6 Hikes In The Algarve

There’s more than sun, sea, and slothfulness on offer in Portugal’s south — and what better way to find it than taking a hike?

Portugal is a country of contradiction. On one hand, it’s the older, mellower cousin of Spain. On the other hand, it lays claim to some of history’s most notable conquests, be it Vasco da Gama’s sea route to India, or Magellan’s discovery of Tierra del Fuego. Its storied past proves there’s more to Portugal than a weekend break in Lisbon or genteel sojourn by the coast.

Take the Algarve for example. Yes, there’s sun, sea, and slothfulness, but there’s also wondrous nature and adventure. This southern region of Portugal boasts myriad landscapes, from customary sand dunes, cliffs, and lagoons on the coast, to flowering orchards in the Barrocal and scrub forest in the uplands. Are you looking for taxi service in Algarve ? click here

Trails in the region pass through protected nature reserves home to endemic plants and wildlife. In fact, nearly 40 percent of the Algarve’s total area has conservation status, enabling excellent hiking across its five different areas: the Vicentine Coast, the South Coast, the Barrocal, the Serra, and the Guadiana. Here’s a taste of what’s on offer.

1. Ponta da Piedade

Region: Lagos, South Coast

Distance: 6km (4 mi) round trip

Average duration: 2h

Best for: Dramatic coastline views

How to get there: From Lagos, follow the road for Praia Dona Ana right to the end.

Three kilometres south of Lagos lies Ponta da Piedade, a dramatic promontory that features spectacular views of caves, grottoes, and sea arches sculpted from sandstone cliffs over thousands of years.

The coastal trail meanders past picturesque beaches, including Praia dos Estudantes, Praia do Pinhão, and Praia Dona Ana. The beaches are often busy, but the surrounding rock formations provide plenty of reason to pause.

2. Castelejo Environmental Trail

Region: Vila do Bispo, Vicente Coast

Distance: 3.5km (2 mi) circular trail

Average duration: 1h 30m

Best for: Flora and fauna

How to get there: From Vila do Bispo, take highway M1265 towards Castelejo Beach. It is approximately 2km (1.2 mi) to Castelejo picnic park where the trail begins.

This gentle hike winds its way through Vicentine Coast Natural Park, crossing pine forest and shrubby vegetation punctuated by Spanish lavender and strawberry trees. The trail dips to a gully where you may spot the Western spadefoot toad or Iberian parsley frog, depending on the season.

3. Seven Hanging Valleys Trail

Region: Lagoa, South Coast

Distance: 12km (7.5 mi) round trip

Average duration: 5h

Best for: Striking caves and coastline views

How to get there: Follow the EN125 and turn south by the International School, then follow signs for the Marinha Beach.

This trail gets its delightful name from the seven watercourses that have shorn seven small valleys into the landscape. It follows the winding coastline, offering views of natural arches, caves, and gorges, as well as several species of birds sheltering on the rocky cliff walls. Eagle-eyed hikers may spot gulls, cormorants, and doves. Still confused? Book online taxi in Algarve

4. Rocha da Pena Trail

Region: Loulé, Barrocal

Distance: 6.4km (4 mi) circular trail

Average duration: 2h

Best for: Monumental rocky outcrops

How to get there: From Loulé, follow the road to Salir, then take the EN124 towards Alte. Before you reach Alte village, take the turn to Rocha da Pena.

Rocha da Pena has been described as the Algarve’s Table Mountain. While this may be a slight exaggeration, the monumental rocky outcrop is certainly impressive. 6 Hikes In The Algarve

The first (and toughest) phase of the trail involves a steep climb from Rocha da Pena (by the “Gruta” Bar) to the plateau at Talefe. There, you will be rewarded with sweeping views of the Algarve’s upland terrain.

5. Don Quixote Trail

Region: Cachopo, Serra

Distance: 17km (10.5 mi) circular trail

Average duration: 6h

Best for: Panoramic landscapes

How to get there: When you reach Cachopo, take the turn to Tavira. After 1km (0.6 mi), look for a sign on the left to Casas Baixas. The trail starts at the Discovery Centre in this village.

The Don Quixote trail is notable for its changing landscape, from orchards and vineyards, to oak forests, scrubland, and pine plantations. It winds its way up Cerro do Bicudo, and offers views over the Odeleite River, which is also known as the “Blue Dragon River” because of its serpentine curves and deep blue colour.

6. Venta Moinhos Wetlands Trail

Region: Castro Marim, Guadiana

Distance: 7km (4 mi) round trip

Average duration: 2hr

Best for: Wetland fauna

How to get there: Leave the A22 motorway in the direction of Alcoutim. At the next crossroads at Monte Francisco, turn right to the Interpretation Centre of the Castro Marim and Vila Real de Santo António Wetlands Nature Reserve (RNSCMVRSA). The trail starts at this crossroads.

This trail in the Castro Marim Nature Reserve follows the Guadiana River, passing saltmarsh, saltpans, arable farmland, and freshwater, brackish, and saltwater lagoons. 6 Hikes In The Algarve

Relatively rare species of birds may make an appearance, often in large numbers — among them, spoonbills, avocets, white storks, and black-winged stilts. Want to have a airport transfer ? click here 

Luxury Villas In Algarve

A wide variety of luxury holiday villas spread across the Algarve in Portugal, namely in Alvor, Portimão, Silves, Vilamoura, Senhora da Rocha, Carvoeiro, Praia da Galé, Albufeira, Estoi, SpringVillas etc! the perfect choice of villas whether you seek the beach, the golf or the countryside for your dream vacations.

These exclusive villas based on their quality, exceptional facilities and location. The continously invest, improve and prepare all villas according to what is compromise to customers in order to satisfy their needs and to exceed their expectations whenever it is possible.

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Focused both for family groups and friends’ groups, Algarve are able to accommodate and serve a wide variety of groups’ dimensions, ranging up to 20 guests, and they are thought and prepared not only for the youngest but surely also for the eldest.

 You will discover that luxury means being able to spend your family or friends’ holidays in high quality private villas featuring unique facilities such as heated swimming pools, indoor heated swimming pools, outdoor heated jacuzzi’s/hot tubs, gym, tennis courts, mini-golf, games’ rooms, cinema rooms and more.

Unique & unforgettable vacations are guaranteed with Spring Villas’ holiday villas to rent in Algarve. Still confused? Book online taxi in Algarve

Among other reasons, what makes Algarve luxury villas special and what distinguishes them from the market standards is  great effort and investment on unique facilities such as indoor heated swimming pools, heated jacuzzis/hot tubs, gyms, tennis courts, bicycles and more. These facilities are able to ultimately provide you unforgettable holidays in a relaxing environment. Want to have a airport transfer ? click here 

About The Algarve

Right in the south of Portugal, I’m pretty ashamed to say that my first ever visit to the Algarve was only last year.

What a mistake that was! Are you looking for taxi service in Algarve ? click here

Located on the Portuguese coastline, the Algarve is a beautiful region with lots of soft sand beaches and quaint fishing villages to boot.

This is possibly one of the more popular spots in Portugal for visitors looking for sun, sea and sand… but that’s not all that’s here.

The Algarve really is one of the best places in Portugal to visit, especially for its natural beauty.

Once here, head to Tavira Island for a beach retreat or visit Vicentine Coast Natural Park to hike along the picturesque cliffs that seem to gauged out by the sea itself.

Alternatively, take a boat tour over to Benagil Cave or see the stunning area around Lagos or Sagres. For a much quieter beach, head over to Praia do Amado on the west coast of the Algarve.

Far fewer people visit this beach than those on the south coast. Just be warned the sea can be a little cooler with stronger ocean currents. Want to have a airport transfer ? click here 

5 Very Best Places In The Algarve To Visit

So, to help you get the most out of your time in the Algarve, I wanted to share some of the top places to visit that we totally loved.

 1.) Faro

Lots of times, Faro is seen as the gateway to the Algarve due to its airport; but it’s much more than that. It’s got centuries of history and stunning little spots that might actually surprise you.

Once here, don’t forget to spend some time exploring the Old Town. It’s one of the best places in the Algarve to visit, especially for its history.

With its pretty museums, little shops, the Cathedral of Santa Maria and Roman and Moorish walls, it’s a spot with lots to see and do.

You’ve also got the most ornate city gate, Arco da Vila that’s totally picturesque. Plus, the whole neighbourhood around the gate is just lovely to visit.  Are you looking for taxi service in Algarve ? click here

2.) Alvor

Around a 30-minute drive from Lagos, Alvor is a coastal area that’s well worth visiting whilst exploring the wider Algarve coastline.

Of course, you’ve gotta make a pitstop at Alvor Beach which is such a sandy haven! Plus, it’s got a load of trails and boardwalks that make it a great place for a stroll.

Afterwards, spend some time visiting the historic castle of Alvor.

3.) Tavira 

For me, Tavira is one of the best places in the Algarve to visit and is totally picturesque. Usually forgotten by lots of visitors to the region, Tavira is a perfect little spot for a stroll whilst exploring the Algarve in the car.

Here, you’ll get to explore the castle of Tavira (which is 1,000 years old) or visit the Tavira Museum which houses lots of exhibitions (rather than just historic artefacts). Yes, it’s small and cosy but that’s all part of its charm.

Oh, and don’t forget to head across the Roman Bridge that was founded well over 2000 years ago!

4.) Cape St Vincent

One of the most westerly points in the Algarve, Cape St Vincent is a totally dramatic natural spot to visit when in the west of the region.

Easily reached by car from Lagos (40-minutes), it’s the perfect place to visit for a stroll around the area and see the Lighthouse of Cape St Vincent, too. In fact, it’s great to partner a trip here at sunset when you’ll get some of the best views across the Ocean. It’s beautiful.

If it’s history you’re after, head into the fort of Santo António de Belixe that’s close by. It’s been around for centuries (well over half a millennia) and is steeped in history.

5.) Olhão

Just shy of the city of Faro, Olhão is well worth a little gander if you’re looking to explore lesser-visited spots in the Algarve.

Once here, explore the Museum of Olhão, stroll the gardens around the waterfront and take the boat to nearby Culatra Island. Want to have a airport transfer  click here

It’s a small little spot with a gorgeous little town to stroll and the most incredible beach (Praia da Ilha da Culatra) that stretches the whole island. Though, don’t expect many amenities around the beach – it’s pretty unspoilt and underdeveloped on the island itself. 5 Very Best Places In The Algarve To Visit

Best Beaches In Algarve For Cliffs

1. Ponta da Piedade, Lagos

How to get there: You can reach Ponta da Piedade by car, taxi, boat, or walking. There is no public transport in the region, thus I recommend renting a car. – Check deals here

Where: 4 km south of Lagos

Facilities: There is a car park, a few gift shops and a restaurant. Overnight camping is not possible on Ponta da Piedade.

Almost untouched by humankind, Ponta da Piedade reveals splendid rock arches, hidden grottos, and sea pillars shaped over the years by the savage ocean and winter storms.

Ponta da Piedade can only be appreciated in its true glory from the sea, where the turquoise waters overlap with the precariously balanced golden cliffs in an explosion of color.

2. Praia de Marinha, Lagoa

How to get there: The quickest way to get to Praia de Marinha from Lagos is by car, including a taxi. The cheapest is with bus line 77. Otherwise, you could simply walk.

Where: Caramujeira

Facilities: Praia de Marinha is surrounded by hotels, resorts, and other tourist facilities.

One of the best places to stay is the Suites Alba Resort and Spa, located at less than 1 km from Praia de Marinha.

Before you start searching for the best place to stay in Algarve, you should work out which area suits your interests the best to enhance your experience.

Known for its Mediterranean climate and superb cliffs, Praia de Marinha is one of the most emblematic places to go in the Algarve. The beach can only be reached by a steep wooden staircase, but it’s well worth the effort.

From down there, you can admire spectacular rock formations, hidden sea caves, grottoes, and pinnacles. A small tunnel under the rocks even connects Praia de Marinha with another gem, the tiny Praia de Mesquita.

Alternatively, if you’d rather have a walk than going down the stairs, you can enjoy stunning views from the top.

3. Praia dos Tres Irmaos (Prainha), Alvor

How to get there: By car, taxi, or foot from Alvor or Portimao. Some facilities offer shuttle services to and from Praia dos Tres Irmaos.

Where: 2 km from Alvor, one of the finest resort towns of the Algarve.

Facilities: The Pestana Alvor Praia is located only 4 minutes away from Praia dos Tres Irmaos, and offers a number of facilities to its guests.

More budget-friendly accommodation is offered by the Pestana Alvor Park Hotel in Alvor and the Plaza Real Atlantic Hotel in Portimao.

Praia dos Tres Irmaos is one of Portugal‘s best-kept secrets. Located in a sheltered bay and stretching along 7 km, it impresses with stunning rock formations, rugged cliffs, and many hidden coves waiting to be explored.

Praia dos Tres Irmaos‘s name was given by the “Three Brothers”, a peculiar rock formation rising from the sea, and characterized by soft golden sand.

Walking barefoot, sunbathing, and swimming in the crystal clear waters are just some of the things to do on Praia dos Tres Irmaos. Easily accessible, it’s perfect for families with small children, and also one of the best snorkeling spots in the region.

4. Praia Dona Ana, Lagos

How to get there: By car, urban bus services, or foot

Where: 2 km from central Lagos

Facilities: The Carvi Beach Hotel Algarve, located right next to the beach, offers comfortable accommodation and rooms with a view, and features a rooftop swimming pool, ideal for anyone looking for Algarve hotels on Praia Dona Ana.

The Costa d’Oiro Ambiance Village impresses with Mediterranean architecture, gardens, terraces, and swimming pools, perfect for families.

By far, one of the most picturesque beaches in the Algarve, Praia Dona Ana, is nestled within the limestone cliffs of Ponta da Piedade headland.

Expect turquoise waters, soft golden sand, and all modern beach facilities, from sunbeds to fancy restaurants on Praia Dona Ana. Best Beaches In Algarve For Cliffs

Praia Dona Ana is ideal for families, as well as swimmers, lazy sunbathers, snorkelers, and anyone else looking to admire stunning cliffs and enjoy an amazing beach.

Praia Dona Ana is also perfect to charter a boat!

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Important Facts When Traveling To Algarve, Portugal

Capital: Faro

Official language(s) and general knowledge of English: Portuguese is the prime spoken language. English is moderately spoken here. Spanish, French and German are quite spoken as well.

Official religion: Catholic

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Currency: Euro

Climate: Mediterranean climate is experienced; summer is comparatively hotter, and winter is milder compared to other European nations. The average temperature during summer is around 30 degrees. The average winter temperature is 15 degrees.

Power voltage and socket type: 230V, Stand Frequency is 50Hz. C and F type plug type

Safety rating: Rated 4/5. Algarve is considered the safest in Portugal, and in entire European Union

Female solo traveler: Algarve is absolutely safe for women solo travelers, irrespective of the age group.

About Algarve: Located on the Portuguese coastline, the Algarve is a beautiful region with lots of soft sand beaches and quaint fishing villages to boot.

This is possibly one of the more popular spots in Portugal for visitors looking for sun, sea and sand… but that’s not all that’s here.

The Algarve really is one of the best places in Portugal to visit, especially for its natural beauty.

Want to have a airport transfer ? click here 

Welcome to the Algarve Portugal

Algarve, the southernmost part of Portugal, is one of the most prominent tourist destinations of the nation. In fact, tourism contributes a major part of Algarve’s economy. Specifically, a massive flock of tourists is witnessed here during the summer.

The population almost doubles during these days in Algarve. Its administrative center is situated in Faro. Algarve is like a heaven for the fruit enthusiasts; starting from oranges to plums, there is a lot to explore in this segment here. Similar is the case with seafood as well.

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Being such a massively popular destination for tourists, the place is obvious to be enriched with high-end communication facilities. Similar is the case of accommodation in Algarve as well. All in all, Algarve has enough reasons to offer for a tourism enthusiast to pay a visit.

This little country definitely has got it all: breathtakingly green mountains in the North, covered with vines, an almost desert landscape in the Alentejo region, and finally the spectacular golden beaches in Algarve.

In addition to unparalleled beauty, there are many unforgettable Algarve activities and attractions you absolutely do not want to miss out on! Want to have a airport transfer ? click here 

Despite being a top recommendation of things to do in Algarve, Praia da Marinha is surprisingly quieter than most of the other beaches in Algarve.

This makes the experience of visiting this gem even better as you snorkel through it’s calm and clear waters with just you and the amazing marine life that swim close to the enclosing cliffs.

The Algarve is full of history, hiking, heavenly beaches and more! Welcome to the Algarve Portugal

There is a lot of things to do in Algarve, you certainly won’t run out what to visit in Algarve!

Best Things to Do in Algarve, Portugal

Exploring the adventure at Ponta da Piedade: It gives a mesmerizing experience to enjoy the views from the cliffs. There are caves to explore, as well. Coming down, the blissful feel of crystal clear water is surreal as an experience. It’s absolutely scenic the way the water zone is surrounded by the rocks and considered one of the top things to do in Algarve. Are you looking for taxi service in Algarve ? click here

Praia da Falésia for beach lovers: Here comes another wonderland for nature enthusiasts. Views that the place provides during summer, especially during sunset, is simply breathtaking. For the beach lovers, this is a must-visit zone in a lifetime.

Cape St Vincent: This place has been a favorite of couples from around the globe. The sight from a height of 75 meters cliff can give peak level adrenaline. Those who want to witness the best of seascapes are highly recommended to pay a visit to this place. The place has some incredible gift shops as well to explore. Finally, don’t miss the museum for greater knowledge about the incredible past of the place. Still confused? Book online taxi in Algarve

A fulfilling visit to the Church of São Lourenço: Undoubtedly religious people show a lot of interest in it. At the same time, the beauty of the church exterior mesmerizes art enthusiasts around the globe. The craft of the tiles, the shading pattern, everything is simply awe-inspiring in terms of the beauty of the place.

Witness funky Dolphin Watching: No Algarve visit can be complete without an accomplishing dolphin watching. Specifically, it’s a must recommendation for those visiting with the entire family. To make things even more exciting, one may explore the deep sea fishing experience as well. There is a lot that one can learn regarding the physiology of dolphins and their behaviors. No other place can provide dolphin watching experience as explicitly as one can get in Algarve.

Visiting Lagos Old Town: This can be the perfect recommendation to have some fun, casual moments having fascinating views around. Strolling around the slender cobblestone streets is an incredible experience.

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How Early Should I Get To The Airport?

Are You Asking Yourself The Question: How Early Should I Get To The Airport?

Did you know that 2.7 million people fly around the world every day? Airports can get pretty backed up during busy seasons, which makes arriving on time difficult for some people.

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What complicates things, even more, is answering the question, How early should I get to the airport? Some people say an hour before your flight is fine, while others claim you need to get there four hours in advance.

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There’s a reason why people recommend arriving hours early before a flight — a variety of things can slow you down and make you late.

There are ways you can streamline the process, but ultimately you need to prepare for the worst and hope for the best. In this section, we’ll discuss the four main things that make people late.

Generally, we recommend arriving two hours early for a domestic flight, and three hours for an international one. While this might seem like a lot, it will give you plenty of time to check your bag in and get through security.

More importantly, it will give you some wiggle room for keeping your anxiety down in the event of an unexpected delay. Also, keep in mind that most airlines close their doors for good ten to twenty minutes before the flight takes off.

Arriving two to three hours early will allow you to board with your section on-time when your ticket group is called.

However, if you find that you get nervous about potentially missing your flight, then there’s nothing wrong with being prudent and arriving extra early. If you’re traveling with kids or a large group, then you may want to add an hour or so just to be safe.