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

Bela Vista

A charming example of an early 20th-century Algarve guest house, Bela Vista’s interior glows with beautiful azulejos panels. Situated right on Praia da Rocha, this is a wonderful alternative to the modern aparthotels and villas.
Benagil

Benagil straddles a steep, narrow valley which ambles its way towards a bay the size of a postage stamp. More hamlet than village, Benagil is blessed with a couple of superb seafood restaurants positioned on the lip of the valley, with views across the ocean.
Benagil-Senhora da Rocha Clifftop Trek

Coastal erosion has eaten into the cliff face to produce some fantastic natural sculpture washed with a beautiful russet and mustard hue. The footpath, which is quite steep in places, looks over a series of delightful half-moon coves packed with golden sand. And there are ample spots to picnic in along the way.
Benamor

A beautiful, rolling par 71 course, with widely varying holes and a mix of coastal and mountain views. The outward nine are relatively easy, but the trickiness factor picks up in the back nine, particularly on the 15th and 18th, the latter having out of bounds areas on either side close to the green.
Bentleys Bistro

Great British style restaraunt in Almancil. Fantastic fish and chips on Friday night and excelent sunday roast. You really should try their giant breakfast which is a real treat
Bica Boa, Monchique

Opt for the terrace during fine weather for a wholesomeal fresco treat in idyllic surrounds.
Bifes de Atum

The livelihoods of whole communities used to depend on tuna. It’s not fished so hard now, but is still a favourite in thousands of restaurants along the coast. Tryatum de cebola , a tasty blend of melted butter and tomato sauce with onions, garlic and parsley, poured over a firm tuna steak garnished with lemon wedges.
Big Game Fishing

Warm coastal waters (Jun–Sep) attract marlin and sharks. Sports fishermen usually return triumphant from the “fighting chair”.
Bird Watching

The Cabo de São Vicente headland offers a superb vantage from which to observe birds in spring and autumn, when the skies are dotted with eagles, storks, sparrowhawks, griffon and Egyptian vultures.
Bom Dia

This colourful schooner sets sail for the Ponte de Piedade grottoes, where dinghies allow closer inspection of this natural wonder. The all-day cruise sails on to Sagres and the “end of the world”.

Schooner Bom Dia

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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
Restaurant price categories

For a three-course meal for one with half a bottle of wine (or equivalent meal), taxes and extra charges.
- under €20
- €20–€30
- €30–€40
- €40–€50
- over €50