Culture and beaches in the corner of Europe

The Algarve is much more than sun-drenched beaches with high cliffs and craggy rocks. It is also the region par excellence to discover Portugal's rich culture and history. Add to this delicious local cuisine and you have found the ideal holiday destination.

Your experience trip starts with an excursion to the Cabo de São Vicente, the most south-westerly point of Europe. On the way, you will pass authentic villages, hot sulphur springs and beautiful beaches. And you will discover the fascinating history of Lagos, the place from which many navigators set off on their expeditions.

The Parque Natural da Ria Formosa is also an absolute must. A lagoon with a belt of islets connected to the mainland by footbridges and boats. Finally, you can completely unwind on the kilometres-long beach of Tavira, a cosy village that exudes authenticity.

Day 1 : Departure to Faro - Sagres

You arrive at Faro airport and collect your rental car. You will drive to Sagres, where you will stay for three nights at a Caractère hotel.

Day 2 : Cabo de São Vicente - Carrapateira - Monchique

You leave Fargo and take a trip to Cabo de São Vicente, the most southwestern point of Europe. The 150-year-old lighthouse is one of the most important beacons on the Atlantic. This cape has a hint of myth and mystery: many menhirs can be found in the area, and the ancient Greeks called this the 'Land of the Serpents'. You then drive past the typical Algarve village of Vila do Bispo to Carrapateira, a popular surfing destination and one of the most beautiful places on this coastline. You continue to Arrifana with its beautiful beaches and then back inland via Aljezur and the Monchique mountain massif, known for its hot sulphur springs.

Day 3 : Lagos - Portimão - Lagoa

Today you head to Lagos, a city to enjoy to the fullest. Besides the beautiful sandy beaches surrounded by red or golden rocks, you'll also get to know a fascinating history here. Lagos played an important role in the voyages of discovery and many a sailor sailed out of the port here, heading for unknown horizons. You continue your journey to Portimão, where the large beach of Praia da Rocha is an attraction. After this, you'll depart for Lagoa, the former capital of the Algarve.

Day 4 : Sagres - Faro - Moncarapacho - Castro Marim

From Sagres depart for the eastern Algarve, passing through Faro, visit the Museu Arqueológico to admire the magnificent historical art treasures, including Roman mosaics. At the Doca de Recreio, the pleasure port, enjoy the sun on one of the many terraces. Faro is certainly not to be underestimated as a seaside town either.

Day 5 : The Eastern Algarve

On the fifth day of your trip, visit Olhão, the Algarve's largest fishing port. The beautiful Parque Natural da Ria Formosa is definitely worth a visit: the lagoon is bordered by a belt of small islands connected to the mainland by footbridges and boats. Fancy a walk? The dune areas with their rich vegetation invite you for beautiful walks, and what's more, this nature reserve is the biotope of thousands of seabirds.

Day 6 : Tavira

Tavira is one of the places in the Algarve where authenticity is best preserved. To get to the beaches, take the ferry to the Ilha de Tavira, where you will be immersed in a real holiday atmosphere with a bustle of fun cafes and restaurants under straw roofs.

Day 7 : Going home

Your holiday is sadly coming to an end. Turn in your rental car and take the plane back home. Would you like a longer holiday? Give us a call and we'll be happy to help.