Beach Huts in Monte Gordo. Photo credit: BK59

Located in the far southeast land-based area of Portugal, Monte Gordo lies in the Algarve region. Still retaining its sleepy fishing village atmosphere, Monte Gordo is a large town with several beaches to enjoy as well as a casino and a variety of other attractions. The warm waters are a favorite of tourists as are the Mediterranean climate and nearby valleys and mountains. This picturesque town features a landscape of regal pine trees opening to golden beaches and the beautiful Atlantic Ocean.

Exploring the Town

The layout of the town makes it easy to explore Monte Gordo, Algarve, Portugal by foot and by bicycle. The terrain is rather flat and spacious so you can easily bike or walk to explore the nearby churches and museums. With several beaches in close proximity, you can avoid driving unfamiliar roads and bike instead. It is also easy to reach the many restaurants and bars that dot along the beach as well as the main avenues of town. As expected, this coastal town offers a plethora of choices in regards to fish and seafood. However, this area of Portugal also presents a variety of other regional cuisine in addition to local beers, wines and liquors.

Beaches

There are seven primary beaches in the Monte Gordo area and many of them are quite accessible, even if you require special handicap access. Praia de Monte Gordo is located along the main road in town with free car parking and disability admission. If you want easy access to dining and bar amenities, this golden sand beach is the right choice.

Praia Da Lota. Photo credit: Rui Ornelas

Praia Verde is a bit west of the Praia de Monte Gordo and not as developed as the other available beaches. If you seek something a bit off the beaten path with fewer people, Praia Verde is a great choice. The small, bumpy road leading to the beach passes by a restaurant and café so you do not feel totally secluded. Praia de Altura and Praia da Lota are additional beaches to visit during your Monte Gordo stay. Their beaches reach for miles allowing for some easy ways to garner privacy when needed and easy accessibility to restaurants, bars and other amenities.

Praia de Manta Rota also offers handicap accessibility along with close proximity to a number of amenities. The extensive stretch of beach is great for strolling along the lapping waves as well as studying vegetation along the dunes. If you want a truly quiet, secluded experience with no modern distractions, Praia de Cacela Velha offers a lagoon but is only accessible by boat or by foot. The beach at Villa Real de Santo Antonio is the last portion of beach in the Monte Gordo, Algarve, Portugal area, bordering Spain. While a bit tricky to reach, it offers great views and secluded areas to relax.

Modern Entertainment

Perhaps one of the most notable places in Monte Gordo is the casino, opened in 1996. Not only are there over 200 slots, there is also an extensive game room, card games and even floor shows and entertainment each night. If you are seeking an evening or two of sophistication after a lazy day at the beach, the casino is quite the hot spot. Along with the affordable hotel resorts and other nearby sites to see including a medieval castle, Monte Gordo, Algarve, Portugal is a great destination if you want to get away from it all.