Photography destination: The rugged ‘Serra’ backcountry of the Algarve
The Algarve region in Portugal is well known for its spectaculair beaches, but its backcountry is just as enticing. This rugged area is known as the Serra do Caldeirão with its highest point at 598 meters (Pelados), and forms the border between the Algarve and Alentejo regions. With only a fraction of the tourists, the rugged hills are ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking, mountain biking, dirt biking, birdwatching and…photography!
Photographing the Serra around São Brás de Alportel
The backcountry of the Algarve covers a large area, I focus my photography mostly in the area around the quaint village of São Brás de Alportel where I Live. There are several hamlets around which can be easily reached by road, and which have endless trials in between them for outdoor activities. For example Cova da Muda, Cabeça do Velho, Barranco do Velho, Javali and Bico Alto. The main attraction is the ‘Via Algarviana’ which runs from the border of Spain to the west coast of Portugal. There aren’t many facilities, restaurants and shops around, so make sure to stock up beforehand. The Fonte Férrea parking area is a great starting point for any outdoor activity with picnic tables and it used to have a good restaurant, though at the moment is seems to be under renovation. Another great spot is the tiny village of Parizes which also has a small family restaurant ‘O Fortes’ (which has great, locally made ‘Modrinho’ liquor).
When to photograph in the Algarve backcountry
The ‘Serra’ is beautiful year round, but the summer time is best avoided due to the heat. The best time for hiking and other outdoor activities is the Spring between February and May when temperatures are more comfortable and the ‘Serra’ is blooming with flowers! As a photographer the months of October, November and December are also great because of the great lights (sunsets!) due to reflecting clouds. Though be aware (in contrast to popular belief), that during the winter time it can rain quite a bit in the Algarve and you must be prepared to cross many flowing streams.
More information on photography in the ‘Serra’ of the Portuguese Algarve
I have a dedicated page regarding photography of the ‘Serra’, which I continually updated with new imagery. Have a look!
Interested in discovering the photographic opportunities or doing a photo shoot in the São Brás de Alportel area? Don’t hesitate to contact me!
For more information on what to do and when to visit the area around São Brás de Alportel, visit the website of the São Brás de Alportel community.
For more more information on the ‘Via Algarviana’ GR13 route, visit their website.