The Algarve is the southernmost region of Portugal. The inland part is rural and unhurried. In villages of cobbled streets, you’ll find white houses, cafes with old men having their strong black coffee (bica) surrounded by fields of Olive, Orange and Carob (a pod similar to Chocolate)
The coast is a long stretch of coves and cliffs with busy resorts at the Eastern end near Faro and quieter resorts in the west.
The resort of Alvor is a small fishing village in the southern coast of The Algarve, which is the perfect destination for families and couples of all ages. Don’t let the quiet beauty fool you – there is still plenty to do other than lounge on the sand and take in the jagged coves and blue skies, if you fancy more lively activities - there is an aqua park nearby, a local golf course and easy access to the nearby tourist centre of Praia da Rocha and the city of Portico.
Albufeira in the Algarve is a fabulous holiday destination, from fantastic Blue Flag beaches, a huge array of restaurants, clubs and bars to a golfer's paradise with no fewer than 12 courses available within easy reach from the resort's centre. Albufeira is perfect for families, couples and singles, through the day pick which beach you want to soak up the sun and by night head to the 'Strip' for the bars and clubs and join the party. There's much more on offer too from Quad bike tracks, water parks and watersports schools to gymnastics training and wreck diving. No matter what the fun never stops in Albufeira.
A mile long promenade lined with restaurants, bars and shops and an excellent sandy beach make Praia da Rocha in the Algarve an ideal resort for holidaymakers of all ages. Along with this there are also the fantastic summer’s temperatures with highs of 30C cooled by a gentle Mediterranean breeze and the new marina giving it a highly cosmopolitan feel. This diverse resort is ideal for couple’s young or old, and fun-packed family holidays to the Algarve.
Praia da Luz is a modern resort and is great for water-sports enthusiasts as well as having ample bars and restaurants to relax in; it's perfect for all age groups and families alike.
Insider tip
Our favourite Albufeira restaurants.... O farnel is not well known but always recommended by frequent visitors, it looks tiny and not very appealing but it’s a beautiful steak house with friendly efficient service. Located just off the strip ( Rua Almeida Garrett) nr Hotel Aldeia.
Also Rossio fish restaurant in a lovely area of the old town (Rua Dr. Santos Silva, 58) and Cabana Fresca overlooking Fisherman’s Beach (Travessa Cais Herculano 9)
Events and festivals
The Jazz Festival in Loule in July is a major event attracting artists from all over the world. They perform at the Cerca do Convento, and styles include free-jazz, blues, classic jazz and funk. Jamie Cullum eat your heart out
Popular things to do and see and unmissable experiences
We recently held our Conference in Olhao so ask your Agent for personal tips. The boat tours of the natural lagoon are a must. We loved the 7 Imeio Wine bar and Tapas Restaurant.
If you are in Vilamoura then our Restaurant recommendation is right on the Marina at the far end. Restaurant Akvavit. Actually a Scandinavian style restaurant - but great local Portuguese food too and fab service.. Also it's a more casual cafe/bar during the day with decking overlooking the Marina.
The resorts are also popular with Bird Watchers and Golfers in the Winter
Climate
Cooling breezes from the Atlantic keep the Summer heat at bay
Other information
- Best time of year to travel: Mild winters and cheap hotel rates attract longstay visitors while Summer is the busiest time with almost guaranteed sun.
- Currency: Euro
- Flight time from UK: 2-3 Hours
- Visa and passport information: N/A
Getting out and about

Lisbon City Tour from £42 per person
The best view of Lisbon is from the ‘25th April’ bridge, suspended over the river Tejo, so you’ll begin your tour of the city from here. There will be plenty of free time for shopping and a leisurely lunch (not included) before you return to the Algarve in the afternoon.

Zoomarine Park from £22 per person
Bring your family and enjoy a wonderful day watching dolphins, seals, sharks, turtles, exotic birds, seabirds, alligators and tropical fish. Zoo marine is characterized by exhibitions and shows of an exceptionally high standard making it unique in Portugal.