Portugal – July 2009 (Part 3)

Praia das Furnas (Figueira)

The first beach we went to (and probably our favourite) was Praia das Furnas.

Directions

The beach is located just off the N125 at Figueira.  Turn left or right at Parque da Floresta, towards Figueira village.  After passing through the village follow  a narrow concrete road.  You will cross over a small wooden bridge.  Shortly afterwards there is a dirt track to the left.  This will take you to the beach.  We missed this turning originally and had to turn back after reaching 4 or 5 properties.  Turning back round it was actually easier to see the dirt track we were looking for heading to the right.  The track to the beach was very stony so go easy in your hire car! You’ll soon reach a small farm building where the track goes to the right.  You should then see a small car park at the rear of the beach.

The beach is featured in Inspirations Algarve April 2010 Newsletter:

http://inspirationsalgarve.newsweaver.co.uk/newsletter/1m9f3szyen7-da568r52gh

Review

When we visited there was about 50 people in total.  Given that the beach is fairly expansive, people tend to sunbathe to the left or right.  We headed to right on our first visit where 100% of visitors were nude.  There was a good mix of ages.  However, towards the end of the day a textiled family turned up and made us feel a little uncomfortable due to how close they ‘pitched’ next to us.

On our second visit we went to the left (as you face the sea).  Here the rock formations were much more interesting and again, all beach users were nude.  There was again one clothed family set back from the beach but this did not seem to cause any problems.

Remember to take everything you need for the day as there are no facilities.  If you go on the right side you will definitely need a windbreak but this is not really needed on the left hand side of the beach.

We would definitely recommend this beach to anyone is this part of the Algarve.  In fact, if anyone knows of any accommodation nearby, we would love to hear from you!