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

Redondo

Dozens of hole-in-the-wallolarias (pottery workshops) line the narrow streets of Redondo, which makes it a worthy stop-off to pick up a slew of ceramic souvenirs.
Rent Villas

This agency features quality properties to rent in the Algarve resorts of Carvoeiro, Tavira and Albufeira, among other locations. Also has villas in the pretty inland village of Alte.
Republicanism and Integration with Europe

The late 19th century witnesses political strife, with Republicanism taking root. António de Oliveira Salazar becomes prime minister in 1932, and turns around a stagnating economy but with the sacrifice of democracy. The army overthrows the government in 1974 in a near-bloodless coup. On 1 January 2002 the country adopts the euro currency.
Reserva Natural do Sapal

Much of this wetland park comprises working salt pans, but it’s also a major winter feeding ground for spoonbill, greater flamingo, Kentish plover, avocet, black-winged stilt, Caspian tern and other birds. The visitor centre is located on the edge of the saltmarsh, and there’s a lovely nature trail. See Walks in the Algarve.
Reserva Natural do Sapal Nature Trail

The trail is around 6 km (3 miles) in length and two hours in duration, although ornithologists can spend all day in bliss scanning the reedbeds and saltmarsh for plovers, avocets and other wading birds, plus many species of duck and gull. During the summer, visitors can also observe the salt harvest.
Residência Matos Pereira

Set in a pedestrianized street, the Residência looks like a typical town house, matched by an atmosphere that is both domestic and jovial.
Residencial Lagôas

Polished black and white azulejos decorate the façade of this well-known pensão. Its proximity to the historic centre of Tavira makes it very popular in summer, so phone ahead to check room availability.
Residencial Miradoura da Serra

The hotel name means “mountain viewpoint” and the panorama from this hilltop hideaway doesn’t disappoint. Excellent value and a great base for hill walking or pottering about the pleasant market town. All rooms have balcony views.
Residencial Pensão Limas

Wedged between bars and restaurants in a narrow, pedestrianized thoroughfare, Limas’ bright yellow sun blinds grace a whitewashed façade. The staircase inside is steep and narrow, and leads to modest, functional bedrooms.
Residencial Ponte Romana

Standing by the Roman bridge on the south side of the River Arade, this location is hard to beat. The riverside rooms face the castle, and the evening view alone is worth the stay. The restaurant serves generous portions of delicious country cuisine.

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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