To the south of Faro is Ria Formosa natural park: discover an unspoilt paradise with birds, flora, hiking trails and sandy beaches. In Portimão, visit the white-washed church of Nossa Senhora da Conceição, or admire the fort of Santa Catarina. In Albufeira, wander the enchanting old town or explore ancient ruins including the Moorish castle.
In Madeira, you’ll find natural sea pools, traditional fishing villages, soaring cliffs, and lush forests. On the east coast, discover traditional villages where you can immerse yourself in the local culture. Or visit the The Madeira Botanical Gardens, which houses over 2,000 exotic plants.
Wherever you decide to explore, immerse yourself in the beauty of Portugal from the comfort of one of our self-catering apartments.
From seafood to Iberico pork and sweet treats including pastel de nata, indulge in mouthwatering Algarvian cuisine. The town of Almancil hosts Michelin star restaurants, so you can tempt your tastebuds with dishes cooked by expert chefs. The Algarve is also home to beautiful vineyards: enjoy a day out or pair your meals with a local wine. When you opt for self-catering in Portugal, every local culinary delight is at your fingertips.
With dishes including Maderia cake, traditional wines, fresh tuna with garlic and oregano sauce, and espetada (meat cooked on long skewers over hot coals), there are plenty of local delicacies to tempt your tastebuds! In Funchal, explore the Mercado dos Lavradores, a local market selling fruit and vegetables, flowers and fish.
The coastal town of Portimão is home to some of the most beautiful beaches, including Praia da Rocha. Walk to the top of the cliffs for panoramic views of the bay below. Watch the sun set from the Praia do Túnel beach in Albufeira, or discover the secluded paradise of Praia da Coelha beach, with sandstone cliffs and azure blue waters.
For an off-the-beaten-track adventure, head to Praia do Zavial near Sagres to uncover a secret spot, Praia da Ingrina – a hidden cove with an arc of turquoise water. Swim in the calm sea or enjoy a traditional seafood lunch amongst blissful surroundings.
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“I’d highly recommend a trip to the Benagil sea caves, reachable by boat from a nearby town such as Portimão or Albufeira. Or immerse yourself in the region’s natural beauty on a stunning cliff hike, including the trail from Carvoeiro beach to Praia do Vale da Lapa.
There are so many beautiful beaches to explore, but Praia da Falésia beach with its white sand, and Praia de Alvor beach are must-visits. The Algarve is so much more than a beach holiday, though, and you can enjoy a rural jeep safari, or spend time as a family in the various waterparks. There’s plenty of opportunities to practice your swing too – with top-of-the-range golf courses.
You can enjoy some exceptionally fresh seafood in the Algarve region, with Cataplana (Portuguese fish stew), and grilled sardines being speciality dishes.”
Faro Airport is the only airport in the Algarve and offers international flights.
Madeira Airport (FNC) offers international flights and is conveniently located just 20 minutes from Funchal.
Soak up the sun year-round: the Algarve has over 300 days of sunshine a year! For sun-seekers, book to stay in a Portugal holiday apartment between July and August, where temperatures can reach up to 30 degrees. If you want to avoid the crowds, the Algarve is perfect for spring and autumn getaways – and still warm enough to enjoy alfresco lunches. It’s also a great destination for some much-needed winter-sun, with pleasant temperatures for sightseeing.
Although the spring and summer months are a popular time to visit Madeira, December offers mild climates and spectacular firework displays! With Christmas markets and New Year’s celebrations, join in the festivities for a truly memorable experience.
