Exciting disabled access holidays around the world can be hard to find, but Monte Gordo and Faro in Portugal are fantastic destinations for wheelchair users and travellers with other impairments. They’re relatively easy to access with a flight and shuttle transfer, and have plenty of great attractions as well as a number of appropriate accommodation options. What are you waiting for? Read on and find out more about Portuguese disabled access holidays.
What’s in Monte Gordo?
Monte Gordo is a relatively small Portuguese town, and is not often inundated with tourists. This makes it a great destination for disabled travellers as there is plenty of space on the streets and quick service in the local bars and restaurants. Though there are few tourist areas, this town is home to various beaches, many of which are accessible for travellers with reduced mobility.
Praia da Altura
This beach has plenty of parking space and a number of raised wooden walkways across the sand, so is easy to access for all types of travellers. The area is large, so you’ll never be short of space, and there are several bars and restaurants nearby if you fancy stopping for a refreshing drink or bite to eat.
Praia da Lota
This lovely shoreline is located just east of Praia da Manta Rota, and here you’ll find that the sea water is slightly warmer and calmer, so disabled travellers may be able to enjoy a paddle depending on their disability. This beach also features a carpark, nearby café and wooden walkways, so you should find everything you need. There are even sunbeds available for hire if you fancy soaking up the heat.
What’s in Faro?
If you’re looking to get out and about rather than simply relaxing on the beaches, I recommend that you head to the nearby city of Faro. Since this is the location of the nearest airport, it may be wise to explore the area on your route to or from your accommodation in Monte Gordo.
This city has plenty of great attractions on offer for travellers with reduced mobility, many of which provide an insight into Portuguese history and culture.
Museu Municipal
This museum is a great accessible attraction as there is a spacious ground floor and various activities catering to visitors with reduced mobility. While exploring the museum you’ll find a number of artefacts from prehistorical, Roman and medieval periods as well as interesting paintings and mosaics.
Ingreja da Misericórdia
This Catholic church is several centuries old, but has been well preserved and is fully accessible. The exterior is magnificent, and inside you will find some eighteenth-century statues, a beautiful arch and stunning Rococo carvings.
Praia da Ilha
If you’re already missing the beaches, there is also an accessible option in the city. Praia da Ilha is located just a short distance from the airport and there are also some fantastic restaurants nearby. This beach is also equipped with an amphibious wheelchair, providing an unforgettable experience for wheelchair users.
Where to Stay
Hotel Paiva – This hotel is just a few yards from the main attractions in the area, so it is a great option for wheelchair users or travellers with other impairments. There are guest rooms that are accessible and other excellent features including family rooms and a common living area. A daily breakfast buffet is served and the rooms are beautifully decorated.
Hotel Vasco Da Gama – Located right on the beachfront, this hotel has everything you’ll need for a great holiday in Portugal. There is a fantastic onsite restaurant serving local cuisine, a lively bar and rooms with disabled access available.
How to Get There
The easiest way to reach Monte Gordo from London is to fly into Faro Airport, which will take just over two and a half hours. There are plenty of airlines offering direct flights and facilities for disabled travellers, so your journey should be relatively stress free.
From the airport, you should get a private shuttle to your accommodation. If you pre-book, you can ensure that the vehicle has disability facilities. I recommend using Shuttle Direct’s services, as they have plenty of transfer options that are sure to suit your needs.
Overview
- UK to FAO Flight Time: 2 hours 35 minutes
- FAO to Monte Gordo Distance: 62 kilometres
- Shuttle Direct Transfer Time: 52 minutes
About Shuttle Direct
Shuttle Direct is renowned for their reliable airport transfers in destinations across the globe. If you’re looking for a private or shared shuttle, we promise to provide you with a convenient, hassle-free experience.
