This dive site, Purple Vale Wall, is a prominent feature of Portugal's largest natural reef system, conveniently located a short 10-minute boat ride from Albufeira’s marina. Divers navigate along a vibrant wall, generally in an East-West direction, encountering a sandy bottom at 21 meters while the top of the wall is at 14 meters. The numerous recesses and crevices along the wall offer intricate exploration opportunities and shelter for diverse marine life.
The reef is teeming with various marine organisms, making it a delight for macro enthusiasts. Divers can expect to find striking false corals and yellow corals, a wide array of sponges, and numerous colorful nudibranchs. Commonly sighted fish include camouflaged scorpionfish and various species of gobies, perfectly blending into the rich, textured environment of the wall.
The best time to experience Purple Vale Wall generally aligns with the warmer months in Portugal, from late spring through autumn, when water temperatures are more comfortable and underwater visibility is typically at its best. With a maximum depth of 19 meters and an average depth of 9 meters, this site is suitable for divers of all experience levels and is also an excellent spot for freedivers looking to explore a vibrant wall with abundant small marine life.
