Category: Nature > Beach
District: Faro > Lagoa > Ferragudo
Praia Grande is located in the picturesque town of Ferragudo, part of the municipality of Lagoa, in the Algarve. This sandy beach is situated on the eastern bank of the Arade River estuary, right at the entrance to Portimão's port.
Its privileged position offers views over the river and the neighboring city of Portimão, including its marina with boats crossing the waters.
Characterized by a very extensive and wide sandy beach, Praia Grande offers ample space to enjoy the sun and sea. Its location within the river bar contributes to the waters generally being calm and serene, making it inviting for swimming and diving.
Water quality is one of its strong points, being distinguished by the annual award of the Blue Flag.
The surrounding landscape of Praia Grande is marked by the presence of cliffs. These rocky formations, of carbonate origin and dating from the lower Miocene, are notable for their richness in marine fossils, testifying to the region's geological history.
The top of the cliffs bordering the beach features the characteristic greenery of pine forests, creating a pleasant contrast with the golden sand and the blue of the sea and river.
At the northern end of the beach stands the imposing Castle of São João de Arade, also known as Fort of São João do Arade. This historic monument, built in the 17th century with the function of protecting the river bar, confers a unique architectural and historical element to the beach's landscape.
From the sandy beach, it is possible to admire the silhouette of the fort, which stands out against the sky, especially when high tide reaches its base.
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt
Coordinates DD: 37.1170044,-8.5202546
Coordinates DMS: 37°07'1.2"N 08°31'12.9"W