Is Sagres worth visiting? Absolutely! If you’re wondering what to do in Sagres Portugal, you’ve come to the right place. Sagres, located on the rugged west coast of the Algarve, is much more than just a surfer’s town. This small town at the southwesternmost point of mainland Europe offers a unique mix of history, adventure, and relaxation that you won’t find anywhere else.
In this article, I’ll share why Sagres, located at the southwesternmost point of Europe, attracts surfers, adventurers, and nature lovers from all over the world.
Who is Sagres Perfect For?
Sagres is ideal for:
- Surfers (from beginner to expert) – this is one of Portugal’s best surf spots
- Nature lovers and adventurers
- People wanting to escape the busy Algarve
- History enthusiasts
- Digital nomads (especially in winter)
Sagres is NOT suitable for:
- Those seeking nightlife and crowds
- Families wanting lots of activities and amenities
- People who don’t like wind (it’s always windy here!)
Why Sagres in the Algarve is So Special
During my walk along the Fishermen’s Trail, I first arrived in Sagres. When I walked the Fishermen’s Trail for the second time, I decided to stay for several days! This authentic Portuguese town has a wonderfully peaceful atmosphere compared to the busy tourist hotspots of the Algarve. Here you’ll find a relaxed, international vibe full of surfers, nature lovers, and adventurers.
Must-See Attractions You Can’t Miss
Pro tip: Visit the lighthouse for sunset and bring a windbreaker – it can get quite cold! And try the famous “last bratwurst before America” from the food stalls.
Statue of Henry the Navigator – Sagres, Portugal
The Center of Sagres
In the heart of Sagres, you’ll find Jardim de Sagres – the central square where you can admire the tourist office, a skate park, and the impressive statue of Infante D. Henrique (Prince Henry the Navigator). The statue shows him with a map in hand, pointing to the sea – a perfect tribute to the man who ushered in Portugal’s golden age of exploration.
Fortaleza de Sagres – The Historic Heart
The historic fort on the cliffs is absolutely the highlight of your visit (€3 entrance). This 15th-century fort played a crucial role during the age of explorers under Prince Henry the Navigator. The fort is unique because it has only one defensive wall – the other three sides are protected by immense cliffs. I loved taking a walk along the cliffs and watching the local fishermen.
The mysterious wind compass: Inside the fort, you’ll find the famous “Rosa dos Ventos” – a giant stone compass 43 meters in diameter, created by Henry the Navigator. This impressive compass is divided into 48 segments and was possibly used for navigation training to teach sailors about wind and sea currents.
Insider tip: Be sure to visit the Exhibition Center inside the fort with a beautiful replica of a globe from 1490-1492 showing the world as it was known before Europeans reached America. Plan about 40 minutes for your visit.
Cabo de São Vicente – The True End of Europe
The Farol de Cabo de São Vicente is located just 6 kilometers from Sagres and is truly breathtaking. This is the southwesternmost point of mainland Europe, with cliffs rising 75 meters above the sea. The lighthouse is one of the most powerful in Europe and offers spectacular sunsets.
If you’re walking the Fishermen’s Trail, you’ll pass by here and it’s a perfect lunch stop. Occasionally I eat meat, and I thought this would be a good place for it. However, I must say I didn’t find it super tasty and can’t really recommend it. Fortunately, they have more options at this end of Europe.
The Best Beaches of Sagres Portugal
Praia do Tonel – For Real Surfers
Perfect for surfers due to powerful waves and rugged natural beauty. Even if you don’t surf, the surrounding cliffs are perfect for watching surfers in action.
Praia da Mareta – Perfect for Surfing and Relaxation
A 600-meter-long sandy beach and Sagres’s most popular beach, easily accessible on foot. This is THE spot for beginner surfers in Sagres! Mareta is sheltered between two high peninsulas, providing protection from westerly and northwesterly winds and gentler waves. Ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and your first surfing experience.
Praia do Beliche – The Hidden Gem
A secluded beach surrounded by cliffs, perfect for those seeking peace. I’ve walked past here several times but never descended. You pass it on the Fishermen’s Trail, and I always felt more need for a fresh shower than a salty dip.
Praia do Martinhal – For Families
Family-friendly, with calmer waters and sheltered from strong winds.
Adventurous Activities
Coasteering – The Ultimate Adrenaline Rush
This is truly a must-do in Sagres! Coasteering is a sport that combines rock climbing, cliff jumping, and swimming in the ocean. You build up to a cliff jump from 10 meters high – that’s over 30 feet! With experienced guides, you jump from extraordinary heights, swim in hidden caves, and climb on the Algarve’s beautiful cliffs. What a challenge!
Boat Trips and Kayaking
The beaches are perfect for surfing, but we also recommend kayaking along the dramatic cliffs and boat trips to explore hidden coves. Stand-up paddleboard (SUP) tours to hidden caves are especially popular.
Hiking: Fishermen’s Trail and More
Rota Vicentina, which follows the Alentejo coastline 280 miles north to Santiago do Cacem, and Via Algarviana, a route heading east, are two long-distance hiking trails that begin in Sagres. The famous Fishermen’s Trail is part of the Rota Vicentina and offers spectacular coastal walks. You can easily choose a small section of these routes for a day hike along the dramatic Algarve coastline.
Local Culture and Food
Authentic Restaurants
- A Tasca – A fish restaurant overlooking the coast serving fresh fish dishes
- Vila Velha – Traditional Portuguese food, meat and pasta with a creative twist
- A Sereia – The restaurant above the fish market, ideal for the catch of the day
- Three Little Birds – A restaurant with a Bali-esque atmosphere
- Chiringuito Last Chance – Delicious lunch spot that perfectly fits the “end of the world” feeling of Sagres
Cozy Cafés and Local Culture
Sagres has a relaxed atmosphere with many nice cafés where you can enjoy excellent Portuguese coffee and local treats. A special recommendation is the coffee shop at Mareta Beach hotel where you can taste delicious coffee with perfect sweetness, or have breakfast with a view of the coast.
The town has an international vibe full of surfers, nature lovers, and adventurers who come for the unique atmosphere and beautiful nature.
Porto da Baleeira – The Fishing Harbor
Sagres has a beautiful fishing harbor where it’s busy all day long. Small fishing boats come and go, and the caught fish is sold almost immediately. Here you can truly experience local life and witness the fish auction around 3:00 PM (except Sundays and holidays).
Stage 11 of the Fishermen’s Trail runs exactly past here.
Practical Information You Need to Know
How to Get to Sagres?
- By car: From Faro Airport it’s about 1.5 hours driving
- Public transport: Train to Lagos, then bus to Sagres (bus 47 runs several times daily)
- Tip: A rental car is best because many attractions are spread along the coast
Best Time to Visit
- Spring (April-May): Perfect weather, less crowded, ideal for sightseeing
- Summer (June-August): Warm but very windy, busiest period
- Fall (September-October): Still warm weather, fewer tourists, perfect for surfing
- Winter: Mild (15-20°C), budget-friendly, ideal for digital nomads
How Much Time Do You Need?
- Day trip: Sufficient for fort and Cabo de São Vicente
- 2-3 days: Ideal to discover all beaches and activities
- One week: Perfect for surfing, relaxing, and exploring the area on foot
What to Bring?
- Windbreaker/jacket – it’s always windy here!
- Sturdy shoes – the terrain is rocky
- Sunscreen – the sun can be harsh/intense
- Layers of clothing – it can cool down in the evenings
Accommodation
Luxury Stays
- Mareta Beach House – A beautifully restored 1960s villa with 8 rooms, an infinity pool, and tropical gardens, just steps from the beach
- Mareta Beach Boutique B&B – Located 200 meters from the beach with panoramic sea views over the beautiful coastline, surrounded by a nature park (you may use the infinity pool and garden)
- Pousada de Sagres – A prominent luxury accommodation in the center with beautiful views, perfect for those who want to enjoy comfort and style
For Backpackers and Surfers
The Algarve Surf Hostel is a popular hostel for backpackers and surfers seeking a fun, international atmosphere.
The Magic of Sagres
What makes Sagres so special is the combination of rugged natural beauty, rich history, and that unique “end of the world” atmosphere. It’s an area for adventurers, for the brave, and for those who want to challenge themselves against wild environments. Whether you come for surfing, history, hiking, or simply for the spectacular sunsets – Sagres leaves no one untouched.
It is indeed, as the Portuguese say, where Europe begins… or ends, depending on how you look at it!
Sagres Portugal offers a unique mix of natural splendor, history, and adventure. Whether you come for the Algarve’s best surf spots, the historic Fortaleza de Sagres, or simply to enjoy Cabo de São Vicente – this small town at the end of Europe leaves no one untouched.
Read Also
- Where to Find the Most Beautiful Street Art in Lisbon
- Everything for Your City Trip to Porto
- Hiking on the Historical Way – Rota Vicentina