Soaking up the rays on Praia da Falesia
Last year, I took a trip to Portugal to attend one of my best friend’s wedding.
When I lived in Thailand, I missed out on a lot of these happy events because I was so far away, so being able to go to a wedding at last made me happy.
There were a few of us who flew into Faro, but we all chose to stay in different areas, just coming together for the special day. I stayed at the Alfamar Beach and Sport Resort right by Praia da Falesia beach, which is between Albufeira and Vilamoura, and I spent the first day soaking up the rays.
Access to the beach was just a short walk from the resort.
I was soon ensconced on the sand.
Praia da Falesia means “Cliff Beach” and it’s obvious where it gets its name from. These high cliffs, that run the length of the beach, are different shades of red and white. With the green vegetation that grows at the top and the sandy beach at the bottom, the cliffs provide a dramatic view.
The cliffs are made of sand and clay, so when it rains, the erosion forms small cones of sand at the base.
You can also see different dune plants that are hardy enough to be able to thrive in this environment. I thought it was such a lovely place to relax, which is what I did for a while.
When I got too hot, I took a walk up the beach and felt the coolness of the Atlantic wash over my feet.
I like swimming in the sea, but it was a bit too cool for my liking – I had a quick dip before retreating for the sun to warm me again.
The hotel had a swimming pool, but I have always preferred the beach. I love sitting there reading my book and watching the world go by. Which do you prefer?
The thing I love the most is the sound of the sea crashing onto the sand, it’s mesmerising.
When I see a boat go passed in the distance, I get to wondering where they are going! (Just me? 😉 )
I had a lovely day by myself on the beach – it was a gorgeous setting for my first day in Portugal!