Nov 4 2011
Lighthouse Viewing: Spend Holidays To Algarve In A More Interesting Way
If it’s beaches that you want, then spend your summer holidays to Algarve. Algrave is a renowned tourist primarily because of its pristine and beautiful beaches. Coupled with a pleasant Mediterranean climate, high levels of safety, exquisite cuisine, and relatively low expenses, Algarve is an ideal vacation spot in Portugal.
Because Algrave has many beaches, it is not surprising that the region has quite a number of lighthouses. Some of these lighthouses are more than a hundred years old and are still operating. Lighthouse spotting should be included in your schedule; these structures add spice to Algarve’s rich culture and history.
Start out by visiting the Cabo de S. Vicente lighthouse at the west of Sagres. It is one of Europe’s largest lighthouses and it has been in service since 1846. Besides serving as an aid to navigation for ship captains, the structure has become a popular local attraction. The Portuguese Navy even constructed a small museum in it so visitors can have a glimpse on how it operated and evolved in time.
2 kilometers east from Lagos is another popular lighthouse at Ponta da Piedade. The navigational aid which was built in 1913 provides a beautiful view of the ocean and the high cliffs at the island’s side. The lighthouse is also reputed to be a dating haven at night.
Head south between Faro and Olhao to visit the Santa Maria Lighthouse. This 46-meter tall lighthouse, built in 1851, is located at a white-sand area close to the sea. Surrounding the lighthouse are colorful fishermen’s houses, giving it a lively atmosphere.
Finally, head east to Vila Real de Santo Antonio. The beautiful Vila Real de Santo Antonio lighthouse, built in 1916, is unique, considering that it is not located right by the sea. Instead, it is erected farther inland, separated from the shore by a field of pine trees. Its location illuminates entire sections of the beach at night.
If documenting and photographing lighthouses is your passion, then book your lighthouse holiday destinations to Algarve through Travel Republic.
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