Nestled at the southern end of Portugal, the Algarve is a beach lover’s paradise. Surfers, sunbathers, hikers, swimmers and those simply seeking the laidback coastal vibes flock here every summer.
The Algarve has its share of popular hangouts, such as Faro and Lagos. However, if you want to discover its more hidden attractions, you’ll need to venture out of the towns. Here’s our guide to experiencing the Algarve off the beaten path.
Day 1: The magical Benagil Cave
The best place to be for accessing Benagil Cave is Carvoeiro, a picturesque coastal town. The cave can only be accessed via swimming or boat, with many travellers choosing to kayak. This lets you explore the coastline at your leisure before cruising into the dramatic sea cave.
And believe us, this is quite the sight. The unique limestone rock formation rises up from the sand, creating an almost flawless canopy. But its flaw, the hole in the top, is also part of its beauty. Sunlight filters down to the golden sand and azure water, creating a dreamlike setting that you’ll want to relish.
Day 2: Day trip to Silves
It seems crazy to say, but actually leaving the beaches can reveal some of the most incredible places in the Algarve. Silves, a former Moorish defensive stronghold, is one such place. Today it’s a peaceful town with traditional Portuguese restaurants and alfresco cafes. You can still see remnants of its medieval past, such as its red-brick castle and Gothic cathedral.
If you’ve got time to spare in Silves, visit the Mercado Municipal to browse the produce and handicraft stalls. The Old Town is also perfect for finding cafes and boutiques. In August, Silves also hosts a medieval fair complete with snake charmers, jugglers, jousting and theatre.
Day 3: The Venice of the Algarve
Known as the ‘Venice of the Algarve’, the city of Tavira is intersected by a beautiful river. Get your history and culture fix at the 11th-century Castelo de Tavira. You can also stroll along the riverfront to find traditional restaurants, with seafood, fresh fish and other typical Algarve cuisine.
Day 4: Enriching tourist activities
The Algarve is home to an array of unforgettable activities ideal for tourists seeking culture, nature and adventure. From horse riding in Loulé and walking in Vicentina Route, to bicycle outings and water spots, there are countless ways to make your holiday a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Foodies absolutely must try the Algarve Cataplana, where delicious seafood is steamed in an airtight cataplana for a delicious and unique flavour. Those seeking nature can enjoy birdwatching across the region, which is home to over 250 species. Want to be immersed in traditional culture? Visit local artisans selling blankets and rugs or visit the impressive stone monuments and ruins across the Algarve.
Day 5: Traditional Portuguese treats
If you haven’t tasted the Algarve’s sweetest spoils, now is the perfect time. You can find unassuming cafes scattered all across the region selling delicious marzipan creations filled with sweet egg cream. You might also be tempted by a morgadinho. This traditional sweet combines the inspiring flavours of almond paste, Malabar gourd threads and white fondant.
Of course, you can’t visit the Algarve without indulging in its little ‘cheeses’. Don’t be fooled by the name, these cheese-shaped cakes are typically filled with almond paste, sweet egg cream or oven-toasted figs and sprinkled with sugar. And last but not least, treat your taste buds to an exquisite carob roll before leaving.
Day 6: Ria Formosa Nature Park
This is one for nature lovers. Ria Formosa Nature Park is a spectacle of natural beauty. The protected wetland is home to a variety of ecosystems, from islands and marshes to canals. You’re spoilt for choice when it comes to outdoor adventures here. Hiking trails traverse the nature park, while old tuna boats are used for sightseeing tours.
Want to escape the crowds? Head to the Desert Island, where you can sunbathe on the Algarve’s most isolated beach. Snorkelling is also popular, thanks to the highest concentration of seahorses in the world.
Day 7: Praia do Camilo & Ponta da Piedade
Lagos is blessed with natural attractions, especially along its coastline. Let’s start with Praia do Camilo, which is up there with the most beautiful beaches in Europe. It’s flanked by gorgeous limestone cliffs and has soft, golden sand and water different shades of blue and green.
Not far from this postcard-perfect beach is Ponta da Piedade, yet another amazing rock formation in the Algarve. You can admire it from the stairs or take a boat or kayaking tour to explore some of the caves around it. The view is particularly magical during sunset.
Day 8: Sunset cocktails and fresh seafood overlooking Praia dos Carneiros
Praia dos Caneiros isn’t home to your typical Portugal beach bars. There’s a prime venue overlooking the stunning beach bordered by dramatic limestone cliffs. This lends the setting a rare feeling of seclusion and intimacy to go alongside the dreamy sunset vistas.
The beach is at its busiest during summer. However, you can still find tables and spots to enjoy a relaxing cocktail and some of the seafood spoils. Fresh, grilled fish is a specialty of the region, while traditional seafood dishes like the Algarve Cataplana – a steamed seafood feast – are always a good choice.
Day 9: Day trip to the Village of Alte
Alte’s population sits at around 2,000 people. This is a truly unspoilt village in the Algarve’s northern reaches. The well-preserved village is home to numerous traditional Algarvian houses with whitewashed walls and lace chimneys.
This is a place of peace and serenity. A haven for slowing down and escaping the noise and crowds of the Algarve’s better-known towns and cities. You won’t find the typical touristic attractions here, but that’s the point. Honestly, a day spent relaxing and picnicking by the tranquil Fontes de Alte is worth the trip. These crystal-clear springs were once used to wash clothes, but are now a treasured swimming spot for locals.
Day 10: Epic surfing in Sagres
Nestled on the western tip of the Algarve, Sagres is a remote and windswept town with beautiful beaches and unique architecture. However, it’s the surfing that really draws locals and visitors to Sagres. Thanks to its multiple beaches, there’s always one with great breaks to surf. You can even sign up for lessons at a surf school or rent your board.
Are you not interested in surfing? You can also find challenging hiking trails and deep-sea fishing charters in the area. Sagres is also a great base from which to explore the wild, remote beaches of Parque Natural do Sudoeste Alentejano e Costa Vicentina.
Experience a different side to the Algarve
The Algarve rewards those who explore further and want to discover more about this incredible region of Portugal. There’s really no end to the beautiful nature and beaches, treasured culture and traditional food found here. You just have to look beyond the typical tourist routes to find it all.
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