Ferragudo is a laid-back resort set at the mouth of the Rio Arade. Walk around the atmospheric historic centre, dine at seafood restaurants on the waterfront promenade and explore a centuries-old castle built to defend the Algarve from pirate raids.
Things to do in Ferragudo
Despite its popularity, Ferragudo has maintained its traditional charm. Get lost in the Old Town and stroll along cobbled streets lined with whitewashed houses. Enjoy coffee and pastries at sidewalk cafes overlooking Praça Rainha Dona Leonor, the town’s lively main square. Walk up to the hillside church for breathtaking vistas over the Old Town.
You’ll find some of the best cafes and restaurants strung along the palm-lined riverfront promenade. Enjoy ocean-fresh seafood and fantastic views across the estuary. Try local specialties like “conquilhas a Algarvia” clam soup and “cataplana de marisco” seafood stew.
Praia Grande faces the calm, sheltered waters of the Rio Arade. Relax on the soft sand and enjoy safe, family-friendly swimming or rent a kayak and paddle around the estuary. For beach swimming, head to Praia do Pintadinho, a picturesque cove set beneath a rocky headland.
Perched on a rugged promontory, Castelo de Sao Joao do Arade towers over the coast and recalls the town’s medieval past. The castle is closed to the public, but you can visit the town’s sister fort in Praia da Rocha, on the other side of the river. Both strongholds were built in the 16th century to defend the coast from pirates. Climb up to the terrace for sweeping views across the ocean, estuary and marina. Praia da Rocha’s wide, sandy beach is one of the best in the Algarve.
Getting around Ferragudo
Ferragudo is compact and easy to get around on foot. The town is on the Algarve, a 40-minute drive from Lagos and three hours from Lisbon. Rental cars offer the freedom to visit Ferragudo and explore the Algarve at your own pace. Humberto Delgado Airport in Lisbon is a three-hour drive away.