We took a day trip to Lagos, which is another small city not far from where we are living in Praia da Rocha. Each time we go out exploring, I think it is not possible for the sights to be even more beautiful, but it always is.
Our first planned stop was Ponta da Piedade. On the way we passed this old ruin. While there are many restored buildings and walls, there are many that are not.
After the pathway along the top of the cliffs to Ponta de Piedade there is a staircase to the beach that seems to be cut from the cliff face. At first I thought there was no way I was going down there….no hand rail… but thankfully I did.
The views of the yellow and red limestone were stunning.
We walked down a very long hill towards the promenade and the town centre. Since we have been here, we have climbed more hills and steps than I thought possible in a lifetime!
S. Goncalo was a local Lagos boy (1360-1422) who became a priest. The story goes, after he died he appeared in a miracle and guided a shipwrecked relative to safety. He was beatified by the pope in 1798.
Our next stop was Forte da Ponta da Bandeira. This is a 17th century fort that you have to cross a drawbridge to enter. There are several small restored rooms inside the fort, including a chapel and a dining room. Mostly it now seems to be an art gallery.
Across the street from the fort is the old walled city.
Just inside the wall, this plaque was mounted….with my google English translation. This is the same gentleman as the statue we passed on our way to the fort.
The city inside the walls is beautiful and vibrant. Just walking the streets was energizing.
There were two churches inside the walls, one had spectacular wood carvings and oil paintings on the ceilings, however we were not permitted to take any pictures.
We had time for one more stop before calling it a day. We went to Praia do Camilo, a beach at the bottom of 232 steps….Daryl counted.
As always, the going down is so much easier that the climbing back up….at least for some of us.
Another day spent in our little bit of paradise. It is also not possible to say how grateful I remain for this opportunity.
Cheers
Ruth
ruthkennedysretirementblog 
Lagos is one of the most beautiful places in Portugal! We’ve never seen beaches and cliffs like that anywhere else. Would love to go back one day again, nothing can beats Portugese pastries and gorgeous blue sky. Thanks for sharing, I’m glad you had a great time exploring Lagos. Aiva 😊
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