbles which is over 40m (131ft) in diameter. You may also wish to take a walk up on to the battlements where you will be rewarded with breathtaking views.

Your final stop will be in Lagos, the departure port for the first exploration caravels. Here you will see the statue dedicated to Prince Henry the Navigator, and the arcades where slaves were first auctioned in Europe. Today, Lagos retains the atmosphere of its great cosmopolitan heritage and there is a wealth of architecture and monuments to see here during your free time.

At the end of your experience, reboard your coach for the return drive to the pier.