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

Convento de Santo António

Built by Capuchin monks in the 17th century, the six double rooms and one suite in this hallowed building are set around a sunny cloister. Brushed terracotta and patterned azulejos decorate the interior, and breakfast is served to Gregorian chant. Minimum stay applies.
Cortes de Cima (Tinto)

Dark and concentrated in colour with a ripe, red-berry-and-cherry aroma enhanced by subtle hints of spicy French and American oak. Excellent with steak and game.
Crato

Neat rows of whitewashed houses with yellow trim characterize this town, once the headquarters of the 14th-century Order of Hospitallers. Exhibits in the Museu Municipal explain more about Crato’s illustrious past.
Cromlech of Almendres (Guadalupe)

The Cromlech of Almendres stone circles are considered the most important megalith group in the Iberian peninsula. Nearby is the Neolithic Dolmen of Zambujeiro.
Curse of the Vixen

On stormy nights in the Algarve hinterland, the raucous bellows of a hideous beast can be heard.
Cycling

Cycles can be hired by the hour by those who wish to explore at their own pace and off the beaten track.
Discoteca Ubi and Bar Bubi, Tavira

Clubbers who pile out of Discoteca Ubi at 6am on a Sunday morning swear it’s the best time they’ve had in their lives. It’s not just the heavy house and trip-hop that packs them in. Ubi also stages some great theme nights, including wild foam parties.
Diving

Ponta de Sagres is one of the best dive sites on the Iberian peninsula, with its network of tunnels and caverns and, 2 km(1 mile) offshore, the rusty shell of a WW1 freighter.
Doces de Amêndoa

Almonds (another Moorish import) are used to make these colourful little delicacies that can look like fish, fruit, birds, smiling faces and even vegetable baskets. They make wonderful coffee companions or little gifts.
Dolium Regional Alentejano Branco (Branco)

Made exclusively from the Alentejo’s top white grape variety, antão vaz, to produce a wine of citrus colour with fragrant toast and vanilla spice aromas. Superb with fish dishes.

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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