The Algarve, the southernmost region of Portugal, with its exuberant climate, spectacular beaches and cliffs, an untouched hinterland, and the proverbial hospitality of its people, is an ideal destination for sea lovers. A genuine buen retiro from May to October.
The Algarve, the southernmost region of Portugal, with its exuberant climate, spectacular beaches and cliffs, an untouched hinterland, and the proverbial hospitality of its people, is a perfect destination for sea enthusiasts. A true buen retiro from May to October.
The over 230 km of coastline mark environments and landscapes of wild beauty. To the west of Faro, the capital, the coast is called Barlavento (downwind) and is a continuous sequence of bays and coves, with fashionable resorts like Lagos and Albufeira, and romantic fishing villages, such as Salema. To the east of Faro, the coastline is known as Sotavento (upwind) and reveals a myriad of sandy islets, the ilhas, up to the border with Spain.
The jewel in the Algarve’s crown are also the marinas, with fully equipped beaches, opportunities to sail on the blue waters of the Atlantic, and lively nightlife in venues near the ports.
The most famous beach in the Algarve is the marina of Villamoura, awarded the Blue Flag of Europe: within its 1600 hectares, it includes golf and tennis courts, a riding school, and a state-of-the-art port area.
Nature lovers also find a small paradise in the many natural parks: from the Costa Vicentina on the Atlantic to those on the eastern side of Ria Formosa and the Sapal Nature Reserve, an ancient salt center where prized species of aquatic birds live in the brackish environments.
Finally, Nazaré, a truly picturesque place in Portugal. Here fishermen have a unique way of pulling their nets: the effort is entrusted to oxen who pull them to the shore.
