The Best Sports And Activities For An Algarve Holiday

With its long, sandy beaches, warm waters and memorable towns, it's not wonder that holidays in the Algarve prove more popular each year. It's tempting for Brits on a cheap holiday to the Algarve to spend all their time relaxing on the beaches, enjoying the sunshine, but those that do are missing out, because the sports and activities of the Algarve are unforgettably fun.

So, what kind of activities and sports does an Algarve holiday offer? Well, here's a list of our customer's favourites. I'm sure their recommendations will bring out the active sportiness in everyone, despite the weather remaining perfectly suited to lounging...

Paragliding

With just you, your apparatus and miles of open sky, there can be few places in the world as perfect for paragliding as the Algarve. The sport is available throughout the region with lessons and equipment hire and, though a little daunting for beginners, few can deny that the Algarve's stunning cliffs and beach landscapes could not look better from any other angle.

Surfing

Every part of Algarve holidays combine to make it one of the premier surfing spots of Europe, both for beginners and seasoned veterans: with pristine beaches, clean water and a handful of big wave spots, you really can pick an area to match your level. Finding lessons is no problem at all, and if you want to avoid the summer rush for your Algarve sports holiday, then you'll be delighted to hear that the winter weather is a warm 16 degrees Celsius with hardly any wind. Learner or veteran, you'd be hard pushed to find a better spot within a few hours of England's airports!

Skydiving

This is another one that's not for the faint of heart, but those that do take on the sport in the Algarve will not be disappointed. The region's clear blue skies combine with the stunning beaches, countryside and waters to burn an incredible image of the beauty of the region into your memory, which will last for years after you're back on solid ground.

Kayaking

Sea kayaking certainly isn't for everyone, but it's the only Algarve activity that really allows you to explore the region's stunning caves and inlets, provoking many unique experiences for you to recount on return to Blighty. The best way to see the secluded sights of the cliff face is with an experienced kayaking guide, but finding one happy to show you around is rarely a problem!

Microlighting

Anyone who found the other Algarve sports in this list a little too much for them should look away now! For those that aren't aware, microlighting is like hang gliding... only with a small engine attached! Those who are intrigued by the sound of the sport should look no further than the Algarve for the activity. The clear skies make for majestic views of the Portuguese coast, with its stunning blue oceans, rocky shores and gorgeous countryside: the perfect backdrop for your adventure.

Mountain Biking

Less unusual and extreme than the other Algarve activities in this list, mountain bike holidays in the region are invigorating and enjoyable nevertheless. The beauty of a mountain biking Algarve holiday is the variety it provides, and the lack of instruction. If you feel confident enough, there's nothing to stop you freewheeling down the side of a mountain with the wind in your hair, but alternatively a relaxed ride through the hillside trails and along the coastline is the perfect way to take in the stunning scenery with less blurry vision!

Rock Climbing

You can't beat the isolated feel of rock climbing in the Algarve. The activity is the perfect way to take in parts of the region off the beaten track, from deserted craggy beaches to secluded sea cliffs, and if you have the mental and physical stamina to rock climb, then there's few spots as idyllic. Unlike rock climbing on training walls, those with the energy to make it all the way to the top are rewarded with a view that is nothing short of breathtaking!

Scuba Diving

With some of the cleanest waters in Europe, some interesting marine life, fascinating shipwrecks and atmospheric caves, an Algarve holiday is the perfect place to start a lifelong obsession with the magic of scuba diving. This isn't to say that Portugal is just for those new to the sport, and there's certainly enough here for experienced divers to take in and enjoy, but the selection of local instructors and warm clear waters make this the perfect place to make a start... if you can draw yourself away from the beach.

All these options present a great introduction to activities in the Algarve, but for some you just won't be able to beat the peace and tranquillity of lying on those beautiful beaches: there's a reason they're so closely associated with cheap holidays in the Algarve!