DK Travel : The Algarve

The Moors called their al-Gharb the Sunset Land, and visitors have been waxing lyrical ever since. Blessed with a mild winter climate and a sunny disposition, Portugal’s playground province remains one of the most popular year-round holiday destinations in southern Europe. Lively coastal resorts spill over ribbons of golden sand in sharp contrast to the quiet villages of the hinterland, where history and tradition go hand in hand.

Folk dancers

Casa da Palmeirinha

This old and graceful Portuguese town house with terracotta floors andazulejos panels creates a Mediterranean feel inside. A flourishing roof garden looks over a central patio and modest swimming pool.
Casa Domilú

The honeymoon suite, with its sunken whirlpool bath and opulent décor, epitomizes Casa Domilú’s ethos of sophistication. Elsewhere, huge bay windows reflect emerald swimming pools, and a luxurious spa is on hand to pamper you.
Casa dos Arcos

One of the few places in the Algarve where you can purchasecadeiras de tesoura , the folding wooden chairs, which are hand-crafted to an ancient Roman design.
Casa Jardim

Casa Jardim is ideal for couples looking for a peaceful and relaxing break away from the crowded resorts. Set in beautiful grounds, consisting of natural terrain and partly-landscaped gardens, Casa Jardim is a delight to the senses. It offers relaxation and tranquillity and yet is handily placed should you wish to venture out and enjoy some Algarve exploration.
Casa Pasto Mouro Bar, Salir

Built on the ramparts of the Moorish castle. Wholesome fare is served by villagers, making this a rural experience to savour. Arrive early.
Casa Sagres

Ivy-clad walls surround a sun-trap patio, which forms part of the dining facility at this breezy, stone and whitewash building. The clipped garden overlooks the Atlantic, as do some of the rooms of this popular hotel.
Casa Velha, Cacela Velha

Set in one of the Algarve’s prettiest hamlets, this quaint eatery attracts an enthusiastic Spanish clientele for itsfeijoada de longueirão (razor clams in bean stew) and other dishes.
Casa Velha, Quinta do Lago

French haute cuisine is served in this 300-year-old converted farmhouse. It will appeal to the seasoned gourmet as well as the wine connoisseur: there are over 200 Portuguese reds alone to choose from!
Castelo de Vide

The old Jewish quarter is the most enjoyable part of this attractive spa town. It stretches away from the 13th-century castle that gives the town its name in a cluster of steep lanes, many sporting plaques testifying to the quality of their floral displays. A synagogue (also 13th-century) sits at the top of this stepped thoroughfare, which also leads down to the 16th-century marble Fonte da Vila.
Castro Marim

The enormous frontier castle overlooks the border between Spain and Portugal. Built in the 13th century, the castle was the first headquarters of the Order of Christ. Henry the Navigator was a frequent visitor.

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Hotel price categories

For a standard, double room per night (with breakfast if included), taxes and extra charges.
- under €50
- €50–€100
- €100–€200
- €200–€300
- over €300
Restaurant price categories

For a three-course meal for one with half a bottle of wine (or equivalent meal), taxes and extra charges.
- under €20
- €20–€30
- €30–€40
- €40–€50
- over €50