What to Do When You Visit the Algarve | Portugal
Looking for somewhere to spend your summer holiday? Portugal’s Algarve region comes near the top of the list for many Europeans. With a mild climate year round and a scorching summer, this beautiful location has a lot to offer to the many visitors who fly there each year.
Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by Guy MOLL
Beaches
Let’s start with the beaches. There are plenty to choose from, whether you like your beaches bustling or prefer something more secluded. There are beaches with sand as far as the eye can see and others which are just sheltered coves. The busiest area is the central Algarve region, home to popular resorts such as Alburfeira. The eastern area has long stretches of beach while the western Algarve is thought to have some of the most beautiful beaches. Praia da Marinha springs to mind.
Festivals
Away from the beach, if you time your visit right, you will get the chance to enjoy some of the region’s fabulous festivals. Summer sun seekers will enjoy checking out local arts and crafts at the Alcoutim Fair in July. Also in July is a festival celebrating the region’s history – the Moorish Nights. The Algarve is known for its seafood; try some at the Seafood Festival in August. And for something a bit different, check out the Medieval Fair – ever fancied dressing up in historical gear?
Attractions
There are lots of ways to explore the region, and these include some top Algarve attractions. Take a bike trek over demanding terrain with Quad Ventura, Rooster Quad Day Tours or try the Algarve Buggy Tour in Luz. If you prefer to stretch your legs the Alvor Boardwalk allows you to explore a fishing village and estuary, while enjoying stunning seaside views. Need a family attraction? One of the best is Zoomarine Algrarve, which has activities for children of all ages, as well shows with dolphins and other marine animals.
Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by Rui Ornelas
Tours
If you’re looking for another way to explore the region, try a boat trip with Alvor, proud owner of the first solar powered cruiser in Portugal. It’s a great way to explore the coast. Alternatively, you could take to the air with Barlavento Balloons and fly over the western Algarve. If you want to be more active, kitesurfing, paddleboarding and more are available.
Nightlife
There’s no shortage of things to do in the Algarve at night. Alvor, Lagos and Albufeira have some of the top rated night spots in the Algarve, with the latter taking the lion’s share of the glory. Bars and karaoke bars abound. However, the best nightspot on the island at the moment, according to TripAdvisor, is the Alvor Sports Cafe, famous for its party nights.
Enjoy your trip to the Algarve!
Planning a trip to the Algarve? Marian Jaime writes for Suntransfers, whose Faro airport transfers will get you to your Algarve holiday resort quickly.
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