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Algarve
The splendid south of Portugal
300 days of sunshine a year and many beaches to enjoy them
From the Spain border to Sagres you can enjoy the watersports, deep-sea fishing, horse riding and even sky-diving. Culture vultures will find Roman ruins near Faro, and historic Moorish castles and buildings along the lenght of the coast, plus countless beautiful churches. The most spectacular scenery is in the far west at Cabo de São Vicente, the most south-westerly tip of mainland Europe, with the best views at sunset from the top of the cliffs, 246ft above the foaming sea.
Beach lovers are totally spoilt with the wide expanses of golden sand in the east, several of which are on islands, particularly the beaches between Tavira and Faro, which are accessible by ferry. The beaches around Albufeira and Lagos are also excellent, but the further west you go, the quieter and more refined and secluded it becomes. The west is also perfect for surfing, especially around Luz and Sagres.
Food lovers will find some exquisite little restaurants all along the coast, with fish and seafood the main speciality. However, the largest towns are best avoided if you want a true Portuguese, as opposed to tourist, experience. The locals consider the villages of Santa Luzia and Pedras d'el Rei, near Tavira to be the best place for seafood.
For those seeking some night life, the main towns have plenty, from the party scene of Albufeira, which can get a bit wild, to the more refined but still fun Faro - university town with a lively local population. Vilamoura has a fantastic marina area lined with bars, restaurants and a few clubs where there's action every night until late. However, the area remains friendly, non-threatening and enjoyable, ideal for those who want to relax and watch others having fun. Finally, Vilamoura's Casino has almost nightly dinner-cabaret shows.
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