Gorgeous beaches, warm water and glorious sunshine year-round: the dream holiday destination.

Situated on the extreme south of Portugal, this region was the last to be conquered from the Moors by the Portuguese king in 1292. Traces of the Moorish presence are still seen in its unique architecture - terraces, chimneys and whitewashed houses.

In the northern part of the Algarve, the hills of Monchique and Caldeirão shelter the coast from strong winds. This brightly coloured region, with its fig trees, orange groves and almond trees in blossom, is the most verdant and fertile. The southern coastline consists of a long stretch of fabulous sandy beaches, broken up by extraordinary rugged cliffs and fantastic grottoes.

Central Algarve

• Faro - Regional capital
• Albufeira - Lively resort
• Loulé - Market town
• Olhão - Fishing port
• Lagoa - Wine country

Western Algarve

• Lagos - Historic port
• Portimão - Beaches & marina
• Silves - Moorish castle
• Monchique - Mountain spa
• Aljezur - Wild west coast
• Vila do Bispo - Sagres & Cape

Eastern Algarve

• Tavira - Historic gem
• Castro Marim - Nature reserve
• Alcoutim - River border
• São Brás - Cork country

Beaches

From the wild Atlantic coast at Aljezur to sheltered coves at Albufeira, the Algarve offers over 100 beaches. Many are framed by dramatic ochre cliffs and rock formations.

Golf

Over 40 golf courses make the Algarve one of Europe's premier golf destinations. Championship courses designed by renowned architects dot the landscape from Lagos to Tavira.

Gastronomy

Fresh seafood, cataplana (copper pan stew), grilled sardines, and almond-based sweets. Pair with local wines from Lagoa and Lagos, or medronho spirit from Monchique.

Heritage

Moorish castles at Silves and Aljezur, Prince Henry's fortress at Sagres, Roman ruins at Milreu, and charming whitewashed villages throughout the hills.