Guide to Lagos

'With something for everyone, lovely Lagos will sweep you off your feet.'

At one time the medieval walls of Lagos were there to repel Moorish invaders. Today they seem to shut out the entire modern world. Wander the cobbled streets of the old town and you'll feel like you're in something of a time warp. It's a world away from the popular resorts further down the coast. Mind you, on the other side of the walls Lagos does have its own laidback beach life, bubbling nicely around the stretch of sand known as Meia Praia. Here you'll find a good selection of watersports, as well as a gaggle of bars, cafes and restaurants. If sightseeing is more your thing, the old town is definitely the place to be. Step back to the 17th century at the impressive, moated Fortress of Ponta da Bandeira. Marvel at the ornate interior of the Santo Antonio church. And check out the fascinating collection of artefacts at the little Municipal Museum - which include a scale model of a typical Algarvian village. As for shopping, there are plenty of places to pick up an interesting souvenir or two, as well as a bustling market on the first Saturday of each month. In the evening, life revolves around the Praca Gil Eanes, a busy square with a huge statue of military adventurer Dom Sebastiao at its centre. Here you can enjoy a cool glass of vinho verde or a chilled white port while you ponder which of the many restaurants to try tonight. There's a kaleidoscopic selection to choose from, and you can tickle your tastebuds with everything from pizza to traditional fish stew. Delicious.

In general, the resort is tasteful and chic with much of the development arising outside of the town centre. This means history, charm and tradition have been preserved. Enjoy impressive views from Republica square, or visit the statue of Henry the Navigator in the Infant Dom Henrique square. In-between, amble through cobbled streets and dine al fresco in one of the many cafes or restaurants. If sunbathing is the main aim of your holiday, there are plenty of hidden cove-beaches to choose from.
Some hotels in this resort may be unsuitable for the less mobile due to a number of steps and surrounding cobbled roads in the old town.

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