Beliche Beach – “Praia do Beliche”
Praia do Beliche is a magnificent bay of soft golden sand, with huge towering cliffs behind and lies between Sagres point and Cape St Vincent. Praia do Beliche, is unspoilt and calming, even when the wild winds get up.
As many visitors to the Algarve do not yet seem to have discovered Sagres, Praia do Beliche, is a fantastic place to retreat to, to relax and to appreciate real Algarve beauty.You wont find any amenities on Praia de Beliche; perhaps this is the reason why visitors stay away and those who like the untouched character return time again.
You may therefore want to pack a picnic to take with you or go for lunch at one of restaurants on the road above the beach or in the town. Disabled access is not really possible unfortunately, as the only way to get on to the beach is down a long set of steps down from the car park.
Out of season, Praia do Beliche will be almost deserted. Only a few keen surfers and occasional explorers will visit Beliche in the Autumn-Winter months and although it may be a bit chilly at times, it really is an inspiring time to go. You can enjoy a walk along the beach and then perhaps visit the huge converted fortress that resides nearby. It was built by Henry the Navigator, who was the Governor of the Algarve and famous for his school of navigation in Sagres. Henry built the Fortaleza back in the 15th century, but what remains today is actually an 18th century restoration following its destruction by the 1755 earthquake. The fortress is a fascinating structure to go and look at, particularly out of season when it is not so crowded.
You may also want to go a bit further along the road from Praia do Beliche to see the 19th century lighthouse and ruins of a 16th century monastery. Cabo de São Vincente is just 4 kilometres away and offers breathtaking views from the point. In summer Cabo de São Vincente is buzzing, as people flock to see the lighthouse and the ruins. There is usually a snack vendor there if you need refreshments and there are also markets on at certain times of the year.
Praia do Beliche is supervised during the beach season.