Algarve

Known as a high-end seaside paradise resort area on Portugal’s incredible southern coast, the Algarve offers surprising discovery beyond its playground fame of catering only to sun-seekers and golfers. 

There’s actually a lesser known, more laid back side, to the picture postcard Algarve region awash with undiscovered hidden gems along the 149 mile dramatic coastline.

The Algarve proudly claims some of the best beaches in Europe with one of the best climates in the world, thanks to glorious sunshine 3,300 hours out of the year – making its mild climate hard to beat.

Warmer than the rest of Portugal, the bountiful region excels in the abundance of almond trees, gorgeous fruits & vegetables, and famed grapes which deliciously contribute to the area’s varied traditional cuisine and sublime local wines.

With such perfect weather, spectacular scenery, and stunning beaches, it’s easy to see how the Algarve is normally associated with luxury resorts.  Like many, I originally envisioned the Algarve only as a high-end resort area before learning about its rich regional diversity neatly bundled into an area measuring 25 miles from top to bottom.

Just about anywhere you travel within the region, you’re treated to miles of winding coastline dotted with dramatic rock formations, and quintessential fishing villages.  And, when inland a bit where three mountain ranges reign, you’ll discover peaceful storybook mountain villages to explore.

Each Algarve sub-area has its own appealing personality and potential for discovery adventures.  Luckily, it’s quite possible to enjoy all that Algarve has to offer, especially if you pick a home base like Algarve’s capital Faro, or one of the popular beach towns like Lagos. 

1. Faro and surroundings – Algarve’s provincial capital, Faro, serves well as a home base for exploratory day-trips up and down the coastline and inland. Public transportation or local tours are available, if you’re without a car.
2. Central Algarve – Generally speaking, this is the liveliest resort area where you’ll find high-end villa and hotel lodging with upscale resort amenities, including golf courses.
3. Eastern Algarve – Somewhat undiscovered, this laid-back, idyllic scenic area includes isolated sandbar islands, intrepid cove beaches and bold rock formations.
4. Western Algarve – A popular area, you’ll find strikingly beautiful, low-key Lagos Beach here as well as other unspoiled grottoes, and secluded pristine beaches. For exploring, Lagos is an excellent spot for day trips to other beaches and, a little inland, to quaint mountain villages.

A good way to experience local traditions and the area’s most “authentic Portugal” is to venture beyond the seaside to explore some rural hill villages and market towns.  You don’t have to go far before you feel a palpable lifestyle shift from coastal living to provincial living which is quite different, fun and interesting.