Portimao
Locate in the estuary of the River Arade, Portimao is known for its excellent sandy beaches and calm waters. It has a long fishing tradition and most of its building you see in the historic centre are from this period. Portimao is famous for its sardine restaurants which will you find plenty of along the waterfront next to the docks. Enjoy a walk along the promenade beside the marina, one of the liveliest parts of the city by day or night.
Alvor
Historically a fortified town & fishing port, Alvor is one of the finest towns on the Algarve. It lies on the bank of the Alvor estuary and is distinctively Portuguese in appearance with traditional white washed houses, narrow cobbled streets and small fishing boats. It is a small town but boasts a suprisingly large amount of restaurants , shops and bars which are all found in the pretty historic centre . Alvor has a calm, welcoming ambience and is a favourite with families.
Monchique
Monchique is a beautiful mountainous destination in Portugal , known for its stunning natural landscapes and panoramic views of the southern region. It is around a 30 minute drive from Portimao. It is also known for its healing thermal waters and piri piri chicken. At 900m high it is a cooling retreat during the hot summer days.
Benagil Sea Cave
Algar de Benagil, or Benagil Cave, is undeniably one of Portugal’s most stunning and famous natural landmarks. It features a remarkable grotto with a hole in the ceiling known as “the eye,” which illuminates the golden sands and turquoise waters with sunlight and provides a glimpse of the blue sky above. Benagil Cave is one of the most popular places to visit, and it can get very crowded so it is important to research your options before you travel so you can enjoy your visit as much as possible! It is only accessible by boat or it is also possible to visit by joining paddle board or kayak tour.
Carvoeiro
Carvoeiro is a picturesque traditional Portuguese town situated along the stunning coastline of golden beaches and dramatic natural scenery. The famous boardwalk is built on the cliffs surrounding the village and offers superb views of the Atlantic Ocean and some of the most beautiful beaches in Europe. It is also possible to take a boat trip to Benagil Caves from here.
Ferragudo
Ferragudo sits on the banks of a small offshoot of the main Arade estuary. The palm-lined riverfront here divides what can be considered the old village from the newer part of the town just across the water before it gives way to the little park. Across the road from here is the main square, the charming little Praça Rainha Dona Leonor. Lined with cafes this is the perfect spot for a breakfast coffee and pastry or a bite to eat at lunch whilst you watch the daily catch being unloaded.
Silves
Silves is a historic and delightful town, which was originally the ancient capital of the Algarve. The remnants of of its illustrious past can be seen scattered through the town, including an imposing red brick castle and gothic cathedral. Silves is a joy to explore and has a distinctly Portuguese ambience, with open air cafes, cobbled streets and a relaxed pace of life.
