Portugal is cheaper than anywhere else in western Europe, and The Algarve is pretty much a safe bet when it comes to enjoying plenty of sunshine, gorgeous scenery and fantastic food and digs. So, head to the popular holiday hotspot for a break away that won’t break the bank – nor scrimp on plenty of fun and sun.
In a nutshell
Portugal is situated at the south-west point of Europe and includes the Madeira and Azores archipelagos in the Atlantic Ocean. Mainland Portugal occupies an area of 88,889 km2 and is 218 km wide and 561 km long. It has 832 km of Atlantic coast and a 1,215 km border with Spain. The Algarve is situated and is Portugal’s premier tourist destination. With its lively atmosphere and party-orientated resorts, pretty white-washed pretty villages and busy beaches, love it or hate it (yes, just like Marmite), The Algarve has reigned supreme as an incredibly popular place to go on holiday, especially with Brits.
Let’s talk about the weather…
Portugal’s Mediterranean climate varies considerably from one region to another and is heavily influenced by the proximity to the sea. Overall however, Portugal offers top weather, with warm dry summers and mild winters, especially in the Algarve, which enjoys a well-deserved reputation as being one of the sunniest places in the world. Unsurprisingly, its annual average of sunshine hours is impressive – 3,000 to put a fine point on it. During the summer months the sun will shine for a stonking 12 hours a day, with next to no rain to worry about, so really there’s only one place you should think about being…
The Algarve’s beaches
From impressive long sandy beaches to pretty natural bays, scalloped secret beaches and stretches of seriously stunning and unspoilt coastline, The Algarve does deliver on the beach bumming front. Here are four of the best, most of which are in central Algarve.
Praia do Anção
Incredibly popular with families, this seemingly endless, golden stretch of sand is clean and benefits from clear, calm waters watched over by vigilant lifeguards. It is also protected from the elements thanks to be being backed by dunes. Sunbeds, parasols and boats are available to rent, and this blue-flag beach offers excellent water-skiing for active types. You access Praia do Anção via a rough track, and nearby parking is free.
Praia da Marinha
Nominated one of the 10 best beaches in Europe by the Michelin Guide, this beautiful white sandy stretch is fringed by rugged rocky outcrops and is only accessed by flights of (tricky but not too perilous) stone steps. It’s well worth the scrabble down; you’ll be met with clear, clam sparking waters, which make this the best snorkelling spot in the area and squeaky clean sand. If you fancy a break from lazing on the sand and floating in the sea, boats depart from Praia da Marinha to visit nearby caves. Best pack a picnic, as this beach only offers a basic wooden kiosk selling drinks and ice creams.
Praia de Albandeira
This beach is something of a well-kept secret and a definite gem for those who do track it down. Small but perfectly formed, this stunning beach boasts pristine white sands clenched snugly between warm ochre rocks, and is flanked by striking coastal cliffs. There are no tourist amenities at Praia de Albandeira, however, pack a beach towel, good book, sun cream and a big bottle of water and you’re good to go. Plus you won’t go hungry, don’t worry. There is a rustic wooden bar nestled among the rocks above, so you’ll be sorted for a nice cold beer – or few. Peckish? Climb across the cliffs and you’ll discover Suites Alba, the perfect place for a spot of lunch.
Praia da Martinhal, west Algarve
This broad blue-flag beach is a must for sporty types. Surf, body-board or windsurf in clear blue waters – or for land lovers, beach volleyball and football are popular ways of making the most of Praia da Martinhal’s generous breadth of sand. There’s a surf school on site offering lessons for beginners. Worked up an appetite? Head to Nortada, a welcoming wooden restaurant located behind the sand dunes. Order fat juicy Sagres oysters and a chilled bottle of beer – bliss…
Up for it?
Ok, so you’re ready to book your flights, hotel and you’ve checked the weather forecast –one thing – if you’re not overly keen on crowds and high-season prices, give July to mid-September a miss. Spring and autumn are excellent alternatives (although the sea will be a wee bit chilly).
