Autumn holidays in the Algarve

The Algarve is a wonderful place to holiday at any time of year but it is in the autumn when the Algarve’s wild life really comes into its own. You can sit and watch in awe as the region bursts into autumnal colour and life with splendid and ever changing pictures presented to you, from the windows or verandas of lovely Algarve villas or Algarve apartments.

You will never tire of the views. At this time of year, the grass seems to grow greener and wildflowers decorate the landscape with reds, oranges, dark purples and creamy whites. Vineyards, coming to the end of their yearly harvest create spectacular scenery, while thousands of migrating birds fill the skies with shapes, colour and delightful sound.

Summer’s rush is over and autumn brings with it a certain sigh of relief and the chance to settle back and enjoy the fruits of this fine country; its beautiful scenery, its wonderful foods, fine wines and the peace and contented quietude of an area, secure in the knowledge that it is truly blessed. Blessed that is, with beautiful beaches, stunning rock formations, a glorious climate and wonderful scenery.

The beaches are relatively quiet around September/October time but still attract temperatures of around 20°C, making an afternoon’s lazing around in the sun, a peaceful and relaxing pleasure. But beaches are not all the Algarve has to offer. You’ll enjoy walking along the coast and taking in the colourful autumn flora and fauna or you can always take to the greens and play a few rounds of golf. The region offers many of Europe’s finest golf courses with a large number of them reaching championship standard.

Another way to enjoy your autumn holiday in the Algarve is to wander through the vineyards. If you really fancy getting stuck into some great Portuguese wines then look for those from the Douro, Bairrada and Dão regions. The Douro is probably the country’s premium wine-producing region. This area of steeply terraced vineyards has produced some real corkers! Look out for Barca Velha, Duas Quintas Reserva and Quinta do Côtto Grande Eschola as well as the Muxagat Tinto from 2006 and the Casaca de Ferro Colheita Branco, all of which are very worthwhile. From Bairrada, check out the wines from Casa de Saima, Luis Pato, Quinta das Bágeiras and Quinta do Baixo and from Dão; Quinta dos Roques, Quinta das Maias and Quinta do Pellada are some of the names to look out for.

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Featured Algarve holiday resort - Vale de Parra

Villas in Vale de Parra are ideal for relaxing family holidays in the Algarve and for Algarve couples’ holidays. Within easy access of either Albufeira or Armação de Pêra, depending on the type of nightlife you’re after, Vale de Parra also boasts the Salgados Golf Course, one of the finest golf courses on the Algarve and some of the loveliest beaches including those at Castello, São Raphael and Praia da Galé.

Salgados Golf Course

The Salgados Golf Course is located on a nature reserve close to the town and beach of Albufeira. This gives golfers a unique experience, since several species of endangered and rare birds have made the course and its surrounding area, their home. The beach is a few metres away and the sea view makes playing the field a relaxing and wholly pleasurable experience.

Castello Beach

Castello Beach is one of Portugal’s hottest adventure spots and holiday destinations, not just in terms of temperature, but in terms of all there is to do here. There are countless shades of seawater blue and numerous rocks to climb, you can sunbathe on the long beach and enjoy some great nightlife after the sun goes down. You can watch the sun set as you relax in a nearby restaurant or bar and later, go on to one of the area’s exciting discotheques which are open to the early hours even in autumn.

Sao Rafael Beach

The Sao Raphael beach is one of the real treasures of the Algarve. It is a picturesque beach in Vale de Parra, not far from the popular resort of Albufeira. With impressive limestone rock formations including those known as the Ponte Pequena or “the small bridge” and the Ninho das Andorinhas or “swallow’s nest” and its fine, golden sands, this beach is a must see for anyone holidaying in the Algarve.

Praia da Galé

The Praia da Galé is a continuation of the beach at Armação. The western part is wide and open while at the eastern end; there are more rocky outcrops, some wonderful rock formations and caves. The rock pools are always a hit with families, particularly those with young children who are fascinated by the marine life they shelter.

So, if you’re looking for the perfect Algarve autumn getaway, then consider the Vale de Parra. With its fine sandy beaches, wonderful golf course and delightful scenery, it makes for the perfect holiday destination.

Villas in Vale de Parra – click here to browse our villas and apartments to rent for autumn holidays in the Algarve