The Algarve, southernmost region of Portugal, offers a fascinating mix of beaches, golf courses, nature reserves, market towns, fishing villages and Roman ruins. Castles, golf, water sports, delicious cuisine and year-round sun brings masses of visitors to the Algarve every year. Stretching from the Atlantic to the western border of Spain it offers breathtaking scenery, such as breathtaking cliffs, pristine beaches, secluded coves, nature reserves, vineyards and wooded mountains – any surprise why it’s such a popular tourist region?
The western part of the Algarve is internationally renowned for its rocky landscape and isolated bays. Visit lively resorts such as Albufeira and Lagos for fun in the sun, or explore the quaint fishing villages of Burgau and Salema for a quiet getaway. Go to the south-western corner of the region and explore the historical peninsula of Sagres, or hit up Carrapateira and Odeceixe on the wild west coast, where you can enjoy windsurfing and kitesurfing.
Faro is the capital of the region a former Roman settlement, it’s full of history and culture. Enjoy the beautiful gardens and the lively nightlife in the walled Old City. For a bit of tranquillity, why not experience the natural beauty of the Parque Natural da Ria Formosa, a protected area on the east coast of Faro and its unspoilt frontier islands, a natural habitat for local birds.
Move inland and you’ll find a pleasing mix of scenic landscapes, history and relaxation. Admire the Roman ruins of Milreu near Estoi and the Moorish architecture of Silves, stroll through the charming streets of Loulé or spend an afternoon relaxing in the thermal baths of Caldas de Monchique. Bike or walk the Via Algarviana, a 300-kilometer route through the flower-covered mountains of the Serra de Monchique and the Serra do Caldeirão.
And how can we forget the golf? The Algarve is famous for its golf the world over and has more than 35 beautiful golf courses scattered throughout the 155 kilometre long coastline of the region.
Sample the delicious cuisine of the region. The region prides itself on its fresh local ingredients, such as fish, almonds, grapes, oranges and figs. Enjoy traditional cuisine like açorda de mariscos, a seafood stew and bread that is truly to die for.
The easiest way to reach the Algarve is via a flight to Faro Airport. Once you’ve arrived, it’s easy to explore the area by car, via the extensive network of buses or even by bike. With on average 300 sunny days a year, the Algarve is a popular year-round destination for everyone from honeymooners to families, from food lovers to sports enthusiasts. There’s something for everyone.
Portugal is a great location for a bit of sun, sea and sand. If you like beach holidays in Algarve then you're sure to love our cheap beach holidays to Madeira or our Albufeira beach holidays. Book with Expedia and find out why.
