Ferragudo is a traditional town that sits in the south of the Algarve, on the banks of the Arade estuary where the river meets the Atlantic. Thanks to its position on the Arade and Portugal's south coast, Ferragudo has a range of lovely beaches to discover.
Ferragudo is quieter than the slightly better known Portimão, though the two sit opposite each other across the estuary. Praia da Angrinha is one of Ferragudo's beaches and faces Portimão's harbour across the water. This beach, along with Praia Grande, is great for windsurfing, perfectly situated to catch gusts rolling up the estuary. They are both lovely and sandy and located within the walls of the harbour, where the river joins the ocean. For this reason, and the added shelter of Portimão across the river, the waters are protected and popular for water sports and water sport events. Praia Grande is the longer of the two, with plenty of room, beach cafés and facilities.
Praia da Angrinha and Praia Grande are separated by the fort of São João de Arade which is a castellated structure that started out as a 15th century look-out tower, watching over the Arade estuary. Originally built during the reign of King John II of Portugal, later extensions to the tower took place as part of a series of fortifications intended to protect the mouth of the river. On the opposite bank, above the Portimão marina is the corresponding fort of Santa Catarina, built for the same purpose. The fort of São João de Arade is still privately owned and so, unfortunately, inaccessible, but it does make a picturesque view from the beaches.
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