Why you re wrong about the Algarve
Ignore the stereotype: there s so much more to the Algarve than its beaches and golf courses. You just have to know where to look
14 May 2021 • 4:24pm
Walk the wild west: A week-long rambling holiday will take you along dunes and clifftops, to isolated coves and paths lined with Mediterranean flora
This summer, the Algarve is our best chance of a sun-soaked European getaway, with Portugal planted firmly on the UK’s travel green list and the Portuguese government having now lifted its travel ban to allow British holidaymakers to fly to the country from May 17. No doubt you’ll gravitate towards the Algarve’s Blue Flag beaches and glitzy resorts, but look beyond and you’ll find a region full of surprises.
Beach of the week
Beach of the Week
Praia de Alvor
This beach is located just 8 kilometres outside of Portimão, one of the biggest cities in the Algarve, and is also the other half to the well known beach of Meia Praia, separated by the Ribeira de Odiáxere. The fine, white sand here stretches for several kilometres which means that, if you seek some privacy, finding a spot away from the crowds is possible even in the peak of summer. Apart from offering enough space for everyone, it also has all the necessary facilities and lots of activities like kitesurfing, windsurfing and water-skiing available. Praia de Alvor is also a blue flag beach and wooden walkways have been installed along the sand in order to not only make it more accessible, but also to preserve the surrounding sand dunes.