Armação de Pêra
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ARMAÇÃO DE PÊRA

This former fishing village still has a few vestiges of its former vocation, even though tourism is now the town's primary source of income. Its major draw for locals and foreigners is the wonderful long sandy beaches stretching eastward, all the way to Praia da Galé. The word Armação is derived from an Arabic fishing term. Fishermen still land their morning catch as sirens welcome their arrival. The daily catch is sold in the market opposite the beach. The high-rises and large hotels here are a testament to the popularity of this resort. If you ignore this blight, then Armação de Pêra has everything you need for a great family holiday.

ARMAÇÃO DE PÊRA OLD TOWN

Fortaleza de Armação de Pêra and Old Town

|  Fortaleza de Armação de Pêra and Old Town

Just west of the Praia dos Pescadores beach, famous for its fishing boats, are the remains of a 17th-century fort built to defend the village against North African Barbary pirates. Inside the ramparts is a chapel dedicated to Santo António, dating from the 15th/16th centuries. The fort offers amazing views overlooking Armação de Pêra and beyond. Opposite the fort is a network of cobbled streets that traverses the original fishing village. Here you can find several traditional eateries, interesting shops and bars. The main church in Armação de Pêra is a relatively new addition to the town. The Igreja Matriz de Armação de Pêra dates back to the 1950s, but its design aspires to traditional Algarvian styling.


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ZOOMARINE

Zoomarine Albufeira

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With this entrance ticket you can gain entry to Zoomarine at your leisure. Buy online before you arrive to avoid queues and have the convenience of the e-ticket on your phone…

A short drive out of Albufeira, located in Guia, Zoomarine makes a great day out for all the family, with a host of marine experiences, animals on show and theme rides. The stars of the park are the Dolphins and the Sealions, who both give three shows each day. In the aquarium, there's a large selection of sea creatures such as tiger sharks, rays and turtles. There's a pick-up bus that will collect you from various stops around Albufeira.

Low Season: Daily 10h00 - 18h00,
High Season: Daily 10h00 - 19h30

Estrada Nacional 125, Km 65, 8201-864 Guia, Portugal.
37º 07' 38.9" N | 08º 18' 50.2" W
info@zoomarine.pt | Website

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BEACHES OF ARMAÇÃO DE PÊRA

Praia do Barranco

|  Praia do Barranco


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Praia do Barranco

A mile or so west of Armação de Pêra in the parish of Porches is this narrow cove, sheltered from the sea breeze by high cliffs. The sea that washes up on the beach is calm and ideal for family bathing. After the rain, a small stream empties on the eastern end. | 37º 05' 45.2" N | 08º 23' 32.2" W


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Praia Nova

A somewhat long yet narrow strip of sand backed by sandstone cliffs with a rockslide splitting the beach into two halves. Access to the beach down a wooden stairway through a crevice in the cliff. On the eastern side is the promontory cliff on which the pretty Capela de Nossa Senhora da Rocha chapel sits. A tunnel hewn into this promontory links Praia Nova with Praia da Senhora do Rocha on the other side.
37º 05' 46.7" N | 08º 23' 15.9" W


Praia da Senhora da Rocha

The beauty of this spot has made this smallish cove a popular location for tourists. The profusion of hotels and apartments nearby means this is one of the busiest beaches in the area. The golden sandstone cliffs that flank Praia da Senhora da Rocha offer local fishermen protection for their boats. Today, some of these boats offer trips and are available for rent. The tunnel through the cliff gives access to the Praia Nova beach and is a little less crowded. | 37º 05' 50.1" N | 08º 23' 09.6"


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Praia da Cova Redonda

A medium-sized beach with golden sands close to the Vila Lara resort. 30 metres out to sea is a stack that resembles a whale. The waters here are calm, and the cliffs keep the beach relatively protected from offshore breezes. There's a stairway cut out of the rock leading down to the sands. | 37º 05' 55.9" N | 08º 22' 47.0"

AQUALAND ALGARVE

Aqualand Algarve

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With this entrance ticket you can gain entry to Zoomarine at your leisure. Buy online before you arrive to avoid queues and have the convenience of the e-ticket on your phone…

Aqualand makes a great family day out with something to satisfy all ages. Located between Albufeira and Lagoa, Aqualand offers a variety of slides and features to keep you entertained the whole day. A collection of water slides, chutes, surf beach, swimming pools and white water rafting which guarantee a whole days entertainment for al members of the family. Ride vary in their intensity to suit both the adrenaline junkie and toddlers alike. The park is open during high season only, mid June to first week of September. The aqua-park is a great way to cool down and a great alternative to a day on the beach. There are plenty of amenities and eateries onsite for your enjoyment and convenience.

10th of June to the 30th of June: 10:00 to 17:00, 1st July to 13th September from 10:00 to 18:00,
Estrada Nacional 125, 8365-908 Alcantarilha, Portugal. | 37º 08' 08.5" N | 08º 21' 53.9" W
MJAnastacio@aspro-ocio.es | Website

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Praia dos Tremoços

This 130-metre-long stretch of light-coloured sand is bordered by sandstone cliffs. On top of the cliff is the five-star Vila Vita Parc hotel and access to the beach. There is a guest-only area on the beach, but elsewhere is available to all. The beach used to suffer badly from erosion, but now a 70-metre-long jetty prevents the sand from being washed away. The sea here is good for bathing and during the high season there's a lifeguard at hand. | 37º 05' 59.4" N | 08º 22' 37.7" W

Praia dos Beijinhos

The next beach along is called Praia dos Beijinhos, which translates as the beach of little kisses. It's less frequented than Praia dos Tremoços, maybe because of the large boulders strewn across the beach.
37º 06' 03.4 N | 08º 22' 37.9" W

Praia do Vale do Olival

The proximity of hotels and holiday accommodation near this beach results in Praia do Vale do Olival receiving a lot of visitors. Visitors are well catered for, with three eateries located on the beach where diners can take in the views on their terraces. During the busy season, the beach is a profusion of sunbeds, parasols, beach towels and bronzing bodies with the aroma of sunblock. | 37º 06' 05.8" N | 08º 22' 16.6" W

Praia de Armação de Pêra

Praia de Armação de Pêra is a long continuation of Praia do Vale do Olival and is central to the town. As with the Praia do Vale do Olival, it attracts many visitors, yet the further east out of town, the quieter the beach is. On the promenade above the beach are all the amenities you need for a fun family holiday, including restaurants, bars and shops. There are two water sports operators here who combined offer a wide range of activities. There's a child's play area to stop the little angels from getting bored. The sea here is well suited for bathers, it is clean with few rocks and lifeguards patrol the busiest spots. Access to the beach is via a wooden ramp, suitable for wheelchairs. At the beaches' most eastern point it widens out just before its bars the Ribeira de Alcantarilha estuary. | 37º 06' 01.45" N | 08º 21' 31.35" W

Praia dos Tremoços

|  Praia dos Tremoços


Praia do Vale do Olival

|  Praia do Vale do Olival

Praia Grande de Pêra

|  Praia Grande de Pêra


Praia dos Salgados

|  Praia dos Salgados

Praia Grande de Pêra

With the white concrete high-rises of Armação de Pêra disappearing over the horizon, this lovely long stretch of the beach remains largely untouched by development. For those who enjoy peace and quiet, with an appreciation for wildlife. The drive to this beach involves travelling inland to the village of Pêra before driving back down again. Although it is possible to walk along the sands. The western part is dominated by dunes traversed by a wooden boardwalk onto the beach with fine light sand. This side of the beach is called Praia Grande Poente. | 37º 05' 50.83" N | 08º 20' 51.60" W


Praia Grande Nascente

As you head on further west, the dunes subside and open up to reveal wetlands and salt marshes. The beach here is quieter still, mostly visited by local families. Known as the Praia Grande Nascente, this beautiful landscape is popular with walkers and bird watchers alike. The dunes and wetlands are accessible with a network of wooden boardwalks which protect the fauna. The Praia Grande Nascente goes on to bar the Lagoa dos Salgados lagoon. | 37º 05' 35.21" N | 08º 20' 16.13" W


Praia dos Salgados

Across the sandbar on the opposite bank of the lagoon, the golden sands continue under the name of Praia dos Salgados. It has a decent-sized car park which overlooks the wetlands from where a footpath leads to the beach. Praia dos Salgados is well served by a pleasant restaurant. Close to the entrance to the beach, you can rent sun loungers, parasols and hire surfboards and pedalos. The beach has Blue Flag status, a recognition of the cleanliness of the water and beach. | 37º 05' 20.85" N | 08º 19' 44.26"


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TOP TOURS

Kayak Rental in Armação de Pêra

Kayak Rental in Armação de Pêra

Swap the bustling beach for the open sea on a family-friendly kayak excursion from Armação de Pêra Beach. Forget the hassle of hauling gear around because all equipment is provided Take to the water independently to paddle around and soak up views of the Algarve coast at your own pace. A great choice for beginners or time-pressed travellers, the half-hour tour leaves the rest of your day free for further experiences.


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Jet Ski Algarve

Jet Ski Algarve

Looking for an activity in Armação de Pêra that involves sea and speed? Look no further! Rent a jet ski on the beach of Armação de Pêra. Jet ski rentals is a great way to live life to the fullest. Drive the jet ski and feel the freedom while enjoying the waves and the tight corners. Renting a jet ski in Armação de Pêra is also a great way to explore the beautiful coast and abundant marine life of the Algarve. Renting a jet ski in Armação de Pêra is fun for two as it can take an extra passenger without paying more!

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Boat Tour to Benagil Cavest

Boat Tour to Benagil Caves

Get ready to explore the natural treasures of the Benagil Caves, hidden along the beautiful Algarve coast. Your 1-hour guided tour to Benagil will start in Armação de Pêra. Climb aboard a new and comfortable boat, where my friendly team and I will take you to discover the Algarve coast. Along the way to the Benagil Cave, we will pass through 10 more caves and about 15 wild beaches, many accessible only by the sea! The coast between Armação de Pêra and Benagil is simply beautiful and definitely worth the trip!

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OUR RECOMMENDATIONS

Holiday Inn Algarve

Holiday Inn Algarve ★ ★ ★ ★

Whether you want to relax in the sun, take leisurely strolls on the beach or are looking for something more active, the Holiday Inn Algarve, formerly known as Hotel Garbe, is a perfect choice. Commanding a prime beachfront position with stunning panoramic views over the bay of the Algarvean village of Armação de Pêra, the hotel lies within strolling distance of shops, restaurants and entertainment. The Holiday Inn Algarve has of the best locations in Armação de Pêra. It is also an excellent base from which to explore the Algarve, with regular bus services to nearby towns and villages. From almost every angle guests enjoy breathtaking ocean views of the sparkling Atlantic. Direct access from the hotel leads straight onto the magnificent sandy beach, one of the longest in the Algarve. There are numerous excellent golf courses within easy reach and preferential rates are available to Holiday Inn Algarve residents. 8365-909 Armação de Pêra, Algarve, Portugal. | 37º 06" 17.5' N | 08º 21"30.1' W

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Vila Galé Náutico

Vila Galé Náutico

The hotel Vila Galé Náutico, located in the centre of Armação de Pêra and a few metres from the beach, was renovated in 2012 and is the ideal place for your All-inclusive holiday. The hotel has a Nautical theme and offers family orientated rooms and suites. Fully equipped with outdoor pools, playground, children's club, a sports ground and Health Club with indoor pool, Jacuzzi, gym and massage room. A lively bar, an international buffet restaurant and an Italian à la carte restaurant are also at your disposal. The hotel offers free Wi-Fi access in all areas.

Vale do Olival, 8365-158 Armação de Pêra, Portugal. | 37º 06" 26.9' N | 08º 22"21.7' W

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Casa Bianca 2 - Apartment

Casa Bianca 2 - Apartment

Located in Armação de Pêra, within 2km of Cova Redonda Beach and 4 km of Chapel of Nossa Senhora da Rocha, Casa Bianca 2 offers accommodation with free WiFi, air conditioning, a restaurant and a terrace. This beachfront property offers access to a balcony. The apartment features two bedrooms, a flat-screen TV with cable channels, an equipped kitchen with a microwave and a fridge, a washing machine, and a bathroom with a bidet. A children's playground is available on site and hiking can be enjoyed within close proximity of the apartment.

1 Avenida do Rio, 8365-102 Armação de Pêra, Portugal. | 37° 06' 06.1" N | 08° 21' 23.3" W

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OUR CHOICE

Piccolino

Piccolino

Inland from the docks, this unpretentious yet friendly eatery is famous for it's grilled fish and high quality of it's dishes. Popular with locals and those who know the food here is on-par with, if not exceeding, that of more trendy and expensive restaurants.

Daily: 12h00 – 14h30/18h00 – 23h0
Av. Beira Mar, 8365-134 Armação de Pêra, Portugal.
37º 06' 07.7" N | 08º 21' 53.9" W | +351 920 426 699


Casa de Pasto Ze Leiteiro

Casa de Pasto Ze Leiteiro

Away from the seafront on the Rua Portas Do Mar, this quirky restaurant is famed for its excellent fish and as a consequence is often busy at peak times. For a fixed price the waiters will bring you locally caught fish, which usually includes Sea bass, Halibut, Salmon, Bream, Sardines and Squid, all grilled to perfection. The dishes keep arriving until you feel all fished out. The tables are laid out in rows and have a canteen feel about the place. All-you-can-eat fish accompanied by potatoes and salad for only €11.00 for adults and €6.00 for the liitle'uns, could you want for anything more?

Tuesday - Sunday: 12h00 – 15h00/18h30 – 21h30, Monday: CLOSED
Rua das Portas do Mar, 8365 Armação De Pêra, Silves, Portugal.
37º 06' 04.0" N | 08º 21' 27.6" W | +351 282 314 551


Boca Xica

Boca Xica

This small restaurant refreshingly offers an alternative to the majority of restaurants in the area. Their mission is to serve the best healthy food local producers can offer. Boca Xira's focus on the nutritional balance of each dish. Always aiming to promote proximity gastronomy, with products (more than 70%) coming from a distance of less than 100km. Boca Xica green cuisine is not only lighter and healthier but also packed full of flavour. Their juices are designed by mixologist João Franco in collaboration with nutritionist Cristina Solé. There are a good selection of meat, fish and vegetarian on the menu to choose from.

Daily: 12h00 – 15h00/19h00 – 22h00
Rua Bartolomeu Dias 32, Armacao de Pera 8365-112 Portugal.
37° 06' 11.5" N | 08° 21' 31.1" W | +351 966 169 499

Only 47km (30 miles) west of Faro Airport Website

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The N125 runs west to east along the Algarve, the A22 runs west and E1 runs north and east.
Latitude: 38º 41' 46.3" | Longitude: 09º 12' 11.3"

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The nearest train station is 10 km (6 miles) north of Armação de Pêra. Regional train services (comboios regionais) run from Lagos in the west to Vila Real de Santo António on Portugal's eastern border:
• Lagos - Vila Real de Santo António line: Timetable | Website

• Eva Transportes run services across the Algarve linking the main resorts and towns, as well as a hostess service to Lisbon. Also worth considering are their tourist passes if you're planing to visit different places: Website
• Rede Expressos operates countrywide services: Website