Algarve Introduction

Picture sun bleached picturesque villages, golden white sands, warm sparkling blue waters, charming locals, vibrant cities, fun seaside resorts and a perfect year round climate which leaves you glowing from head to toe.

The Algarve, in southern Portugal, is a simply breathtakingly beautiful part of Portugal that is visited by hundreds of holidaymakers during both the winter and summer seasons.

It's easy to see why people return again and again to enjoy the endless stretch of sands, sunshine, mouthwatering cuisine, sights, entertainment and atmosphere.

The Algarve is perhaps most well known for its beaches. They stretch for a staggering 160 kilometres across the base of the region and are great not just to laze for hours developing an amazing tan, but also to explore some of the natural wonders such as caves, grottoes and limestone rock formations which are scattered throughout the area.

Some of the regions beaches have made it to the list of the top 100 most beautiful beaches in the world including the simply breathtaking Lagoa beach at Praia de Marinha. A sight to behold.

Albufeira, Vilamoura, Praia de Rocha, Lagos, Armacao de Pera, Alvor, Salema, Tavira and Sagres are all well known destinations on the southern Portugal coast and are holiday destinations not just for Europeans but for Portuguese alike. The area is continually developing. Holidaymakers fall in love with the region's sensational climate and it is incredibly popular for people with second homes.

It's not all high-rise holiday apartments here either - you can choose from a host of accommodation from simple rural guesthouses to penthouse luxury. There really is something for everyone and with its continued dedication to preserving the stunning surroundings there are excellent facilities for everyone including children, older visitors and disabled holidaymakers.

Sardines are a staple here so if you are fancy to a little seafood, you'll be in heaven. The other pleasure seekers thrill is golf - there are 30 fairways to tempt all handicaps.

Check out Albufeira for its sparkling nightlife; wander through the old town's cobbled streets dressed in fairy lights to the bustling centre where clubs, bars and lively restaurants jostle for space. For quieter evenings, the coastal towns with their blend of traditional entertainment, food and customs will leave you enchanted. Start the evening as the sun goes down with a stroll along any number of glorious beach side promenades and watch the sunset with a cocktail.

It's a carnival atmosphere in loud Lagos and the lazy Sagres is perfect for a chilled out visit. The spa town of Caldas de Monchique is high in the hills or for history and culture, Silves or Tavira can be your host.

For family fun an exciting day out to a water park or zoo is a must or sample some superb shopping and sightseeing before hitting the beach for fun in the sun - there's plenty of choice.

Wherever you spend your Algarve holiday, you can be sure to experience your very own Portuguese Paradise.

Weather in the Algarve

The Algarve, Portugal's most southerly and most popular resort has a sensational year round climate that is one of its prime attractions for holidaymakers.

It is not uncommon for day time temperatures in this sunny spot to reach to the early thirties in the height of summer and rarely drop below 15 degrees centigrade in the winter months.

The region's wonderful weather streams are influenced strongly by the warm waters of the Mediterranean and currents which flow around this protected stretch of coastline mean that a quick refreshing dip could actually become a long and luxurious bathe in the height of summer when the sea is surprisingly temperate.

The Algarve's geographical position means it is affected by the climate in Europe and also the north of Africa. Endless cloudless skies throughout the long summer months means days are dry and hot. In Autumn temperatures remain mild and the winter months are more like a typical UK Spring.

Vegetation, flora and fauna in this part of Portugal is rich throughout the year and fertile soils create an abundance of fruit trees which can be seen blossoming at the start of Spring. Almond trees bursting with colour are frequently seen in the south at this time of year and the stable climate helps to provide plentiful crops.

Algarve Beaches

Close your eyes and imagine the purest white sands illuminated by the glowing midday sunshine, nestled high in the bluest of skies. Not a cloud can be seen, for miles and around you, stretching for miles and miles lies some of the world's most indulgent beaches, waiting for you to sink into and relax.

The Algarve is a part of Europe which is renowned for its exquisite beaches. It's crystal clear waters and warm golden sands live up to every cliché but you'll be overjoyed they do!

There is nothing more incredibly relaxing than seeing the stretch of pristine beach, or Praia, lying waiting for you as you take in your first glimpse of your holiday destination.

And beyond those silken shores lie a wealth of contrasts which make this region of Portugal so popular and so suitable to please every taste.

Find yourself in dense, pine-scented forests, clamber over red sandstone rocks, explore hidden caves and coves, go crabbing in rocky outcrops, roam endless sandy landscapes or hide away in secluded bays.

The seas which rush up to meet the miles of golden sands are contrasting too in their ferocity and strength. To the north are the open waters of the Atlantic Ocean which can whip up the current. Be aware at all times and watch for signs from the lifeguards who watch out for your safety and guide with warning flags to tell you when it's safe to bathe.

Locals are proud of their flora and fauna and fiercely protect their beaches. Around one third of the beaches have been awarded European blue flag status for the quality of their surroundings, the cleanliness of the facilities, the sanitation, the parking, lifeguard availability and safety. This includes constant monitoring of the water.

Everyone who visits the Algarve will have a favourite beach. Some opt for the raw and wild beauty of the western coast, others prefer secluded cove beaches and private beach front luxury; some love wide broad expanses of golden sands - whatever meets your needs you will find it on Portugal's southerly holiday hotspot whether you're looking for family fun, ease of access, a romantic getaway, plenty of action or splendid isolation.

It's lying there waiting for you!

Shopping in the Algarve

The Algarve is full of the interesting and unusual - there are detailed hand made ceramics, leather goods, unique art, jewellery, locally produced crafts, wines and spirits (try the firewater) and boutiques brimming with locally produced exclusive fashions.

Decorated tiles, crystal, copperware, embroidered tablecloth, filigree jewellery and cork products are also popular buys.

Leather is perhaps the best buy and there are some super stylish bargains to be had in local markets and individual shops.

To boost your pottery collection, head out to the old coastal road, the N125, where there are many specialist shops.

There is something for everyone here, either in the key resorts or the smaller towns and villages with an abundance of local markets selling everything from batteries to beautiful silks, shoes and handbags.

There are two main large shopping complexes on the Algarve, the Guia Shopping Center near Albufeira and the Forum Algarve in Faro City which has popular brands found in the UK such as Zara, Benetton and more.

Albufeira's Guia Shopping and Entertainment Complex is a modern shopping centre with an excellent range of well known shops, a multiplex cinema and a good range of cafes and restaurants on the top floor. There's even a sun terrace here for holidaymakers desperate to soak up every last ray or enjoy some fresh air and a coffee in between bargain hunting.

The centre is ideal for children as there is a crèche for youngsters aged two and over which give you plenty of serious shopping time. Pushchairs, pedal cars and other toys are also available to hire and all the restaurants have highchairs.

The fantastic Forum Algarve in Faro has a large covered section, a cinema and a Jumbo hypermarket. There are more excellent children's facilities and a huge selection of shops and restaurants open daily.

Bustling markets are a great way to find unique items and most towns and villages have a covered market place selling everything from pomegranates to pottery or Port.

You'd think Port would be a cheaper here but it is more expensive than in the UK. For wine buffs try the green wines such as Dao or the locals favourite Beirao which is flavoured with aniseed.

Some may say one of the most advantageous things about Portugal is the fact the Portuguese don't take a siesta like the Spaniards so there is even more time to shop on the Algarve.

Eating Out in The Algarve

You simply cannot dine out in the Algarve without sampling some of the gastronomic delights this region has to offer, namely the freshest fish, sumptuous seafood, divine desserts and peppery poultry and fiery meats, washed down with strong coffee and excellent wines.

There is an abundance of seafood in this region of Portugal and the area is teeming with sardines in particular, a local speciality.

Portuguese people love to cook their food slowly and the heat from the barbeque is a great way to ensure the fullest of flavour in any dish.

Fish soup, Sopa de Peixe, is made from fresh cod and is a thick stew like dish. It's a wonderful way to feel the warmth of the Mediterranean seeping through into your tummy. Try an arroz de marisco (shellfish and rice stew) or the cataplana (cockles cooked in a sealed wok with smoked pork sausage, cured ham, tomatoes, and onions) to follow. Many traditional fish dishes include cod such as Bacalhau à Braz, thin strips of cod mixed with onions, thin strips of potatoes bound by eggs or Bacalhau com Natas,

fried cod with onions baked in the oven with a cream white sauce and diced potatoes.

The freshest sardines are at their best simply grilled on a barbecue and basted, served with potatoes and salad.

Meat eating in Portugal consists of pieces of chicken, beef, pork or lamb being cooked in rich spices and herbs full of warm sunshine and flavour. Frango Piri Piri, or chicken Piri Piri is a typical spicy dish seen in many restaurants. This is small tasty chicken grilled on charcoal while being basted with a special sauce prepared differently by each chef. The essential ingredient is the hot piri-piri and the chicken must be served straight from the grill. Normally chipped potatoes and salad accompany the chicken. Delicious.

Other popular plates include rump steak and gammon fried with a slice of beef, Bife a Frigideira, Cozido à Portuguesa or meat stew, made from beef, cabbage, carrots, turnips, smoked sausage and rice and Leitao Bairrada or suckling pig, cooked and basted for hours in a stone oven until the meat is soft and melts in the mouth.

It is safe to assume that the majority of the Portuguese have a "sweet tooth". Most deserts and pastry have more than their fair share of sugar content. There are many different sweets created and only a few are listed here.

Desserts are a key part of any meal in the Algarve and you'll be spoilt for choice with a delectable array of sweets designed to put inches on that perfect bikini body you've waited all year to show off! But you're on holiday after all!

Try Bolo Real, an orange and almond flavour cake or Dom Rodrigos, an Algarve speciality of an almondy paste wrapped in silver paper or Masa de Doce Regional, sweet almond paste moulded animals and fruits. Great to take home as presents.

Pastry, figs and almonds with a sprinkling of cinnamon and oranges are all really popular ingredients and are presented in a multitude of mouthwatering ways!

There are many wines to sample in the Algarve - the famous Mateus Rose is a favourite of the region as is the Vinho Verde or green wine. There are plenty of strong liquers to try including the Licor Beirao with aniseed twist; Armaguinha made from almond essence and Brandy Mel, a mixture of local firewater and honey.

The Portuguese like to start the day with an espresso - but this is no ordinary hit of coffee. These small cups of coffee are called Bica and are incredibly strong. It is said that truck drivers call it rocket fuel because it powers them through their long trips across Europe. To have a Bica with a tiny drop of hot milk is called a Bica Pingo or just Pingo.

The different coffee grains used within Portugal are mainly from Angola and Brazil and brought in by seven major importing companies that act as distributors. It is always freshly ground and is available in many types.

You'll be spoilt for choice in the stunning Algarve with plenty of fabulous fresh food. Holiday makers to this sunny spot certainly eat well here and whilst there are international dishes here to suit all types, the food of Portugal simply has to be sampled.

Algarve Nightlife

Pleasure seekers are spoilt for choice in the bubbly, friendly and easy-going Algarve.

There's a host of entertainment to suit all ages in all resorts and holidaymakers can indulge in sunset cocktails, beachfront bars and romantic restaurants. Choose from elegant cafés and jet set clubs, from family friendly bars to all-nighters with renowned superstar DJs. It's almost impossible not to have a good time!

Blend the traditional Portuguese culture of fine food, wine, dancing and entertainment with a little tourist dancing and relaxation and you have the perfect blend of after dark activity.

Busier resorts cater for all tastes and vary their dance and drink combinations annually, if not more frequently, to cater for the cool crowds. Lively, busy and available all night, the towns of the south are as hot after midnight as they are in the burning midday sun.

If you've indulged in a mid-afternoon siesta you'll quickly get used to the European style of dining later in the evening - and of course, it will be al fresco.

Indulge the wallet in a flutter at an array of superb casinos near Portimão, Monte Gordo or Vilamoura or enjoy a professional show if the tables aren't to your taste.

Try some local night life and sample the enchanting live fado music - an entertaining medley of musicians providing their own cultural musical delights with singing, dancing and instruments played in a typical Portuguese style.

Then there's a simple stroll in the balmy evening air to enjoy when the heat from the bars and clubs gets too much.

After a day on the beach what could be more blissful than a relaxing stroll through a balmy village watching the twinkling fairy lights and stars light up the clearest of skies.

Kadoc Club in Loule is the destination for spectacular super-clubbing. Put on those dancing shoes, show off your tan and head out to Kadoc nightclub for serious dancing, posing and preening.

It's the largest in the Algarve and hosts big name DJs such as Eric Morillo to its hallowed wheels of steel.

It is housed in its own building halfway between Vilamoura and Albufeira and can be found in the summer by following the light beams circling overhead. There are some serious parties held here in the summer, including foam parties and weekly sessions on Friday and Saturday nights.

On the Rocks in Praia da Rocha is a great disco-cum-party bar and aptly named as it perches right above the rocks of Praia da Rocha. The views along the cliff-top esplanade are fantastic and its location, right on the main Praia da Rocha avenue, is perfectly central.

Thumping tunes, superb DJs and plenty of room to shake your booty mean party time here lasts all night long.

All major UK, Irish and European sporting fixtures are shown on the large screen TVs and to keep the ladies amused, favourite soaps from the UK are all shown daily to keep you well entertained. From Thursday to Sunday there are different live bands on show - as if there isn't enough already!

Monty's, in Vale do Lobo, is the perfect place to unwind for easy drinks, a good meal and a great night's entertainment.

Bradys Irish Bar, in the coastal resort of Carvoeiro, combines the best of a traditional Irish bar with a modern, fun atmosphere where everybody is welcome.

The stunning Sancho Panca bar in Alvor combines classic rustic and traditional Portugal and a friendly and welcoming atmosphere to create a favourite destination for evening entertainment for all. Small and cosy but with exquisite views of the bay and the Ria Alvor, it's the perfect spot to start a relaxed evening out.

Sit on the stone steps and admire the view, top up your tan and enjoy some classically cooked bar food to the sounds of some favourite anthems of old. Chill out and enjoy.

Golf in the Algarve

The Algarve is what golfers dream about. It has 8 magnificent courses to choose from, this coupled with almost year round weather and climatic conditions means that you can enjoy a game of golf at any time. How lovely to play in November and wear a T Shirt because the climate is so mild.

It attracts both professional and amateur golfers to its wonderful courses, most set in fantastic idyllic surroundings of valleys, mountains and sea views.

There is the opportunity to take some golf lessons, along with some fantastic bargains in many of the golf shops and suppliers of golf equipment. The facilities are excellent so coupled with a fantastic landscape and plenty of tranquility while you play, you won't go wrong in the Algarve.

Algarve Car Hire

Hop behind the wheel of a hire car on holiday and explore the stunning scenery, discover deserted beaches, see spectacular views and discover the real charm of local villages and their inhabitants.

Faro airport has huge choice of hire car companies to choose from, all which operate to high standards and have competitive prices.

Save time by booking in advance from the UK and simply pick up the keys at the airport - you can be on your way to traveling the wide open roads or coastal highways in an instant, beating the queues for the bus, coach or taxi!

In Portugal, cars drive on the right and it is illegal not to wear a seat belt at all.

There are 24-hour service stations in main urban centres, as well as on motorways and main roads. Other petrol stations have variable opening hours.

Hiring a car is a great way to experience the island in full and appreciate the Algarve's best bits away from the crowds, at your own relaxed pace. You could easily visit the country's capital city in just a couple of hours. It's easily done - you are after all, on holiday!

Transfers from Faro airport

Arriving at a foreign airport can often be a strenuous affair and with most customers traveling independently these days having a pre-booked airport transfer is an essential part of your holiday package. Local taxis at the airport can sometimes be limited or with long queues, by booking a pre-booked you can not only make a fantastic saving on your transfer but also avoid all the stress of queues and haggling with taxi drivers. Book your airport transfer service here now >>

Airport Shuttle Bus Service from Faro airport

In most of our gateway airports you can pre-book an Airport Shuttle Service. This is a pre-booked only service that operates between the relevant airport and holiday resort. In normal times you can expect to wait up to 30 minutes for your shuttle bus to arrive however as this is a pre-negotiated service and only available to participating travel companies then expect to pay far less to get from the airport to your destination accommodation than other traditional forms or transport such as local taxis. Book your airport shuttle service here now>>