What to do on a short break Algarve: the bucket list
Hike the coastline
The Algarve has one of the most impressive coastlines in Europe with impressive golden cliffs and beaches. So during your short break Algarve you should definitely do the hike from Carvoeiro to Praia da Marinha. It is definitely one of the highlights passing several sink holes, impressive rock formations, cliffs and fantastic beaches. Another great walk is the hike from the center of Lagos to Ponta da Piedade. You’ll pas many incredible views!
Explore the rocks and sea caves by boat
Another way to explore the coastline is by boat. Not only do you get to see the golden cliffs from a different perspective, the boats will take you inside the sea caves and along the impressive rock formations rising from the sea. I did a boat trip at Lagos early in the morning and I also wanted to do the Benagil boat trip to the most famous sea cave over there, but the sea was too rough, so boats didn’t depart. So I have a reason to go back!
Enjoy the sunset
Sunsets are marvelous at the Algarve! Take a picnic with you, put yourself on the beach or on the edge of a cliff and enjoy the view!
Day trip to Lagos
If you’re not staying in Lagos during your short break Algarve, a day trip to this town is worth your time! The city center didn’t really impress me, but the boat trip and the hike to Ponta da Piedade are fun if you like awe-inspiring views!
Rent a bike
For long distances I took a taxi because it was cheaper than renting a car. But for shorter distances (6km) I decided to rent a bike. Cycling through the hills in the sunshine is just liberating. If you’re not into climbing hills on a bike, I don’t recommend renting one. But I’d say get out of that comfort zone and challenge yourself! Just do it. It made me feel strong and free. I was so proud to be able to climb the hills on my bike! (I’m not a super sporty girl and I was still able to do it!)
Enjoy the beach
Feel the golden sand between your toes and relax on the beach! My favorite was Praia da Marinha.
Stay at a nice hotel far from anything else
I loved staying at a hotel far from the touristic city center. It was silent and calm. I could really enjoy the silence, the sunsets and the nature surrounding the hotel.
Eat fish
You can’t get it fresher than straight from the sea!
If you like my pictures I recommend to follow my Instagram account where you can find a lot more!
It’s been so long since I’ve been on any kind of island -hopping expedition. Sounds so lovely to visit the islands by boat. And eating fish is a definite must for me in tropical countries! 🙂
Charmaine Ng | Architecture & Lifestyle Blog
Hi!
The Algarve is a region in the South of Portugal. It’s on the main land…
Wouldn’t call it tropical either ? but sunny for sure!
I’m going to Algarve Portugal in the Easter, and now I’m really excited. I couldn’t find any other websites to tell me any detailed information on this area, and where to visit, so thank you a tonne for creating this page! It was really helpful, and I was just wondering if snorkeling could be an activity on this coastline? Or was the tide too rough?
Hi!
Thanks for your comment!
The tides can be really rough (check my YouTube for videos, there’s even one where we get washed away from the beach 🙂 )
Just check with the locals where to do it and when.
Don’t you see how sad you are? I guess you need to stuck in a serious relationship, building a family and enjoying a trip with your beloved ones…. Alone is such a sadness…
Hi Mikael,
Thanks for your comment. I suggest you read my posts about traveling solo (like https://www.worldwanderista.com/not-every-solo-traveler-is-loner/) . Maybe then you’ll notice I’m not sad at all. On the contrary, I’m a truly happy person, enjoying life at the fullest and I have many great fiends!
I just think it’s sad that people think being single is sad, this says more about those people than it says about me… Being single isn’t sad or bad. Traveling solo doesn’t mean you’re on your own. I meet a lot of people by traveling solo.
If you really think being in a relationship is the only way to be happy, then I suggest to reconsider. First be happy on your own, or you’ll never be happy in a relationship. I know I will always be able to cope on my own. I’m independent, strong, make my own money and I’m proud of that. It’s 2018. The days you need to marry before 30 and should have kids is over. There’s more to life than just that!
And when I meet that one person who is perfect for me, I’m sure I’ll be happy as well, but I’ll still be doing some trips on my own, simply because I love the adventure!
Have a happy life!