Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
The Algarve
Why Go?
The Algarve is alluring. Coastal Algarve receives much exposure for its breathtaking cliffs,
golden beaches, scalloped bays and sandy islands. But the letter 'S' (for sun, surf and sand)
is only one letter in the Algarvian alphabet: activities, beach bars (and discos), castles (both
sandy and real), diving, entertainment, fun...
Let's be frank: Portugal's premier holiday destination sold its soul to tourism in the '60s
and never really looked back. Behind sections of the south coast's beachscape loom
massive conglomerations of bland holiday villas and brash resorts. However the west coast
is another story - it's more about nature and less about development.
And yet coastal Algarve is a 'drop in the ocean' for any visitor. The enchanting inner Al-
garve boasts pretty castle towns and historic villages, cork tree- and flower-covered hill-
sides, and birdlife. And the wonderful Via Algarviana walking track crosses its breadth.
When to Go
Anytime
It's blessed with good weather; a mild winter and sun almost year-round.
Feb & Mar
See and smell the abundance of almond and orange blossoms.
