Romantic Holidays Algarve

The Algarve can be a wonderfully romantic holiday destination, there’s so much more to the area than just hotels, beaches, bars and nightclubs. Of course, these things exist in abundance so if that’s the sort of holiday you’re after, you will certainly not be disappointed. There is another side to the Algarve though; a side that oozes romance and charm, a side that tugs at the heart strings, sticks in the memory and makes you want to return time and again. Parts of the Algarve take you to that truly romantic place and the beauty of it is you don’t have to look too far to find them. Take for example the romantic Algarve destinations of Vilamoura, Carvoeiro and Tavira.....

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Vilamoura

The resort of Vilamoura is a self contained romantic retreat that offers the discerning couple a huge choice of activities on the one hand and the opportunity for peaceful, quality time, on the other. It occupies an area measuring approximately 8 sq/miles which consists of beautiful Atlantic coastline, some glorious golden beaches and lush inland greenery so there is a wealth of romantic and secluded spots to choose from both on and off the beach.

Many of the villas and apartments to rent in Vilamoura have been finished to a very high standard, a standard that befits one of the most upmarket resorts on the Algarve. There is a wealth of restaurants, shops, bars and clubs to choose from and if you’re the sort of couple that likes activity, there is plenty to do including waterskiing, parascending, jet skiing, horse riding, tennis and golf . Or if you’d rather just take it easy and relax, you can charter a luxurious yacht from Vilamoura Marina, go dolphin spotting or take a long, romantic walk along the coast.

The views along the Vilamoura coastline are breathtaking, regardless of what time of day you happen to be there. If you are early risers, you’ll catch a fabulous sunrise and the sunsets are to die for. Watch as the rocks change colour and marvel at the sight of them illuminated against the night’s sky. Vilamoura is a sophisticated resort, located in the central region of the Algarve, an area of widely contrasting character, blessed with superb golf courses, beautiful golden beaches and wild rolling hills. History has left its mark here, with Stone Age megaliths, the remains of Roman Villas, imposing Moorish Castles and noble Gothic Cathedrals. There is a strong maritime heritage evident in the fine seafood restaurants and in Quarteira, the fish market sells produce straight off the boat.

If you do enjoy great food, check out Willie’s Restaurant on the Rua do Brazil in Vilamoura. Willie is a Michelin starred chef who delights in serving food with a mixture of international influences. His restaurant has a relaxing ambience and is ideally located in a beautiful residential area, close to the famed Pinhal Golf Course, in Vilamoura. Willie loves to share his passion for food with his guests and he and his staff create a relaxing atmosphere where the level of enjoyment and hospitality lend to the most memorable of dining experiences. The perfect venue for that special romantic dinner, Willies is air-conditioned and decorated in soft yellow pastels, creating an atmosphere for elegant dining by soft candlelight. Lovely fresh flowers add to this already intimate and relaxed interior. As you might expect, Willies reputation is excellent so booking is highly recommended. Closed on Wednesdays Willies is otherwise open from 19.00. Tel. 289 380 849.

Villas in Vilamoura – click here to search

Carvoeiro

Another romantic stop in the Algarve is the village of Carvoeiro. Here you can take a boat ride and tour around looking at the dramatic coastline with its many grottoes. You can either employ the sailing services of one of the local fishermen or take a trip to Portimao where there is a larger choice of boat. If you opt for a trip from Portimao, you will pass Paraiso Beach before reaching the beaches of Carvoeiro. Paraiso Beach is not far from Carvoeiro at all and you reach it by climbing down some fairly steep steps that have been cut from the rocks. The climb down is worth it though, it is rarely if ever crowded and a great place to while away a couple of romantic hours. Spend a bit longer on the boat though, and you can explore the caves and inlets of Carvoeiro beach. The beach itself is a vast sandy expanse, bordered on both sides by dramatic rocky outcrops which help to shield the area and keep it relatively wind free.

These days Carvoeiro is one of the main destinations for those looking for private villa holidays in the Algarve, Portugal. This delightful old fishing village retains the charm of its past whilst meeting the demands of a modern holiday destination. It offers something for everyone, including some very romantic restaurants, chief among which has to be a little place called Ele & Ela, right in the centre of town. With a menu that changes frequently it is best described as incorporating the wildest of flavours from all over the world, served with a Portuguese twist. This place is well worth checking out. Closed on Mondays but otherwise open the rest of the week from 6.00 pm - 10.30 pm in season, they offer a cosy, intimate atmosphere together with some of the best food served locally. They get booked up regularly so call them on 282 357 509 to make your reservations.

Another great restaurant and definitely one to add to your list of romantic places in Carvoeiro, is Tia Ilda, located right in the centre of Carvoeiro and close to the beach. Its position guarantees some fabulously romantic sunset views. Colour is a real theme here as the ground floor is brightly decorated with Portuguese pottery and a hand painted typically Algarvean tiles. These are complimented by gorgeous hand painted dishes and they come together beautifully to create a warm, calm and romantic ambience. Upstairs and the terrace provides a spectacular view of the sea which is simply magical in the early evenings. The menu of international and traditional Portuguese cuisine presents more than a hundred different dishes including a variety of tapas, salads, grills, daily fresh fish, meat dishes, fish, pizzas, pastas, fondue, seafood and Cataplana, the traditional Portuguese dish. Tia Ilda, situated on the Rampa do Paraiso in Carvoeiro, Algarve is open every day from 12.00 noon to 12.00 midnight. To book your romantic meal for two at Tia Ilda call 282 357 830

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Tavira

The ancient town of Tavira in East Algarve is one of the principal tourist attractions of the area. The town is full of history at every turn; Moorish and Roman architectural influences are there for all to see. The impressive seven-arched bridge that traverses the River Gilao exists courtesy of the Romans whilst the 8^th century church that overlooks the town was originally placed there by the Moors. There are many more ancient buildings in the town including an 8^th century Moorish castle and numerous churches built through the ages. Taking a timeline from the Moors, it is possible to trace the history of architecture through the different buildings in the town.

Elevated to the position of city in 1520, Tavira boomed in the period of the Portuguese discoveries and the old houses that line the banks of the river, dating from this period are testament to that. They have a grandeur about them that speaks clearly of this time of great riches. As a result of the earthquake of 1722 and the silting up of the port, the city’s fortunes reversed and it fell into decline. It wasn’t until much later on, towards the late 18th century that things started to pick up again, through carpet selling and the growing tuna fishing industry.

Today, Tavira attracts its tourist crowds with some delightful specialist shops and a bustling central square that is lined with bars, trendy cafés and fine restaurants, ideal for that romantic dinner for two. Among the old cobbled streets and bougainvillea-hung balconies, you’ll find such gastronomic delights as Amore Vero, probably the best Italian restaurant outside of Italy, located on the Rua Joao Vaz Corte Real in Tavira. The view is not the best but the food more than makes up for it. You’ll need to call them to reserve your table. To book your romantic Italian meal for two at Amore Vero call 281098007.

If Italian’s not really your thing and you fancy something with a bit more choice you’ll love the Tavira Lounge. This modern, stylish bar just off the main square overlooks the river. There are a number of vegetarian options including quiches, salads and pastas. If you’re eating inside, try to get a seat by the window overlooking the river as it can get a bit hot. They also have a seating area outside but it’s away from the bar itself so they only serve drinks and cold food there.

Another fine restaurant that is ideal for romantic meals for two in Tavira is Brisa do Rio on the Rua Dr. Augusto Silva Carvalho in Tavira, Tavira 8800-324. The food and service are so good you’ll want to return time and again. It is always full so you’ll need to book. This is just a taste of the many fine restaurants that await you in Tavira. There are plenty more besides, many of which have lovely views making them just perfect for your romantic dinner treat.

Villas in East Algarve – click here to search