More than two million Visitors head for the Algarve every year.
Why do they come?
For most people the climate and the beaches are the main attractions. The Algarve basks in more than 3000 hours of sunshine per year; the winters are mind, the summers long and hot. Even in the coolest month’s temperature rarely fall below 15°, while in July and August 29° is the norm.
In the west Algarve lays a succession of bays, inlets and rocky coves, sheltered by dramatic sandstone cliffs, creating magical places to laze the day away. In the eastern Algarve, the long, unbroken expanses of golden sand are ideal for swimming and sunbathing.
Those looking for a more active holiday will appreciate the sporting facilities, including no fewer than 34 fist class golf courses, designed to show off the beauties of the countryside as well as test the skills of the players.
Besides golf, there are opportunities for deep-sea fishing, sailing, wind surfing, kite surfing, lawn bowling and tennis. And for walkers, there are plenty of dunes and cliffs paths that are perfect for a gentle ramble with outstanding views.
The Algarve offers just as much variety in its nightlife. You can dine out at a romantic cliff-top restaurant, on a terrace overlooking the beach on in a converted fisherman´s cottage, stop for a sundowner in a cocktail bar on the promenade, or enjoy a pint of beer in an English style pub. For a touch of local colour, sign up for a fado evening or village restaurant barbecue. Then dance the night away in a disco or nightclub, or, if you are feeling lucky have a flutter in one of the casinos.
Algarvians are a welcoming and hospitable people. Go along to a “baile”, a riotous village knees-up usually involving the entire community. The energetic dancing is accompanied by accordions, fiddles, triangles and side drums, sometimes even bagpipes. You will find the uninhibited Algarvian sense of fun and enjoyment infectious. Send time away from the beach resorts to savour the real flavor of Portugal.
