You’re on holiday in Portugal and wondering why you should go to the Algarve?
Located in the south of Portugal, the Algarve is a region with many attractions that won us over! Renowned for its beaches, it also offers other treasures: breathtaking landscapes , amazing natural spaces, charming towns, beautiful monuments, sensational outdoor activities and a unique culture.
In this article, we give you 10 good reasons to visit the Algarve and have a wonderful stay!
This guide is completely independent, based on our experiences. We visited the region anonymously, making our own choices and paying our bills in full.
Is the Algarve worth a visit?
Absolutely! We fell under the spell of this region. Lovers of nature and outdoor activities will be delighted. Popular wild beaches, exceptional natural sites, typical towns, seaside forts and artisan and gastronomic specialties. All the ingredients for a wonderful vacation in the sun!
Reason 1 – Its imposing landscapes and viewpoints
We were fascinated by the landscapes of the Algarve. Like us, you’ll be able to contemplate high cliffs and enjoy breathtaking panoramas of blue ocean and ochre seashore. Nature lovers and photographers will also appreciate the many sea-sculpted coves, white sandy beaches and dark green inland areas!
Reason 2 – Its magnificent beaches
The Algarve region surprised us with the variety and beauty of its beaches. Don’t miss the most famous ones, like Praia Da Falesia, Praia Dos Tres Iramaos and Praia Da Marinha! They’ll impress you with their expanse of golden sand and unique rock formations. Other, wilder beaches also charmed us. The astonishing Praia Do Camilo or Praia De Odeceixe and its inland lagoon will leave you breathless! Read our article on the Algarve’s most beautiful beaches to find out more.
Reason 3 – Its mysterious caves
The coasts of the Algarve hide mysterious caves. We were amazed by the famous Grotte de Benagil, accessible by boat and opening onto the sky! You can also discover the Grotte du Phare d’Alfanzina, hidden caves near Praia Da Marinha and the small Grotte Do Xorino. We tried it out by boat! Do the same and book this thrilling excursion now.
Reason 4 – Its natural parks
The Algarve’s flora and fauna, as well as its natural spaces, are exceptional. We visited several parks and nature reserves during our stay. We recommend the Ria Formosa Natural Park near Lagos, as well as the Ria de Alvor Reserve. If, like us, you’re passing through Praia De Odeceixe, stop off at the Alentejo Natural Park! Other reserves in the region include Costa Vicentina, Sapal de Castro Marim and Vila Real de Santo Antônio. Something for nature lovers!
Reason 5 – Caps and tips
Shaped by the waves, the Algarve is a land of peaks and capes! We loved visiting them. Ponta da Piedade particularly impressed us. It’s a magnificent, windswept rocky outcrop. Sumptuous hikes take you to the base of the cliffs and make you feel so small! You can also visit Cape Saint-Vincent or Cabo De Vicente. Close to Sagres, it is, in our opinion, representative of the seaside sculpted by the ocean that gives southern Portugal its charm.
Reason 6 – Its towns and villages of character
In the midst of these superb landscapes, you’ll find charming towns and picturesque villages. We enjoyed strolling through the pretty town centers steeped in Algarve history. Moorish-influenced architecture colors the towns with white and the facades with typical colorful motifs. Lagos, Faros, Tavira and the small village of Ferrugao are all well worth a visit!
Reason 7 – Outdoor activities
There’s no shortage of outdoor activities in the Algarve! In fact, we made the most of it. Cruises, boat trips, kayaking or snorkeling will brighten up your seaside escapades. For those who prefer a more thrilling experience, head inland on a 4WD or quad bike! Here are a few ideas for activities:
- Take a boat trip to discover caves like Benagil!
- For sports enthusiasts, this guided outing in a kayak (if the sea is calm) will be rich in sensations and discoveries!
- Try to see dolphins on this tour.
- Enjoy a sunset over the countryside after a day of 4WD!
- More ideas here.
Reason 8 – Lighthouses and seaside forts
Punctuating the coast with their imposing or long silhouettes, the lighthouses and forts of the Algarve are well worth a visit! We were dazzled by Fortaleza De Sagres, a massive fortress symbolizing Portuguese exploration in the 15th century. Castro Marim Fortress and Farol D’Alfanzina are also worth a visit! They really add to the local color.
Reason 9 – Its typical culture
We enjoyed immersing ourselves in the culture of southern Portugal. You’ll be amazed at the culinary delights of peaches and fruit! The wine is also one of the region’s specialties, distinguished by its strength. We were also enchanted by the Algarve’s handicrafts, ceramics, objets d’art and textiles. Finally, the region is alive with local festivities, which in high season are very attractive. The town of Loulé, for example, hosts a carnival, religious processions and festivals!
Reason 10 – Its mild climate
Let’s face it, the Algarve is also a destination of choice thanks to its mild climate! The sun shines all year round. While autumn often turns into Indian summer, winter is also sunny, with temperatures averaging around 13° Celsius. In fine weather, it’s obviously warmer, around 30° during the day and 20° at night. Beaches and lounging are ideal activities!
Some disadvantages of a trip to the Algarve
Busy tourist season
With its exceptional beaches and sites, the Algarve is a popular summer destination, especially in July and August. You can therefore choose to come outside the high season. Prices are more affordable and there are some interesting last-minute offers. The Algarve enjoys an ideal year-round climate. Take advantage of this opportunity to avoid the crowds and even enjoy the sun in winter!
The prices
Travelling to Portugal has a certain cost, even if it is an inexpensive destination overall. Prices in the Algarve rise in summer. We advise you to book your accommodation in advance to benefit from advantageous rates and more choice! Here are the best-rated hotels in the region. You can also check out our article on where to sleep in the region (coming soon) for more ideas here!
Where to go in the Algarve?
The central Algarve coastline, from Sagres to Tavira, is well worth a visit for its extraordinary beaches, cliffs and capes. In our opinion, the interior is wilder. A few villages and pretty lakes are well worth a visit. The west coast, washed by the Atlantic, is also worth discovering. We loved Praia De Odeceixe, its river lagoon and the surrounding area. At the other end of the region, the east and the border with Spain are finally worth seeing. We enjoyed Praia Da Manta Rota and Castro Marim.
