World adventurer Charlie Perring knows a thing or two about off the beaten track. The Drift Adventure owner has pretty much walked or dirt-biked the length and breadth of the Algarve, but when it comes to the comfort of a car, he loves the unspoiled beauty of the 12km road from Carrapateira in Aljezur on the Algarve west coast to Praia do Portinho do Forno.“Starting in Carrapateira on the N268 (heading north), turn left off the main road at Eurico Porfirio Cabrita Restaurant and follow the road (CM1134) up to the top of the cliffs that overlook Praia da Bordeira,” says Charlie.

“Here the road turns from tarmac to dirt as it swings south to follow the coastline. Stay on the CM1134 for several kilometres, keeping the coastline tight on your right as you hit a fork in the road, until you reach Praia do Portinho do Forno and the stunning Sítio do Forno restaurant perched on the cliffs overlooking the Atlantic. Enjoy a wonderful lunch of freshly caught seabass or grilled chicken on the outside terrace with spectacular views over the Atlantic Ocean.” His hot tip is that it’s probably best to book ahead, because the restaurant gets busy in the warmer months and closes at times during winter.

He also advises that, while the drive is great on any sunny day so you can take advantage of the views, it is probably best to avoid it during the peak summer months when it gets busy and the dirt road throws up a lot of dust.

“So, spring and autumn are your best bests, especially if you take a walk down the little road to the side of Sítio do Forno where you’ll find a cove and fishing boats. You can walk off the boat ramp for a refreshing dip in the ocean.”

To return to Carrapateira, keep heading south to Praia do Amedo before following the road northeast back to the N268, which will bring you back into Carrapateira.

“This is probably one of my most memorable drives, with absolutely stunning views of the big breakers rolling in across the Atlantic Ocean,” says Charlie. “The beaches of Bordeira and Amado are well worth a stretch of the legs. And if you’re a surfer, make sure to take your board and catch a few waves.”

He says there are scenic viewpoints all along the route, marked by large copper alphabetical letters on the track ends. “There are also wooden walkways, which take you to various cliff heads with the ocean crashing onto the rocks below. The whole route is a photographer’s dream!

“This is a must-do for anyone who wants to get off the beaten track and breathe in the ocean. Just bear in mind that much of the drive is a dirt track, so take it slowly if you’re in a low-slung car.”

Words: Debbie Reynolds