Highlights of the Algarve

A holiday in the Algarve offers the opportunity to share a wide range of experiences between the softness of the Mediterranean and the wildness of the Atlantic, low-lying lagoons and perpendicular cliffs, the vestiges of Rome and north Africa and – always – at its heart, the traditional rhythms of Portuguese life.

Beaches

The sunshine region of Portugal has 200km of coastline, ranging from vast expanses of golden sand to small coves and rocky beaches. Almost 50 beaches have been awarded the EU Blue Flag for quality, safety and cleanliness

Aldeia da Pedralva

Lovingly brought back to life by Antonio Ferreira, this once almost abandoned village offers 24 houses for guests. Activities galore are offered locally including dolphin watching, seabird watching, fishing, jeep safaris, hiking, diving, surfing and paddle boarding

Rota Vicentina

The marked trails of the Rota Vicentina conclude at Cabo de São Vicente on the southwestern tip of the Algarve and of Europe. A 14km trail links ‘The Cape’ with Vila do Bispo – a route particularly spectacular in autumn when migratory birds flock to the area

Monchique

Surrounded by the wooded hills of the Serra de Monchique, this whitewashed hilltop market town offers excellent views, narrow cobbled streets and an excellent terrain for hiking, horse riding and cycling. Monchique is also famous for the locally produced honey

Foia

From Foia, the highest point in the Algarve at 902m, the views stretch from Cabo de São Vicente in the west all of the way to Faro in the east. It is also possible, on a clear day, to see the Serra da Arrabida near Lisbon

Visit a fish market

Olhão, on the eastern side of the Algarve, has been synonymous with fishing since the Middle Ages and its fish market is impressive. Sea bream, sea bass, octopus, squid, clams and lobster are all on sale. Local cafés sell the seafood delights

Sagres

Intrinsically linked to the Portuguese explorers who pushed forward the frontiers of the known world, the town of Sagres, its maritime history, picturesque harbour and coves are a delight to discover. For a fine ocean view visit the town’s 15th century fortress

Ria Formosa Natural Park

Off the coast of Tavira, Ria Formosa is a unique lagoon system with a beautiful sandy beach. This internationally recognised wetland is also an invaluable habitat for birdlifeincluding flamingos, buzzards, woodcocks, kingfishers and swamphen

Souvenirs

Local pottery makes an attractive souvenir to take home. The best choice and most beautiful workmanship can be found at Porches Pottery, on the main N125 near Lagoa. Ceramics, in all shapes and sizes, are hand painted with flowers, fish, dragonflies and more

Rural Algarve

There is more to the Algarve than sun and sea. Inland are great rivers, lush valleys and ageold remains from the Neolithic, Phoenician and Roman periods. Here, you will also find regional delicacies chouriça (smoked sausage), bran bread and ‘filhós’ fried pastries

Faro

Many visitors to the Algarve overlook Faro and this, in our opinion, is a shame. The medieval walls of the town enclose a picturesque Cidade Velha, 18th century churches, cobbled squares, copious cafés and restaurants and an interesting Archaeological Museum

Almond blossom

Almond blossom colours the countryside in white and pink throughout January and February and is one of the first flowers to bloom in the region. An 11km Almond Path in Castro Marim has been developed to provide visitors access to this beautiful scene

Ponte da Piedade

The cliffs, caves and grottoes of Ponte da Piedade (2km from Lagos) - one of the most photographed spots of the Algarve coastline, are best explored by boat. From sea level, the idyllic setting of the rock formations contrast with the azure waters

Loulé

The 13th century church of São Clemente and the battlements of the medieval castle are the focal point of the town but, it is the weekly gypsy market (Saturdays) and the smaller market on Praça da República (daily except Sunday) that attract most visitors

Golf

We cannot mention the Algarve without mentioning the 35 golf clubs that line the southern coastline of the region, none more than 15km from the coast. Forty two 9-hole or 18-hole courses are available for visitors to play and tee-times can be arranged locally