The Algarve, Portugal’s southernmost region, is well-known for its multitude of fine beaches and pleasant climate. For sun worshippers seeking the ease of all inclusive holidays, it’s an obvious choice. But the region also has many other charms — making it a visit a must for travelers exploring Portugal.

This guide to the Algarve should help you make the most of a trip to this stunning area.

Fresh food

The Algarve has an abundance of fine restaurants serving international cuisine (including several Michelin starred establishments.) There are also many opportunities to enjoy simple, local fare during your visit. The beauty of the cuisine is in the quality of its ingredients and the uncomplicated way in which they are served.

An abundance of fresh produce is grown in the region (including olives, oranges, berries and almonds) along with the fruits of the sea (freshly caught tuna, mackerel, squid and octopus being widely available.) A typical traditional meal might consist of nothing more complicated than a freshly caught fish, grilled and drizzled with olive oil and served with bread just out of the oven.

The natural choice
Alongside its golden sands, the Algarve boasts natural landscapes that allow visitors to immerse themselves in unspoilt beauty. A visit to the Ria Formosa Natural Park, recently chosen as one of the seven natural wonders of Portugal, is not to be missed. This coastal lagoon, spanning an impressive 18,000 hectares, is made up of many different habitats including islands, marshes, dunes, saltpans and woodlands. Alongside an amazing diversity of flora and fauna, you can also get up-close and personal with a host of aquatic birds and wildlife, including chameleons (an endangered species) and the largest concentration of seahorses in the world.

Be a sport

For fans of action and adventure, the Algarve is the ideal holiday destination. The region boasts a collection of world-class golf courses which attract over 100,000 visitors each year — a typical example being Balaia Village, an upscale golf resort with a traditional Portuguese feel that’s sandwiched between two Blue-Flag beaches close to the major city of Albufeira. If golf isn’t your bag, the region also plays host to countless other outdoor activities; from tennis to horse-riding, hiking to quad biking. Western Algarve is a real surfer’s paradise. As well as catch a wave or two, you can enjoy every water sport under the sun.

Venture inland
Away from the Algarve’s vibrant coastline, travelers can discover quiet villages where whitewashed houses nestle amid winding cobbled streets. Traditional culture is still very much in evidence, with many local people reliant on the land for their livelihoods. Inland areas are largely unspoiled and peaceful but certainly not lacking in character. Most towns and villages hold their own daily local markets for fresh produce, along with monthly gypsy flea markets where unusual treasures can be found at bargain prices.

The Algarve is the quintessential vacation destination. Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie, eco tourist, foodie or follow some other passion, this is the sunshine break for you.

Post provided to Jen is on a Journey. Images by Gustty used under Creative Commons license