Aljezur is a small, quiet town whose main activity is agriculture. Even so, this part of the Western Algarve has some marvellous and extensive beaches with enormous expanses of sand or small bays protected by cliffs. Some of these beaches are easily accessible, like Arrifana, Odeceixe, Bordeira, Praia do Amado, and Monte do Clérigo, and much appreciated by fans of surfing and body boarding.

Aljezur is within the borders of the Nature Reserve of Costa Vicentina, that extends from Burgau, in the Borough of Vila do Bispo, to Ribeira da Junqueira, in São Torpes, Borough of Sines (Alentejo) and out to sea, for a 2 km strip, all along the coast. This Reserve, rich in fauna and flora, has some unique species that are not found anywhere else, also has a classification for its historical, geological and archaeological heritage. Foxes, wild cats and wild boar are, amongst others, known to frequent the park.

The tradition, due to the very fertile land, continues to be the cultivation of sweet potatoes and peanuts. Its nearness to the hills makes for excellent honey, much sought after.

With the sea so close, the rich local culinary offerings include two varieties of sea bream, rock bass, grilled grey mullet, the delicious mixed fish stew “caldeirada”, not forgetting goose barnacles freshly harvested from the sea-lashed rocks and with the sweet potatoes as a basic ingredient for some of the more solid dishes and local confectionery. The “Festival da Batata-Doce e dos Perceves” (Sweet Potato and Barnacle Festival) takes place in the middle of October, an event much spoken about and visited.

We recommend as places of interest to visit the Castle, built in the 10th century, with its panoramic view, the Municipal Museum, the main Parish Church, the Misericordia Church, the pillory and the Museum in the house of José Cercas.

Handicrafts are represented by the local pottery, which produces items of good quality and value. There are still those who make wooden spoons and baskets, but not so many of the characteristic wooden chairs.

Don’t miss a visit to the other Parishes of Bordeira, Odeceixe and Rogil, where you will discover some other historical monuments of interest.