Holidays to the Algarve

The outdoors takes centre stage in the Algarve. First developed in the 1960s, golfing has become an immensely popular pastime with over 30 championship golf courses in the region and the long distance footpaths, Rota Vicentina and Via Algarviana offer excellent walking and hiking opportunities, while the Ecovia cycle route takes you through rolling hills and rural roads. Out west hit the waves with the Algarve’s best surf.

Seafood, cooked simply yet packed with flavour, is the staple throughout the Algarve. Morning fish markets and restaurant menus offer octopus, clams and countless varieties of fish – the popular dried salt cod dish is said to be served 365 different ways. Meat-based local dishes include wild pork and piri-piri chicken. Meals are accompanied by cerveja (beer), house wines or the fiery local spirits of Aguardente and Medronho.

The star attraction of the Algarve is its many beaches from golden sands to limestone and granite coves. The Reserva Natural da Ria Formosa near Faro is a conservation area with sandy barrier islands only accessible by boat with flamingos and dolphins. Natural wonders aside, visits to the hillside towns of Silves, with its imposing castle, and Loule where ruins of a Moorish public bath house have been uncovered, are well worth your while.