Portugal’s Algarve region is an alluring mix of historic cities, pretty seaside villages and stunning national parks. but without doubt it’s the wealth of beaches and hot sunshine in which to delight in them that attracts vacationers from around the world.
With beautifully clean stretches of gold and white sand plus the warm Mediterranean climate it’s no wonder that Mirror.co.uk voted the Algarve as one of the top getaway spots in South Europe. When deciding where to stay in The Algarve, you’ll need to decide what it is you’re many interested in – Surfing? Swimming? Adventure? Kultúra? Nightlife? Whatever your travel style, you’ll find an area of the Algarve that suits you.
An Algarve beauty
Praia da Marinha in the central Algarve region is regarded as one of Europe’s best beaches and the amazing huge rock formations jutting from the sea only add to the atmosphere of this stunning spot.
Clear, shallow waters lap gently against the bay cliffs and the white sands are the optimal place to simply unwind for the entire afternoon. This is a secluded beach area with little in the way of restaurants and cafes; there’s only one beach kiosk from which to purchase some ice cream or a cold drink. but if you’re a fan of snorkelling, swimming and sunbathing, and want to avoid the crowds, then this will be the place to come.
Surfer’s favorite
The surfing may not be as good here as the surfing in Hawaii, but if you’re a windsurfer or body-boarder then you’ll no doubt have heard of Praia do Martinhal located in the Bay of Baleeira. This is a reasonably sized Blue Flag awarded stretch of sand but the consistent winds are what makes this beach an attractive proposition for surfers; a surf-school is located here for those who wish to take lessons.
Praia do Alvor in the central region is another outstanding beach for wind-surfing and this substantial stretch of sand is just an easy walk from the numerous of bars, restaurants and nightclubs located in Praia da Rocha, but make sure you’re back in time for the gorgeous sunset at Praia da Rocha! You’ll find plenty of activities on this calm and unwinding Blue Flag beach including water-skiing and sailing.
Island Beaches
The Algarve has its fair share of spectacular little islands. You can check out Thomson for flights to Faro if you want to experience Ilha da Barreta, which consists of nearly 10Km of beautiful golden sands.
The pedestrian-only Armona Island in the east is another idyllic little spot that is ideal for day trips to delight in the secluded swathes of sand on the Atlantic coastline. You can reach the IIha da Culatra by taking a 30 minute ferry from the town of Olhao and numerous regard the beaches here as the best you can find in the Algarve.
Finally, Tavira Island stretches for 11Km by only 1Km and this substantial Blue Flag beach is a safe haven for naturists and you can actually camp overnight here in the designated park areas.
The Algarve will easily offer you with a beach to meet your mood whether that’s a lively resort or a much more remote area where you can unwind in peace. If you’re an outdoors lover then you’ll be hard pushed to find a much more diverse range of beaches to explore and delight in in Europe.
Author’s Bio:
Rebecca hurt is an adventure seeking biology graduate, currently travelling around the globe. She likes photography and wildlife.
Images by Luis Ascenso photography and Tiago J.G. Fernandes, used under the creative Commons license.
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