Nestled in the southernmost region of Portugal, the Algarve offers a compelling blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and enjoyable activities. It’s a place where scenic coastlines meet historic towns, creating an appealing contrast that has consistently attracted visitors.
Recently, I had the opportunity to join a 4-day press trip to The Algarve with Jet2Holidays, and I’m eager to share the experience, highlighting the practicalities and joys of this picturesque region.
Note: I was invited on this press trip by Jet2Holidays and the Visit Algarve tourism board. However, all opinions expressed here are 100% my own.
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How to get to the Algarve
Getting to the Algarve is fairly simple. If you’re coming from Lisbon, you can hop on the high-speed train Alfa Pendular (AP), which connects Lisbon and Faro and runs twice a day. The train stops in Albufeira and Loulé, and the journey will take about three hours.
There’s also another train called The Intercidades that makes the same route three times a day, and takes around three and a half hours.
If you’re flying in from the UK, Jet2 is your go-to. Jet2 offers direct flights from London Stansted Airport and many other major UK hubs, making it convenient for travelers to reach this charming corner of Portugal.
Our flight to Faro was with Jet2 and left at around 7 am and took about 3 hours, which gave us an entire first day to explore the Algarve!
Where to stay in Algarve
The Algarve region is made up of two main cities – Faro and Albufeira, with a bunch of small villages in between. When deciding on where to stay in the Algarve, you’ll likely have to choose to be closer to one of these two main areas.
Pine Cliffs Resort
During my visit, I enjoyed staying at the Pine Cliffs Algarve Resort, which is the hotel Jet2 includes in their luxury holiday package trips to The Algarve. And let me tell you, they made a great choice.
This resort isn’t just a place to rest your head; it’s an experience in itself.
Pine Cliffs beautifully marries location, design, and amenities. It’s positioned on a cliff edge and offers stunning views of the Algarve coastline.
The resort draws inspiration from traditional Portuguese architecture, as you can see from their interior and exterior design, while also providing modern conveniences that cater to today’s traveler.
This resort is massive and is equipped with nine on-site restaurants, two bars (including a really nice champagne bar that overlooks the sea!), a health club, spa, a few different outdoor pools, a kids club, and so much more.
This place has everything you need – you could easily spend your entire Algarve vacation just relaxing here!
Top things to do in the Algarve
If you do manage to peel yourself out of the comfy beds at Pine Cliffs, let’s talk about how to spend your holiday in the Algarve and what to see and do while here.
Admittedly, before this trip I didn’t know much about what the Algarve had to offer besides scenic vistas and relaxation. But Algarve is so much more than just beaches!
Our 4-day itinerary was packed with activities that showcased the best things and places this region has to offer.
Let’s dive into the experiences that make the Algarve a must-visit:
1. Wine tasting at Morgado do Quintão
If you’re anything like me, you love a good glass of wine. And luckily enough, The Algarve region is steeped in a rich history of winemaking.
A visit to Morgado do Quintão winery provides a delightful introduction to Algarve’s wine scene. This charming vineyard, nestled in a small town near Faro, is more than just a place for wine tasting – it’s a journey through time.
The estate has a storied past, with its roots tracing back centuries. The winery was opened in the late 1800s and has been family-owned and operated ever since.
At the winery we got to sample four distinct wines, each made in-house with grapes grown from the property. The tasting was accompanied by a delectable 3-course lunch and dessert, highlighting the region’s fresh fruits and traditional flavors.
After our meal, a guided tour of the vineyard offered insights into the winemaking process and the estate’s history. It’s fascinating how the vineyard, with its old vines and traditional methods, becomes a living narrative of the Algarve region.
2. Boat tour along the coast of Albufeira
A boat trip along the Algarve coastline offers a different perspective of this picturesque region. We embarked on a 2-hour journey with Algar Experience, sailing past stunning rock formations and sea caves that make the Algarve famous.
Free snacks and homemade sangria were offered on board, and the staff gave us some fun facts about the region while we sailed. We sailed passed Benagil Cave, one of the most famous sea caves in the region.
Our boat tour took us to Praia da Rocha, a stunning beach known for its soft sandy stretches and limestone cliffs.
Once we touched down on the beach, we were treated to a delicious BBQ of grilled fish, chicken, veggies, chips, and fresh fruit. It was so filling and such a fun way to enjoy the local cuisine with the Atlantic Ocean as our backdrop.
The vibes on the boat on the way back were great – the music was playing, drinks were flowing, and the party was going! The boat trip was not just a means of transportation but a chance to see the natural beauty of the region up close.
3. Taste craft beer at Algarve Rock Brewery
Beer enthusiasts, rejoice! Faro’s newest craft brewery, Algarve Rock, is redefining the beer scene in the Algarve.
During our visit, we explored a variety of flavors, from refreshing pilsners to robust stouts. My favorite was their raspberry sour. It was light, crisp, and refreshing – perfect after a hot day exploring Faro. Their Rock Climber IPA is apparently another fan favorite!
We got to do a brewery tour which offered a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the brewing process. One interesting tidbit I learned was about the careful balance of hops and malt that creates each beer’s unique flavor profile.
It’s like its own kind of culinary art form, where each ingredient plays a crucial role.
Algarve Rock is located near the historic old town of Faro and is just a short drive from other attractions. After your brewery visit, consider strolling through Faro’s cobbled streets, exploring the local restaurants, or learning about the region’s history at the municipal museum.
When it comes to the city of Faro itself, there is lots to explore. Faro has some stunning traditional architecture and is deeply rooted in history. It’s definitely worth spending an hour or so walking around and burning off some of those beer calories!
The best time to visit Faro depends on what you want to see and do while here, but in general I’d recommend visiting any time there is sun (which is basically always)!
4. Catamaran tour around Ria Formosa Natural Park
The Ria Formosa Natural Park is a series of barrier islands and marshlands created by an earthquake in 1722. It’s a significant ecological site in the Algarve, teeming with diverse wildlife. The park is a haven for fishermen and oyster farmers, thanks to the unique conditions that allow oysters to grow at an accelerated rate.
We took a catamaran tour with iSea Charter and learned that this area is home to around 300 species of birds, such as storks and flamingos. The marshlands also host the largest seahorse colony, which is, unfortunately, estimated to face extinction in the next 20 years.
Our tour provided not only spectacular views but also a deeper understanding of the Algarve’s ecological significance. We were treated to champagne and snacks on board, and got to enjoy a day lounging in the sun on their on-deck hammocks.
The staff was super friendly and accommodating and knew lots of fun facts about the region.
The combination of learning about the Ria Formosa Natural Park’s rich history while getting to sail around on a catamaran was a fun yet educational way to learn more about the region.
I highly recommend this activity as a first look into the Algarve!
Where to eat
I wouldn’t be me if I didn’t talk about food!
A trip to the Algarve isn’t complete without indulging in the local culinary scene. From upscale dining to traditional Portuguese dishes, the region offers a feast for the senses.
Let me share with you some top places where you can savor the flavors of the Algarve.
Paper moon
Located in the W Algarve Hotel, Paper Moon offers an inviting ambiance coupled with a menu that doesn’t disappoint.
We dined on classic Italian dishes with a contemporary twist, such as ravioli, burrata, cannoli, tiramisu, and panna cotta. Each dish was elegantly presented and full of flavor.
The restaurant’s interior, with its stylish design, adds to the overall enjoyable experience. Paper Moon is a great place for those seeking a blend of comfort and sophistication.
Atlantico Restaurante
Atlantico Restaurante serves traditional Portuguese seafood that is as fresh as the ocean breeze. The ambiance inside is welcoming, creating a nice place to unwind and relish a hearty meal.
From the moment we walked in, the aroma of the sea and spices hinted at the culinary journey ahead. Sampling traditional dishes, we appreciated the simplicity and authenticity of the flavors.
I tried the seafood pasta, which had grilled veggies, shrimp, and linguine in a light wine sauce. We also tried some traditional Portuguese appetizers, and of course – dessert!
Atlantico is certainly one of the best places to get a genuine taste of the Algarve. It’s located right along the sea and the views at sunset were incredible.
Restaurante Figueiral
For those eager to dive into traditional Portuguese cuisine, Restaurante Figueiral is a must-visit. I have to say, this was probably my favorite restaurant to eat at during this trip.
The menu offers a variety of local dishes prepared with care and expertise. We enjoyed a selection of meals that felt like a comforting hug from Portuguese home cooking. I had braised duck, which was absolutely incredible.
We also sampled a variety of other appetizers and there was honestly nothing that I tasted that I didn’t like.
The ambiance of the restaurant is warm and inviting, yet upscale and classy. The staff was great at giving dish recommendations and telling us which wines pair best with each dish.
If you’re going to visit any one of the restaurants on this list, choose this one. Trust me.
Final thoughts
This trip was an amazing experience and a great introduction to Portugal’s Algarve region. I learned so much about the history, the culture, and even the economic significance of this area.
There’s so much to the Algarve than lounging on the beach or at the hotel pool (although I did enjoy doing lots of that).
Special thanks to Jet2Holidays and Visit Algarve for planning this trip and inviting me. Everything was carefully curated and planned out so well that I didn’t ever have to worry about anything during my holiday.
If you’re looking for a luxury holiday experience and are interested in exploring the Algarve, I highly recommend checking out Jet2’s luxury holiday packages.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top attractions to visit?
Algarve is famous for its beautiful beaches and stunning natural attractions. Kayaking into the Benagil caves and taking a hike at the Praia da Marinha are some of the must-visit places.
Where should I stay during my trip?
There are plenty of accommodation options in Algarve, from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious resorts. I’d recommend choosing a location based on your interests and preferred activities, as each town or village has its unique charm and features.
How to enjoy Algarve in September?
September is a great time to visit Algarve, as the weather is still warm and less crowded than the peak summer months. I love spending time on the beach during this time, exploring the wild West Coast or learning how to surf at one of the many surfing schools in the region.
Are there any activities to do when it rains?
Rainy days in Algarve can be a bit rare, but they do happen. When it does, I suggest visiting some of the fascinating salt mines or perhaps check out some of the local markets, museums, and art galleries to get acquainted with the history and culture of the region.
What are some must-see hidden gems?
Algarve is full of hidden gems, and getting off the beaten path is always rewarding. One of my top recommendations is to try some percebes (goose barnacles) in Vila do Bispo, a local delicacy that’s worth the visit.
How many days should I spend exploring?
The time you spend in Algarve would ultimately depend on what you want to do. If you want to explore different beaches, visit some natural attractions, and enjoy local culture and food, I’d say at least a week would be ideal. However, if you’re short on time, you can still get a taste of the region in just a few days.
