Situated right at the southernmost tip of Portugal, those who head to the beautiful Algarve region can count on a favourable climate and a wealth of sights to see and activities to take part in. Whether you’re the type who simply likes to while away time at the beach or somebody who prefers to take in stunning historical and natural treats for the eyes, it’s not hard to see why as many as 7.1 million tourists are booking Algarve holidays each year.
The Algarve is home to year-long sunshine, making it the perfect holiday destination to visit not only in summer, but winter too. Temperatures in the Algarve have been known to shoot well above the 40°C mark, but it’s more common to be able to enjoy basking in the high twenties or low thirties.
Although many tourists recognise Portugal for its thriving capital city of Lisbon, the Algarve is actually coined as the most important Portuguese tourist region as it’s a sizeable and diverse region of nearly 2,000 square miles, with the chief city Faro usually the first place visitors see as they step out of the airport.
The Algarve boasts some of the finest beaches in Europe; offering holidaymakers the chance to sink their feet into warm and fine white sands, or admire astounding rocky coves and intriguing rock formations dotted around the beachfront from a comfortable sun lounger.
There’s plenty to see and do on Algarve holidays, from scenic boat trips sailing along the sweeping waters of the Atlantic, to active and competitive golfing adventures at some of Europe’s most luxurious and well-equipped golf courses. Also, don’t leave the Algarve without a trip to Silves, where you can see a spectacular sandstone castle boasting more than two thousand years of history.
Famed for its local dining scene, it offers prestigious restaurants by the beach serving up deliciously fresh seafood, caught that same day. Why not kick off your meal with a starter of couvert, which is a simple but delicious platter of bread, cheese olives and pâté? Popular main courses include the likes of clams, or conquilhas as they are known here. The Portuguese love to spice things up, so don’t be surprised to find a dash of piri piri in here, making the fine local wines and beers all the more welcome.
The Algarve is a place of sand and celebration, and some of its bars like to combine the two. In destinations like Alvor, outdoor DJ sets often take place, allowing revellers to party on the beach.
So, dine in style, admire the magical scenery and bake in the heat at one of many idyllic beaches located here by comparing deals with icelolly.com. Whatever you require from your holiday, the Algarve is sure to provide.
The Algarve is famed for its Atlantic scenic beaches, presenting long stretches of sandy coastline and wide turquoise sea waters to splash around in. Admire the unique and ornate rock formations at the breathtaking beach, Três Irmãos, or take a trip down to a former fishing village and find the two beautiful beaches of Praia de Alvor and Praia dos Tres Irmaos, which neighbours a historic castle.
With an abundance of seafood restaurants by the beach, and Japanese restaurants serving fresh fish, the Algarve is the perfect holiday spot for avid seafood lovers. The Algarve offers superb seafood, from tuna steak kebabs to delicious octopus, braised in local wine and spices. Explore a wide selection of flavours and combinations of seafood, grilled to absolute perfection. However you like your seafood, Algarve cooking will fulfil your every need.
Golfing magazines don’t continually mention the Algarve for no reason; the golf resorts here are vast, diverse and in large quantities – perfect for any avid golfers looking to put some holes on their Algarve holiday. Sun it up and take in the spectacular views of Portugal’s landscapes at Amendoeira Golf Resort, Salgados Golf Course and Vale Do Lobo Resort, to name a few.
The Algarve really has it all when it comes to activities, from scenic walking trails, cycling trips, skydiving adventures and picturesque boat trips, to playful water sports. Zoomarine Algarve is the perfect spot for the family, with seal and dolphin shows and exciting slides. For adults, head over to Club Vida on the strip, or horse ride near Salgados.
SEE ALL ActivitiesSit back on your sun lounger, apply your sun cream and let the world pass you by at one of The Algarve’s many beautiful beaches. In fact, the Algarve’s beaches are one of the key attractions for travellers venturing over to this idyllic destination. Expect white sandy beaches, rocky coves and tranquil turquoise waters, as well as mesmerising sunsets as the day draws to an end.
SEE ALL BeachesA holiday to the Algarve is nothing without trying the fresh seafood, with delicious restaurants located around every corner. Try the grilled sardines or taste sautéed cockles, clams and oysters from one of many superb local restaurants. If you’re looking for a delectable drink to sip, head over to Bar Havana, for juicy cocktails, window seats and resident DJs.
SEE ALL Food and DrinkAlgarve holidays offer so much more than sandy beaches, they also boast impressive sights which encompass the rich history belonging to Portugal. Explore the idyllic Benagil Caves located in the quaint fishing village, Benagil or discover the fascinating architecture and history at the Castle of Lagos, also known as The Governor’s Castle.
SEE ALL SightsMonte Gordo is a tranquil and unspoiled option for the holidaymaker keen to enjoy warm weather, luxurious beaches and charming streets.
READ MOREPraia da Luz was once a tiny fishing village, but in recent years has grown into one of the Algarve’s most popular holiday resorts. Boasting sunny weather, gorgeous beaches and pretty promenade, it’s easy to see why!
READ MOREPraia da Rocha is one of the Algarve’s most well-known and popular beach resorts, with one of the biggest stretches of beach on the south coast and plenty of tourist amenities.
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