The Algarve's Wild West Coast, March 01, 2023

About 40km northwest of the protected harbor of Lagos are a couple of wild and relatively deserted beaches on Portugal's west coast.  As it was another clear and sunny day, Rita plugged in their co-ordinates and we headed first to Praia de Arrifana, and then onto the village of Odeceixe.  


Arrifina Beach is located in a beautiful shell-shaped cove protected by imposing black cliffs.  This  spectacular beach is recognized as one of the most beautiful beaches in Europe.

We walked down the steep incline to the sandy beach below and continued along its 800 meters to the end and turned around and took this photo.  

Asked one of the surfers resting on the beach to take this picture.  Even with the wind blowing the temperature was mild enough to walk without jackets.
 
After climbing back up to the top of the cliffs we walked to a lookout on the other side of the bay that offers this spectacular northern view of the coastline.

We got back in our car and headed for our next destination which was about a 20 minute drive away.  

The tiny village of Odeceixe and its stunning beach straddling the mouth of the Seixe River which runs into the Atlantic Ocean.

                                   The pounding Atlantic Ocean surf rolling into Odeceixe Beach 

We found Darita Restaurant which overlooks the beach and had a delicious lunch of octopus salad, mushrooms in garlic sauce and mussels in an olive oil/lemon butter sauce.  We washed it all down with a local beer and wine.  A tasty way to end our day before heading back to Lagos. 


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