Summary
The Algarve region—touted as Europe’s favorite secret—is situated in southern Portugal, nestled between Faro and Lagos. It is renowned for its stunning beaches, Atlantic Ocean boating activities, top-tier golf courses, outdoor adventures, and delectable cuisine, featuring six Michelin-starred restaurants.
The Beaches
The Algarve boasts over 130 beaches stretching nearly 125 miles of coastline. With summer temperatures often ranging from 75 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit and winter temperatures between 60 to 65 degrees Fahrenheit, vacationers can enjoy approximately 300 days of sunshine each year, making it a premier sun-seeking destination. Furthermore, 82 beaches in the Algarve hold Blue Flag certifications, reflecting adherence to rigorous environmental, educational, safety, and accessibility standards. Popular beaches include Meia Praia in Lagos, Ilha de Tavira opposite Ria Formosa Natural Park, and Praia da Marinha, situated between Carvoeiro and Albufeira.
The Food
The 2019 Michelin guide featured 26 restaurants in Portugal—six with two stars and 20 with one star—in which the majority are located in the Algarve. One standout is Restaurante Bon Bon, led by Chef Rui Silvestre, who highlights local ingredients and wine to create what he refers to as “artisan cuisinier.” Another top dining choice is Vista Restaurante at the Hotel Bela Vista and Spa, managed by Chef Joao Oliveira, awarded the Gold Fork by the Boa Cama Boa Mesa guide, Portugal’s version of a Michelin star.
When in the Algarve, don’t miss the opportunity to taste local delicacies such as Algarvian scarlet prawns, razor clams, grilled sardines, octopus, Iberico ham, salted codfish, and clams prepared in a traditional cataplana. For dessert, indulge in the iconic Pastel de Nata, a custard-filled pastry topped with sugar brulée, or Doce Fino, a delightful marzipan shaped like fruits and animals.
The Wines and Ports
Portugal is famously known for its port wine, and authentic Portuguese port bottles bear the label “Porto.” The Algarve hosts four renowned wine regions (Denominação de Origem Controlada): Lagos, Portimão, Lagoa, and Tavira, celebrated for both white and red vintages. Notable wineries include Quinta dos Vales, which offers a variety of wines, along with artistic experiences created by the owner. Other esteemed producers in the area are Paxa Wines, Quinta do Barranco Longo, and Quinta do Francês.
The Golf
The Algarve is home to an impressive 34 eighteen-hole and six nine-hole golf courses. Notably, five of these courses are ranked among the top 100 golf courses in continental Europe, and six feature in the recent Rolex World’s Top 1000 Golf Courses. A highlight is the D. Pedro Victoria Golf Course, designed by the late Arnold Palmer, which has proudly hosted the Portugal Masters since 2007 and the World Cup Championship in 2005. Given its pedigree, the greens fees remain quite reasonable, typically under $200 for 18 holes. Nearby courses include The Old Course, Millennium, Pinhal, and Laguna.
Dolphin Watching
Thanks to its strategic positioning along the Atlantic Ocean, the Algarve is ideal for a range of water activities. Companies such as Albufeira-based Dream Wave provide jet ski and boat rentals while also offering dolphin-watching tours on both small and large boats. While sightings may vary, the appearance of dolphins offers an enchanting experience. For a guaranteed encounter with these remarkable creatures, visiting Zoomarine, a family-friendly aquatic theme park in Guia, is recommended, providing opportunities to interact with the dolphins, alongside an aquarium, a 4D cinema, and a beach area featuring water slides.
Ponta da Piedade
Situated near Lagos, this breathtaking expanse of cliffs, pillars, and tunnels has been sculpted by the tides over millennia. Although there are stunning viewing points from the cliff tops, the ultimate perspective can be appreciated from boat tours departing from the Lagos marina, granting an up-close view of the extraordinary caves and rock formations, some of which feature their own secluded beaches.
Cabo de São Vicente
Positioned at the southern tip of Portugal in Sagres, Cabo de São Vicente features a fortification dating back to the 16th century, originally established to defend against pirates. Prior to its militaristic role, it served as a medieval convent, reputedly the burial site of St. Vincent. A lighthouse built in 1904 is still operative, perched on a cliff 60 feet above the ocean, famously branded as “The End of the World.”
The Countryside
The Algarve features a vibrant fishing and agricultural sector. Notable products from the region include oranges, lemons, limes, figs, carob beans, and strawberries, along with oak trees that yield cork for wines and spirits. Adventurous travelers can embark on a jeep safari through the picturesque countryside to uncover charming villages, unique architectural styles, and local cuisine, featuring honey, cheese, jams, sardine paste, and flor de sal—an exquisite light salt often gracing dining tables throughout the region. Additionally, visitors may enjoy popular Portuguese liqueurs such as medronho, crafted from wild strawberries, and figaro, a brandy-based drink.
Arts and Crafts
The Algarve is celebrated for its lively arts and crafts community, producing both traditional and contemporary creations across various media. In the seaside town of Lagos, you can explore an array of crafts including jewelry, Portugal’s iconic ceramic tiles, embroidery, clothing, pottery, baskets, paintings, and leather goods.
