The Algarve, Portugal's southernmost region, is known for its 200km of award-winning Atlantic beaches and golf resorts.
Whitewashed fishing villages on low cliffs that overlook sandy coves were transformed in the 1960s, and its central coast between Lagos and Faro is lined with villas, hotels, bars and restaurants.
The region's western Atlantic coast and rugged interior are less developed.
The Algarve offers a range of outdoor activities from surfing to cycling, walking, and birdwatching and its 16 municipalities offer traditional visitor experiences and the chance to discover a rich heritage.
Walking routes
The municipality of Monchique, the most mountainous part of the region known for its healthy spa water, has introduced five new walking routes.
The area is a destination for visitors seeking a tranquil, nature-based and active holiday.
There are three short distance routes and two routes connecting to the Via Algarviana.
This is the long-distance path through the interior of the Algarve that crosses the mountains and the town of Monchique.
A mobile app has been produced to help walkers make their way through the Via Algarviana route, with detailed information on each of the 14 sectors that make up the 300km from Alcoutim in the east to Cabo de S. Vicente in the west.
The Algarve Sun Boat
The Algarve Sun Boat, the first tourist company to use a 100% ecological fleet without any carbon emissions, has introduced a new boat trip and wine tasting experience using electro-solar boats.
Guests join the trip from Portimão Marina which sails up the Arade River towards the inland histori
cal town of Silves to a vineyard.
Bluefleet Boat Trips
Bluefleet Boat Trips offer a way to explore the coastal scenery along Ponta Da Piedade near Lagos with a kayak excursion.
Visitors can navigate through the labyrinths of unique caves, grottos, and rock formations in a completely ecological way. It's the best way to see some of the most natural formations of the Algarve.
www.bluefleet.pt/en/experiences/kayak-grotto-tour/
AquaShow Park
AquaShow Park, a water park in Quarteira, has the only indoor water park in the Algarve.
Skydive Algarve
Skydive Algarve, in the coastal town of Alvor, is offering tandem skydive jumps, landing on the golden sands of Alvor beach.
www.skydivealgarve.com/tandem-skydiving/
Accommodation
Ombria Resort
The Ombria Resort, north of Loulé, which opens in 2023 will include an 18-hole, Par 7 signature course where nature has been fully integrated into the playing experience.
The Clubhouse is being built into the castle-like walls of an existing farm ruin and will feature a sports bar, restaurant, golf shop, swimming pool, sauna and gym facilities.
The Red Chalet
The Vila Vita Collection has added the Red Chalet to its portfolio. Located in the village of Armação de Pêra, the four-bedroom looks to reflect opulent luxury of the Belle Époque era.
www.vilavitacollection.com/en/red-chalet
Tivoli Alvor Algarve Resort
Opening spring of 2023, the five-star Tivoli Alvor Algarve Resort will be 600 meters from the sea and near to the village Alvor, with four restaurants, a golf course and six swimming pools.
www.nh-hotels.com/hotel/tivoli-alvor-algarve-resort
Four Seasons Fairways
Four Seasons Fairways in Quinta do Lago has completed 'an 8 year, €10million refurbishment of the resort which saw a total overhaul of their villa portfolio and Clubhouse area.
www.fourseasonsfairways.com/en/