On the westernmost tip of the Algarve lies Sagres, a village at the end of the world. Surrounded by white cliffs fashioned by the roaring sea, Sagres is not everyone's cup-of-tea: set within a remote, barren landscape - some of the most dramatic scenery in Portugal - it is a haven for surfers and walkers alike. With long pristine beaches soaked by manic waves, it is an underexplored and undeveloped place, particularly for the Algarve, and doesn't have the frills and glamour of a seaside resort. Rugged, windswept and wild, it has few sites of historical or cultural interest, but therein lies its charm: the perfect place to escape the bustle of urban life. Our collection of the best places to stay in Sagres will introduce you to one of Portugal's best-kept secrets.

The ramshackle appearance of Sagres may lull a visitor into believing that the village is as historically insignificant as it is desolate. They would be wrong. Home of the 15th-century navigator, Prince Henry, and the location of his school of navigation, Sagres was the spiritual home of Portugal's Age of Discoveries. Indeed, it was from Sagres that the first caravels were launched. A remnant of this past can still be seen in, the great Fortaleza de Sagres, sitting high on the cliffs. Built by Prince Henry, it looms darkly over the crashing sea, walled in by the cliffs. Though it only bears a small chapel and a wind compass, the views from the fort are truly sublime.

In 1755, Sagres bore the brunt of an earthquake, rendering much of the original town lost beneath the dust of history. Therefore there aren't many things-to-do in the town itself. There are however some great seafood restaurants, serving the fresh fish brought in on a daily basis - the variety of which is extraordinary - and some lovely cafes and bars. The beaches are aplenty: if you like surfing, then head out to the Praia do Tonel, on the exposed northern flank of Sagres, while the Praia de Mareta is ideal for a day spent idling in the sunshine. Several surf schools operate in the town, so check one of them out if you want to go body-boarding or kite-surfing.

What not to miss

• Take a walk along the clifftop coastal paths and enjoy the mesmerising views. Take care to wear good shoes and mind yourself because the paths are precarious at best, and the Portuguese aren't particularly obsessed with health and safety regulations!
• Check out one of the many surfing schools in-town and try your hand at kite-surfing or bodyboarding!
• Head up to the Fortaleza de Sagres and see the marvellous 15th-century architecture in all its glory. Nestled on a dramatic position high up the cliff, it provides fantastic views and has a small chapel.
• Go to the lighthouse, the most southwesterly point of Europe and one of Portugal's most powerful lighthouses, the Cabo Sao Vicente.
• Fancy a quiet beach holiday? You've found the perfect place. The Praia de Mareta is the most popular beach, though for something more secluded, check out the Praia do Martinhal. If you're a surfer, head over to the Praia do Tonel.

Sagres is a beautiful and remote place unspoilt by the heaving crowds of tourists who descend upon the Algarve every summer. Ideal for long walks, days spent lounging in the sun and fresh seafood, the best places to stay in Sagres are often found on lovely empty stretches of beach.

The best places to stay in Sagres

Value for money

• Memmo Baleeira: a chic and minimalist hotel right on the beachfront, offering 144 rooms. Ideal for large families, there is a fantastic gourmet restaurant, a spoiling spa and an outdoor pool. Lots of activities to keep you entertained.

Family holiday

• Martinhal Beach Resort & Hotel: a luxurious and varied resort with 38 rooms, ranging from rooms to condos to beachfront villas. Ideal for a family beach holiday, it is perfectly placed for watersports. Laid-back and full of quiet charm.

Coastal Haven

• Pousada de Sagres: nestled on a cliff-top away from the summer crowds, this hotel complex offers stunning views over the Algarve coast. Boasting a gorgeous pool and spectacular spa.

For an apartment or villa

• For a self- catering option our partner Booking.com has a wide range of villas and apartments.

Travel information

• Fly to Faro Airport and get a shuttle bus to Lagos, where you can travel on public transport to Sagres, taking less than 30 minutes.
• If you want to rent a car we recommend you contact our partner Rentalcars.
• Travel between June and August, when the temperature averages at around 22 degrees and there is minimal rain.

Still not sure?

• Expand your search to include the best places to stay in Algarve
• or the best places to stay in Portugal
• or contact one of our Gurus for advice.

Weather

Monthly Weather in Sagres