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What's it really like ? Transfer time (approx): 75 minutes Location: Not the prettiest resort by Portuguese standards due to some rather unattractive multi-storey apartment blocks. Praia da Rocha is a purpose built town which lacks both the character of old Albufeira and the planning of Vilamoura, and yet it remains popular with many Brits and Irish, mainly young couples and families. Along the cliff top runs a promenade lined with hotels, shops and bars. Below it is one of the most spectacular stretches of beach in Europe, with its rugged sandstone backdrop and rock formations rising from the sea. Probably not suitable for the less mobile. Also watch for some dangerous areas when walking along the coastal cliff tops. Beaches: The best feature - wide and craggy and fascinating to explore. There are some smaller coves along the coast but the main beach is patrolled by lifeguards at peak times. Some 30 steep steps down to the sand make it inaccessible for some and awkward for families with buggies, etc. Days Out: Praia da Rocha is home to three golf courses and some spectacular coastal scenery which prove popular with walkers. Boat trips off the beach are a good way to see it from a different perspective, although the Atlantic gets choppy at times which may cause a few tummy upsets. There is water park 15 minutes away which operates a free shuttle bus. For self-caterers there is a large supermarket on the road into town while Faro - just over an hour away, has become home to the Algarve's biggest shopping centre with more than a hundred stores and 20 restaurants plus a hypermarket. Lagos is well worth a visit for exploring its Roman remains, and for more extensive shopping. Nights Out: Almost on a par with Albufeira for nightlife. Many Irish bars, some karaoke spots and clubs, even a casino. A great number of restaurants, many along the esplanade and all very affordable. Bucket and Spade Brigade: Kids will love to explore all the nooks and crannies along the beach, keep an eye on them though because it gets busy at peak times. The water park provides a good value for money day out and the dolphin show at Zoomarine is another good day out. |
