Excursions
There are lots of places worth seeing, too many to visit during one stay but the guide books should help you find the sort of place you would enjoy. There are a couple of big water slide parks which children love, Zoomarine which has dolphins, sea lions etc, Lagos Zoo,and places offering Go-Karting, horse riding etc.
Remember if you are intending to travel any distance in the car in the summer heat it is a good idea to have a bottle or two of still water in the car for emergencies. Petrol stations are numerous along the coast and in built up areas but can be few and far between in the remoter regions so it is worth filling up when you can.
There is specific information for those interested in archeology, birdwatching, sports and beaches.
The links below list, in no particular order, a few of the trips we have enjoyed over the years.
Close to Home
Loulé - a charming, bustling market town renowned as one of the most picturesque but authentic place in the Algarve. Read more
Faro - the Old City, close to the marina is well worth exploring. Read more
Ria Formosa Natural Park is located at the end of the upmarket Quinta do Lago development. There are two well signed nature walks which start at the beach carpark, of about two or three miles each which are well worth trying - it is surprisingly unspoilt so close to this crowded area. Read more
Paderne has a beautiful river, a moorish castle, good walks and picnic spots. Read more
Of course there is no need to leave the house at all during your stay. There is nothing nicer than pouring a drink, sitting on the terrace taking the odd dip in the pool (or infront of the fire in winter) and reading a book or dozing. Your stay can be a chance to relax in peace and recharge the batteries.
Further Afield
Alte, Salir & Querenca - are small pretty villages only a short drive from the house. Read more
Silves - is a fine old town virtually untouched by tourism dominated by a Moorish castle and cathedral. Read More
Portimão & Lagos - are large towns good for shopping and sightseeing with stunning coastlines. Read more
Olhao and Tavira - to the East of Faro are picturesque destinations. Both towns have good nearby beaches on offshore islands reached by ferries. Read more
Monchique - is a popular inland destination. Read more
Pottery is a traditional souvenir from Portugal and there are lots of places to browse and buy. Read more
Barragem do Arade - one of our favorite drives. Read more
All Day or More
Cap St Vincent & Sagres - are worth a visit for the spectacular coastal scenery. Read more
Cova dos Mouros - an interesting reconstruction of an iron age mining settlement. Read more
The Alentejo - the undulating plains behind the Algarve are studded with interesting towns & cities. Read more
Lisbon - only three hours by car on the new motorway. Read more
Spain - Seville and Cadiz are only a couple of hours drive away. Read more