Algarve

Portugal's southernmost seaside resort region, famed across Europe for golden cliffs, sea caves and long beaches.

The Algarve is Portugal's southernmost district, Faro; to the north, mountains separate it from the "Alentejo", to the east the Guadiana River forms the border with Andalusia in Spain, and to the west and south it faces the Atlantic. The west (around Lagos) is known for its limestone cliffs and bays: Lagos old town and the rock stacks of Ponta da Piedade, the Benagil sea cave (mostly seen from the water by boat or paddleboard), the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail, and the beaches of Carvoeiro and Marinha; at the far west, Sagres and Cape St. Vincent face the open Atlantic, and the west coast's Southwest Alentejo and Vicentine Coast Natural Park is good for surfing. The east (Faro, Tavira) is flatter, with Faro's old town, the Ria Formosa Natural Park lagoon and its barrier islands, and Tavira's Roman bridge and old town. Inland you will find the Serra de Monchique and Silves Castle. Common itineraries: 3–4 days in the west based in Lagos or Portimão, and 2–3 days in the east based in Faro or Tavira, about a week in total. Faro airport has many European flights, and the train from Lisbon to Faro takes about 3 hours; there is a regional train along the coast, but a car is most convenient for getting between beaches and trails. In Jul–Aug, beaches, accommodation and parking are very tight; the Atlantic water is on the cool side with strong rip currents, and cliff edges are prone to collapse, so keep away from them.

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