Anyone who has visited Portugal will most likely have come across the country's favourite beer called Sagres, perhaps they might have even tried it. Now, the word "Sagres" has a special place in the Portuguese psyche, and not only because of the beer!

Sagres, a small town located in the most westerly point of the Algarve, was also where Henry the Navigator set up his Navigation school, which helped launch the great Portuguese maritime discoveries of the 16^th century.

There’s an irony here. This land that helped discover the world actually remains pretty much undiscovered itself, even to many Portuguese, who flock to the warmer eastern Algarve rather than the more windswept Atlantic coastline.

That is both a blessing and curse at the same time. A curse, because many people don’t know what they are missing, a blessing because Sagres and its immediate environs has been much less affected by the ravages of the mass tourism devil.

We can’t think of a better base to enjoy and discover this interesting area than by staying at the Memmo Baleeira, one of the most stylish hotels in the whole of the Algarve.

Once you get there, you’ll realise that the views alone are worth the trip and every room takes advantage of the Atlantic panoramas and Marinhal Bay, as do many of the public areas, so please make the time to see either a spectacular sunset or sunrise.

There’s also simply so much light (southern Portugal is known for its quality of light) which seems to be further enhanced by the pastel colour decoration. And despite the 100 or so rooms the feeling of space and peace is all pervading, in part thanks to the excellent decoration which has not gone down the flowery road, but rather kept things simple and useful.

You should also have no problem getting a good night’s sleep, with all beds having their own brand name – Memmo Unforgettable Bed – and special mattresses.

The Memmo Baleeira ticks all the right boxes in terms of location, views, all round quality and family accommodation. There will be no problem in finding ways to entertain the little ones. The Memmo Kidding provides numerous activities such as painting and educational games, outdoor activities and films and even meals, all supervised by professional carers.

Parents, on the other hand can enjoy some of the local produce and fish available at the in-house restaurant. All in all, a place with something for everyone, whether young or old, with the Atlantic an ever present backdrop.

Out & About in Sagres and surroundings

We suggest lunch at the Café Correia restaurant, in Vila do Bispo. Here you can try a number of regional specialties that will leave you begging for more, all prepared using the freshest ingredients. Mrs Lilita, the owner, will be there to welcome you personally.

Next up, visit the Cordoama Belvedere to take in the most beautiful views of the Vicentine coast and end the day watching a spectacular sunset in the most emblematic place of Sagres: Cape Saint Vicente. It’s also worth visiting the lighthouse museum.

When you return to the Memmo Baleeira, why not try the chef’s suggestions from hotel’s in-house restaurant, always accompanied by a complimentary offer of a glass of wine. The following day you can always work off those extra calories at the Memmo Spa.

A visit to neighboring Carrapateira is always highly recommended, especially in the warmer months. VisitAmado beach and enjoy the beauty of the Carrapateira Pontal, a dirt road along the sea that shows this region at its most beautiful.

Be sure to eat at the Sítio do Rio, where you find the best fresh fish. At the end of your meal we suggest sampling the delicious Melosa (a delicious, and quite potent, honey liquor) that Memmo guests are entitled to. Still in Carrapateira, stop by at the small Sea Museum - worth a visit.

Publicado por / Portugal