New Portimão Bridge

The New Portimão Bridge is a concrete cable-stayed bridge that crosses the Arade River between the municipalities of Portimão and Lagoa. Two prominent pylons rise above the water and support the roadway across a 256-meter span using a system of steel cables.

Construction was completed in 1991 to relieve traffic congestion at the older crossing that had served the area for about a century. The new structure enabled faster and safer connections between the two sides of the river and supported the region's modern transportation development.

The bridge has become part of daily life for residents crossing between Portimão and Lagoa, shaping how people navigate the region. Its modern towers are now a familiar landmark that many locals point to when describing directions or discussing the area's development.

The bridge carries National Road 125 and is the main route for quick travel between Portimão and Lagoa. Best to cross during off-peak hours, as rush times can create delays, especially during summer tourist season.

The Portuguese Post Office featured this bridge in a 2008 stamp series celebrating significant engineering structures across the country. The honor reflects how the structure has been recognized as a symbol of modern Portuguese infrastructure achievement.

Location: Portimão

Location: Lagoa

Inception: 1991

GPS coordinates: 37.15144,-8.50653

Latest update: December 14, 2025 18:04