Monte Gordo Things To Do

If you’re a big beach fan you’ll love Monte Gordo beach’s gorgeous golden sands that stretch into the distance, and the clear, warm seas. The beach here is popular, clean, friendly and as pretty as a postcard!

 

You’ll find the full range of water sports on and around the beach; waterskiing, snorkelling, windsurfing, body boarding and more.

 

There’s a great choice of bicycle hire outlets and cycling in the area is great fun, especially along the beach and coast. The area’s also popular with walkers, who enjoy exploring the stunning coastline and nature-rich interior.  

 

Take a boat trip on the Guadiana River, which marks the border between Portugal and Spain, or book yourself on an adventurous jeep safari. Most take you to the wonderful local Nature Reserve and to scenic Zonazul Beach.

 

There are three churches in the local area well worth a visit if history’s your thing. You’ll find the cool, shady Igreja de Nossa Senhora das Dores in Monte Gordo itself. The historic Igreja Matriz de Nossa Senhora da Encarnacao is in nearby in Vila Real de Santo António. And the delightful Igreja de Nossa Senhora da Assuncao is in the pretty nearby village of Cacela Velha. All great places to sit and contemplate life out of the sun!

 

Both the Centro Cultural António Aleixo in Vila Real de Santo António and the Centro de Artes e Ofícios in Manta Rota are interesting places to get a flavour of the local history, arts and culture.  

 

The local casino is a lively place. There’s always something going on as well as the regular daily show, dinner and dancing.

The Portuguese love their golf and this is no exception. Choose from several marvellous local courses, the closest of which are Quinta da Cima, Benamor, Quinta da Ria and Castro Marim.

 

If you’re tired of the beach or have little kids who like safe un-salty water, try the municipal swimming pool in Vila Real de Santo Antonio.

 

Further afield, Faro is a fantastic city for a day trip. If you have time, take a bus and potter around this ancient place’s squares and markets, shops and restaurants. The Praca de Dom Francisco Gomes and the Moorish Old Town are particularly lovely. 

Lagos looks like a moorish paradise, with a definite Arab influence making it exotic and exciting. Enjoy a day out in Lagos and explore the historic fortifications, smart marina, waterfront and ancient slave market.