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

Praia de São Rafael, Albufeira

Some extraordinary rock formations protrude from the shallows of this pretty bay fringed with fine sand.
Praia do Ancão

A sublime beach opposite Quinta do Lago that narrows into a sand spit, the tip of which is the preserve of near-empty, tranquil dunes.
Praia do Armado, Carrapateira

Pummelled by Atlantic swells, Armado is one of Portugal’s premier surfing venues, and its surf school enjoys international patronage. Sitting well off the beaten track, this west coast beach also attracts families, and the rock pools at low tide teem with inquisitive children.
Praia do Armado, Carrapateira

One of the surfer’s favourites, Armado’s Atlantic swells attract enthusiasts keen to ride the surf back into the wide sweeping beach.
Praia do Barcos, Albufeira

The “Beach of Boats” is so called because of the dozens of colourful fishing smacks pulled up on the sand between use.
Praia do Beliche

The steep climb down a cliff path to the beach is rewarded with a wonderfully secluded wedge of pristine sand that sees few visitors because of its somewhat awkward location.
Praia do Carvoeiro

Picturesque beach wedged between steep-sided cliffs and framed by rows of holiday apartments and some excellent restaurants. A popular summer haunt for families and, during the winter months, golfers.
Praia do Farol

A beautiful sweep of sand on the bank of a long sandspit island. Farol can be reached by a 45-minute ferry ride from the Porta Nova wharf below Faro’s Old Town district. There are also departures from Olhão.
Praia do Martinhal

Another fabulous location for windsurfing, with the ocean lapping a golden swathe of sand. The beach is also conveniently situated near the town of Sagres.
Praia do Vale do Lobo

This select beachfront is patronized by guests staying at the nearby Vale do Lobo resort and is always a hive of activity. There are some excellent barcafés close at hand.