The Algarve

If your looking for a peaceful holiday sunbathing on the beach, long walks through idyllic nature reserves or a more energetic holiday on the golf course or in the surf the Algarve has all the ingredients for a perfect holiday.

The Algarve is the southernmost region of Portugal and the southwestern tip of Europe. With temperatures ranging from 30°C in summer to 15°C in winter the Algarve is a popular, year round tourist destination. From the the western Atlantic coast, the costa Vincentina, to the Spanish border in the east, along the Guardiana river, the Algarve is home to a multitude of beautiful beaches, nature reserves and traditional Portuguese cities, towns and villages.

Faro is the capital and administrative centre of the Algarve and has a large modern international airport (FAO) and picturesque natural lagoon, the Rio Formosa. Boats trips around the 170 square km's lagoon are very poplar with nature enthusiasts and bird watches.

Further west the touristic centre of the Algarve, Albufeira, the largest and most populated Algarvian city, has a more lively vibe with night clubs, bars, restaurants and busy summer beaches attracting a younger crowd. On the outskirts of Albufeira in Guia an impressive new shopping centre offers all the latest high street brands under one roof along with a large food hall, cinema and bowling facilities.

Further west again in Lagoa two popular days out for families are available at Slide and Splash water park or swimming with Dolphins at Zoo Marine. Inland the historic town of Silves offers a more traditional flavor of portugal and Monchique mountain, the highest point in the Algarve gives breath taking views all the way to the west coast.

As you head towards the west coast Alvor, Lagos and Sagres all have unique qualities including local delicacies museums coastal boat tours, local markets, surf camps and mountain bike safaris.