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One of the most important wetland zones in Europe, the park’s expansive lagoon, sand dunes and marshland are a sanctuary for a wealth of wildlife. See Parque Natural da Ria Formosa.

Two one-hour nature trails reveal a rich coastal wonderland of salt marsh, woodland and freshwater lagoon. The winter months are very rewarding with huge flocks of greater flamingo and spoonbill mingling with pintail, gadwall and teal. The prize attraction, though, is the rare purple gallinule, a striking member of the coot family.

The entire coastline of western Algarve lies within the boundaries of this wild and rocky nature reserve. Dozens of scarce and endemic plant species thrive here, and the highly secretive Iberian lynx stalks the land. Hundreds of different species of birdlife flutter and glide above the salt marshes, while, not surprisingly, ornithologists gather with binoculars primed.

A compact, 9-hole course laid out amid the Championship fairways. The ease of play should relax even the most nervous of players, and the adjoining golf academy offers individual or group tuition.

The masterpiece 18-hole, par 73 Championship course was designed by golf guru Sir Henry Cotton and has hosted the Portuguese Open.

From its backstreet locations, the light and airy Boémia exudes bonhomie. The top-floor rooms have balconies with views across the town’s maze of whitewashed homes. A simple interior and a very steep staircase.

Some of the rooms here overlook the sweeping River Seixe valley, and this friendlypensão is ideal for the beach at Odeceixe. While secluded, this area is popular in summer so booking is advisable.

The pale pink façade of this solid building stands smartly over Avenida 25 de Abril and the Rua Maria Campina. Some rooms are large and therefore handy for families.