Finding Carrapateira

Driving along the west coast of Portugal, you can’t go wrong. After exploring Sagres, head north up N 268 past Vila do Bispo. Stop whenever you see something interesting, notice a little side road or catch sight of a sign for a praia. After pouring over reviews for the Algarve’s best beaches, Summer and I had our mind’s made up that we would find Carrapateira. Each beach hidden just beyond the cliffs is a wonder in its own rights, so don’t worry about destination, pack up a picnic, slip on an adorable bikini and head for the coast.

Minnow Bathers Brimingham White Top and Bottom

Once we spotted signs for the village Carrapateira, we took the first left marked for the praia (beach). I think we happened upon Praia do Amado. Following a large camper van, we made our way along the dusty orange, winding dirt road until it ended at a car park. We grabbed our bags and went running towards the ocean.

After eating a picnic lunch, we napped all afternoon. When we finally got up we were ready for a walk along the beach and a dip. Summer had the intentions of meditating but the waves quickly changed her mind. The west coast is windy, and while it will whip around you up on the cliffs, it is a gentle breeze down on the beach. So although the sun was hot the weather always felt perfect.