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Romantic Resorts
Whilst it might be said that romance can be found anywhere, not all Algarve holiday destinations can be considered “romantic”. Some are lively and touristy and some are ideal for families with children but others will be just perfect for a romantic break. We have selected a few that should appeal to those who only have eyes for each other.
Romantic Western Algarve
Figueira
The town of Figueira features a wonderful beach with coves in which you can lose yourselves. The ideal hideaway, this area is guaranteed to light a romantic fire. It can only be reached by foot and you’ll need to be quite determined but once there, you can enjoy your time together in relative peace and quiet.
Sagres
Sagres is a wild, untamed place and therein lies its romance. The area is of tremendous historical importance. The site of the Sagres School of Navigation founded by Prince Henry the Navigator in the 13th Century; it was where Christopher Columbus sought refuge having been attacked by pirates in 1476.
Among the other famous names to have passed this way are Sir Francis Drake, Admiral Tourville, Sir George Rooke, Admiral Sir George Rodney, Admiral Don Juan de Langara, Sir Charles Napier, Don José de Cordoba, Sir John Jervis and Lord Nelson and the place hasn’t changed that much since last he saw it back in 1805 on his way to the Battle of Trafalgar.
Romantic Central Algarve
Armação de Pera
Here couples may spend hours on end, lazing around on the quiet beaches and come evening time, find romance in the old cobbled streets too. There a great choice of restaurants and bars and because it’s not hugely touristy, it gives itself over to couples who are more interested in each other than in going out and painting the town red.
Vilamoura
With its marina and upmarket restaurants, Vilamoura is the epitome of romance. Take a stroll along the waterside gazing at the boats, enjoy the beaches, play a round or two of golf, have a game of tennis or try something more adventurous like parasailing. For a really romantic occasion take a 'champagne cruise' aboard a luxury cruiser and see the beautiful coastline and stunning views from a different perspective.
Romantic Eastern Algarve
Tavira
The East Algarve is quiet and less touristy so could be ideal for a romantic break. The town of Tavira is choc full of romantic heritage and boasts the most beautiful and surprisingly empty beaches that seem to go on forever. Fields of orange trees, hills of fig and almond and houses with dazzling whitewashed walls offer just a hint of the charms of Tavira and its municipality.
Altura
Take a close look at the extreme east of the Algarve, here, where Portugal borders Spain and you’ll find some real hidden gems. Close to the beaches on the coast is the quiet town of Altura, an ideal location for those seeking a secluded resort away from the crowds and the noisy pubs and nightclubs. The laid-back feel of Altura is reflected in the pace of life here from the daily market to the hospitality of the local people, it is romantic to its core.
Romantic Beaches
There are lots of romantic beaches on the coast of the Algarve. Some feature beachside restaurants, some have clifftop views, others are lit up to dramatic effect in the evening and all provide the perfect opportunity to relax and watch a truly magnificent sunset.
Praia da Mareta in Sagres is very popular with lots of water side and beach activities but is still quiet and romantic at times.
Baleeira beach again in Sagres is ideal if your idea of romance features a meal in a fine restaurant with wonderful views overlooking the ocean. You will also like the beaches at Porto de Mós and Meia Praia in Lagos and Praia Verde in Tavira.
If you prefer to enjoy the sights in relative peace and quiet, the beaches of Esteveira and Vale Figueira in Aljezur; Bordoeira in Carrapateira; Barranco das Canas and Praia de Ingrina in Vila do Bispo and Cacela Velha in Tavira are really good choices.
Romantic Activities
Portugal combines the exotic with the romantic; it combines natural beauty with medieval splendour and sophistication. The area boasts year-round sunshine and clean blue Atlantic waters. Wherever you choose to stay on Portugal’s Algarve, you'll find lots of places to enjoy romantic activities and to savour those very special, romantic moments.
Romance of course means different things to different people, some may find romance in sporting activities like hot-air ballooning, horse riding, canoeing, hiking, mountain biking or water sports. Others may find romance in enjoying a cruise together or touring a winery.
Romance can also be found in the markets as you shop together for jewellery, fine wines and ports, pretty embroidered fabrics and ceramics to feather your nest. You can have fun choosing from the colourful “azulejos” These are the distinctive, hand-made tiles used to decorate the interiors and exteriors of many of the most beautiful homes in Portugal.
Some find romance in food and Portuguese cuisine is as diverse and tasty as you would expect any Mediterranean country’s to be. Fresh grilled sardines and succulent lobster can be found on many Portuguese menus, and you’ll find locally grown almonds and figs adding their own sweet flavours to many a dessert. These taste sensations are even more delicious when enjoyed “al-fresco”, dining in one of the Algarve's many open-air restaurants.
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