Gruta do Xorino
Old Town, Albufeira, Portugal, 8200-110
At the western end of Praia do Peneco is Gruta do Xorino, a small cave with a big history. The cave is said to have been used as a hiding place by the Moors during the Christian conquest of Albufeira in the 13th century. While there’s no signage at the cave, it’s an interesting addition to a visit to Albufeira’s most popular beach.
The basics
A tunnel carved into the cliffs connects Gruta do Xorino with Albufeira’s lively Old Town, via Praia dos Pescadores, the resort’s busiest beach. You’ll sometimes pass by the cave on Albufeira sightseeing tours, which transport you by tuk-tuk or electric bike around the center and surrounding beaches. You might also be able to see Gruta do Xorino during a cruise along the coastline to the famous Benagil Cave or on a dolphin-watching boat ride.
Things to know before you go
You can rent sun loungers, parasols, and water-sports equipment on the beach surrounding the cave.
There’s a huge selection of restaurants, bakeries, and bars on the promenade that leads away from the cave.
Thanks to a wooden boardwalk and the elevator that goes to and from street level, Praia do Peneco is fully wheelchair accessible.
How to get there
From Rua 5 de Outubro in the center of Albufeira Old Town, you can walk to the beach through a tunnel carved into one of the cliffs. You can also ride the 91-foot-high (28-meter-high) elevator from the top of the cliffs down to the beach.
When to get there
From June through September during the European school holidays, Praia do Peneco gets extremely crowded, even at the far end beside Gruta do Xorino. Visit during May and October for lovely weather without the huge crowds or expensive accommodations.
The best caves in the Algarve
Albufeira’s rugged coastline is home to stunning rock formations and secret caves. When it comes to the list of caves in the Algarve, the Benagil Cave also finds itself at the top. The natural arches, swirling mineral deposits, and openings through which sunlight floods make it one of the top natural attractions in southern Portugal.
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