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Algarve Guides

Local knowledge, honest advice, and things we've learned

Our guides and articles are written by locals and frequent visitors who know the Algarve inside out. From in-depth neighbourhood guides and seasonal travel tips to activity-specific advice and hidden gem recommendations, these articles go beyond the tourist brochure. Whether you're a first-time visitor planning your itinerary or a returning traveller looking to explore somewhere new, our guides provide the practical detail and local insight you need to make the most of your time in the Algarve.

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Where to Stay in the Algarve: A 2026 Guide to Every Region

The Algarve isn't one place — it's three. The wild west, the sunny central resort coast, and the quiet east. This guide breaks down where to stay based on what you actually want from a holiday: nightlife, family-friendly beaches, golf, hiking, romance, or just somewhere quiet.

10 min readby Active Algarve Team

The Seven Hanging Valleys Trail: A Complete Guide to the Algarve's Most Beautiful Coastal Hike

The Seven Hanging Valleys Trail is widely considered one of Europe's most beautiful coastal walks. This complete guide covers logistics, what to expect, and why spring 2026 is the perfect time to hike it.

7 min readby Active Algarve

Easter in the Algarve 2026: Family Activities, Local Events, and the Best Deals from the UK and Ireland

Planning an Easter getaway to the Algarve? From traditional flower torch parades to water parks and family-friendly beaches, here's everything you need for Easter 2026 in Portugal's sunny south.

6 min readby Active Algarve

Algarve Wine Tourism in 2026: The Best Vineyards, Tastings, and Wine Experiences

The Algarve's wine scene is having a moment. With the Iberian Wine Tourism Congress in the region this year, here's your guide to the best vineyards, tastings, and wine experiences in Portugal's sunniest corner.

7 min readby Active Algarve

The EDP Art Reef in Albufeira: Your Complete Guide to the Algarve's Underwater Art Gallery

Thirteen massive underwater sculptures by Portuguese artist Vhils sit one nautical mile off Albufeira's coast. Here's everything you need to know about visiting the Algarve's most unique attraction.

7 min readby Active Algarve
The Algarve: Why UK and Irish Travellers Are Choosing Portugal as Their Safe Haven in 2026

The Algarve: Why UK and Irish Travellers Are Choosing Portugal as Their Safe Haven in 2026

Geopolitical uncertainty is driving a surge in Algarve bookings from the UK and Ireland. Here's why Portugal's southern coast has become the go-to alternative to Middle Eastern beach destinations in 2026.

6 min readby Active Algarve
Algarve Golf Guide: Best Courses, Green Fees & What to Know Before You Play

Algarve Golf Guide: Best Courses, Green Fees & What to Know Before You Play

The Algarve has over 40 golf courses and is one of Europe's premier golf destinations. Here's an honest guide to the best courses, green fees, best months to play, and how to combine golf with the rest of what the Algarve offers.

11 min readby Active Algarve Team
Algarve Weather Guide: What to Expect Every Month of the Year

Algarve Weather Guide: What to Expect Every Month of the Year

A month-by-month breakdown of Algarve weather — temperatures, rainfall, sea conditions, and the best times to visit for hiking, surfing, golf, and beach holidays.

10 min readby Active Algarve Team
Ye at Estádio Algarve: Everything You Need to Know

Ye at Estádio Algarve: Everything You Need to Know

Ye is performing at Estádio Algarve in Portugal. Here's everything UK and Irish fans need to know — location, transport, what to do in Faro, and how to make a trip of it.

7 min readby Active Algarve Team

15 Best Beaches in the Algarve: From Secret Coves to Family Favourites

The Algarve has over 100 beaches, from tiny cliff-backed coves you scramble down to reach, to long golden stretches with full facilities. These 15 are the ones worth planning your trip around.

by Active Algarve Team
Where to Eat in the Algarve: From Fresh Fish to Fine Dining

Where to Eat in the Algarve: From Fresh Fish to Fine Dining

The Algarve food scene goes far beyond tourist-trap grilled fish. From Michelin-starred restaurants to family-run tascas, here's where locals actually eat.

by Active Algarve Team
Algarve Boat Tours: Caves, Dolphins & Coastline Cruises Compared

Algarve Boat Tours: Caves, Dolphins & Coastline Cruises Compared

From intimate RIB speedboats to luxury catamarans, there are dozens of ways to see the Algarve from the water. This guide compares the best options so you can pick the right trip.

by Active Algarve Team
Visiting the Algarve in Spring: What to Expect in April, May & June

Visiting the Algarve in Spring: What to Expect in April, May & June

Spring is the Algarve's best-kept secret. Wildflowers carpet the cliffs, the water warms up, and you'll have the beaches almost to yourself. Here's your complete spring planning guide.

by Active Algarve Team
Best Things to Do in Lagos: A Local's Guide to the Algarve's Gem

Best Things to Do in Lagos: A Local's Guide to the Algarve's Gem

From dramatic sea caves to sunset sailing, Lagos packs more adventure per square kilometre than anywhere else in southern Portugal. Here's your insider guide to the best experiences.

by Active Algarve Team
Family-Friendly Outdoor Activities in the Algarve

Family-Friendly Outdoor Activities in the Algarve

The best outdoor adventures for families in the Algarve, from easy kayaking and nature walks to wildlife spotting and beach activities. Age-appropriate options for children of all ages.

12 min readby Active Algarve Team
Water Sports in the Algarve: Diving, Snorkeling, and Sailing Guide

Water Sports in the Algarve: Diving, Snorkeling, and Sailing Guide

Discover the Algarve's underwater world through diving and snorkeling, or explore by sail. Complete guide to scuba sites, snorkeling spots, sailing options, and other water activities.

11 min readby Active Algarve Team
Cycling the Algarve: Routes, Tours, and Bike Rental Guide

Cycling the Algarve: Routes, Tours, and Bike Rental Guide

Everything you need to know about cycling in the Algarve, from the coastal Ecovia to mountain climbs in the Serra de Monchique. Routes, bike rental, tours, and practical tips for all abilities.

11 min readby Active Algarve Team
Rock Climbing and Coasteering Adventures in the Algarve

Rock Climbing and Coasteering Adventures in the Algarve

Your guide to adventure sports in the Algarve, from world-class rock climbing at Sagres and Rocha da Pena to thrilling coasteering experiences combining cliff jumping, swimming, and exploration.

10 min readby Active Algarve Team
Kayaking and SUP in the Algarve: Best Spots and Tours

Kayaking and SUP in the Algarve: Best Spots and Tours

Complete guide to kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding in the Algarve, featuring sea caves, coastal explorations, and calm lagoon paddling with practical tips and tour recommendations.

10 min readby Active Algarve Team
Best Hiking Trails in the Algarve: Complete Guide

Best Hiking Trails in the Algarve: Complete Guide

Discover the Algarve's most spectacular hiking trails, from dramatic coastal cliffs to mountain paths through cork oak forests. Complete guide with difficulty levels, distances, and practical tips.

12 min readby Active Algarve Team
10 Hidden Beaches Only Locals Know About

10 Hidden Beaches Only Locals Know About

Escape the crowds and discover the Algarve's secret beaches that most tourists never find.

8 min readby Active Algarve Team
The Ultimate Algarve First-Timer's Guide

The Ultimate Algarve First-Timer's Guide

Everything you need to know for your first trip to the Algarve - where to stay, when to visit, and what not to miss.

7 min readby Active Algarve Team

The 7 Best Hikes in the Algarve (2026 Guide)

From clifftop coastal paths to inland mountain trails, these are the seven hikes that capture the Algarve at its best — picked for variety, accessibility, and pure walking pleasure.

9 min readby Active Algarve Team