While visiting popular European destinations is often exciting, it often comes with the sacrifice of extortionate prices, overcrowded hotspots and endless queues. Portugal offers lively beach spots like Portimão and Praia da Rocha – but there is one Portuguese seaside spot that is constantly overlooked.

Ferragudo is a charming and traditional fishing village, sitting on the opposite side of the Arade River to Portimão. Located in the Algarve region, Ferragudo offers visitors a chance for a quiet escape, away from the hustle and bustle of Portugal’s tourist hotspots. The village holds an authentic charm, dotted with whitewashed houses and colourful streets.

The cobbled streets make for serene walks and stunning photos, with the town’s typical white cottages and summer flowers in the background. Visitors can also stop by the Igreja de Ferragudo, the village’s iconic white and yellow church which offers magnificent views of the river.

Much like its more popular competitors, Ferragudo also offers several beaches for those looking for a seaside getaway. With summer highs of 30 degrees, tourists can enjoy the sun without the stress of overcrowded beaches.

Tripadvisor list Ferragudo’s top five beaches as Praia Grande, Praia dos Caneiros, Pintadinho Beach, Praia da Angrinha and Praia do Torrado. Praia Grande is praised by visitors for its excellent beach bars, access to sun loungers and stunning views.

Praia da Torrado is more secluded, located in a Special Protection Zone, featuring the prominent sea stack Leixao da Gaivota, which serves as a crucial nesting site for various bird species.

One frequent Ferragudo visitor says on Tripadvisor: “We have been going to Ferragudo for years and love it. It’s one of the few places in the Algarve that’s not very touristy yet has fantastic character and a lovely beach.”

They describe the area as safe and ideal for those looking for self-catering while away, with plenty of access to several small supermarkets.

They add: “For us it is an idyllic spot, and it ticks all the boxes for us, and we would not stay anywhere else in the Algarve.”

Some of the village’s top highest-rated eating spots include the authentic Gaspacho & Migas, a Mediterranean restaurant also serving Portuguese cuisine. This spot specialises in reinterpreting traditional Algarve and Alentejo dishes.

Tourists have also praised the village’s Bela Rosa restaurant, for its variety of dishes and friendly staff. One visitor recommends pre-booking during peak season.