Portugal has long been a favorite destination of sun-seeking holidaymakers, and it’s not hard to see why. With a temperate climate that promises scorching summers and mild winters, with a stunning capital city, large sprawling vineyards and beautiful rolling landscapes, it’s easy to fall in love with Portugal.
The beach view in Algarve ( credit: Ana Silvia O'Reilly)
For many sun-seekers, holidays to Portugal mean heading south, to the effervescent region of the Algarve. Here, there are an abundance of well-equipped beach resorts that tick all the right boxes for families, couples, adventurers, watersports enthusiasts, and everyone in-between.
High on the list of Algarve favourites is Albufeira, a lively town and the biggest holiday hotspot in the region. It boasts a smart seafront and glorious Blue Flag beaches, along with a traditional old town that’s home to plenty of shops, bars, cafes and restaurants. By day, soak up the sun on golden sands or try your hand at watersports, and once the sun has gone down you can party the night away in Albufeira’s many pubs and clubs.
Quinta de Lagp Bridge to the Beach (Credit: Ana Silvia O'Reilly)
If you’re not quite ready for the buzz and bustle of Albufeira, try Alvor on for size. Based further west along the Algarve coast, this attractive resort has plenty of golden sand on offer with a laid-back beach vibe, perfect for snoozing the days away under cloudless blue skies. It’s also home to a cluster of fantastic restaurants and live music bars, the perfect way to round off the day.
Olhos d’Agua is another Algarve classic. It’s a pretty sleepy spot with lovely hilly landscapes and an attractive beachfront, but as the sun goes down things heat up a little. It’s not a party-mad place by any stretch of the imagination but you’ll find a selection of cheerful venues and wonderful restaurants that provide just the right mix of entertainment.
So, which corner of Portugal makes your holiday hotlist?
Also, a special thanks to Ana Silvia O’Reilly of Mrs O Around the World for the images from Algarve, Portugal.
