Algarve
In Algarve, the sun shines 300 days a year. It bathes the fine sandy beaches in a golden light and glistens on the warm waters of the Atlantic Ocean. The sun shines over the lush mountain landscapes, the villages with Arabic architecture, the cosmopolitan cities and the fishing villages with their rich historical and cultural heritage.
Find inspiration for your vacation in the Algarve in our travel guide!
Attractions in Algarve
Highlights
The Ecovia do Litoral is Algarve from one end to the other. From Cabo de São Vicente to Vila Real de Santo António.
The "Path of the Seven Hanging Valleys" (Percurso dos Sete Vales Suspensos) is one of the best-known and most beautiful coastal hiking paths in ...
Cycle along the mystical and breathtaking Moorish Corridor Route and discover more about the biodiversity of the extraordinary Serra da Estrela ...
Percurso PRETO (Homologação Cyclin'Portugal, UVP(FPC) Não Sinalizado
ROTA DA BARRAGEM DA BRAVURA Percurso PRETO (Homologação Cyclin'Portugal, UVP/FPC) Totalmente Sinalizados
The Grande Rota do Guadiana (GR15) is about 65 km long and covers the territory of the Lower Guadiana Algarve. It crosses three municipalities, ...
The Grande Rota do Guadiana (GR15) is about 65 km long and covers the territory of the Lower Guadiana Algarve. It crosses three municipalities, ...
One of the best ways to explore the quiet roads, villages, nature and heritage of Portugal Wildscapes is by taking one of our recommended routes.
Aberto todos os dias 300km de trilhos sinalizados 9 Percursos 4 Níveis de dificuldade ...
Hello, holidays! Hello, beaches! Hello Algarve!
For many Portuguese - and more and more international tourists - a trip to the Algarve means pure summer vacation. The far south of Portugal is a dream destination for relaxing days in the sun, long dives at the beach or in the pool, walks along the secluded cliff-lined bays, varied sports activities, and excellent food.
In summer, the beaches fill up with vacationers and there is a bustle of activity. It is no coincidence that Algarve has been named "Best Beach Destination in the World" three times in a row (2020, 2021 and 2022) at the World Travel Awards, the Oscars of tourism.
But a vacation in Algarve is not only worthwhile in high summer! Located at the southwestern tip of the European continent - be sure to visit Sagres, the westernmost point of Europe - the region offers a sunny and dry climate almost all year round and warm water all the time, thanks to the influence of the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea. Algarve is a true year-round destination and an ideal vacation spot for family and friends.
Algarve: lots to see, lots to do, lots to experience
But the Algarve is not just about the beach. Sports are also a major focus. For example, Algarve is a sought-after destination among golfers. Whether professional or amateur, there are many good reasons to visit the golf courses in Algarve - the internationally awarded courses are one of them. Combine the golf trip with a stay at a 5-star resort, where the numerous comforts guarantee enjoyment.
If you like the urban and lively atmosphere of the cities, you should visit Lagos, Portimão, Albufeira, Quarteira, Faro and the fashionable Vilamoura to play golf or take a quiet walk along the marina. In the evening you will find a lively nightlife with bars, discos and casinos.
Of course, a good lunch or dinner on a terrace, in the company of family and friends, is also part of the experience. And the culinary is also one of the main attractions of Algarve known for its fresh seafood and fish. Wonderful regional dishes such as clams, shrimp, cataplanas or, if you prefer, a traditional chicken with Piri Piri. Desserts with almonds and figs are also a treat not to be missed.
If you prefer less crowded areas and want to escape the crowds, especially in summer, you don't have to travel far. Head inland and discover the quieter side of Algarve. Discover the picturesque villages, for example the characteristic Querença. Discover the hiking trails in Monchique and Silves. Feel the breeze on a boat trip through the Ria Formosa Nature Park and visit Tavira and Olhão - take advantage of the boats that connect the towns to the surrounding islands.
Discover the best that life (and Algarve!) has to offer in southern Portugal.
Hiking the paths of Algarve
Fancy an outdoor adventure? In Algarve, there are many charming hiking trails with views of the sea, the land or the mountains to discover in the characteristic landscapes of Algarve. Pack comfortable clothes and shoes and discover the magnificent hiking trails of Algarve, from the beaches on the cliffs to the mountains inland. Enjoy the varied trails alone or with family and friends, passing by beaches, dunes, cliffs, forests, rivers and historically significant Algarve villages and towns.
From trail to trail, explore the Algarve's most distinctive landmarks. The Rota Vicentina, for example, is a network of trails that follows the sea and the countryside at a walking pace. Between the Fishermen's Path (Trilho dos Pescadores) - for us one of the best coastal hiking trails in the world -, the Caminho Histórico and the various circular trails that are part of the Rota Vicentina, there is lots to hike and discover. Likewise, the Grande Rota do Guadiana offers the possibility of combining sporting activity with the observation of fauna and flora between the coast and the mountainous interior, always in close contact with the Guadiana River.
Prefer to explore the green hills of Algarve? Then walk one of the most famous hiking trails of Algarve, from Caldas de Monchique to Picota. On one of the most visited caves of Algarve, the Algar de Benagil, you can visit the path of the seven hanging valleys. Do you have the energy for a more challenging hike? Try the Via Algarviana. It's a great hiking route that connects Alcoutim with Cape St. Vincent in Sagres and follows paths in the Algarve hills.
Theme trails in Algarve
Every path here tells a story. With photos and a smile, you'll capture it and remember the beautiful moments you experienced while hiking. For those who love hiking, there are exciting themed trails to discover in Algarve.
In Alcoutim, the Smugglers' Route takes you along paths that smugglers once used for the illegal traffic of goods with neighboring Spain. In the municipality of Loulé, you'll walk the Water Route, which showcases the Algarve's rich hydraulic heritage, from wells to dams and levadas that enabled the storage and distribution of water.
On the Rota das Árvores Monumentais do Algarve (Monumental Tree Route) in Monchique, you'll encounter a hike full of botanical highlights, and as the route's name suggests, trees that reach for the sky. On the Geology Route, you'll walk along paths through the rock formations of the Serra de Monchique and climb to the highest point of Algarve in Fóia, 902 meters above sea level.
Discover Algarve by bike
Cycling in Algarve? There is no shortage of trails and routes. The region offers excellent conditions for all types of cycling trips on any terrain. From a short excursion by bike to a challenging multi-day cycling trip, where you will cover kilometers of roads and trails to get to know the region and its most hidden places in detail.
Cyclists (almost inevitably) opt for the EuroVelo 1 - Atlantic Coast Route, which also runs through Algarve. It connects Algarve from east to west, from Vila Real de Santo António to Cabo de São Vicente and further to Aljezur. A ride with various towns, villages, beaches and small bays to discover along the Algarve coast.
For MTB fans there are versatile off-road tracks and trails. Discover the trails of unknown parts of Algarve by mountain bike. Try to ride the Via Algarviana between Cabo de São Vicente and Alcoutim by mountain bike. For these and other bike trips, the Cyclin'Portugal Centers are also a good place to get tips for your trip.
Road cycling is one of the most visible sports in Algarve, especially thanks to the Volta ao Algarve cycling race. If you are a fan of cycling on asphalt, why not start your own Volta ao Algarve? Tailored to your taste. For tips on how to explore the western, central and eastern zones of Algarve at your own pace, check out our guide to road cycling in Algarve.
Discover Algarve on the Via Algarviana, on foot or by bike. An Algarve without crowds. With its own rhythm, tranquility, identity, rural landscape, hills, valleys and streams.
Photo: Jules Verne Times Two, CC BY-SA, Wikimedia Commons
Algarve from east to west: the Via Algarviana
The Via Algarviana is the perfect contrast to the crowds of the high season and the crowded beaches. The Grande Rota (GR13) - Via Algarviana invites you to discover the interior of Algarve. Whether alone or with friends, it is an unforgettable trip with beautiful memories that you will remember for a long time.
From Alcoutim, in the far east of the Algarve, to Cape Saint Vincent, in the far west, there are 300 kilometers of trails divided into 14 stages. On foot, by bike or mountain bike, you will explore Algarve from one side to the other. Whatever activity you choose, you will get to know and appreciate Algarve from a different side. You will pass valleys and mountains, cross rivers and streams, visit rural villages, talk to the locals and have the opportunity to enjoy the local cuisine.
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