Ponta da Piedade

Ponta da Piedade is the postcard of the western Algarve: a headland of golden limestone just south of the town of Lagos, carved by the sea into arches, towers, tunnels and grottoes that rise from water of astonishing clarity. The headland is sometimes associated with Albufeira, but it lies at Lagos, a short drive or walk from the marina and the old town, and it is the highlight of that stretch of coast. The name means Point of Mercy, after a small chapel to Our Lady of Piety that once stood near the headland.

The cliffs are the product of time and water. The rock is a soft, honey-coloured limestone laid down in an ancient sea, and over millennia, waves, wind and rain have worked it into a landscape of stacks and spires, some standing alone in the sea like ruined castles, others joined by natural bridges. The sea has hollowed out caves and passages at the base, some large enough for a boat to enter, and the interplay of colour, with the orange rock, the green and turquoise water and the blue sky, is unforgettable. The effect is strongest in the morning, when the sun lights the rock face, and in late afternoon, when the stone glows deep gold.

There are two ways to see it. On land, a path and a series of wooden walkways run along the clifftop, with railings and viewing platforms that look down onto the stacks, and the lighthouse, built in the early 20th century, stands at the point itself. The headland is flat on top and easy to walk, but the edges drop sharply, so stay behind the barriers. A long stairway, with about 180 steps cut into the rock, descends to a small landing at sea level, where you can walk on the rocks beside the water and see the formations from below. The climb back up is tiring in the heat. From the sea, the experience is even better. Boat trips from Lagos marina and the beach of Praia Dona Ana take passengers into the grottoes, and kayaks and stand-up paddleboards, which can be rented in town, allow a slower, closer exploration. Calm mornings are best, since the sea can be rough in the afternoon and the caves are not safe in swell.

Parking near the point is limited, particularly in summer, so arrive early or walk from the town, which takes about thirty minutes along the cliff path. The beaches of Dona Ana and Camilo, two of the most photographed in the Algarve, lie just to the east. Wear shoes with a good grip, since the rock can be slippery, bring a hat and water, and be careful with children near the edge.

The headland is free to visit and open at all hours. It suits everyone, from photographers to families, and sunset is a popular time.