Sagres, a town in the Algarve, is only a few kilometers from Europe’s most southwestern point, Cape St. Vincent. The original town took the brunt of the 1755 earthquake.
However, it is the history of Sagres that makes it worthwhile to visit. In the 15th century, Prince Henry the Navigator played an important role in the early days of the Portuguese Empire, as well as in European maritime discoveries and expansion. He chose Sagres as his home and the location of his navigation school.Henry the Navigator, patron of Portuguese exploration, is regarded as the main initiator of the Age of Discovery, and one of the most vivid memories of that time is the Navigator’s Fortaleza, located to the north of town.
Sagres is also known for its beautiful beaches and dramatic coastline, which are popular with sunbathers and surfers.
Praia de Beliche is a small, sheltered beach located just north of town.
Praia do Martinhal is located just east of Sagres. It has a white sand beach that is surrounded by dunes.
This area of the Algarve is one of the world’s most famous sunset spots.
