The Algarve in southern Portugal is well known amongst European tourists seeking beautiful beaches and warm weather. It has also become a popular retirement location due to it’s year round mild temperatures and sunny days. We are lucky that Oma & Opa live in the Algarve and we have a great reason to go frequently. Over the years we have visited the area, at least, half a dozen times! When we visit we stay with Oma & Opa and we enjoy a lot of quality family time at their beautiful spacious home near Moncarapacho.
Below are some of the our favorite things to do in the area:

• Fuseta fresh fish restaurants: on the road leading to Fuseta beach (Av. Marginal) you will see a couple of restaurants right on the road (near the municipal market). They grill fresh fish to order over charcoal next to your table. It is fresh, delicious and a great spot as you see boats come and go on the river. You can find more information HERE. After this delicious meal, you can leave your car parked and walk towards the ocean for a stroll.

• Ilha da Culatra, Praia da Armona and Ilha do Farol: these are great day trips! Pack your beach bag, head to Olhao (Cais de Embarque de Olhao), and take a ferry to one of these islands. They all are gorgeous places to enjoy the beach, have some great seafood, and plenty of beaches for long strolls by the ocean. On the weekends this is very popular with tourists and locals, so get on the early ferry as it gets busy!

• Tavira: This picturesque town offers great restaurants and bars by the river Gilao (which reaches the sea through the inlets and lagoon of Rio Formosa Natural Park) as well as a medieval castle. It is fun to stroll the cobblestone streets and soak in the history of this area. It offers many cute stores, cafes, and parks.

• Some of our favorite beaches in the area: Praia Verde, Praia do Nino das Andorinhas, Praia do Castelo, Praia Olhos de Agua are just a few to mention. Most of them offer great parking and many restaurants nearby. For a beautiful beach dinner, head to Praia Verde.

• Praia do Barril: park your car, get on a little train and get to a beautiful beach. If you want to get some steps in, you can also walk! There are many restaurants and stores near the beach so you can plan to spend the day! For a bit more upscaling dining nearby, head to the nearby Village of Santa Luzia.

• Hikes: over the years the local government has invested in defining hiking paths with maps and signs. From nice walks near the beach to hikes in the local mountains and villages. They offer many distances and grades of difficulties. Some good options: Passadico da Altura, Ludo Hiking trail, Cerro de Cabeca, Trilho dos Olhao d’ Aqua. You can find some more options of the Algarve’s most popular hikes HERE. Some of the trails are also great for running and biking!

• Take the train from Fuseta to Vila Real de Santo Antonio: a fun ride with beautiful scenery by the coast. Vila Real (the town closest to the border with Spain) is a fun place to stroll around, have a refreshment and lunch.

Southern Portugal has a lot to offer and the recommendations are just mainly in the south eastern part, as my parents live near Faro. However the whole coast has many things to offer, from amusement parks, to world class malls, water parks, Michelin star restaurants, deep sea fishing, etc

You will not be bored!