Chasing the Stars in the Algarve: A September Night Beneath the Milky Way

There’s something magnetic about the Algarve coast: the combination of cliffs carved by time and natural elements, the burnt-red terrain that glows under the setting sun, and the sound of the Atlantic crashing against the rocks. 

This September, I set off on a photographic trip to capture the contrast between the rugged beauty and the quiet immensity of the night sky. My main goal was to capture the Milky Way above the iconic red rocks of the Algarve, a dreamscape of earth and stars.

I chose the area near Ponta da Piedade, a dramatic headland known for its sea-carved arches, limestone pillars, and sweeping ocean views. As night fell, the sky slowly began to reveal its deeper layers. The core of the Milky Way rose above the horizon, just as the last hues of twilight faded. But, as is often the case in landscape astrophotography,  the conditions weren’t perfect.

Some low clouds above the horizon making the lower part of Milky Way invisible and light pollution from the nearby lighthouse  which cast a glow in the centre of the frame. Still, all this light pollution from the lighthouse and the houses and hotels around the area, helped bringing out the textures in the rocks making possible to see every detail in the scene while keeping the ISO as low as possible. 

Here’s one of my favourite captures from that night:

What I love about this image is the subtle imperfection. The clouds add a sense of movement, while the light pollution contours the rocks in the scene. The terrain’s red hue, so characteristic of the Algarve, adds a surreal warmth beneath the cool tones of the night sky. Even with the challenges, it was a scene worth chasing.

Tip: If you're planning a night shoot in this area, be prepared for changing conditions. September offers relatively mild weather and fewer tourists, but you’ll want to scout your location during the day when is still very warm. Bring a headlamp, check moon phases in advance, and don’t underestimate how much light pollution there is and how far that lighthouse beam can travel!

While I didn’t capture the perfectly crisp Milky Way shot I had imagined, the experience reminded me that photography isn’t just about the result, it’s about standing in a moment, feeling the landscape around you, and pressing the shutter when it feels right. 

Don't chase the moment, chase the feeling!

Gear used:

• Camera: Nikon Z6 II

• Lens: Samyang 14 mm f/2.8

• Tripod: Leo Photo

• Settings: 14mm; 13 sec; f/2.8; ISO 2000

Location: Algarve, Portugal
Time of year: Mid-September
Conditions: Few cloud near horizon, light pollution from lighthouse and cities and hotels