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

Hotel Montechoro

Set within an exciting leisure zone that includes tennis courts, football pitches and swimming pools, this is a perfect choice for active families. Albufeira’s stunning beaches provide daytime amusement while many bars provide evening music.
Hotel Quinta do Lago

The hotel is within one of the most luxurious golfing resorts in Europe. It encompasses no fewer than three championship courses, including the par 72 Quinta do Lago. Six more layouts are within easy reach. The hotel offers special golf tuition packages and there are special green fee rates for guests.
Hotel Quinta do Lago

Overlooking Ria Formosa lagoon and the ocean, this sophisticated resort has two great restaurants, the Brisa do Mar (traditional Portuguese cuisine) and Cá d’Oro (famed for its Venetian gastronomy). Leisure facilities include golf and a health club with gym, sauna and massage.
Hotel Residencial Salema

The hotel building is the centrepiece of an old quay that retains the charm of colourful boats and rows of fishermen’s huts. The rooms have great views of the bay, and a number of bars, cafés and restaurants are all within easy reach.
Hotel Riomar

The majority of rooms have balconies, some with a lovely ocean view, but the hotel’s draw is its central position, in the heart of Lagos. The major historical attractions are less than a 10-minute walk away, as are the shops and some great restaurants.
Hotel Vila Galé Albacora

Converted from former fishermen’s houses, the hotel has a chapel and museum incorporated into its structure. Most rooms have views of Ria Formosa. Courtesy boat transport is offered to nearby Tavira island.
Ilha da Armona

Popular with independent travellers, the beaches facing inland are served by bars and restaurants. A ferry from Olhão takes 15 minutes.
Ilha da Barreta

Boat departures from Faro’s Porta Nova wharf shuttle visitors to this “deserted island,” where wildlife can be observed. A bar-restaurant, O Estaminé, provides sustenance.
Ilha da Culatra

The beaches here enjoy splendid isolation, and nude sunbathing in the dunes is not uncommon. The ferry takes 45 minutes from Olhão.
Ilha de Faro

This long sandy spit is reached by turning right off the main road just before Faro International Airport and walking across the causeway. It can get crowded in summer with Faro residents.

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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