Ponta do Altar Lighthouse

#25 among destinations in Portugal

Lighthouse

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Facts and practical information

Perched on the cliffs of the Algarve coast, the Ponta do Altar Lighthouse stands as a sentinel over the picturesque town of Ferragudo, Portugal. This historic beacon has guided mariners safely through the treacherous waters of the Atlantic since its inauguration.

The lighthouse's white and red cylindrical tower rises distinctly against the azure backdrop of the sky and sea, providing a striking contrast and a point of reference for those navigating near the shore. Operational since the early 20th century, the Ponta do Altar Lighthouse has become not only a vital navigational aid but also a beloved landmark for locals and visitors alike.

While the lighthouse itself is not typically open for public tours, the surrounding area offers breathtaking views of the jagged coastline and the vast ocean beyond. The site is accessible to those who wish to bask in the serene beauty of the Algarve's natural landscape and to capture the perfect photograph of this coastal guardian.

Alternative names: Coordinates: 37°6'21"N, 8°31'10"W

Location

FaroPortugal

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Day trips

Ponta do Altar Lighthouse – popular in the area (distance from the attraction)

Nearby attractions include: Fort of Santa Catarina, Fort of São João do Arade, Ferragudo, Praia da Rocha.

0.9 miNW
View point, Forts and castles
Fort of Santa Catarina, Portimão
25 min walk • The Fort of Santa Catarina, a historical sentinel overlooking the mouth of the Arade River, is a proud emblem of Portimão's rich maritime past. Constructed in the 17th century during the reign of King Philip II of Spain, who was also Philip I of Portugal, this coastal...
1 miN
Forts and castles
Fort of São João do Arade, Portimão
25 min walk • Perched on the rocky coastline of the Algarve, the Fort of São João do Arade stands as a sentinel over the estuary of the River Arade, in the city of Portimão, Portugal. This imposing castle, with its robust walls and strategic location, has been a watchful guardian...
1.2 miN
Area
Ferragudo, Portimão
31 min walk • Ferragudo is a Portuguese civil parish at the western border of the municipality of Lagoa. The population in 2011 was 1,973, in an area of 5.41 km².
1.1 miNW
Scenic beach near hotels and restaurants
Praia da Rocha, Portimão
29 min walk • Praia da Rocha is a beach and built up area on the Atlantic Ocean in the southern section of the concelho of Portimão, Algarve, southern Portugal. On the western edge of the beach stands the Fort of Santa Catarina. A 17th century fortress built to defend the mouth of the Arade River.
1 miN
Beach
Praia Grande, Portimão
26 min walk • Praia Grande is a beach situated in the civil parish of Ferragudo, municipality of Lagoa, the Portuguese Algarve. One of many beaches to obtain the name Praia Grande, this coastal zone is located on the eastern back of Rio Arade estuary, south of the town of Ferragudo.
1 miN
Beach
Praia da Angrinha, Portimão
26 min walk • Praia da Angrinha is situated along the wide estuary of the Arade River, south of Ferragudo, in Lagoa Municipality.