Welcome to Algarve

You're looking at a very typical Mediterranean climate in the Algarve with winters averaging about 25C and temps in the 40s during summer. The heat is tempered by the coastal breezes, but you'll welcome the sweet coolness of the pool or beach! The weather in Algarve is even more impressive when you consider its 3000 sunshine hours per year - sunnier than California! Spring is a great time to visit because the nights are cooler yet the days are long and hot - typical weather in the Algarve! Ideal months are June and September, and any rain is generally very brief. 

Cheap, expensive and everything in between

The rolling hills and valleys of the Algarve supports a diverse agricultural economy whilst the coastal area is dotted with endless fishing villages and ports so it should come as no surprise to find the cuisine in the Algarve is a combination of game, fresh vegetables and plenty of seafood and shellfish. The flavours are a proud mix of the Moorish spices and Spanish cuisine that Portugal has assimilated for its own over the years. Perhaps most striking is the influence of the Goth Invaders who left behind their preference for stews and the difference a thousand years has made to the recipes.

The budget options – if you're in the Praia da Rocha area your must do dining choice is Adri's, which you'll find close to the Casino. It's no fancy restaurant but it does specialise in home style Portuguese cooking. Expect dishes like Peri Peri Chicken and steak, plus lots of seafood in hearty stews and with plenty of spice.

Mid price options – the town of Burgau sports a great little place called Esquina, on the corner of Rua da Praia close to the middle of the town. It's a small family-run place with the kind of seaside cooking that has made Portugal famous. Try the fish soup - delicate and excellent. They buy fresh from the markets daily and cook what they buy until it all runs out - no frozen stuff here.

Splurge – the delightful village of Luz has an impressive restaurant called Dolphin run by some ex-pat South Africans. They've brought the more delicate spices of Africa to the table but the Portuguese steak is still excellent. They also venture to the markets and to the surrounding countryside for their daily wares and the effort shows in the end result.

The Algarve - nightlife, beaches and history
The sunshine will draw you here, the strength of poolside Margaritas and  delicious fresh seafood will keep you here, but what will draw you back next year and the year after that is the unforgettable local scenery. Moorish history, monuments and natural wonders are  a dime a dozen in the Algarve and you'll have a wonderful time tracking them all down.

Natural wonders  - close to the town of Lagos (in itself a fascinating place to visit), is Ponta da Piedade. It's a stunning geographic landmark jutting out into the azure sea. You can park a car at the top and walk down the cliff side, appreciating the view all the way, or you can take a boat tour and see the grotto from the sea. There are organised boats, or a local fisherman will happily take you for a small fee.

Man-made wonders  - the Albufeira Adventure Park is just outside the town of Santa Eualia and offers paintball plus electrifying obstacle courses you and the kids can compete on. There are high wire ziplines and much more. 

Best Beach – just outside Lago lies stunning Camilo Beach in a fabulous setting. You make your way down the steep wooden steps onto the beach and enjoy the surrounding rock formations, the golden sands and the warm waters. Ideal for swimming and snorkelling and just lazing the day away.