Explore holidays in The Algarve
Algarve holidays promise a wealth of different experiences and landscapes, whether you choose a private villa or a hotel as your base.
Portugal’s most southerly region boasts an iconic and instantly recognisable coastline of fine sandy beaches backed by ochre-yellow cliffs, sea stacks and rock archways that stand testament to the power of nature. Inland, there are rolling hills dotted with citrus and olive groves, plus crumbling castles, mountain villages and walking paths to explore. The Algarve is unique in enjoying an Atlantic coast with a Mediterranean climate, attracting not just holidaymakers but also a wide variety of birdlife that flocks to the Ria Formosa Natural Park.
And despite its long term popularity as a villa holiday destination, the Algarve has retained pockets of real character in its old towns and regional capital Faro, where you can still eat well relatively inexpensively. Portuguese cuisine is in our view one of the most underrated in Europe, so prepare to be deliciously surprised by fresh fish, hearty stews, sweet pastries and of course, world-renowned wines: saúde!
A selection of our holidays in the Algarve
* Prices include seven nights’ accommodation, flights and transfers/car hire, based on the lowest rate for maximum occupancy.
Our guide to The Algarve
In this section...
Introduction to The Algarve
The best beaches in Portugal
Pick up just about any best-of guide to European beaches, and you’ll find at least one Algarve gem on the list. The most striking feature of this coast is the sheer variety. Praia de Alvor’s wide sands are ideal for families, while Praia Grande in Ferragudo is wonderful for swimming, with calm waters and pretty views. For some of the most impressive rock formations, visit Praia Três Castelos, and it’s hard to resist the secluded and aptly-named Praia Paraíso. Carvoeiro is one of the best resorts for beaches, with easy access to Praia de Carvoeiro, Praia do Vale de Centianes, Praia do Carvalho and Benagil, the latter two offering lots of opportunity to explore the cliffs and caves by sea kayak. Also nearby is Praia da Marinha, arguably the most famous and photographed beach on the entire Algarve.
Further east, Praia dos Salgados welcomes nature lovers with dunes and birdlife, and Praia do Galé Oeste has numerous casual beach restaurants for a fresh sardine lunch or a cool drink at sunset. Some of the more dramatic stretches of coast require some nimble footwork to access them, but one delightful feature of the Algarve beaches is its many boardwalk paths. The walkways linking Praia de Carvoeiro with Algar Seco or running along the top of the dunes of Praia dos Salgados make for gentle excursions that are generally manageable with a buggy, plus superb birdwatching opportunities. And let’s not forget the Algarve’s island beaches like Ilha de Tavira, Armona and Culatra that lie within the Ria Formosa natural park and are easily reached by ferry. Backed by sand dunes rather than the classic cliffs of the western and central Algarve, these beaches have their own special charm, sheltered from the Atlantic and therefore a degree or two warmer in the sea. Peaceful and timeless, they make a perfect contrast to the luxury marinas and busier resorts elsewhere on the Algarve.
Exclusive resorts
For luxury accommodation and a touch of glamour, head for the Algarve’s so-called golden triangle, encompassing Quinta do Lago, Vale do Lobo and Vilamoura. Visitors are often surprised to find a luxury resort within a natural park, but at Quinta do Lago you can enjoy championship golf courses, fine dining and the fully-serviced Praia do Ancão alongside protected nature trails. Vale do Lobo is equally starry and a little livelier, with a popular beachside square that attracts families and celebrities alike. It’s a great spot for all ages, with excellent wellness and sports facilities including padel and tennis alongside the ubiquitous golf. Finally there’s Vilamoura, with its large and cosmopolitan marina, top-level golf courses and long sandy beaches at Praia de Vilamoura and Praia da Falésia.
Traditional towns
For all the golf courses, celebrity yachts and designer shops, there still are plenty of low key alternatives on the Algarve for those who prefer a less overtly glitzy vibe. The former fishing village of Carvoeiro is now a relaxed resort with a sandy beach, a popular boardwalk and enough shops and restaurants to keep you very happy for a week or two. Alvor has held on to a bit more of its original character in the form of a pretty riverfront and cobbled streets, while Ferragudo is the classic picture of old Algarve, with colourful houses and a castle perched between its two main beaches. Olhão is one of the few towns that retains an active fishing fleet, worth a visit for its market and Moorish-stye buildings. A few kilometres inland, historic Loulé also has fabulous indoor food market. And if you only visit one of the eastern Algarve towns, we suggest Tavira on the Gilão river. The town centre has fragments of its Roman, Arab and Christian heritage, plus many attractive restaurants to discover and easy access to Tavira island’s fantastic beaches.
Golf on the Algarve
The Algarve is synonymous with golf, and there are over 40 courses along the coastline, catering for casual enthusiasts as well as regular players. The weather, the quality of the facilities and the fantastic ocean views all contribute to a superior golf experience, and unlike many European golf destinations, handicaps are not mandatory. This is great news for younger players and those who are new to the sport, though individual clubs may reserve the right to insist on them so do check before committing yourself. All clubs expect proper golf attire and course etiquette whilst you play. Pine Cliffs, Penina Resort, Balaia and Val da Milho near Carvoeiro are all relaxed courses recommended for novices. Many of the top courses are part of resorts such as Quinta do Lago and Vale do Lobo, but you don’t need to be a resident to play – just book your tee time online or ask your concierge for more information. Clubs and buggies are widely available, along with a huge range of lessons ranging from week-long academy courses to one-on-ones with a pro.
Refreshingly easy
Portugal welcomes guests warmly, with an ease and efficiency that’s hard to beat. Faro airport offers a wide choice of direct flights from many UK airports, and once you arrive, it’s generally no more than a 30 to 60 minute drive to your villa or hotel. While learning a few words of Portuguese is always welcome, it’s reassuring to know that English is widely spoken in all but the most out-of-the-way places should you need it. Uber is well established on the Algarve, making it super easy to go out in the evening or visit local attractions without a car if you prefer. For a family holiday or travel with older relatives, these simple conveniences, coupled with our local concierge service, all add up to make your trip as effortless as possible - and as Portugal time is the same as the UK, you don't even need to reset your watch!
At a glance
Map and other regions
Food & drink
Portuguese cuisine draws from both the sea and the land, heavily influenced by its long colonial history. Dishes tend to be hearty and full of flavour, perhaps the most famous being frango piri-piri. This ubiquitous chicken dish is spiced with birds eye chilli, which was originally brought back by Portuguese explorers from Mozambique. Fish is central to most meals, with bacalhau (salt cod) the national dish that appears on every menu. Don’t be put off by the salt element: the fish is soaked for one or two days before being cooked into casseroles, fishcakes or our favourite bacalhau à brás where the cod is mixed with onions, fried potatoes and scrambled eggs for a hearty protein punch. Seafood favorites include ameijoas à bulhão pato, which are clams cooked with garlic, white wine and coriander, or the more substantial cataplana de marisco - a slow-cooked mix of seafood, cooked in the copper pot which give it its name. When the days are hot, you’ll find multiple variations of salads with octopus or prawns, or try a plate of sardines, caught that morning and lightly grilled on open coals for the essence of summer eating. And for an indulgent treat at any time of the year, it has to be the moreish pastéis de nata custard tarts.
Portugal’s most famous export is port, made from grapes grown along the Douro river terraces that now have protected UNESCO status. At the other end of the scale from this rich, alcoholic treat is vinho verde, a light white from the Minho region in the north, perfect as an aperitif or for a hot day. The Algarve produces a full range of reds, whites, rosés and sparkling wine, and whilst the wines from this region might not pack quite the punch of say the Douro or the Alentejo, you’ll find grape varieties here that are unique to Portugal, making interesting drinking whether you know your Verdehlo from your Alvarinho or not! Many of the wineries are open for tours and tastings – one of the best is Quinta João Clara near Porches, which has won multiple awards for its top quality Syrah wines. After a day at the beach, refresh with a Sagres beer, a summer staple, named after the town at the most south-westerly point of Europe.
Beaches
Praia do Camilo
A postcard-worthy cove framed by dramatic golden cliffs and wooden steps leading to the beach. Small and sheltered, with turquoise waters perfect for swimming, snorkelling and boat trips.
Location: Lagos, accessed via a long wooden staircase from the cliff-top parking area
Praia de Alvor
A vast sandy bay backed by dunes and a lovely sunset spot. Gentle waves, parking, sunbed rentals, lifeguards and beach bars make it a family favourite; great for a long walk on a cooler day.
Location: Around 5 km west of Portimão
Praia Grande, Ferragudo
The sheltered position at the mouth of the Arade means calm water on this lovely family beach, with golden sand and wide views of the Portimão skyline, plus cafes, a playground and parking facilities.
Location: A short walk from Ferragudo village, opposite Portimão
Praia de Carvoeiro
This small beach is the heart of Carvoeiro village, with cliffs on either side and well serviced by restaurants, beach shops and cafes behind. Boat trips are available directly from the beach.
Location: Carvoeiro village centre
Praia da Marinha
An Algarve icon, this delivers all the classic elements of limestone cliffs, rock archways and turquoise water for perfect photo opportunities. There’s parking and a snack bar, but otherwise no facilities here.
Location: Between Carvoeiro and Armação de Pêra, accessed via steep cliff steps
Praia da Galé (Oeste West)
A long sandy beach with sunbeds for hire and seasonal watersports available, plus restaurants and parking spots. Wind-sculpted rock formations add to the interest.
Location: Near Galé, to the west of Albufeira
Praia da Falésia
An impressive 6km-long beach framed by towering cliffs in sunset shades: a wonderful place for swimming, photography or a long walk on soft sand. Well serviced with lifeguards, restaurants and parking.
Location: Several access points between Olhos de Água and Vilamoura
Praia de Vale do Lobo
The beach nearest to the luxury Vale do Lobo resort is very well serviced as you’d expect, with top quality beachside dining, beach clubs, lifeguards, parking and of course golf courses nearby.
Location: Vale do Lobo resort, near Almancil
Praia da Quinta do Lago Beach
Part of the Ria Formosa Nature Reserve and accessed via long boardwalk bridge, this tranquil beach also offers a good range of services, including parking, lifeguards and restaurants, plus nature trails to explore.
Location: In the Ria Formosa reserve, near Almancil
Praia de Faro
A local favourite, this beach is livelier than most, stretched out along a sandbar near the airport. Plenty of beach lunch options to enjoy, plus parking and lifeguards in the main summer season.
Location: Close to the airport, reached by car or by bus from Faro centre
Praia da Ilha Deserta
A real family favourite island beach opposite Tavira, with soft sand and calm, clear water. Reached by mini train or ferry, there are restaurants, cafes and sunbeds for hire on the island.
Location: Close to Tavira and Cabanas
Praia de Cacela Velha
Close to the pretty village of the same name, you can take a ferry to this picturesque island beach or walk over at low tide. It’s serene and unspoilt, with no facilities other than those in the town.
Location: A short way east of Tavira, near Cacela Velha town.
Things to do
Cliffs and caves
The best way to see the Algarve’s incredible rock formations is from the water. The coastline around Carvoeiro offers many family-friendly boat trips that will take you past rock arches and sea stacks, with dolphin-spotting trips also available.
Birds and beaches
The Ria Formosa reserve near Faro is a natural lagoon separating the mainland from a patchwork of sandy islands. As well as offering stunning beaches, it’s an important sanctuary for birdlife and a beautiful peaceful place for a stroll.
Alvor boardwalk
This delightful boardwalk leads from the harbour, past the fishing huts and into the Alvor estuary, which is one of the most important wetlands in southern Portugal. The 5km route is flat and suitable for all the family.
Wine tasting
Algarve wines are hard to find in the UK so this is a great opportunity to try some. Most wineries offer tastings: one of the oldest is Quinta do Morgado da Torre near Portimão, while Quinta do Francês in Monchique is one of the most scenic.
The Ludo trail
One of the best ways to discover the Ria Formosa park is by bike. The Ludo trail loops through the park – opt for the full 34km route from Faro to Quinta do Lago and back, or you can just do a shorter section in the park past salt flats, marshlands and tranquil waters.
Tennis and padel
If golf is the Algarve’s number one sport then tennis and the increasingly popular padel come a very close second. All the main resorts have public courts, with tuition packages available, and there are academies in Carvoeiro and Vale do Lobo.
SUPs, sea canoes and snorkelling
The clear waters and dramatic rock formations all along the Algarve coast are exciting to explore, with the iconic cave formation at Benagil one of the absolute highlights. Join a group for the best routes and views.
Coasteering
If you’ve a head for heights and a yearning for adventure, the Algarve is the perfect place to try coasteering, which involves jumping off cliffs and exploring caves with a qualified guide. Over 16s only, adrenaline rush guaranteed.
Jeep Safari
Choose a self-drive jeep tour, or let a driver handle the bumps in the road. These adventurous day trips take you off road and sometimes into the water, with various special interest routes ranging from wine tours to jeep and kayak combos.
Carvoeiro boardwalk
Wheelchair accessible and buggy friendly, this 570m-long decked path is an easy way to enjoy sea views, sunsets and the stunning rock formations of Algar Seco. For the more adventurous, you can take the steep cliff paths down to the sea.
Seven Hanging Valleys trail
A more demanding walking trail with plenty of up and down, highly rated for ocean views and classic cliffs. It’s a 12km round trip, taking in Praia da Marinha, Benagil and Alfanzina Lighthouse (at 5 km) before you arrive at Praia do Vale de Centianes.
Shop with the locals
The culture of market shopping is alive and well on the Algarve, with the biggest and best to be found at Loulé, Olhão and Lagos. Whether you come to buy or just soak up the atmosphere, you’ll find a wealth of fresh produce, crafts and regional delicacies.
Towns and Villages
Sagres
Perched the southwestern tip of Portugal, Sagres feels wild and elemental, with towering cliffs and vast ocean views. The town has a buzzy surfing vibe with plenty of tempting restaurants, but perhaps the biggest draw is the Cabo de São Vicente. With just the lighthouse clinging to sheer cliffs, it’s a magical spot that’s refreshingly free of tourist development, and a fine place to catch the sunset.
Luz
Lovely Luz has developed into a big watersports centre in recent years; its wonderful sandy beach is sheltered from strong ocean winds and currents by the distinctive Rocha Negra at one end of the calm bay. There are several WWII wrecks in the bay, making it a mecca for divers. But above all this is a family-friendly beach town, with an attractive promenade for your pre-dinner stroll and restaurants to tempt even the pickiest toddlers as well as fine diners.
Alvor
Alvor’s narrow cobbled streets brim with restaurants, cafés, bars, and shops. Evenings invite strolls to the riverfront for fresh seafood: daily catches grilled over open flames, paired with crisp Portuguese wine, and perhaps a live band playing. Nearby is the Ria de Alvor natural reserve, the western Algarve’s most important estuary where you can see shellfish gatherers on the mudflats at low tide and riverfront huts where the local fishing community is working hard to keep traditional fishing methods alive.
Ferragudo
If you’re looking for a taste of Portugal before tourism, you’ll find it in Ferragudo. The riverside village still has an active fishing harbour, backed by a charming jumble of whitewashed, red roofed buildings that have changed little in 100 years. Visitors come to enjoy the large beach at the mouth of the river, made all the lovelier by the castle on the hill behind. The heart of the village is the square, lined with small restaurants grilling whatever the fishermen have brought in that morning.
Carvoeiro
Taking its name from the Arab word for fishing village (Caboiere), life at this pretty seaside town revolves around the lively central square and the beach just in front of it. This is easy beach life at its best, with plenty of excursions available if you want them, plus restaurants to cater for all tastes and budgets. Carvoeiro has a popular clifftop boardwalk with fantastic ocean views, and the beaches of Vale de Centianes, Carvalho, Benagil and Marinha are all nearby, accessible along the cliff path or by boat.
Silves
You can see Silves long before you reach it, thanks to its mighty castle that dominates the surrounding landscape. Silves was once grand enough to be considered in the same bracket as the great Moorish cities of Seville and Cordoba, but nowadays it’s an altogether sleepier place, romantically located on the banks of the river Arade. There’s lots of historical interest between the castle, the cathedral and the medieval bridge, and an attractive riverside path with views back over town. Famed for its oranges, lemons and vines, Silves also has several excellent vineyards in the area.
Boliqueime
Boliqueime is situated close to Vilamoura, one of the Algarve’s swishest luxury resorts, yet it feels a million miles away. It’s a friendly little community, set in gently undulating countryside with sweeping coastal views. It’s a peaceful, laid-back place that earns its keep from farming rather than tourism, surrounded by almond, carob and olive trees. In the town centre is the church of San Sebastião, adorned with beautiful hand-painted azulejos, plus a handful of cafes and restaurants where you can sit and watch the world go quietly by.
Loulé
Well worth the short detour inland, Loulé has a charming historic centre, with a castle, museum and the wonderfully titled Sulkers’ Gardens tucked away amongst its cobbled streets. Loulé claims to be the craft capital of the Algarve, and if you visit on a Saturday you can browse local handicrafts and more at the large open market. The rolling hills and forests to the north of Loulé are excellent walking country in the cooler months; don’t forget to pick up a picnic at the daily food market before you head off.
Faro
The regional capital of the Algarve is small and walkable, with plenty to see. Start by wandering beneath the Arco da Vila into the Old Town, with its cobbled streets and whitewashed buildings decorated with hand-painted tiles. The best views are to be had from the top of the cathedral tower, and the Capela dos Ossos made from the skeletons of 1,250 monks makes an interesting if slightly macabre detour. Take a break down at the marina, which is a departure point for ferries to the island beaches.
Olhão
The highlight of this up and coming fishing town is the daily market (closed on Sundays), housed in a vast red brick building on the waterfront. The building is over 100 years old, and is as vibrant today as it’s ever been, ideal for picking up the freshest fish and other regional specialities. After the market, take a stroll through town to see its square white houses, many with distinctive roof terraces, or head to the ferry for a few peaceful hours on Armona, Culatra or Farol islands.
Santa Luzia
Close to Tavira, Santa Luzia is nick-named the octopus capital of Portugal, and if you love to eat seafood, this is the place to come. The town has a pleasantly authentic atmosphere, with a waterfront lined with restaurants and colourful fishing boats. A short train ride or walk takes you to Praia do Barril, blessed with seemingly endless golden sands and the curious Cemitério das Âncoras, lines of rusting anchors left from the old tuna-fishing days.
Tavira
In our mind this is one of the Algarve's absolute gems. Spread along the Gilão river, it’s full of cobbled streets, whitewashed houses and colourful tiled façades. The town’s Roman bridge and castle offer great photo spots, while the lively squares are perfect for sipping coffee or enjoying fresh seafood. Hop on a short ferry ride to Ilha de Tavira for golden sandy beaches.
The Algarve for Kids
Tavira Mini Train
This cute little train costs just a few euros and is a fun family way to get to Praia do Barril on Tavira island. It’s a short journey (and you could probably walk it quicker!) but ideal for younger children.
Faro Life Sciences Centre
With two beautiful aquariums, a touch pool and interactive displays of earthquakes and volcanoes, this museum offers heaps of hands-on family fun. Information is available in English.
Zoomarine
(Albufeira) A winning combination of marine displays and water rides, Zoomarine works for all ages from toddlers to teens. The park also aims educate and act on conservation and environmental issues.
Slide & Splash
(Lagoa) One of Europe’s largest water parks, this popular attraction offers thrilling slides alongside gentle play areas. The park gets very busy in high season so an early start is recommended!
Lagos Zoo
(Barão de São João) This one is particularly good for younger children, with plenty of shade and a more relaxed atmosphere. All the favourite animals are here, including monkeys, flamingos and penguins.
Krazy World
(Algoz) Is it even a family holiday without a round or two of mini golf? Aimed at under 10s, there’s also a petting farm, a swimming pool and a chance to see the longest snake species in Europe if you dare!
Parque Aventura
(Albufeira/Lagos) Nestled in shady forest between Albufeira and Lagos, this tree-top high ropes park caters for kids as young as 4 (1m tall), with rope bridges, ziplines, spiderweb nets and more. Thrilling for all ages.
Dolphin Discoveries
You can take a trip to see these magical creatures from most marinas and many beaches along the Algarve. Speak with your local Concierge for advice on the best and most local ones to your villa.
Karting Almancil
Highly rated, the main track here is a replica of the famous F1 Jacarepaguá circuit, while there are also smaller karts and tracks for kids as young as 3. A great option for the occasional rainy day.
