algarve, portugal
Golden cliffs and azulejo-blue waters
what to do
With its rugged golden cliffs sublimely contrasting with the calm blue-green waters and with mild temperatures during most of the year, it's no surprise that the Algarve became Portugal's premier holiday destination. With the advent of tourism, though, the unbridled economic exploitation and property development quickly resulted in the rise of massive conglomerates along the southern coast. Nevertheless, turning a blind eye to these concrete monstrosities, such as Albufeira, the astonishing beauty of the gilded shore, with its limestone arches and impressive caves, remains untouched. For the best views make sure to visit at least Praia da Marinha, Ponta da Piedade, Praia do Camilo, and Benagil sea cave, that you can also reach from the beach if you're a decent swimmer. Moving towards Cabo de São Vicente, Europe’s most southwesterly point, instead, you'll find the wildest and most genuine Algarve: a windswept land that features miles of surf beaches, swaths of sheep-nibbled meadows, and white-washed villages. Parque da Costa Vicentina is intended for those who relish lone walks in the wilderness, the wind in their hair, star-studded nights, and the essence of a simple life. Finally, since you'll probably land in Faro if you arrive by plane, don't miss the chance to visit the Cidade Velha that, with narrow cobbled alleys, lovely squares dotted with bistros and artisan shops, and storks' nests on every rooftop, surely doesn't lack Portuguese charm.
Algarve is the sound of the ocean crashing against the imposing cliffs, the shrill cries of seagulls suspended in the wind and the pungent scent of the wild herbs growing in its fields. Algarve is the sizzle of the sardines on the grill, the taste of wine in your mouth and the chirping of crickets under a starry sky.
where to eat
It is the immense Atlantic Ocean that provides the main ingredients to the Algarve coastal cuisine. As a result, typical dishes include a great variety of fish and seafood, grilled or cooked in traditional copper pans called cataplanas. Still, the Algarve is not limited to its coast and the inland dotted with olive groves, fig, almond and orange trees, offers more meaty dishes. For a bit of both cuisines head to Portas de São Pedro in Faro and sample their gourmet tapas-style menu. Vila do Bispo, instead, boasts some of the best seafood restaurants in the whole Algarve and among them stands undoubtedly A Tasca do Careca: don't let its appearance deceive you and try the stuffed squids and the grilled prawns. You will want to come back, I promise.
Algarve is the sound of the ocean crashing against the imposing cliffs, the shrill cries of seagulls suspended in the wind and the pungent scent of the wild herbs growing in its fields. Algarve is the sizzle of the sardines on the grill, the taste of wine in your mouth and the chirping of crickets under a starry sky.
what to do
With its rugged golden cliffs sublimely contrasting with the calm blue-green waters and with mild temperatures during most of the year, it's no surprise that the Algarve became Portugal's premier holiday destination. With the advent of tourism, though, the unbridled economic exploitation and property development quickly resulted in the rise of massive conglomerates along the southern coast. Nevertheless, turning a blind eye to these concrete monstrosities, such as Albufeira, the astonishing beauty of the gilded shore, with its limestone arches and impressive caves, remains untouched. For the best views make sure to visit at least Praia da Marinha, Ponta da Piedade, Praia do Camilo, and Benagil sea cave, that you can also reach from the beach if you're a decent swimmer. Moving towards Cabo de São Vicente, Europe’s most southwesterly point, instead, you'll find the wildest and most genuine Algarve: a windswept land that features miles of surf beaches, swaths of sheep-nibbled meadows, and white-washed villages. Parque da Costa Vicentina is intended for those who relish lone walks in the wilderness, the wind in their hair, star-studded nights, and the essence of a simple life. Finally, since you'll probably land in Faro if you arrive by plane, don't miss the chance to visit the Cidade Velha that, with narrow cobbled alleys, lovely squares dotted with bistros and artisan shops, and storks' nests on every rooftop, surely doesn't lack Portuguese charm.
where to eat
It is the immense Atlantic Ocean that provides the main ingredients to the Algarve coastal cuisine. As a result, typical dishes include a great variety of fish and seafood, grilled or cooked in traditional copper pans called cataplanas. Still, the Algarve is not limited to its coast and the inland dotted with olive groves, fig, almond and orange trees, offers more meaty dishes. For a bit of both cuisines head to Portas de São Pedro in Faro and sample their gourmet tapas-style menu. Vila do Bispo, instead, boasts some of the best seafood restaurants in the whole Algarve and among them stands undoubtedly A Tasca do Careca: don't let its appearance deceive you and try the stuffed squids and the grilled prawns. You will want to come back, I promise.