Visit the Algarve

With its spectacular sandy beaches, picturesque rocky coves and exciting resorts with great facilities suitable for all ages, it is no wonder that for many The Algarve is holiday heaven.

Image Gallery the Algarve © Associato de Turismo do Algarve / Algarve Promotion Bureau It was British holidaymakers who first made this region popular in the 1960's but now people of all ages, and especially families, from all over Europe find the charms of resorts such as Albufeira, Vilamoura, Portimão, Lagos and Quarteira very hard to beat.

Eating & Drinking

The local restaurants are predominantly fish orientated with a local speciality being 'balcalhau' - sun-dried cod baked in the oven. Lovers of seafood are well catered for and must sample the local grilled sardines. There are dozens of other eateries on the Algarve, serving anything from hamburgers to filet mignon while If you like to cook, visit the morning fish and vegetable markets at Quarteira for a mouth watering array of fresh produce and a chance to chat to the locals. Albufeira also has an abundance of bars, many British-owned, and several discos.

Entertainment

Albufeira and Praia da Oura are the main beaches on the Algarve, although Vilamoura's Falesia beach, with crystal clear waters and golden sands that stretch for miles is also highly recommended. Albufeira offers an abundance of water sports at the beaches and the magnificent views can be enjoyed from the coastal footpath. There is a large marine park in Guia with dolphins, walruses, sea lions, swimming pools and fair rides for children while bargain hunters will find the area's many markets a pleasant way to while away a morning. Shopaholics can enjoy numerous shopping centres where many well-known fashion brands, such as Mango and Zara, are significantly cheaper than in the UK.

The surrounding area

There are a number of historic towns and villages in The Algarve that are well worth a visit including Silves, the Old Moorish Capital, which dates back to Roman times and is home to the imposing castle and Sagres, which was key to Portugal's Seafaring history. A visit to Tavira, the town of churches, is also recommended. One of the Algarve's most elegant towns, Tavira has 22 churches.