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

AD 415: Visigoths

After the fall of the Roman Empire the reins of power are seized by the Visigoths, a formidable warrior caste from eastern France and Germany.
Adega Papagaio, Espiche

Choose from seven different meats, all chargrilled on a hot stone.
Adega Vilalisa, Mexilhoeira Grande

Renowned Portuguese food critic José Quitério regards this charming rural eatery as one of the best 100 restaurants in the country. Sample traditional dishes such as thecanja de conquilhas (cockle broth) and you’ll understand why. Book in advance.
Adega Vilalisa, Mexilhoeira Grande

A rural gem with fine traditional cuisine, including succulent pork knee roast. See Restaurants.
Albergaria Bica Boa

Wooden floors and ceilings impart a rustic feel to this mountain inn, perched on the lip of a valley, a few minutes’ walk out of Monchique. Just four guest rooms and fine vegetarian food.
Albergaria Vila Lido

Jacqueline Kennedy was a guest here in the days when this immaculately kept inn was a private villa. Located near the fort and dating from the 19th century, the period detail is exquisite. Light floods the verandah in late afternoon, and tea on the terrace comes with a fabulous sea view.
Albufeira

This top holiday spot is the Algarve’s largest resort, boasting some of the most effervescent nightlife in Portugal. Generous beaches flank bustling esplanades brimming with cafés and trendy clubs. See Albufeira.
Albufeira

Albufeira’s claim as the most popular holiday destination in the country is no idle boast. It’s the biggest and most energetic resort in the Algarve, and anyone doubting the fact should make a midsummer bee-line to the thoroughfare dubbed “The Strip”. A forest of neon lends the resort its exotic, all-night atmosphere, and a multitude of bars, restaurants and disco-clubs keep the party swinging till dawn. You can catch up on sleep on any one of Albufeira’s smooth, golden beaches, if you can find a spot amongst fellow sun-worshippers. See Albufeira.
Albufeira

Bright, loud and unashamedly extrovert, Albufeira buzzes with vitality in summer. Wide sweeping beaches, first-class water sport facilities and dozens of bars, bistros, restaurants and nightclubs lend the resort its non-stop party atmosphere, though the old quarter still manages to convey a mellow charm. See Albufeira
Albufeira Camping

A sprawling camping and caravan site about 2 km (1 mile) from the town centre. Facilities include three pools, an adventure playground, an à la carte restaurant, a supermarket and a night club.

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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