| One of the most popular seaside resorts in the Algarve with a magnificent, extremely long, sandy beach flanked with imposing golden cliffs and curiously beautiful rock formations. Unfortunately, suffers from over-commercialisation. |
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| Just over a mile to the south of Portimão (but to all intents and purposes, part of the same conurbation) is one of the most popular seaside resorts in the Algarve, Praia da Rocha (Beach of the Rock). |
| The magnificent, extremely long, sandy beach with flanked with imposing golden cliffs and curiously beautiful rock formations (hence the name) is one of the best the Algarve has to offer. Popular with visitors since the early 20th century, it was one of the first beaches to become the regular holiday destination for overseas tourists during the 50’s and 60’s. |
| Following along the crest of the cliffs is the high street, lined with shops, bars, restaurants and discos. There is also a casino. During the summer season it is one of the most “kicking” night-spots in the region. English is spoken by almost everyone here and you can find many English-style “pubs” and no shortages of cafés and bars offering an “English all-day Breakfast”, there are even English Fish & Chip shops. |
| In short, the traditional charm of Praia da Rocha has been utterly destroyed by hyper-commercialisation, ugly towering apartment blocks and generally insensitive town planning (if planning ever played any part at all in Praia da Rocha’s recent history). |
| The Santa Catarina fortress, found at the end of the high street was built in the 16th century to defend the mouth of the River Arade. From here you can take in the excellent view afforded across the bay. There is a newly constructed marina just below the fortress. |