THE UNSPOILED WEST COAST
From the moment that you find yourself on the West Coast of the Algarve, you will know that you are somewhere truly special. A stone’s throw away from all that is commercial and purpose built for a tourist’s delight - the Costa Vicentina is a secret gem that is slowly but surely, gaining some well deserved recognition.
The majestic sweep of coastline is breathtakingly untouched and the beaches are scattered with fishermen, travellers & surfers. You are always sure to find the perfect spot for some in-depth life contemplation, catching some sun or setting up camp for a full on surfing session.
Carrapateira is a small traditional fishing village which sits around 500m from the stunning Praia de Bordeira - Bordeira Beach. The village itself has a surf shop, a daily market, bakery & mini mercado - small supermarket. Ideal for watching the world go by, there are outdoor cafes in the square. For those not wanting to indulge too heavily in the somewhat slower pace of life beautifully apparent here, will find plenty to do. Only a 20 minute drive away is the golf resort Parque de Floresta where one can hit a few golf balls, use the gym or utilise the sports facilities. There are also horse riding stables nearby & mountain bikes for hire and other activities available such as tennis, windsurfing, fishing and diving to name but a few.
The area which is in the protected Costa Vicentina national park cries out to be explored and admired. From the rugged cliff tops, to the rustic forest interlaced with fully functioning farms, you will feel a million miles away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. If that isn’t enough, you can always try your hand at surfing or body boarding, sports for which the waves coming in off the Atlantic Ocean are perfect for.
Carrapateira is located 100km from Faro Airport, 240km from Lisbon airport & 250km from Seville Airport in Spain. It is only 35km from Lagos (which has a Marina with all facilities) and 22km from Sagres - the most South-Western point of Portugal and only 21km from Aljezur - an old village with a fish market.
Beaches not to be missed are Odeceixe, Monte Clerigo, Praia de Amado, and Arrifana. All have their own unique surroundings yet distinctively connecting features, charming fishing villages and peaceful & well preserved settings - they are all well worth a visit.
As for eating out, there are several restaurants dotted around Carrapateira and neighbouring villages. They offer the best in local seafood and feature simplicity at its best in their traditional Portuguese dishes. The prices are extremely reasonable and the settings, well they are priceless.
There is a variety of accommodation ranging from small Bed & Breakfasts to eco apartments for rent. But should you fall in love with this spectacular area, why not invest in something a little more permanent. As previously stated the area is protected and so planning is controlled. Take advantage of the fantastic properties already available in Carrapateira such as the luxury villas in Cerro do Moinho. Cerro do Moinho is a small urbanisation consisting of 26 lotes lying between Carrapateira and the beach of Praia de Bordeira. It is situated on a small hill topped by a windmill with outstanding views of the ocean in the West and the Serra de Monchique mountains in the East. Access is by way of a paved road that connects directly to the EN 420. What could be better than taking days out of the daily stresses of an ever developing modern world and seeking refuge in your very own property in the traditional village of Carrapateira?
For more information about properties for sale in this area please contact the Marcela Aljezur Office aljezur@marcelaproperties.com.
