L’Algarve, the southernmost region of Portugal, with its exuberant climate, spectacular beaches and cliffs, an unspoiled hinterland, and the proverbial hospitality of the locals, is an ideal destination for sea lovers. A true buen retiro from May to October.
L’Algarve, the southernmost region of Portugal, with its exuberant climate, spectacular beaches and cliffs, an unspoiled hinterland, and the proverbial hospitality of the locals, is a perfect destination for sea enthusiasts. A true buen retiro from May to October.
The more than 230 km of coastline mark environments and landscapes of wild beauty. To the west of Faro, the capital, the coast is called Barlavento (windward) and is a succession of bays and inlets, with trendy resorts like Lagos and Albufeira, and romantic fishing villages, such as Salema. To the east of Faro, the coast is instead called Sotavento (leeward) and reveals a myriad of sandy islets, the ilhas, up to the borders with Spain.
A highlight of the Algarve are also the marinas, with perfectly equipped beaches, opportunities to sail in the blue waters of the Atlantic, and vibrant nightlife in venues near the ports.
The most famous beach in Algarve is the marina of Villamoura, awarded the Blue Flag of Europe: within its 1600 hectares, it encloses golf and tennis courts, a riding stable, and a state-of-the-art port area.
Nature lovers also find a small eldorado in the many natural parks: from that of the Costa Vicentina, on the Atlantic, to those on the eastern side of Ria Formosa and the Sapal Natural Reserve, an ancient salt center, where precious species of water birds live in the brackish environments.
Finally, Nazaré, a truly picturesque place in Portugal. Here fishermen have a particular way of pulling the nets: the effort is entrusted to oxen that pull them to the center.
