Portugal: Don’t Skip the Algarve

Most travelers from the U.S. who make their way over to Portugal only visit Lisbon and maybe Porto, but often the south of Portugal and the Algarve is overlooked. I’m writing to tell you that Portugal deserves an in-depth trip all to itself! It is too varied a country with too much to offer to only warrant three days tacked onto the beginning or end of your Spain trip or European cruise.

Over the course of my next few blog posts, I’ll be sharing the splendors of Portugal (it’s too much for one post!)—how it is SUCH a unique destination with such vastly different landscapes that all have something unique to offer travelers. For such a small country, it has packed SO much scenic value into its borders that it’s simply staggering.

For now, I’m going to focus on the tail end of my trip. If I’m being completely honest, the Algarve (southern region in Portugal) was added to my own trip as a sort of afterthought. However, I couldn’t be happier with that last minute decision. The region boasts some of the most beautiful cliffs and ocean scenic views I’ve ever laid eyes on.

If you’ve ever heard me talk about my love for the Pictured Rocks in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan and how gorgeous they are, then the cliffs of the Algarve are like the Pictured Rocks on steroids. The rocks are perhaps not as colorful, but they are about twice as dramatic.

What’s different about the Algarve?

So many people think of the Algarve only as a relaxing resort beach stop. But it is so much more than that. In fact, during my visit, it was too cold for swimming in the ocean anyway. During November many of the beaches and towns are all but deserted. Although I’d love to go back in the summer when everything is bustling, rooftop bars and cliffside dining in full swing, I LOVED experiencing it during the off season (you know me, always preaching that #shoulderseason travel!).

The area is FULL of stunning hiking and backpacking trails, caving tours (we did an AMAZING cave tour with boattrip.pt – ask Aum Journeys for more details!), castles, wineries, and more. I’m baffled as to why the Algarve isn’t known as an adventure destination for young people! I spent an entire day exploring the dramatic cliffs on foot and could have happily spent two more days doing so.

 

Small local restaurants you’ll LOVE!

It’s safe to walk around too, with small towns dotting the coast and boasting some of the most amazing seafood restaurants. I even came across one of my favorite restaurants of the entire trip in Carvoeiro called Le Crô, which is a tapas restaurant owned by a charming couple. They’re SO friendly, and they take the time to get to know your wine preferences, then pair your tapas choices with something fitting. The truffle mushroom salad was to die for! Be sure to make reservations, as the place is quite cozy and does fill up.

Getting there…

The Algarve is an easy drive from Lisbon. It’s about two and a half to three hours by car and it’s all freeway and barely any turns until you get there. I rented a car on and only paid $88 for a three day rental! How can you pass up the Algarve with prices like that?! I read about a great discount car rental site (ask me for more details!) in my trusty Lonely Planet and I’m SO glad it was recommended to me. They have some really affordable rates for Portugal and other areas in Europe as well.

Portugal’s tourism board has the tagline “Don’t Skip Portugal”, which is a critical piece of advice for those planning their European adventures. But I’m going to go a step further and say Don’t Skip the Algarve either!

My next post will be an accommodation review of the beautiful Tivoli Carvoeiro, so stay tuned for some #hoteleyecandy and recommendations for your own trip to the sunny Portuguese coast!

For more personalized recommendations on where to stay in the Algarve, dining, and activities that are unique to YOU, CONTACT Aum Journeys today!

Peace and Love,

CAITLYN WITHOUT A COMPASS