Europe
Portugal
Portugal has been a firm favourite on the European holiday scene for generations, with great beaches, intoxicating scenery and delicious food. With a flight of just a few hours and an inviting summer climate, it's the perfect destination for a European getaway.
Average Temperature (°C)
Summer
23.0
Autumn
19.3
Winter
13.0
Lagos was one of my favourite places to visit with its old walled city, and we especially enjoyed driving inland up into the mountains. I would also recommend Silves, with its stunning coastline and beautiful beaches.
Millions flock to the Portuguese coast each and every year to enjoy one of the most diverse coastlines Europe has to offer. You’ll find sleepy fishing villages and majestic cliff-faces, sand-swept coves and lush Championship golf courses. Portugal has an endearing love affair with the Atlantic, and why wouldn’t it? The Algarve, in particular, has magnetic appeal, with Faro, Albufeira, Vilamoura and Lagos basking in year-round sunshine.
Europe's Leading Beach Destination
The Portuguese region of the Algarve is known for its 300 days of sunshine, turquoise seas and golden sands and now the region’s beauty and offering has been officially recognised by the World Travel Awards 2015, winning the title of Europe’s Leading Beach Destination.
Spa and Wellbeing
If lounging on the beach isn't for you, the Algarve has uncountable spas for you to choose from to restore and relax in. Therapeutic massage, reflexology, tai-chi and Reiki are just a few of the treatments and experiences you can enjoy.
Gastronomy highlights
The Algarve boasts an explosive culinary scene, especially fine and fresh seafood. Drawing on fresh catch including oysters, squid, cockles and clams, local ocean delights are sure to excite every visitor. Make sure to sample the local favourite, "cataplana" - made up of mussels, clams, chorizo, bacon, garlic, onions and olive oil, along with the regions famous fish stew, "caldeirada". If you're looking to dine in restaurants that have been honoured with Michelin Stars, the Algarve boasts the most Michelin Star restaurants in the whole of Portugal with Ocean Vila Parc, Henrique Leis and Willies Restaurant all on the list. For truly authentic Algarve cuisine, head to Paixa, Estaminé or Churrasqueira Ramires.
I love staying in Quarteira, which is only about 20 minutes from Faro Airport. Quarteira has managed to retain its Portuguese character and is a very popular destination for Portuguese people themselves, particularly from the north of the country. It has a lovely pedestrianised promenade where you can spend time relaxing with lovely walks along the seafront and enjoying the outdoor terraces of the bars and restaurants in the sunshine.
