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Experience the vibrant city of Lagos, venue for Portugal Day festivities

Bask in the twofold festivities of Portugal Day in Lagos, the Algarve sun and sand mecca deeply rooted in Discoveries. Engage with this city's rich heritage before or following June 10th celebrations.

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Marking its second anniversary, Lagos echoes with Portugal Day festivities. A harbor town in...
Marking its second anniversary, Lagos echoes with Portugal Day festivities. A harbor town in Algarve, blessed by the windward, showcases a blend of sun, sand, and historic ties to the Age of Discoveries. Uncover more about this vibrant destination post or pre-celebration on June 10th.

Experience the vibrant city of Lagos, venue for Portugal Day festivities

Discover the captivating charm of Lagos, a historic coastal town nestled in the heart of the Algarve region, Portugal. With over 2,000 years of maritime history and a vibrant contemporary atmosphere, this beautiful haven offers the perfect blend of heritage, breathtaking scenery, and exciting experiences. The town's rich past is evident in its cobbled stone streets, traditional shops, and awe-inspiring monuments.

In 2025, Lagos will once again set the stage for the festivities of Portugal Day, Camões, and the Portuguese Communities, 29 years after the inaugural event in 1996, marked by then President of the Republic, Jorge Sampaio. Originally known as the City of Discoveries, Lagos served as a starting point for the historic epic, with famous navigators like Gil Eanes and Infante D. Henrique embarking on epic journeys to find new worlds, riches, and spices from here.

Don't miss this fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in the history, culture, and natural beauty of Lagos with this 10-step discovery map:

  1. Caravela Boa Esperança: Step aboard a real-scale replica of one of the most important ships of the Discoveries. Experience an immersive journey through augmented reality contents that bring history to life.
  2. Historic Pearls: Explore the maritime promenade, bustling municipal market, and the squares housing important sites such as the Museum of the Slave Route (Slave Market) and the Museum of the Governors' Castle. Memorably, don't forget to gaze upon Dom Sebastião, the statue dedicated to the king who elevated Lagos to the capital of the Algarve by João Cutileiro.
  3. Sea Flavors and Sweet Delights: Savor the famous "condelipas," a local delicacy, and indulge in the traditional Algarvean dessert called "Dom Rodrigo." Visit confectioneries like "Os Doces da Fátima," "Casa de Doces Regionais Taquelim Goncálves," "Padaria Central," and "Pastelaria Gomboa."
  4. Arte Doce Competition: Satisfy your sweet tooth and witness the craftsmanship and passion of local confectioners. Enjoy live cooking sessions, concerts, and food stalls between July 23rd and 27th.
  5. Dona Ana, Students, and a Surprising Bridge: Next to the historic center, discover peaceful beaches, Instagram-worthy sceneries, and unique bridge panoramas. Don't miss out on "Dona Ana" and "Camilo," two of the most beautiful beaches in the area, along with the Camilo Restaurant.
  6. The Lighthouse, Pathways, and Natural Pools: Follow the trails to the Ponta da Piedade, where stunning cliffs, caves, peaceful beaches, and an imposing lighthouse await. Visit the natural pools at low tide for an unforgettable experience.
  7. Rocha Negra and Praia da Luz: Discover two breathtaking blue-flagged beaches: Porto de Mós and Luz. Before relaxing on Luz Beach, take a detour to explore the Black Rock promontory, offering a panoramic view of the coastal area.
  8. The Enormous Meia Praia: Spreading nearly 5 km along the curvature of Lagos Bay, this beach offers services, restaurants, and sports like windsurfing and kitesurfing. At low tide, enjoy collecting "condelipas" while children play in the small pools.
  9. Bravery, Butterflies, and Mountain Biking: Delve into the southern zone of the Espinhaço de Cão mountain range and visit the Biodiversity Station developed by TAGIS, Portugal's Butterfly Conservation Center. Discover the elegance of the Monarch Butterfly and explore cycling routes like Cyclin' Lagos.
  10. Rest in Lagos: Unwind in the elegant Cascade Wellness Resort, which features four pools, including one with a sand bottom, or the intimate Vila Valverde - Design Country Hotel surrounded by nature. Enjoy the spa, terrace, and a wine tasting. Other accommodations include the Palmares Resort, Vila Galé Lagos, Iberostar Selection Lagos, and The Editory by The Sea Lagos.

Let the adventure begin! Discover Lagos, the City of Discoveries, for yourself.

Enrichment Data:Lagos, Portugal, as an important port city for over 2,000 years, played a pivotal role during the Age of Discoveries. The town's historic center enclosed within restored 16th-century walls showcases the story of Portugal's maritime past. One of the most poignant historical sites is the Mercado de Escravos, the first slave market in Europe, which dates back to the 15th century. The town offers a plethora of attractions like the Forte da Ponta da Bandeira, Marina de Lagos, Ponta da Piedade, and beautiful beaches such as Praia de Dona Ana and Praia do Camilo. Additionally, Lagos boasts historical churches like Igreja de Santo António and Igreja de Santa Maria. The town also offers exciting activities like guided walking tours, marine activities, and water parks Slide & Splash and Zoomarine for families.

In the vibrant heart of Lagos, travelers can explore the Mercado de Escravos, the first slave market in Europe, dating back to the 15th century, which sheds light on the town's rich historical tapestry during the Age of Discoveries. Immerse yourself further in Lagos's captivating past by visiting the religious landmarks of Igreja de Santo António and Igreja de Santa Maria.

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