“The commercial port of Portimao is your gateway to Portugal’s Algarve, a coastline of dramatic headlands, cliffs and sea caves interrupted by small bays and extraordinary beaches. The low mountains of the coast range are densely carpeted with stands of eucalyptus, cork oak and chestnut trees. While the Algarve has become one of Portugal’s most popular resort destinations, the region is also rich in history and culture. Nearby Lagos was the headquarters of Henry the Navigator, who spearheaded Portugal’s voyages of discovery in the 15th century. The town of Silves once rivaled Moorish Córdoba in splendor – today a visitor there can view the ruins of a vast Moorish castle, a 13th century Gothic church and a restored Roman bridge.
Beginning in the 1960s, the small fishing ports of the Algarve such as Alvor were discovered by vacationers. While change has brought luxury hotels, villas and a new marina for yachts, visitors can still watch local fishermen unloading their catch on the old quay.” – Princess Patter
From the port of Portimao we set out to explore the Algarve Coast of Portugal. “Algarve” is from Arabic meaning West. First we went into Lagos (pronounced ‘lagosh’) to the old city where we visited a monument to Henry the Navigator and the site of a slave auction and yet another church.
Next we went to Sagres (pronounces ‘Sagresh’) where we drove past a fort built by Henry the Navigator. We were scheduled to visit the fort but there was a strike … From the fort we went to the coast where there were fantastic rock structures and cliffs. This area was referred to as ‘The end of the world’ prior to Columbus’ voyage.
Then we had a delicious Portuguese lunch on the coast and then returned to the ship.
Finally, we set sail from Portugal and headed across the Atlantic Ocean …