Travelling In The Algarve

Situated in the southern part of Portugal is the Algarve, with its annual warm climate, attracting tourists from all over the world. The Algarve is a highly popular and attractive destination due to its Mediterranean temperatures, golden beaches and world-class golf courses. This region of Portugal is extremely hilly but crossed with valleys which, in the mountainous region of Monchique, some hills reach a height of approximately 906 meters.

A brief history of the Algarve

In 1292 the Algarve was the final province to be conquered from the moors by the portugese King known as Dom Afonso III. The Algarve was once separate from the rest of Portugal and was therefore once, its own country. In the western part of the Algarve is the town of Sagres where traces of the Moorish presence are still apparent in the local architecture and it was here where Prince Henry trained the portugese Navigators who participated in Portugals age of discovery. The main disadvantage with traveling around the Algarve is that today, the Algarve has been completely taken over by mass tourism with the beautiful rocky coastline surrounded by huge hotels and apartment buildings. These monstrosities have been built without any consideration for the surrounding natural environment.

There are very few remaining ancient structures left in the Algarve as it has experienced many earthquakes since the very first in 63 BC. The most destructive earthquakes occurred in 383 AD, 1719, 1755 and 1761.

Scenery

The Algarve is most commonly known for its outstanding beaches and vast coastline stretching for over 100 miles. There are approximately 100 sandy attractive beaches washed by the Atlantic Ocean waters can become surprisingly warm due to the ocean currents and continental shelf extending out from the Algarve. Hidden along the red cliffs of the Algarve, the trademark of the area, are small interlocking sandy, coves. The Algarve is also very family friendly with clean beaches represented by blue flags.

Another popular sighting, situated further inland, is the Monchique Mountains. A continuous meandering road, beginning at just north of Portimao, leads you to the summit of the mountain range. Here you can witness incredible sceneries from the highest point of the region, Pico da Foia.

In order to explore some of the history of the Algarve, a commonly visited place is the town of Silves. At the beginning of the nineteenth Century this town was referred to as the Kingdom of the Algarve and was previously the capital of the entire region. A popular feature of the town is the Castle, which dominates at the centre, and is worth exploring for all the family.

Albufeira is the tourist capital of the Algarve as it offers beautiful, sandy beaches, luxury holiday resorts, fabulous restaurants, luxurious golf courses and a lively nightlife.

Shopping in the Algarve

Renowned shops of the Algarve can be found in popular locations such as Portimao, Loule, and Faro. Souvenirs including leather, pottery, woolens, and crystal are popular souvenirs purchased from shops in the Algarve. If you are searching for a more traditional souvenir then travel inland and you will find hand carved kitchen utensils, unique furniture and beautiful ceramics.

As with every destination, the Algarve offers a number of local markets where you can purchase fresh produce and also linen towels and shoes. A popular fish market is located in the town of Lagos, which is open on weekday mornings.

Accommodation

The Algarve offers a wide variety of accommodation to suit the needs for all couples, families, and groups alike. This range includes bed and breakfasts, high quality golf courses, luxurious tourist hotels and also the popular self catering apartments and villas. The majority of villas around the Algarve have their own barbecues and dining out on the Algarve is a great experience.