The Algarve – Playground of Portugal
by: Felicity Walker

The Algarve area of Portugal, which covers the southern-most part of the country, is an incredibly diverse region. Any holidaymaker can find an enjoyable way of filling their holiday hours. Add in a warm, sunny climate almost year round, and it’s hardly surprising that the Algarve region is the major tourist area in Portugal.

With all that sunshine, naturally many holidaymakers come in search of beaches, and they’re not disappointed. With around 270km of coastline, including everything from wide sandy beaches to secluded inlets, there’s something for everyone. Add to that a wide variety of accommodation with luxury resorts near bustling towns to quiet villages, and there’s no doubt everyone is catered for.

The easiest way to travel to the Algarve from overseas is via airplane to Faro. This is the region’s main town and commercial hub, but is still a pleasant place to visit. Most of the town was destroyed in the 1755 earthquake, but even so, there are interesting buildings dotted around the town that are worth visiting. There is also a small remnant of the old town, Cidade Velha, and a walking tour through this area is fascinating.

The towns of Tavira and Silves are also highlights of the Algarve region for those with an historic interest. Tavira encompasses everything from castle ruins, churches from a range of architectural periods and elegant houses from various centuries. Silves was once the Mooorish capital of the Algarve, and its main claim to fame is the magnificent red stone castle which overlooks the town today.

For those who like more modern entertainment and a slightly faster pace, there is plenty of nightlife to be found in either Lagos or Albuferira. Even better, there are plenty of sandy beaches where you can lie back and recover! Lagos also suffered terribly in the 1755 earthquake, with very little surviving apart from the old town wall.

If you’d rather spend your time being entertained by mother nature, then the Algarve can deliver. Close to Faro is the Parque Natural da Ria Formosa. This is basically an extensive lagoon system which is home to an enormous number of wetland birds, as well as forming a vital link in the migration chain. The park’s visitor centre is excellent.

You can also head further west, and watch the coastline become more rugged. Cabo de São Vicente (Cape St Vincent) is Europe’s most southwesterly point. Barren and majestic, it’s certainly an awe inspiring place to visit – but be prepared to face the strong winds that often batter the Cape.

The western coast of the Algarve is home to the Parque Natural do Sudoeste Alentejano e Costa Vicentina. This narrow strip of park was created in 1995 to amalgamate a number of smaller parks, in the hope of protecting the ecosystem from rampant development. The area is also home to many birds.

There are plenty of places to stay along the west coast of the Algarve, as well as beaches, however the Atlantic is a little rougher on this side and in places can be quite dangerous. Keen surfers are often to be found in this region.

It’s worth visiting the inland part of the Algarve as well. There are a number of mountain ranges, with the Serra de Monchique being the most popular.

And if all else fails – the Algarve is home to a large number of golf courses, including 7 of Europe’s top 100 courses.

The Algarve is an incredibly diverse region, it’s hard to imagine that anyone could possibly visit without finding something of interest to see or do. So make sure you schedule a visit there soon.

About The Author
Felicity Walker

Travelling is a much loved past time for the author. To find out more, check out www.travelportugalinfozone.com or www.travelportugalinfozone.com/algarve-portugal/ for more information.

Buying Property in Portugal - Any Drawbacks?

Property prices in Portugal typically are higher that their equivalent counterparts in Spain and some parts of the Algarve are considered overdeveloped. Portuguese is not the easiest language to learn to a competent level and the standard if driving is considered by many as leaving a lot to be desired.

The Beaches of Portugal
by: Diane McCalley

I admit it – I’m a beach freak. I love traveling to beaches all over the world because, to me, every beach has its own personality, yet, all have that same quality I love – the ability to instill instant calm. That’s right, even those rocky, craggy beaches with the hard waves crashing on the rocks can instill instant calm.

Someone asked me the other day if I had to choose just one beach to visit, which one would it be? The Algarve in Portugal popped into my head. Okay, it’s not one beach, it’s an area (the southern most part of Portugal to be exact), but The Algarve is so diverse, it truly offers whatever beach is going to fit my mood.

First, a little geography. Heading west, the western tip of The Algarve is the end of continental Europe. In fact, in ancient times the area was felt to be the edge of the world. So, when you’re soaking up the sun on the beaches of The Algarve, it’s fun to just imagine yourself at the edge of the world.

There are over 100 miles of beaches in the Algarve! So, whatever type of beach-going experience you desire is sure to be found. Starting on the west coast there are the windward beaches with large dunes. That translates to some incredible surfing. If you desire cove-type beaches which are more secluded, try the southern coast.

One of my favorite beaches in The Algarve lies south of Lagos on the western coast - Dona Ana, which is a cluster of coves. Dona Ana is just the perfect place to get lost in the beauty of The Algarve. I can just sit and think for hours. And, when I’m through sitting, it’s fun to explore the many caves and grottos which grace the area.

If you’re contemplating a trip to unwind, I definitely recommend The Algarve, Portugal. Your soul will be glad you made the trip.

About The Author
Diane McCalley is a bookkeeper, avid traveler and owner of http://www.thetravelerscompanion.com, a site for people who love to travel and travel well.

Buying Property in Portugal