Are you spending your holiday in the Algarve, east of Faro? Then the Foz do Guadiana pier near Vila Real de Santo António, together with the wide stretch of sand known as Praia das Amelias Modestas, is a lovely place to visit. Especially at the end of the day, when it becomes quiet and you can enjoy beautiful sunsets.
Read this article in DutchBorder between Portugal and Spain
The Foz do Guadiana pier sits directly on the Guadiana River, which flows into the Atlantic Ocean here and forms the natural border between Portugal and Spain. As you walk along the water on the Portuguese side you can see Ayamonte and Isla Canela on the Spanish shore across the river. The pier itself serves mainly a functional purpose, protecting the river mouth so boats can safely enter and exit the Guadiana.
Farolim de Vila Real de Santo António
At the end of the pier stands a small tower, the Farolim de Vila Real de Santo António. It is not the official lighthouse but a navigation light that helps guide ships towards the entrance of the river. You can easily walk along the pier to the tower. It is an especially nice place to visit at the end of the day, when the light becomes softer and the area grows quieter. If you want to see the official lighthouse of Vila Real de Santo António, you will find it on the edge of the village, set against the dunes.
Watch the sunset from Praia das Amelias Modestas
Right next to the pier lies the wide beach of Praia das Amelias Modestas. Together with the pier it forms a wonderful spot to watch the sun sink into the sea, while the light turns warm and soft. My favourite moment of the day! During the day this beach is just as lovely. Spacious, never too crowded and with Sambé Beach Club nearby for a drink or a relaxed lunch with ocean views.
Parking at the pier
Parking for a visit to the Foz do Guadiana pier is easy. You can leave your car along the roadside right next to the river. From there it’s only a short walk to the beach and towards the end of the pier.
Explore more of eastern Algarve
I personally love this part of the Algarve. It’s much quieter than the area around Lagos. Also, the beaches are wider and perfect for long coastal walks, such as the beautiful trail between Altura and Manta Rota. Be sure to visit nearby gems like Tavira, Olhão, Monte Gordo, Cacela Velha and Cidade Velha, the historic part of Faro. The easiest way to explore the region is with a rental car with full coverage, so you can set off without any worries.
Staying in the eastern Algarve
There are plenty of beautiful places to stay in the Algarve. From luxury resorts to spacious apartments near the beach and charming B&Bs. We spend several nights at Martinhal Quinta Family Resort in Quinta do Lago, a perfect base for exploring the central Algarve. Further east we stay at Coastal Holiday’s Apartment in Monte Gordo, just a short walk from the beach. There are so many lovely options in this region. Next time I would love to stay at Monte da Lagoa in Altura or at Guadiana River Apartment in Vila Real de Santo António, where you are only a few minutes away from crossing into Spain.
