Luz, is a civil parish located about 6 kilometres from the city of Lagos in the Algarve. "Praia da Luz", which translates to ‘Beach of the Light’, is used to refer to both the local beach as well as the village.
This small fishing village has become a unique tourist destination with a great selection of holiday villas. The fact that it’s bit more peaceful than other coastal villages on Algarve makes it perfect for a relaxing break.
History
Luz is great for history fans. Due to the Carthaginian and the Roman occupations, Luz has some great Roman ruins. In the 8th Century the Moors conquered the Algarve, and while it was reclaimed by the Portuguese around 13th Century, Moorish influence can be seen in the architecture all over the region.
With the growth of the fishing industry in the 16th Century, a fort was built along the coast to act as a defence against pirates. This Fort is now a restaurant, which provides stunning views from its terraces and tasty food.
The 1755 Lisbon earthquake destroyed most of the village. Rebuilding started in the 19th Century, which means most of the architecture is Algarvian neo–Baroque style. Nevertheless, one can still find some façades with Manueline architectural motifs and rural single-storey buildings from the 18th Century and before.
Landmarks
The Blue Flag beach of Praia da Luz is the village’s most famous landmark. The beach has two distinguishing features that attract the holidaymakers: the gorgeous sandy beach and imposing rocky cliffs. The famous Rocha Negra "black rock" cliff is the result of the Monchique region's volcanic lava flow and was formed millions of years ago.
There are plenty of water-based activities to try at the beach, including diving, waterskiing, kayaking, dolphin and whale watching and stand-up paddleboarding. There is also a tennis and bowling club, as well as health spas and fitness centres located in some of the resort complexes.
If you want to explore the nearby mountains then there are off-road 4x4 Tours, climbing and walking tours. Praia da Luz also has great golf courses located within a ten minute drive at Boavista and Palmares.
‘The Roman Archaeological Site of Praia da Luz’ consists of a small Roman bath complex located alongside the main Church of Nossa Senhora da Luz. A cobbled promenade called, Avenida dos Pescadores, runs from this church along the seafront to the beach bars.
A military point of Interest is also the fort and the Castle of Nossa Senhora da Luz.
Eating and Drinking
There is a fantastic choice of restaurants in Luz, serving everything from traditional Portuguese dishes to international cuisine. From eateries that are popular with both tourists and locals, to takeaways, you are spoilt for choice here.
There are also a few supermarkets in Luz and large hypermarkets in the nearby town of Lagos perfect for those of you who are going self-catered. In Praia da Luz, you can also find some shops, a medical centre and a pharmacy.
Praia da Luz's main highlight is the beach, but, as you’ll find out, there are many other reasons that make this village a perfect, relaxing choice to spend your holiday.
