Day 1
Finally arrived in Lisbon! Our exciting road trip along the Portuguese west coast and the Algarve can begin. After picking up our camper, we headed to the local supermarket to get all the necessary supplies for the days ahead. Equipped with provisions for the journey, we were ready for the adventure.
Day 2
The next morning we continued our journey from Setúbal to Lagos – we’re off to the Algarve! The ferry crossing gave us spectacular views of the azure sea and stunning coastal scenery. Arriving in Lagos, we explored the charming city. Hungry from the journey, we treated ourselves to delicious burritos and enjoyed the picturesque sunset on the coast. We even managed to admire the famous rocks and impressive bridge at Praia dos Estudantes.
Day 3
In the morning we headed to Praia do Amado, a famous surf spot in the Algarve. We watched the surfers with fascination and finally decided to try it ourselves. Carlo waxed his board, put on his wetsuit and jumped into the waves. After an exciting surfing session we had a refreshing drink at the beach kiosk.
In the afternoon we took a trip to Sagres, where the hot sun almost made us melt. Before heading back to the campsite, we had to try the “last sausage before America”. In the evening we cooked tortellini and ended the day with a relaxing walk along the cliffs.
Day 4
Today we headed to Faro to explore this charming capital of the Algarve. Taking a pleasant stroll through the narrow streets and cobbled alleys, we admired the historic architecture and traditional flair of the city. Faro offered us a fascinating mix of cultural treasures and vibrant city life.
After exploring the charming streets of Faro, we took a well-deserved break to grab a late breakfast. We opted for delicious pancakes and a refreshing acai bowl, which gave us energy for the rest of the day. We spent the rest of the day in Faro until the evening.
Day 5
We started the day with a trip to the stunning Praia da Marinha, where we discovered the impressive rock heart. On the way we also saw a majestic sailing ship sailing off the coast. We spent the afternoon on the beach in the oppressive heat, enjoying the sun, playing games and collecting shells.
In the evening we walked to Praia do Camilo and got a pizza to go. With a bottle of San Miguel and a beautiful view of the sunset, we ended the day with a date on the beach.
Day 6
In the morning we went for a relaxing walk at Ponta da Piedade and took the opportunity to buy some souvenirs – including a new picnic rug. We then drove to Praia da Barriga, where we flew our drone over the cliffs and sea.
In the afternoon we returned to Praia do Amado and spent the rest of the day surfing. Anna decided to try surfing too. In between we enjoyed reading and sunbathing on the beach. In the evening we had wraps and iced tea.
Day 7
This day was all about relaxing. We started the morning with a delicious breakfast in a cosy café in Lagos. Avocado toast and a refreshing acai bowl were the perfect start to the day. We then wandered the quaint streets, exploring the local shops and soaking up the relaxed atmosphere of the city. We took time to read, sunbathe and simply enjoy the beautiful surroundings.
Day 8
In the morning we went back to Praia do Amado. No surprise: we wanted to surf again. On the beach we played games, read books and enjoyed surfing. After a snack at the kiosk, we took the opportunity to take some nice beach photos and let the evening fade away.
Day 9
We left Lagos and travelled along the beautiful coastline to the stunning beaches of Praia da Amoreira, Praia da Monte Clérigo and Praia de Odeceixe. We enjoyed the different beaches and their unique beauty. In the evening we came back to our campsite and had pasta and pesto for dinner. The next day we would leave the Algarve.
Day 10
See you, Algarve! Our next destination was Sintra, a town full of magic. We visited the Palácio Nacional da Pena and were impressed by its beauty, despite the rain that accompanied us up the hill. We then visited the park and the Palácio de Monserrate. We were fascinated by the green surroundings and the impressive rooms.
For sunset we went to Praia do Guincho where we watched the surfers and took some nice photos.
Day 11
On the penultimate day of our unforgettable trip, we explored the cultural sights of Lisbon. We started the day by visiting the Miradouro de São Pedro de Alcântara, a viewpoint that gave us a breathtaking panoramic view of the city. From there we made our way to the imposing Torre de Belém, a historic landmark of Portugal. We explored the impressive architecture and enjoyed the views of the river. We then walked a few metres to the Padrão dos Descobrimentos, a well-known monument.
After our stay in Belém, we visited the impressive Ler Devagar Library, a colourful pink street and the lively Praça do Comércio. Of course, we couldn’t miss the delicious Pastéis de Nata, the famous Portuguese pastry. At the end of our trip, we watched the cable car (tram 28) at sunset and enjoyed one last view of the picturesque city of Lisbon from the Miradouro das Portas do Sol, to take in the special memories of our time in the capital of Portugal.
Day 12
On the last day of our trip, we enjoyed a delicious breakfast of scrambled egg toast and acai bowl. We then visited the National Tile Museum (Museu Nacional do Azulejo), famous for its blue azulejos. We were immersed in the fascinating history and craftsmanship of tile making and enjoyed the stunning artwork. We then visited one of the most important buildings of the Manueline period, the Mosteiro dos Jerónimos. Before leaving, we went to the Times Out Market for some food and drink.
It was with a heavy heart that we boarded our flight home, leaving behind the wonderful memories of our adventurous trip along the Portuguese coast.
We are incredibly grateful for this unforgettable trip full of breathtaking scenery, exciting surf sessions and relaxing moments on the beach. Portugal – and especially the Algarve – enchanted us with its beauty and hospitality and will forever hold a special place in our memories.
