Ponta da Piedade is considered one of the most beautiful sights in all of Portugal and the most stunning rock formation in the Algarve, even surpassing the famous Benagil Cave. This coastal landscape is located just 3 kilometers south of Lagos and features a dramatic headland with 20-meter-high cliffs. Hidden among them are countless rock formations, caves, and beautiful beaches that are often accessible only from the sea.
During our stay in Lagos, we visited this breathtaking landscape twice. First, we took a boat tour* to Ponta da Piedade, and later, we walked along the well-maintained hiking trail that runs along the cliffs.
We highly recommend both experiences! To be honest, a tour to Ponta da Piedade is just as much a must-see as the trips to the Benagil Cave and Algar Seco for anyone traveling to the Algarve.
Ponta da Piedade Boat Tour
Our one-hour boat tour* started from the harbor of Lagos. Right in front of the pier, there are several small cafés and free public toilets.
If, like us, you start your tour from Lagos, you will pass some of the city’s major sights on your way to the rock formations. The exit from Lagos Harbor leads along the Avenida dos Descobrimentos, which translates to “Avenue of Discoveries” – a truly fitting name!
Among the sights along the avenue are the market hall, the historic slave market, and the Fortaleza de Lagos. After leaving the harbor, you pass Praia da Batata and reach the Ponte do Antigo Forte do Pinhão bridge. Right behind it, the breathtaking rock formations begin.
Our Video of the Ponta da Piedade Boat Tour
To get a clear idea of what to expect on the boat tour, you can simply watch our video. We captured the highlights of the boat ride along Ponta da Piedade. In the video, you’ll see breathtaking rock formations, caves, tunnels, arches, and massive boulders that we navigated through with a small boat.
Top Attractions on the Water
The first highlight of the boat tour* can be found in front of Praia Dona Ana beach, where several massive rock formations rise from the water. The next highlights are located between Praia do Camilo and Ponta da Piedade. This section is home to more rock formations, caves, tunnels, and arches that we passed through with our boat. Some of these arches even have holes in their ceilings, just like the famous Benagil Cave.
Interestingly, the locals have given names to many of the rock formations. These names often refer to their resemblance to animals, famous landmarks, or the dynamic shapes of the rocks.
Names of the Rock Formations We Remember:
- Elephant
- Camel
- Titanic and Iceberg
- Living Room
- Kitchen
- Garage
- Arch of Triumph
- Cathedral
Be prepared for the boat crew to turn this into a guessing game!
When you reach Ponta da Piedade, take a moment to look up at the cliff. At the top, you’ll see the Farol da Ponta da Piedade lighthouse. Once you pass around the corner of Ponta da Piedade, even more breathtaking rock formations and caves await you.
From here, you can already spot Praia de Porto Mós beach. This is actually our favorite beach. We stayed at our hotel* here and truly enjoyed the atmosphere. It’s also one of the first beaches in the Algarve where surfing actually makes sense.
Hiking at Ponta da Piedade
We also went on a hike along the cliffs of Ponta da Piedade.
Walking along the 20-meter-high cliffs, we enjoyed breathtaking views of the rock formations, hidden beaches, and picturesque coves from above.
We definitely recommend the hike because it offers a completely different perspective of the landscape. The hiking trail is free of charge and very well-maintained. Wide wooden boardwalks lead along the cliffs and offer numerous spectacular viewpoints along the way.
The trail takes about 45 minutes to complete, but the views are so stunning that you’ll likely want to stop frequently to take it all in. So make sure to allow plenty of time for your hike.
In our video, you can get a glimpse of what to expect during the hike.
3 Hiking Options
You have three options to start your hike: from Lagos, Praia de Porto Mós, or directly at the lighthouse.
1. Hiking from Ponta da Piedade Lighthouse
The easiest option is to start directly at the lighthouse. You can drive your car to the large parking lot right behind the lighthouse and begin your hike from there. There is also a small café and free toilets available. With this option, you’ll begin your hike at the highlight of the entire trail.
2. Hiking from Lagos
If you start your hike from Lagos, plan at least two hours. Keep in mind that you’ll have to walk all the way back as well. However, if you enjoy walking, you will be rewarded with breathtaking views along the way.
3. Hiking from Praia de Porto Mós
We started directly from our hotel Clube Porto de Mós* and it took us around two hours to complete the hike. We made frequent stops along the way to enjoy the breathtaking views and take lots of photos.
For us, the highlight of the hike was the Farol da Ponta da Piedade lighthouse. Around the lighthouse, you’ll find the most spectacular views of the rock formations and the sea.
Conclusion: Ponta da Piedade Boat Tour and Hiking
We were truly impressed by the coastal landscape in front of Lagos. The boat tour* is one of the best excursions you can take in the Algarve. You won’t find wilder rock formations anywhere else in the region.
The hiking trail above the cliffs is equally unique. For us, this hike was even more enjoyable than the one at Algar Seco. It was especially nice to see how much effort the local administration puts into providing safe and well-maintained trails.
Since the Algarve is not particularly large, you can reach Ponta da Piedade by car within an hour from almost any location in the region. We highly recommend making the trip and experiencing this stunning coastal landscape for yourself.
Frequently Asked Questions: Ponta da Piedade Boat Tour and Hiking
The one-hour boat tour starts from Lagos Harbor.
No, even though the boats are fast, small, and maneuverable, you won’t get wet during the tour.
Yes, there is a large parking lot right behind the lighthouse, which is an ideal starting point for the hike.
Yes, the well-maintained trails and secure boardwalks along the cliffs make this hike suitable for families with children.
Algarve Road Trip Guide
We’ve compiled the most exciting excursions and our favorite booking providers for your trip. It’s important to us that these booking platforms offer fair prices, high quality, and excellent customer service.
Our Top Excursions and Activities in the Algarve
Ponta da Piedade Boat Tour along the Algarve Rock Formations*
Booking.com* is our top choice for accommodations thanks to its fast and flexible service, large selection, and affordable prices.
Get Your Guide* is our go-to platform for high-quality excursions and activities while traveling.
Viator* also offers tours. If we can’t find what we’re looking for on Get Your Guide, Viator often has great alternatives.
Skyscanner* is our first choice for finding cheap flights.
Sixt* is our preferred provider for car rentals, often offering great discounts.
