Portugal's sunny southern coast stretches over 150 kilometres from Sagres in the west to Vila Real on the Spanish border. The Algarve is the country's premier beach destination, blessed with more sunshine hours than almost anywhere else in Europe, golden sand beaches, and warm Atlantic water.
The central coast around Albufeira and Faro is the most developed, with sandstone cliffs opening to sheltered bays and harbours. This is where most visitors end up. The western Algarve from Lagos to Sagres is wilder and more dramatic -- high granite cliffs, sea grottoes, and hidden coves. It was from Sagres that Prince Henry the Navigator launched the Portuguese Age of Discovery in the 15th century.
The eastern Algarve around Tavira is quieter and more traditional, with the Ria Formosa lagoon system providing some of the best birdwatching in southern Europe. Inland, the rolling hills of the Serra de Monchique offer cork oak forests and a welcome escape from the coast.
Beyond the beaches, the region has a rich Moorish heritage visible in its architecture, whitewashed villages, and carved chimneys. The seafood is outstanding -- grilled sardines, cataplana stew, and fresh shellfish are staples at restaurants everywhere.
