Much To See And Do Exploring The Algarve Coast In Portugal
We found much to see and do exploring the Algarve Coast in Portugal. From our stay in Sintra we headed south to the Algarve. We loved the Algarve region on our first visit and were excited to return.
Everywhere we looked we found the stunning seaside caves and cliffs the region was known for. On day trips, we discovered new small towns in the Algarve. Colourful art and classic Portuguese tile work was everywhere. We ate well on our visit and found fresh seafood every day. Our stay at the Pine Cliffs Resort was the perfect spot to relax and use as a base for exploring.
On this visit to Portugal, we had an amazing two week stay on the Algarve Coast.
Stunning Seaside Caves And Cliffs
On our first visit to the Algarve, we got a glimpse of the amazing cliffs along this southern coast of Portugal. On this return visit, we stayed at the stunning Pine Cliffs Resort and had stunning cliff views all day and night.
We knew there were more stunning cliffs and caves along the Algarve Coast to explore. On our cruise from Barcelona to Lisbon we had one day in Portimao on the Algarve Coast. We saw the cliffs on the coast as we cruised in. But we passed on a day trip to the Benagil Caves at that time because we had more time in the Algarve after we docked in Lisbon.
One day we planned a day trip to the Caroveiro area for a boat trip into the Benagil Caves. While high waves meant we did not get a boat trip, we saw the amazing cliffs and caves in that area from the land. We walked along the boardwalk to Algar Seco and explored the shoreline cliffs and views.
From Caraveiro we moved along the shore to Lagos. After we enjoyed some time in this harbour town, we headed for the stunning cliffs at Ponta da Piedade.
The caves and cliffs along the Algarve Coast were one of the main treats we found exploring the Algarve Coast in Portugal.
Lovely Small Towns To Explore
On every visit to the Algarve we found new small towns to explore. We started this visit to Portugal with a stop in Portimao on our cruise from Barcelona to Lisbon. We wandered the streets and enjoyed a day in the old town of Portimao. Â
Across the harbour from Portimao we saw the charming hillside village of Ferragudo. We were captivated by the views of sandy beaches, whitewashed cottages, the local church and an old fort as we cruised past. Ferragudo was definitely a small town to explore on a visit to Portimao.
One day we headed to Loulé. We started at the interesting fountain in the main square and then visited the Town Hall and the Mercado Loulé.
Next we visited the Loulé Castle and we explored the grounds, toured the museum and walked on the walls. We finished our visit at Hermitage of Nossa Senhora da Conceição (Ermida da Nossa Senhora da Conceicao). This small temple was quite beautiful inside and well worth a stop on our visit to Loulé.
On another day we headed to charming Tavira and started with lunch at the highly recommended Al Mesa Restaurant. Fully sated we wandered around the cobblestone streets and headed up the hills for a great panoramic view. We explored the Igreja de Santiago church and the Tavira Castle. A perfect day trip to Tavira.
On a visit to see the cliffs at Ponta da Piedade, we started in Lagos with lunch and a walk around the harbour. From there we headed up Avenida dos Descobrimentos and saw the historical sites at Forte da Ponta da Bandeira (also known as Fortress of Nossa Senhora da Penha de França) and the Lagos Castle (also known as the Governor’s Castle or Castelo dos Governadores). We were glad we got a quick visit to explore Lagos before we headed to the cliffs.
We loved exploring some new small towns when we went exploring the Algarve Coast in Portugal.
Colourful Art Exploring The Algarve Coast
When we headed out on day trips, we found colourful street art everywhere we looked. The themes varied but we often stopped and admired the creativity.
But art in the streets was not just murals. We found interesting statues in the towns we visited. Some were historical yet others were purely artistic.
When we travelled in Portugal, we always looked for the iconic traditional Portugese blue and white tiles. It was great when we found buildings with tile fronts as we wandered in the small towns in the Algarve. And we even saw objects around town decorated in tile.
We were delighted when we stayed at the Pine Cliffs Resort and discovered intricate tile work around the property. We found artistic and colourful tiles. But also a series of tiles that taught us more about the culture of different regions in Portugal.
Exploring the Algarve Coast in Portugal we found colourful art everywhere.
Great Drinks, Food and Fresh Seafood Everywhere We Went
The food we found in the Algarve was fresh and plentiful. Our days started with delicious breakfast choices on our stay at the Pine Cliffs Resort. And we were happy to start our day by the pool with a cappuccino and mimosa.
As seafood lovers, we always had a great selection to choose from. We made sure to try the seafood Cataplana (stew) several times. And it never disappointed.
We were happy to find great pasta. But even happier when we found a tasty pizza for lunch one day.
It was always good when we found refreshing drinks on our travels. The bar tender Paulo made fun daily cocktails for us on our stay at the Pine Cliffs Resort. Or if we wanted a bubbly drink, the Mirador Champagne Bar offered lots of choice. Lots of perfect ways to end the day with a drink and a view.
David always looked for local dark stout beers. He was happy he found a few new ones to try in the Algarve.
Local sweet treat always helped us finish our meals. And we even got an amazing specialty coffee as a treat.
We had no trouble finding tasty food and drink to fuel our days exploring the Algarve Coast in Portugal.
A Pampering Stay On The Coast
On this return visit to the Algarve Coast we wanted to relax and unwind. A great luxury resort like the Pine Cliffs Resort offered everything we needed for a pampering treat. Our awesome upgraded suite gave us lots of room inside and two different patios to enjoy the outdoor views. Our welcome amenity provided some lovely local treats.
The resort was located at the edge of the stunning cliffs of the Algarve. Ample outdoor spaces meant we could always escape for some quiet time. With multiple pools around the vast property, there were options for everyone.
A 9-hole golf course included a world-famous hole over the gorge and several tennis courts for an early morning game. We found lots of things for children to do. And a complete spa menu for the adults.
It was easy to see how we kept busy on a 14 day stay. And when we were not enjoying the property, the Pine Cliffs Resort was a great base for exploring the Algarve Coast in Portugal.
A Great Two Weeks Exploring the Algarve Coast In Portugal
We enjoyed two weeks exploring the Algarve Coast in Portugal. Our luxury resort offered the perfect spot for relaxation and was great as a base for heading out on road trips. Whether we stayed at the resort or ventured out, we found amazing spots for tasty food and drink. When we headed out on day trips, we found so many great cliffs and caves for stunning sights. And the small towns in the Algarve we visited charmed us.
When we left the Algarve, we headed north to the Alentejo region for the first time. But we knew we would return to the Algarve Coast again and again on our travels in Portugal.
Did you enjoy exploring the Algarve Coast in Portugal? Did you have a favourite experience?
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I don’t hear about Portugal as much as a lot of other destinations. But it sounds amazing! So many beautiful sights as well as great culture, history, and food. Your pictures are great — looks like you guys had a great time!
We love all parts of Portugal but the Algarve has a special draw for us. So many great spots to visit along the coast.
You had a great stay at th Algarve. We hiked the Via Algarviana, a long distance path, A path that runs a little inland, parallel to the coast. There we experienced a different, untouristy Algarve. A highlight was the lighthouse at Cap Sao Vicente at the end of the hike.
It is great when we can get away from the touristy part of the Algarve. Your hike sounds great.
The Algarve looks like such a pretty place. The art installations make it even more cool. I bet there are some good hikes in the area with sea views.
There was indeed so much to see and do in the Algarve. And definitely some good hikes too.
We were supposed to visit the Algarve in 2020 but there was Covid. Reading this makes me want to go back and visit all these places. I would most like to visit Portimao and Tavira, the architecture is stunning. The food looks amazing, but then Portuguese food never disappoints. Hopefully, we can plan a future visit and finally see the Algarve for ourselves.
I am sure you would love the Algarve if you get to re-schedule your trip. So many great small towns and great outdoor sights.
Amazing captures, Algarve is so stunning, I would love to return to explore more. Great murals and azulejos you found..
Every visit to the Algarve makes us want to return and see more.
Loved your journey through the Algarve Coast! The cliffs at Ponta da Piedade and the cobblestone charm of Tavira stood out. It’s like stepping into a postcard. From your adventures, these spots are now on my must-visit list. The way you mixed sightseeing with local eats gives a taste of the Algarve’s best.
You definitely should plan to visit the Algarve Coast one day. A special spot in Portugal with such a variety of great spots to visit.
Can’t wait to be in June and check some of the places in your post! There is always so much to see and do!
We are hoping to get back in the Fall for another visit to the Algarve Coast. Will be watching your trip!
I‘ve never really considered Algarve but it‘s definitely on my bucket list now – thank you!
Glad to bring the Algarve Coast to your attention. It sure keeps drawing us back!
Thank you for sharing! Looking at the images in your article I understand why a taxi driver I met in Lisbon one autumn, told me he always goes to Algarve during the summer to work there, clearly, a magical destination! Wasn’t on my list before, but I porbably should add it soon! Those cliffs and sand truly look like a site worth seeing with your own eyes.
Our first visit to the Algarve ensured we would go back. Definitely a spot you want to visit in Portugal.
We had a great time in the Algarve last year, but missed a few highlights such as Loulé that you visited. I’d love to have a chance to visit further, though will be doing that in the off season to avoid the heat and crowds.
We love being in the Algarve in off season. And heading for the less touristy spots. Lots of options for a return visit.
Perfect timing. We are planning a trip to the area for the end of April! Thanks for all the great info.
I am sure you will love the Algarve in April. A good time before the summer crowds descend!
Your pictures are fantastic and I can’t wait to get to Portugal!
I hope you do get to Portugal one day. And get a chance to explore the Algarve Coast.
I was planning a trip to Portugal in 2020 but I had to postpone a trip because of the situation. I still haven’t visited Portugal but I would absolutely LOVE to go there as soon as possible. Algarve is 100% a must!
I hope you do get to finally visit Portugal and plan some time in the Algarve.
Such a great article and guide for this beautiful region of Portugal. Your photos are always amazing but that photo of the octopus is eye popping!! All the art looks fun. Thanks for sharing.
We loved all the variety we found in the sights as we explored the Algarve Coast.
What a wonderful itinerary. I have not explored the Algarve so much but I do adore the small sleepy towns and you have given me some great inspiration here. Your images are beautiful and the food is making me very hungry!
The small towns off the beaten path are definitely worth exploring when you get to the Algarve Coast.
This was a real trip down memory lane for me! I visited the Algarve about 35 years ago and we stayed in Portimao. I don’t think we explored properly all those years ago and did not fully appreciate what the area has to offer;we were on holiday, not “travellers” in those days. Reading this, I know that we have to return.
We have been back to the Algarve a few times and keep going back. So much to discover on a longer stay.
The Pine Cliffs is 100% where I am heading! They look so magical and like a dream vacation! Thanks for sharing this!
We definitely did have a great stay at the Pine Cliffs. A lovely resort to use as a base to explore the Algarve.
I would just love to visit the Algave after reading your travel story. I loved my week hiking in Madeira in 2020. Portugal is such a beautiful country.
You would definitely love to check out the hiking in the Algarve area. Another beautiful spot in Portugal for you to explore.
We still need to visit Portugal. So many amazing places to visit while there so our itinerary is growing! It has just grown more now :-). We love being able to combine exploring with great food and wine – the Algarve Coast looks like to perfect placed for that!
The Algarve Coast sure does provide so many things to see and do. I am sure you would love it.
I would love to explore the Algarve Coast in Portugal. What a beautiful area especially the seaside caves and cliffs. And the food looks amazing!
The coast area is quite stunning in the Algarve Coast. With lots of great food options indeed.