Algarve Holidays: Where to go in the Algarve

The Algarve can be all things to all people; a romantic getaway, a youngster’s delight, a sun worshipper’s joy, a late night/early morning party or an adrenaline junkies dream vacation. Whatever type of holiday you are looking for, you will find it here in Portugal’s Algarve and the best part of it is, whatever time of year you choose to visit, the weather will not disappoint.

Many people have different ideas about what makes their perfect Algarve holiday. For some it is finding that perfect secluded spot on a beautiful beach with breathtaking views and a warm sea breeze. For others it’s a safe haven in which the kids can enjoy themselves making sand castles and eating ice cream. Others still, will prefer lazing on a beach catching the sun’s rays between liberal applications of Tropicana sun tan lotion. Some will prefer to sleep for large parts of the day, waiting for the lights to come on and the DJ’s to start working their decks whilst others, will want nothing more than to down some red bull and catch the next big wave.

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Where to go for romantic Algarve holidays

Coastal Algarve is full of romantic spots; secluded beaches that are not so easily accessed, making them ideal for couples who are unencumbered by the paraphernalia associated with children and who are intent only, on whiling away a few uninterrupted hours in glorious solitude.

If you are looking for the perfect spot to share precious romantic moments with your partner, then you should check out some of the beaches in the eastern region of the Algarve, around the town of Tavira. The beach at Tavira is known as Ilha de Tavira, or Tavira Island. It is 14 kilometres of offshore sand spit which, whilst it is easily accessed via ferry from the mainland, has a good number of isolated, romantic spots for you and your partner to share.

Also in the east you’ll find romantic beaches in the Vila Real de Santo António region, look out for the beaches of Cabeço, Gancho, Monte Gordo, Santa Luzia, Verde and Barril. Praia Verde, so called due to the forest of Pines that forms its backdrop, is simply stunning. If you can imagine it, a painter would need just three colours to conjure this setting; crystal blue, golden yellow and deep, dark green. It is beautiful and relatively uncrowded too.

Where to go for family holidays in Algarve with younger children

Having decided to bring your young family away with you to the Algarve, you will want to know, where’s best to take them. East central Algarve is our tip. Here you’ll find beaches of soft golden sand which is ideal for building sand castles and digging large trenches or holes for Dad to sit in while the kids try to bury him.

East central Algarve, between Albufeira and Vilamoura is home to the rubber ring, the water wing, the lilo and the peddaloe but most importantly, it is also home to the life guard, leaving you able to relax and sunbathe or lose yourself in a good book, at least until someone wants an ice cream or to play with the bigger bucket and spade.

Where to go for an Algarve beach holiday

If your idea of an Algarve beach holiday is doing nothing more that finding a relatively quiet spot on a beach, laying out your towel and sunbathing from dawn till dusk, then you’ll be wanting to head for the beaches between Carvoeiro and Albufeira. The centres of these resort locations tend to get a little crowded, especially in high season, but head between them and you’ll find just what you’re looking for.

Check out Praia de São Rafael, here you’ll find two beaches both with bar/restaurant facilities which serve excellent food. Even in high summer, these beaches are relatively quiet. There are stunning panoramic views of the steep cliff lined coast and the more determined among you will stumble across the beach nirvana that is, a secret area totally screened from view from the sea with a small but natural lagoon. Also look for the Praia do Castelo. This sandy beach nestles between cliff walls and is full of hidden nooks and crannies and small creeks. The beach is reached by wooden steps or a wooden ramp.

Of course the Algarve beach experience would not be complete without the peddaloe, the inner tube, the banana boat the jet ski and water skiing and all of these can be found in central Algarve. Here the water is not too choppy, it is in fact quite calm though not as flat as in the east. This makes the conditions are ideal for messing about on the water and with full time life guards in peak season, it’s really quite safe too.

Where to go for nightlife in Algarve

Mention nightlife in the Algarve and those in the know will tell you, Praia da Rocha is the place to go. Lagos, Portimao, Vilamoura, Albufeira and even Vale do lobo, all have their musical highlights but Praia da Rocha is the daddy. There’s a long esplanade crammed with glitzy bars and trendy nightclubs in which you can party the night away. Lagos comes alive at night to the tune of smooth soul and sexy jazz funk and the live music on offer in the town often comes with a Latin twist. Vilamoura marina features a multitude of bars and eateries and the long hot summers evenings are often finished off in style with a spectacular fireworks display. Albufeira is famed for its “strip” with loads of clubs and bars to choose from. Among them, Lineker’s and Cafe del Mar stand out alongside some of the smaller bars like Alberto’s and Devlins, the Mustang bar, Paradise and Liberto's to name but a few. Even the Vale do Lobo gets in on the party act, with beach parties often going on well into the night.

Where to go for Algarve activity holidays

For high octane, no nonsense water sports and great diving, head for western Algarve to the waters off Sagres and Vila do Bispo, here you’ll find conditions ideal for body boarding, surfing and wind surfing as well as water skiing and parascending. For water-skiing and jet-skiing head for the beaches a little further east like those of Albufeira, Vilamoura and Quinta do Lago. For the sailors among you, the marinas of Lagos, Portimao, Vilamoura and Albufeira are the places to be.

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Holidays in the Algarve - Algarve’s Nightlife

The Algarve is famed for its nightlife. From thumping drum and base through to groovy disco sounds and classical jazz the Algarve has it all. There are also plenty of options open to you, if you’d rather just go out for a relaxing evening with a group of friends for a bite to eat. Yes, entertainments wise, the Algarve has it pretty well covered.

Below is part one of guides to Nightlife in the Algarve. Read on for information on nightlife in Albufeira, Alcoutim, Alvor, Carvoeiro, Faro, Ferragudo and Lagos. Part two will follow next month!

Albufeira Nightlife

Nightlife in Albufeira begins and ends with “the strip”. One and a half miles long, it stretches from Montechoro at its northern end to Praia da Oura in the south. It is exactly what you would expect from any of the more popular Mediterranean resorts. It is loud, colourful and busy, thronging with revellers on a nightly basis. At the northern end of the strip, there are lots of smaller, quieter bars and pubs. You’ll not want to stay for too long as you’ll be attracted by the bright lights of the strip proper, but it’s a good place to start.

Cross the main road and this is where you might say, the strip really begins. The atmosphere hots up, the music gets louder and the lights, brighter. Where previously people were mingling in bars, now they are jostling for space. Sports bar follows theme pub, follows fast food restaurant, follows souvenir shop, follows fun pub, follows takeaway, follows theme pub, follows..Well, you get the idea.

Many of these places stay open until breakfast the following morning, when it all starts again. That said Albufeira is not all party, party, party. Off the main strip you’ll find some very pleasant and quite peaceful eateries which are ideal for a family evening out. The best tip we can give you in this direction, is look for those places that haven’t gone to town with neon and that are frequented by the Portuguese.

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Alcoutim Nightlife

Alcoutim is a small inland river town situated close to the Spanish border. It is very popular among the pleasure boat set and as a result, a number of bars and restaurants have grown up on the river’s promenade. If this trend continues, there is no reason to suggest that Alcoutim might not, one day develop a night life, but it’s fair to say that at the moment, it doesn’t have one to speak of.

This is no bad thing though, different areas, attract different people for different reasons. If you are looking for a lovely romantic setting in which you can dine on very pleasant food in relative peace and quiet, then Alcoutim should come close to the top of your list. Add to this its proximity to Spain, its hillside location presenting some wonderful views, its delightful cobbled streets and small squares and you can see its appeal.

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Alvor Nightlife

Originally a small fishing village, Alvor is growing in size and popularity. The
number of bars and restaurants is on the rise and the quality just keeps improving, not that it was ever bad in the first place. Visitors to Alvor are returning time and again for its long sandy beach, great sunbathing and swimming and for its bars and restaurants.

Alvor can boast one of the very first of the now ubiquitous Irish bars to open in the Algarve. A few more have opened in the town since, together with many others that split the difference between bar and restaurant. A number of these provide diners with very pleasant views across the harbour with the added bonus of glorious sunsets come late afternoon early evening.

At present there is no nightlife to speak of. No nightclubs or discos but with the area’s increasing popularity, these are sure to come. In the mean time, the bars and restaurants provide their own entertainments and Irish bars being Irish bars, you can appreciate many of these go on well into the night.

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Carvoeiro Nightlife

There is a good of number pubs and bars in Carvoeiro, many of which crossover from bar to bar/club as the evening progresses, but where Carvoeiro comes into its own is in its choice of restaurants. There are excellent restaurants in and on the outskirts of town where evenings of a more intimate and atmospheric nature can be enjoyed.

The pace of life and the noise levels are geared more towards families with young children than groups of young adults so whilst there is a reasonable nightlife here, it’s fair to say that if you’re looking for clubs or discos, you’re better off looking elsewhere.

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Faro Nightlife

The Portuguese love to party and in Faro, it is no different. The streets of Faro have been likened to those of New Orleans which, in itself, tells you a little of what you might come to expect of the town. It has not for example, been likened to the Albufeiras or the Praia da Rochas of this world, Faro’s brand of partying is somehow more intelligent, more intellectually challenging.

Perhaps is has to do with Faro being the provincial capital of the Algarve and a university town but it certainly seems that here, the art of playing music is more widely appreciated than the art of spinning discs and splicing tunes. That is not to say that it is in any way high brow or pretentious, like any university town, it has its cafe culture but it also has a great nightlife with some fabulous family friendly restaurants mixing cheek by jowl, with trendy dance clubs.

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Ferragudo Nightlife

Just a quarter of an hour’s drive from Praia da Rocha, Ferragudo gives way to its livelier neighbour when it comes to nightlife. Not that it’s given up completely, there are a few local watering holes waiting to quench your thirst but Ferragudo is a town of restaurants and in particular, fish restaurants. As with Alcoutim, a number of fine eateries have grown up around its quay and the sunsets and cooling sea breezes can be quite magical.

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Lagos Nightlife

The main square in Lagos in the evening is where you’ll catch the majority of the nightlife. There is always something going on and because it’s laid on by anyone from the local magician through to street busker's it is free. It’s free also to sit and watch the local artists at work, painting portraits of anyone who’ll pay them to do so.

Shops and cafes in and around the square stay open til quite late, usually 9-10 o’clock or so when the dance clubs and bars start to open their doors and of course the restaurants around and about the square remain open a good deal later.

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Algarve Villas and their stunning beach views

Truly Algarve specialise in Algarve Villas on the coast, overlooking some of the most beautiful and famous beaches of the Algarve, including Praia Verde, Praia da Luz, Praia da Galé and Praia do Vau, a stunning selection of beaches which cater for everyone from couples looking for romantic and secluded hideaways to groups of friends looking for popular beach bars and adrenaline fuelled water sports. Many of these Algarve villas are also located close to the ever popular coastal towns and resorts of Albufeira, Vilamoura, Carvoeiro, Vale do Lobo and Quinta da Lago and when renting your Algarve villas here, there are four things of which you can be certain; bright sunshine, beautiful blue seas, soft sand and a holiday that will live on in the memory for a lifetime.

In this part of the world there is a never-ending stream of entertainments along a shoreline that itself seems like it will never end. The Algarve coast is some 100 miles long and there are Algarve villas dotted all along it. The beaches vary in terms of their size, their popularity and their prevailing conditions but wherever you are, you cannot fail to be impressed by the stunning beach views that are on offer.

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Algarve villas in Sagres

In the town of Sagres which is located on the western tip of the Algarve, some 25 kilometres from Lagos, the beaches are long and quite quiet. It is a favourite haunt for surfers and other adrenaline junkies and wetsuits rather than swimming trunks are “de rigueur”. It is ideal for those wishing to rent their Algarve villas, close to the action.

Algarve villas in Lagos

Moving eastwards to Lagos and the beaches are a little more popular. Many of the smaller, more intimate ones can only be reached by rough staircases hewn into the rocks but the journey is certainly worthwhile. The waters are calmer and a lovely azure blue, fringed by golden sands which are backed by high, craggy rock faces offering some protection from the wind. A word of warning, here you can bake! The beaches are sun traps and with the rocks keeping the winds at bay, it gets very hot. Algarve villas here benefit from stunning beach views with the added bonus of calm blue waters.

Algarve villas in Portimao and Albufeira

Further east to Portimao and Albufeira and this is where the action really heats up. This is the area known as central Algarve or more specifically, coastal central Algarve. Algarve villas here are in constant demand and for all the right reasons. Cheaper than the golfing resorts of Vale do Lobo and Quinta da Lago, the area is a hive of activity with disco bars, nightclubs, cafés and beaches attracting holidaymakers in their droves. A villa here makes an ideal base from which to explore this vibrant and colourful area. The children will love playing in golden sands and splashing about on lilos in the sea and the grown ups will enjoy mixing and meeting with new friends in the restaurants, bars and nightclubs.

Algarve villas in Vilamoura and Quarteira

The beaches at Falésia which is backed by unusual red coloured cliffs and Olhos de Água, which is surrounded on three sides by pine-clad cliffs are ideal for a day out in the sun as is Vilamoura beach itself, though this is slightly less natural looking. Quarteira Beach is beautiful and, in stark contrast to the beaches at Portimao, virtually rock-free. There are plenty of eateries located along the Avenida Infante de Sagres which runs along behind it, so if your tire of cooking for yourselves during your stay, you can pop in to any one of them for a bite to eat or some refreshments. Quarteira still has a thriving local fishing community and the fishermen can be found at the western end of the beach or selling their catch at the nearby fish market. If you are staying nearby in one of our Algarve villas, get up early one morning to buy some fresh fish and you can prepare it for lunch or dinner that very day.

Algarve villas in Tavira

Farther east still and into Eastern Algarve, you’ll find the Algarve villas and beaches of Tavira, all 11 kilometres of them. Ilha beach and Cabanas beach are well worth looking out for here. They form part of the Ria Formosa Natural Park which is a protected environment so you will not find many Algarve villas here but those you do find are quite lovely with splendid views not only on the stunning beaches but also of the Ria Formosa too.

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Algarve villas and their beautiful countryside views

Thoughts of taking a holiday in the Algarve are quite often centred on those Algarve villas located close to the sea with entertainments for the kids and loud music, dancing, bars and restaurants for the adults. But there is another side to the Algarve, an altogether gentler, more sedate side that is just as appealing albeit for different reasons.

Truly Algarve specialise in Algarve villas in Monchique, Silves and Loule and the beautiful inland areas of Portugal’s Algarve.

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Algarve villas in Monchique

Monchique is a market town in the Serra de Monchique, which is a wooded mountainous region separating the Algarve from Alentejo. Nestled between the two highest peaks in the Algarve, it is located to the northwest of the region and is one of the area’s most beautiful towns. It has remained largely unaffected by tourism with many of the townsfolk still working in farming or in wood and cork production, as their fathers and forefathers did before them.

A 17th Century Franciscan monastery overlooks the town, offering a panoramic view over the peaceful countryside . On a clear day if you make your way to the highest point, Foia which is 902 metres above sea level, you’ll be rewarded with truly breathtaking views. You can see over to Cape St. Vincent in the west, Faro in the east and the Serra da Arrabida, near Lisbon in the north. Take a coat with you though because it can get quite chilly at that altitude.

The narrow cobbled streets of Monchique are lined by whitewashed houses which criss-cross their way up the hillside but, whilst they may resemble those found on the coast, with their white walls and bands of colour around the windows and doors that is where any similarity between inland and coastal Algarve ends. Coastal Algarve is all holiday homes, hotels and tourism, the Monchique is the epitome of rural charm, exuding peace and tranquillity.

The town’s central square has an attractive paved area with seating benches and a lovely water feature. It is the ideal setting for a holiday break designed to refresh and revive the soul. There are natural hot springs nearby, said to have healing properties but in truth, a visit here is healing in itself. Look out for the spa of Caldas de Monchique; the Romans built baths here to utilise the natural spring waters and today a thermal treatment centre exists to treat rheumatism and respiratory illnesses.

There are a number of cafe bars and restaurants in the town serving up delightful and typically Algarvean fare, many of which will also serve Medronho, a local brew made from the fruits of the arbutus or strawberry tree. It is an acquired taste and quite strong but it is good for clearing the sinuses. Those of you with a sweet tooth should head for the pastelarias where you’ll find delicious cakes and desserts made with local honey.

Algarve villas in Silves

The first things you’ll notice on approach to Silves are the impressive castle and cathedral that sit atop a hill above the town. The Castelo de Silves is now the best preserved castle in the Algarve. It is classified a National Monument and has been the subject of extensive restoration works which have involved rebuilding sections of walls and some of its eleven towers which were severely damaged by the earthquake of 1755. Silves cathedral is one of the Algarve’s few remaining gothic monuments; sitting alongside the castle it houses several ancient tombs.

Located on the banks of the Arade River, the town is steeped in history, everywhere you look you’ll see reminders of its affluent past. Silves was once the main shipping access to inland Algarve but nowadays the river is too silted up for large vessels to use.

Like many towns in Portugal’s Algarve, Silves is constructed around a central square; the very pretty Praça do Municipio, with its palms and flowers has beautifully tended gardens and a newly paved river frontage. The town’s market building is on the main street opposite the river along which you’ll find numerous cafés with outside seating taking advantage of the lovely river views. Within the town, there are cobbled streets lined with cafés and shops and some quite beautiful buildings dating back to the time when Silves was a rich merchants town

Like Monchique, Silves is very relaxed and has history in abundance but time and a willingness to move with it have seen cafés and housing erected in close proximity to some of the more ancient buildings. The river is still utilised commercially but on a much smaller scale; there are boat trips from Portimão to Silves along the Rio Arade, which give the visitor time to look around the town and stop for coffee (just over an hour) before returning whilst the tide is still high enough for the boats to make the return journey.

The relaxed pace of life in Silves makes it ideal for a truly restful break. There are plenty of eateries around the town and a good selection of bars and cafés too. The local authority has tried to ensure that the most notable, historic and picturesque areas are presented in the best possible light, attracting visitors and tempting them to stay for longer as a result. That said, they have been at pains to ensure that the town has not lost its typically Algarvean appeal and that it remains both charming and picturesque.

Not far from the coast, Silves provides idyllic country living with the opportunity to spend days by the seaside should you so wish and for the children, there is the slide and splash water park at Lagoa, Lagos zoo with its famous monkey islands and Zoomarine at Guia with its dolphins and sea lions.

Algarve villas in Loulé

The first thing you’ll notice as you approach Loulé from along the A22, is a curious dome shaped building set high on a hill. This landmark building is in fact a church; the church of Nossa Senhora da Piedade or “Our Lady of Mercy or Piety.” It looks from the inside, more like a modern concert hall than a place of worship and from the outside, all painted in Algarvean white, it looks for all the world like a spaceship likely to disappear upwards at any moment.

Loulé has all the amenities you’d expect of a fully functioning, self sufficient town. There’s a fine selection of art galleries and many shops concerned with producing and selling souvenir items made of copper, leather, cane and wood, to service the tourist industry. A weekly fair attracts visitors from all over the Algarve and the annual carnival held in February is considered to be one of the best in Portugal. Markets are held regularly on Saturday mornings and there is also a very good daily (except Sundays) market to be found on Praça da República.

Most of the touristy bits of Loulé, including the remains of a 12^th century Arabic castle and the 13th Century Church of São Clemente are contained within a relatively small area of the town and due to its layout it is quite easy to miss them, seeing the town as nothing more than a modern shopping area with very little character. Best advice is to buy a local map, this will point out the areas of historic interest and in this way you’ll avoid wasting time and shoe leather wandering the streets. Many of the places of historical interest in the town are surrounded by quaint little cobbled streets that play host to restaurants, cafés and shops, so there is plenty to do and see in these areas and the town’s council has ensured that these areas are as attractive as they can possibly be, paying close attention to the cleanliness of the streets and the beauty of the gardens.

Loulé carnival is one of the biggest events in Loulé and is famous across the Algarve. It takes places in February (over 3 days, ending on Shrove Tuesday and is a truly colourful affair, reminiscent of the Brazilian carnivals. People come from all over the Algarve to watch the processions and join in with the party atmosphere as everyone takes to the streets. It is something of a tradition at carnival time for people to throw water bombs and eggs etc, so if you are attending the carnival, it is probably better to go in an old pair of jeans and a top that you’re not precious about. The town centre is shut off during carnival so get there early for parking and admission.

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Quinta do Lago Central Algarve – An Algarve Holiday Destination Filled with Outstanding Natural Beauty

Villa in Algarve offer a range of apartments and villas for rent in Quinta do Lago central Algarve. We also have Algarve property for rent in both Monte da Quinta and Dunas Doradas. This prime holiday location is suitable for couples, young families and larger groups of friends as it offers high quality accommodation and a wide range of entertainments to suit all tastes.

About Quinta do Lago

One of the largest golfing holiday destinations in the Algarve, the golf courses of Quinta do Lago are world renowned. They have hosted no less than eight Portuguese Open Championships and are continually called upon to stage other major events in the national and international golfing calendars like the World Senior Golf Championship, the BMW Golf Cup World Final, numerous charity and press tournaments and outstanding private, national and international events. These have been participated in by world famous celebrities like David Beckham, Michael Owen and other premiership footballers, many of who’s sole purpose for visiting Portugal, was to play at Quinta do Lago’s golf courses. Madonna even owns a villa here.

No surprise then, that they should be as beautiful as they are. Constantly tended by expert grounds staff, the tees, fairways and greens are always in excellent condition. They have to be, since they are continually under the gaze of the media, an international audience and the world’s most famous players. Severiano Ballesteros, Sandy Lyle, Ian Woosnam, Bernhard Langer, Sam Torrance, Bernard Gallacher, Vijay Singh, Colin Montgomerie, Tiger Woods, Padraig Harrington, Henrik Stenson, Justin Rose, Ian Poulter, David Howell, Nick Dougherty, Trevor Immelman, Paul McGinley, Steve Webster and Paul Lawrie have all played here.

A testament to Quinta do Lago’s own natural history and that of its surrounding environment is the fact that the areas indigenous wildlife is here in such abundance and that migratory species, given a bird’s eye view of the landscape, choose to make the area a favoured resting place on their journeys between Europe and North Africa, bringing with them the delights of their plumage and song. Quinta do Lago has successfully married the natural and the golfing worlds, creating a 2000 acre oasis, nestled between the countryside and pine forests of the Ria Formosa and the shores of the Atlantic Ocean.

About Monte da Quinta

Set in the middle of Quinta do Lago, 'Monte da Quinta Club' is an exclusive private development of villas & townhouses all of which have been built to an exceptionally high standard. The club is uniquely located at the centre of the Algarve's most exclusive development and as such benefits from the outstanding level of services & facilities on offer at the resort.

Centred around the Monte da Quinta Clubhouse which provides a 24 hour reception desk and numerous leisure activities including a gym, steam bath, jacuzzi and heated indoor pool, along with an outdoor pool, restaurant and a club for the children, the clubhouse is the ideal environment in which to while away a few pampered hours whilst your other half is playing golf. The 'MQ Shopping' district gives guests the opportunity to indulge in some high class retail therapy or to pretty themselves up in the on-site health & beauty clinic and hair salon. You can relax over a cup of coffee in the "Trattoria da Quinta" and visit the "Gourmet shop" for some special treats.

About Dunas Douradas

Dunas Douradas on the Algarvean coast is famed the world over for its top quality golf course and stunningly beautiful beach. Situated at the heart of the Algarve’s Golden Triangle this prestigious resort lies on the coast between Vale do Lobo and Quinta do Lago. A beautiful location, it benefits from the Gulf Stream that flows along the coast, warming the waters of the Atlantic Ocean as it goes. This, and the year round sunshine give the area a distinctly Mediterranean feel.

Sympathetically developed in recent times and beautifully located on the golden Algarve coastline between the luxurious resorts of Quinta do Lago and Vale do Lobo, Dunas Douradas enjoys an enviable position in every sense. Its spacious villas, townhouses and luxury apartments have all been constructed so as to be in keeping with traditional Portuguese development styles whilst taking full advantage of its position, commanding wonderful views of the Atlantic coastline, its beaches and its crystal clear waters.

Local Beaches

Separating the Ria Formosa Natural Park from the Atlantic Ocean is the thin strip of soft white sand known as the Quinta do Lago Beach. Surrounded by unspoilt nature with not a straight line in sight, this beach connects you to nature in a way that is rarely experienced these days.

Praia de Garrao is one of the main beaches serving the Golden Triangle. The beach stretches between Quinta do Lago and Vale do Lobo and in addition to offering private areas with sun loungers and umbrellas, it offers some of the finest beach restaurants the Algarve has to offer.

The Monte da Quinta Beach resort is situated in the centre of the Algarve's most exclusive holiday destination and offers an atmosphere of peace and tranquillity

Activities in the Area

Activity holiday changes to relaxing break as you move from west to east along the Algarve coast. At the westerly end which features the towns of Sagres and Portimao, you’ll find surfers. The breaks here are high and strong with some deep swells, attracting adrenaline chasers from all over Europe. Move east, towards the centre and the coastal pursuits become a little more relaxed. This is jet ski and wind surfing country, further east still and you join the ranks of the lilo, banana boat and arm band brigade.

On land and its golf all the way with courses at Albufeira, Alcantarilha, Almancil, Alvor, Carvoeiro, Castro Marim, Lagos, Portimao, Sagres, Silves, Tavira , Vilamoura and Vila Sol and if golf doesn't float your boat, then there’s always tennis. Tennis courts can be found on the outskirts of most towns and these are, for the most part, free to use. There is also horse riding in the countryside. The Portuguese are big fans of horses and many stables exit from where you can hack around the countryside.

If you prefer something a little less active, you can always take yourself off on a leisurely walk to enjoy some of the much talked about countryside with its colourful flora and fauna.

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Winter Holidays Algarve

Truly Algarve specialise in Algarve Villa Holidays throughout the region, including the East Algarve, West Algarve and Central Algarve. We also offer holiday apartments to rent in all of the major resorts including Carvoeiro, Vilamoura and Albufeira

The weather in winter

Unlike many holiday destinations, the Algarve is just as popular in winter as it is in summer. During the winter months, the weather across the Algarve is warm and sunny for up to 6 hours a day with temperatures reaching the mid 60’s. This is the perfect weather for strolling around on manicured greens or going for long walks in the countryside. Sixty degrees Fahrenheit is also a great sunbathing temperature; not too hot, nor too cold, it is just perfect for lazing around and losing yourself in a good book without it being uncomfortably hot.

Activities on a winter Algarve holiday

Sporting activities are widely available across the Algarve with options including a few rounds of golf and taking long, leisurely walks in the country. You can also sunbathe and play water sports and when you’re ready to eat, you can dine out at some quite wonderful restaurants.

The excitement of the Atlantic coast, with its steep, ochre cliffs and secluded coves, its pine-clad hills and picturesque hamlets, makes the Algarve a stunning corner of Europe to visit at any time of year.

Playing Golf in the Algarve

The golf is superb in the Algarve. You are literally spoiled for choice here - championship courses abound, many having played host to the Portuguese Open. The beauty of it is that in winter, you can still play and you don’t need fluorescent yellow balls to do it.

In winter, the reduced green fees at many courses attract players from around the world and the virtually guaranteed sunshine and warm winter temperatures mean that the weather rarely, if ever stops play.

Walking in the Algarve

There are many delightful villages and towns in the Algarve just waiting to offer a warm and friendly welcome to visitors later in the year. It is not unusual whilst out on a trek to stumble upon a quiet village where the locals will welcome you and your custom with open arms and a friendly smile.

Many of them of course speak English as a second language and some are as fluent, as they are in their mother tongue, but those that aren’t, are keen to learn and will gladly recount brief but nonetheless, interesting stories in an effort to improve their linguistic skills and be only too pleased for you to endeavour to return the compliment

Dining in the Algarve

Great restaurants are plentiful in this part of the world. Here is a selection of some of the finest;

1. Ristorante Belmondo is a rather fine Italian restaurant stunningly located atop the cliffs at Senhora da Rocha, near to Armação de Pêra. The food, the service, the décor and the setting blend wonderfully together for an excellent Italian gourmet experience.

2. The Michelin starred restaurant Sao Gabriel is one of the finest around. Close to the famous Algarve resorts of Vale do Lobo and Quinta do Lago, it was founded by Rudi Maerkle 10 years ago. The restaurant itself is set in a beautiful old villa surrounded by luscious gardens. Palm trees, bougainvillea, birds of paradise and sub-tropical plants add to the magical ambience and the Al fresco dining here is unforgettable.

3. Scoobys Pool Bar in Galé is just a short distance from Albufeira. Its more than just a bar – it’s an all day restaurant with great entertainment, There’s a 15 hole Krazy Golf course for the kids and a play area, as well as a fantastic pool. Scoobys is set in a large private garden and the pool and sun beds are available for the free use of Scoobys customers.

4. Ruccula restaurant in Alvor combines excellent food with professional service and the warmest of welcomes. Located just up from the Ria Alvor, and next to the local church, Ruccula serves quality international cuisine in a relaxed atmosphere. Ruccula is a great option for couples and larger groups of friends. It is also perfect for golfing parties.

5. The Zanzibar Restaurant in Vilamoura is an attractive white stone building in a peaceful setting. It has a friendly bar and offers fine dining. Located in the self contained complex known as “Old Village” in Vilamoura, the setting features lovely sub tropical gardens and traditional Portuguese paving.

The list goes on of course and there are many great eateries throughout the Algarve waiting for you to discover them.

Winter sun in the Algarve

At this time of year, the temperature hovers around 15 degrees and whilst that’s not particularly hot, it is easily warm enough to comfortably lie out in the Sun and get a decent tan, so lazing on the beach is definitely an option. With a daily average of 5-6 hours of sun, why not spend most of your day out there soaking it up, you are on holiday after all!

Water sports in the Algarve

The Atlantic Ocean may be a little too chilly at this time of year for those without a wet suit but suitably attired, the waves can be tremendous fun and whether your preference is for surfing, riding jet skis, waterskiing or snorkelling, there’s plenty of choice, you just have to know where to look. As a general rule, the further west you go, the rougher (and colder) the waters become. Towards the west, in Sagres, is where the surfers head for. You can catch some good breaks here and have fun recounting stories to your mates. Come in to central Algarve and the east and this is the playground for lilos, jet skis and water skis, here the waters are much calmer and you can enjoy messing about in boats.

Christmas and New Year in the Algarve

Spending Christmas and the New Year in the Algarve is a great idea, especially as it gets so cold in other parts of Europe at this festive time of year. You can hire an apartment that will accommodate two people in comfort or a villa large enough for a large party. With the whole family present you’re bound to have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

Although this may seem like a real departure from the norm, more and more people are choosing to spend Christmas and the New Year period away from home; some because they want to avoid the festive hullabaloo and others, just because they are looking for something that little bit unusual to do at Christmas time. The Algarve is the ideal Christmas holiday destination as it provides you with those alternative Christmas memories of sun, sea, sand, Sangria and Santa hats.

The Algarve won’t be short of parties over this festive season either; especially over the New Year. There’ll be live music concerts and firework displays to be seen stretching from Sagres through to Lagos and Portimao in the west, to Albufeira, Vilamoura and Vale do Lobo in the centre and on to Faro and Tavira in the east. The streets will be thronged with revellers too and resound to the beat of party music through until the early hours of next year.

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West Algarve – A great location for sun, sea, sand and surf

West Algarve is a great holiday destination for families, couples and groups of friends. With some of the Algarve's safest and most beautiful beaches, quaint towns and luxurious holiday villa accommodation, this is a great destination for your next holiday. But exactly where does Central Algarve finish and Western Algarve start?

The main road that connects the East, Central and West Algarve is the A22 and it is along here that holidaymakers will drive after leaving Faro airport. It is generally considered that on this road, exit 6, the junction for Portimao and the Monchique, marks the start of the Western Algarve.

If you are planning an Algarve holiday break, read on to find out about West Algarve's tgwns: Portimao, Monchique, Ferragudo, Alvor, Lagos and Sagres

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Portimao

Portimao is the largest town in the area and is fast becoming THE place to shop in western Algarve. There is a huge selection of fashion outlets and a wide range of shops, some of which will already be familiar to you, offering gifts, souvenirs, electrical goods and general household items. There are also plenty of traditional shops selling the leather goods, handbags and belts that Portugal and the Algarve are so famous for. There are retail parks and shopping malls aplenty and supermarkets galore. Car parking around the town is plentiful and, for the most part, free.

Unlike many other parts of the Algarve, Portimão’s architecture is quite modern, mostly dating mostly from the late 19^th to early 20^th centuries. High rise apartment blocks in ice cream colours can be seen punctuating the skyline, whilst the ground level accommodates cafés, restaurants and trendy bars. Parts of Portimao are about sun bathing and relaxing but most of it is about shopping, bars, pubs, clubs and restaurants. As commercial as all of that sounds, you can still get away from it all and find relative peace and quiet in Portimao. For example you can take romantic boat trips to the caves, go dolphin watching or take a trip up the Arade river to Silves. There are also several golf courses nearby and at Portimão municipal aerodrome near Alvor, the adventurous can experience a parachute jump.

Monchique

The small market town of Monchique forms part of the Serra de Monchique, a woodland mountain range between the Algarve and the area known as Alentejo. A visit to Monchique is a journey upward - its highest point, Foia is 902 metres above sea level. There are two essentials to take with you when travelling up and through the Monchique; these are a camera and a jacket. There’s some quite remarkable scenery en-route and some ancient buildings, so you’ll want to take lots of pictures, but it can get quite chilly up here so be sure to wrap up warm.

If you are driving through, best advice is to pull over, park up somewhere and walk. A walk through the steep cobbled streets is rewarded with some views of the hills that you won’t want to miss. Glimpsed from between the white painted houses with their carved stonework, coloured apertures and delightful chimney pots, the Monchique Mountains are romantic in the extreme and their memory instils within you, a strong desire to return.

Into the town centre and the cobbled street theme continues. Narrow roads criss-cross one another dotted with pretty little cafés and restaurants, many serving the local liquor “Medronho”. An acquired taste, Medronho is made from the fruits of “arbutus unedo” or the strawberry tree which grows abundantly in the surrounding hills. The central square of Monchique boasts an attractive paved area with benches, trees and a lovely water feature. Monchique is a very quiet and relaxed place, a place to slow down which is ideal for pottering around and appreciating the breathtaking views.

Ferragudo

It’s rare to come across the authentic Algarve amongst the well developed resorts of the west but Ferragudo is just that. Ferragudo is a town of cobbled streets and whitewashed houses clustered around a small church. Smaller than Portimao and much prettier, Ferragudo is widely tipped to become one of the Algarve’s new property and tourism hotspots. The centre of this beautiful village is called Praça Rainha Dona Leonor, it is a picturesque cobbled square lined with cafés and restaurants serving a wide range of foods from a simple cup of breakfast coffee to more substantial lunchtime or evening meals. The square is a popular place in which tourists and locals alike, congregate to chat over coffee and sit and watch the world go by. Restaurants situated on the quayside afford lovely views over the Arade River and serve up some delightful fish dishes. Some cook their food on barbecues, filling the air with the most mouth-watering aromas.

Ferragudo has carried with it, its fair share of history and this is proudly displayed by the ancient and well preserved buildings in the village. Take a look at the Castelo de São João de Arade. Originally a 15th century lookout tower, it was extended 200 years or so later as part of the fortifications aimed at protecting the river mouth. A couple of hundred years later, at the beginning of the 20th century, it was turned into a private dwelling by poet, Coelho Carvalho. It remains a private house to this day, looking out over the river and the village’s main resort area of Praia Grande. Protected by a sea wall, this is a great spot for water sports, such as windsurfing. In the evening, the marina at Ferragudo makes for a wonderfully relaxing place to while away a few hours as you sample the catch of the day in one of the harbourside’s renowned fish restaurants.

Alvor

The site of a traditional Moorish village that was levelled by the earthquake of 1755, Alvor has become the ideal tourist resort and a great place to take a family holiday. There are still the reminders of its ancient historical and romantic past but today Alvor embraces tourism. It offers everything that you’ll need for a relaxing family holiday. The area has undergone a steady transformation since tourism first started here back in the sixties but they have shied away from erecting the multi-storey holiday apartments so popular in other parts of Europe. Here, as with most of the Algarve, they have concentrated on low rise development so as not to spoil the landscape. They have also retained the charm of the old town with its narrow cobbled streets leading down to the harbour and the river estuary.

The riverfront in Alvor has been given a facelift recently and is now fully paved and lined with palm trees and several beach bars, all of which have plenty of outside seating, perfect for those long summer days and balmy evenings. It has to be one of Alvor’s most idyllic settings, as you sit and watch the fishing boats come and go. As with Ferragudo, there is a collection of restaurants at the waterfront, tempting you with the aroma of freshly barbecued fish. The Praia de Alvor, the main beach in the village, is a lovely long dune backed, sandy beach, the eastern end of which features some large rock formations. Here you can shelter from the sun if you wish as you lay on the beach, enjoying the warm breeze. The really nice thing about the beaches at Alvor is that even at the height of the season, there is plenty of room for you to lie down, relax and enjoy it and the restaurants and snack bars close at hand, mean you don’t have to wander too far for a bite to eat.

Lagos

The town of Lagos in Portugal’s Algarve has something for everyone. Its appeal spans generations as does its history. Its roots can be traced back as far as 2000 years BC and there are many examples throughout the town, of architectures from these bygone eras. A popular trading post throughout the centuries, it has been fought over and visited many times in the past and has the landmarks to prove it. The Phoenicians and Carthaginians, the Moors and the Romans, they’ve all been here and left their calling cards. Lagos is full of history and today it is a vibrant town with lots going on. In the middle of town, at Praça de Gil Eanes, there are evening entertainments that are put on throughout the year; you’ll often see live bands or soloists on the guitar or violin, there may be a fair with a medieval theme going on and if Portugal are playing football, or there is a major football league competition on, the cafés will have big screens up in the square so everyone can enjoy the match.

Leading off the main square are several streets housing restaurants to suit all tastes. These streets are criss-crossed with many smaller ones so it can be quite confusing to the newcomer but, since it’s not a big place, it doesn’t take long to get to know your way around. If you do get lost and happen to ask for directions, you will probably be guided via a number of modern landmark roundabouts in the town. One features a ship and another, a large black ball. Still another unusual landmark and a well used signpost in the town, is a roundabout featuring 7 large Perspex chairs. This installation is lit up at night time making for a popular tourist holiday snapshot.

Lots of bars in the town stay open until the early hours especially in the summer when the town is a buzz with people of all ages. Whilst out and about, you should take a walk along Discovery Avenue which runs along the water front. This will take you to the modern Lagos Marina, an award winning 450 berth boat park with a variety of shops, bars and restaurants to enjoy, all with a great view of the boats. Just over the marina bridge is the harbouring point for the local fishing boats where you’ll find a number of fishermen and fishermen’s wives, selling some of their catch. The more enterprising among them even having set up their own small fish restaurants.

Sagres

The best surfing in the Algarve is to be found here at Sagres. During the summer months surfers from all over Europe flock here to ride the waves whilst soaking up the sun. It’s not just surfers that come here though and not just in the summer months either, Sagres attracts visitors all year round. The land here is breathtakingly dramatic, stark in places yes, but that doesn’t take away from the romance of the place. The main square in Sagres, Praça da República, is very pretty with lovely views, surpassed only by the views from the cliffs that tower above it.

Sagres is the perfect activity holiday destination. It’s the kind of place that appeals to your sporting side, not necessarily to play golf, you can do that at Parque de Floresta, a short drive from here, but to go walking, cycling, diving and surfing. Sagres offers a different side to the Algarve, its edgy, barren and hard but very cool. The local restaurants are renowned for the quality, variety and freshness of their fish and much of what appears on your plate, will have been line caught by a man perched precariously on a ledge in the rock face 2-300 hundred yards away from your table! Fish doesn’t get much fresher than that.

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