Villamoura, one of the largest tourist complexes in Europe, with a chic marina, casino, luxury boutiques, golf course and tutti quanti, certainly does not have the charm of old stones. And Portimao is struggling to make people forget its building bars despite a beautiful beach. But in Lagos still floats the scent of the Great Discoveries, as evidenced by the statue of the Infanta Dom Henrique (Henry the Navigator) facing the port or the Caravelle Bonne-Espérance, a replica of the 16th century models, moored along the quays. The Church of Saint-Antoine, sober in appearance, shelters treasures from the 18th century:painted ceiling, altar covered with gold, panels of azulejos... At the time, we thought that here was the end of the world. Today, we hurry to the rocky promontory of Ponta da Piedade, near the city, to watch the sun sink into the sea behind the rocks.
With Easy Jet, departing from Paris CDG and Orly.
To sleep. Chic at the Vila Vita Parc Resort &Spa (Leading Hotel of the World), in Porches. 8 swimming pools, 10 restaurants, 3 beaches including one accessible only by the sea or by the hotel:a perfect hiding place for a romantic weekend. Vintage, at the Bela Vista Hotel &Spa (Relais &Château), in Portimao. A 19th century family home that became the first hotel in the Algarve in 1934, for sleeping with your feet in the water on Praia da Rocha beach and a gourmet dinner.
More info:Tourist office, visitalgarve.pt.
