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

Paderne

The atmospheric ruins of Paderne’s long-abandoned Moorish castle are best appreciated on a Sunday morning when there’s little traffic on the nearby motorway. The thick outer walls of mud and sandstone and the remains of a barbican tower are all that exist of the original structure. Inside, the chapel of Nossa Senhora da Assunção lies in mournful pieces.
Paderne

A world away from the villas and beaches of the Algarve coast. The faded, timeworn charm is mirrored by some lovely 19th-century buildings. The half dozen friendly café-restaurants dotted around the vicinity make for welcome refreshment.
Palmares

Beaches fringing Lagos in the near-distance make this par 71 layout a year-round holiday favourite, and the course features five links holes that take you into dunes close to the ocean – a beguiling challenge.
Parque da Floresta

Built on hilly coastal terrain, this challenging par 72 can be exposed to stiff breezes, so club selection can vary considerably in the unpredictable winds. Never more so than on the short 5th, which is played from hilltop to the crown of a hillock.
Parque de Campismo de Armação de Pêra

The nearest campsite to Armação de Pêra, this is great for anyone holidaying on a budget who craves the sights and nightlife of a lively resort. Modern facilities abound on site, and it’s also possible to hire bungalows here.
Parque de Campismo Ilha de Tavira

Only tents go up on this island, which is car- and caravan-free. There are supermarket and restaurant facilities, and tent hire is possible too. Get there via ferry at Quatro Águas. The site’s hugely popular in summer, so call ahead and ask about special promotions.
Parque de Campismo Municipal de Monte Gordo

The conifer woodland near the site is home to the largest population of Mediterranean chameleon in Portugal. Walks here are superb, and Monte Gordo itself is a thriving little town with an ideal beach for sunbathing and swimming.
Parque de Campismo Sagres

It’s not uncommon to see surfboards outside the tents here as the site’s in easy reach of some of the west coast’s finest surfing beaches. Amenities are excellent, and Sagres town is 2 km (1 mile) away.
Parque de Campismo São Miguel

Secluded under a canopy of pine, this is one of the most modern and comprehensive sites in southern Portugal. Facilities include tennis courts, pool and restaurant, and the surrounding countryside is national park. Caravans and bungalows can also be hired.
Parque Natural da Ria Formosa

This vast realm of marshland, salinas and sand dune islands is home to the rare purple gallinule and the web-footed Portuguese water dog, among others. The lagoon habitat is one of the most important wetland zones in Europe. A purpose-built visitor centre houses an aquarium and exhibition area. Two exciting nature trails, São Lourenço and Quinta do Lago, provide excellent opportunities for observing wildlife at close quarters. See Parque Natural da ria Formosa; and Animals of the Ria Formosa.

Jump to top

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