Armacao de Pera is one of the most popular summer holiday spots in the Algarve, thanks to its high quality hotels, long and pristine white beaches and traditional fishing community and restaurants that provide incredible seafood.
The old part of the city is a particularly popular attraction with its charming narrow streets and well preserved traditional fisherman's houses. The adjacent beachfront area is another popular spot, for tourists and locals alike.
Landmarks
Overlooking the sea from atop a hill is the imposing Armacao de Pera Fort, build in the 16th Century to defend local fishermen from pirates. Today it offers visitors impressive views over the sapphire blue waters. Inside you will find the Santo Antonio Chapel (or Chapel of the Protector of Fishermen), which was added around 1720 to offer perhaps a more spiritual shield to the fishing trade that operated out of these waters.
The parish church, Igreja de São Francisco de Pêra, was built in the 18th Century. With its beautiful baroque altarpiece and original figurative tiles depicting the four evangelists, Matthew, Mark, Luke and John, this has to be one of the location’s best photo op spots.
Armacao de Pera is also home to the annual International Sand Sculpture Festival (FIESA). Since its inception in 2003 it’s had a different theme each year. The largest sand sculpture event in the world, it’s held between May and October and attracts some of the world’s top sand sculptors who come together to give form to over thirty-five thousand tons of sand. Adults and children can also participate in this form of artistic expression. At night, the sculptures are lit up and act as a backdrop for shows and performances, creating an amazing ambience.
Beaches
Armação de Pera has some of the busiest beaches of the Algarve, lined with delectable cafes, top notch restaurants, and boutique, big brand shops. Be sure to check out the fresh fish market at Pescadores Beach. Beijinhos Beach, with its lush green area is home to local seabirds perfect for nature lovers. Please note that Beijinhos is only accessible only by foot during low tide or from the clifftops.
Praia do Vale do Olival is one of the area’s most beautiful beaches, sitting between exquisite rocks formations carved by centuries of erosion. Take the trail through the surrounding cliffs that connects it with Beijinhos Beach.
Activities
Explore the caves in a traditional fishing boat or take a cruise along the coastline and discover the stunning rock formations and beaches as you go. Boats depart every day from the Pescadores Beach.
Food and Drinks
The village has a network of little streets with a variety of shops, cafés, bars, and numerous sea-front, beachside restaurants. The main dish served here is grilled fresh fish and seafood.
