PLACES TO STAY
Luxury, Five-Star Hotels
Anantara Vilamoura Algarve Resort
Avenida dos Descobrimentos, Vilamoura • (289) 317 000 • www.anantara.com • €€
Overlooking the Oceânico Victoria golf course, this modern and attractive property boasts three pools and a tennis court among its premium guest facilities.The therapists at the Elements Spa by Banyan Tree deliver an authentic Oriental spa experience. Among the massages available is the Balinese massage, which stimulates circulation, increases energy flow and alleviates tension.
Cascade Wellness & Lifestyle Resort
Praia do Canavial, Lagos • (282) 771 500 • www.cascaderesortalgarve.com • €€€
Located on a secluded clifftop, all rooms and suites enjoy either pool or ocean views. Amenities include a spa, a golf academy, tennis courts and the Senses restaurant.
Conrad Algarve
Estrada do Quinta do Largo, Quinta do Largo • (289) 350 700 • www.conradalgarve.com • €€€
Top-notch contemporary design and use of the latest technology define this exceptional property. Amenities include the Michelin-starred restaurant Gusto a spa, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, a children’s club and nearby championship golf courses.
Hotel Quinta do Lago
Quinta do Lago, near Almancil • (289) 350 350 • www.hotelquintadolago.com • €€€
Overlooking Ria Formosa lagoon and the ocean, this sophisticated resort has two excellent restaurants: the Brisa do Mar (traditional Portuguese cuisine) and Cá d’Oro (famed for its Italian gastronomy). Leisure facilities include a golf course and a health club with a gym and sauna.
Vila Joya Boutique Resort
Praia da Galé, Albufeira • (289) 591 795 • www.vilajoya.com • €€€
An exclusive gourmet retreat, with splendid seafront gardens and a two-starred Michelin restaurant (see Vila Joya, Albufeira). Spa facilities and Ayurvedic massage are available.
Vila Vita Parc Resort & Spa
Map F5 • Alporchinhos, Porches, Armação de Pêra • (282) 310 100 • www.vilavitaparc.com • €€€
At this luxury clifftop resort set above a secluded beach, Moorish-inspired architecture is complemented by contemporary flourishes. Guest amenities include the Vital Spa, an 18-hole putting green and a kids’ park. The Ocean Restaurant has two Michelin stars (see Ocean, Alporchinhos).
Spa Hotels and Resorts
Hilton Vilamoura As Cascatas Golf Resort & Spa
Rua da Torre d’Agua, Vilamoura • (289) 304 000 • www.hiltonvilamouraresort.com.pt • €€
Portugal’s largest spa, 7 Seven Spa, is located here. Hydro-massage pools, ice fountains and aromatic steam baths exemplify the resort’s aquatic theme. The invigorating water tunnel experience is a favourite option for guests. Treatments include a detox bath and a body wrap with sculpting massage.
Real Marina Hotel & Spa
Avenida 5 de Outubro, Olhão • (289) 091 300 • www.realmarina.realhotelsgroup.com • €€
The hydrotherapy treatments at the Real Spa Therapy are highly regarded and are offered as baths, wraps and massages. There are nine treatment rooms, and facilities include a Turkish bath, a sauna and a Vichy shower. The spa has wonderful views over the Ria Formosa.
Bela Vista Hotel & Spa
Avenida Tomás Cabreira, Praia da Rocha • (282) 460 280 • www.hotelbelavista.net • €€€
Branded by L’Occitane, the boutique spa uses some of the region’s traditions in its massage techniques: the “Ritual de Amêndoa Algarvia”, for example, includes an exfoliation using almond paste. It also houses the Michelin-starred Vista Restaurant.
Epic Sana Algarve
Olhos de Água, Albufeira • (289) 104 300 • www.algarve.epic.sanahotels.com • €€€
Guests can have massages and treatments in a garden pavilion at this modern oceanfront resort. The Sayanna Wellness experience also embraces an intoxicating variety of treatments designed by Aromatherapy Associates. Fitness retreats and boot camps can be arranged.
Pine Cliffs Resort
Praia da Falésia, Albufeira • (289) 500 300 • www.pinecliffs.com • €€€
At 1000 sq m (3,300 sq ft), the Destination SPA serves the entire resort, including the Pine Cliffs Ocean Suites. The state-of-the-art facility, one of the newest in the Algarve, encompasses 11 treatment rooms and the impressive Spa Suite.
Vilalara Thalassa Resort
Praia das Gaivotas, Lagoa • (282) 320 000 • www.vilalararesort.com • €€€
Vilalara features one of the world’s finest thalassotherapy (sea-water bathing) centres, as well as an extensive range of facilities and treatments for health, beauty and wellbeing. Two excellent restaurants on-site.
Resort Hotels for Families
Grande Real Santa Eulália Resort & Hotel Spa
Praia de Santa Eulália, Albufeira • (289) 598 000 • www.granderealsantaeulaliahotel.com • €€
This five-star resort has direct beach access and offers pampering at its Real Spa Thalasso. Baby-sitting is offered with advance notice, and children can try activities at the complimentary children’s club.
Hotel Algarve Casino
Avenida Tomás Cabreira, Praia da Rocha • (282) 402 000 • www.gruposolverde.pt • €€
This offers the complete family holiday package. Apart from the famous Praia da Rocha beach, leisure facilities on hand include a swimming pool, a video room, a children’s zone and a casino that stages cabaret.
Hotel Belavista da Luz
Praia da Luz, Lagos • (282) 788 655 • www.belavistadaluz.com • €€
A family-run hotel, built in a horseshoe shape to enclose two inviting pools and a “children’s zone”. Golf, horse riding, walking tours and scuba diving can be organized by staff.
Hotel Dom Pedro Marina
Rua Tivoli, Vilamoura • (289) 300 780 • www.dompedro.com • €€
With its own exclusive beach area next to Vilamoura marina, this is a popular choice. Childcare is available, and facilities for adults include pools and a restaurant specializing in fine Italian cuisine.
Pestana Alvor Park
Quinta do Ribeiro, Alvor • (282) 000 500 • www.pestana.com • €€
An attractive aparthotel and villa complex. Its facilities include indoor and outdoor pools, a sauna, gym and a games room. A children’s fun centre is complemented by nearby golf, tennis and watersports facilities.
Vila Galé Albacora
Quatro Águas, Tavira • (281) 380 800 • www.vilagale.com • €€
A children’s club and entertainment, plus two swimming pools, a diving centre and the wonderful beaches at Ilha de Tavira make this hotel perfect for families.
The Lake Spa Resort
Praia da Falésia, Vilamoura • (289) 320 700 • www.thelakeresort.com • €€€
One of the pools here is designed as a shallow lake with a sandy beach. Spacious apartments are available, and there is a spa and three restaurants. Baby-sitting services are available, and youngsters can enjoy the activities at the Koala Club.
Martinhal Beach Resort & Hotel
Quinta do Martinhal, near Sagres • (282) 240 200 • www.martinhal.com • €€€
Ideal for families with children of all ages, this resort offers spacious and stylishly designed accommodation. The restaurants and spa are also family-friendly. The fashionable hotel section is more suited to couples.
Boutique Places to Stay
Aldeia da Pedralva
Pedralva, north of Vila do Bispo • (282) 639 342 • No air conditioning • www.aldeiadapedralva.com • €€
An entire country village has been carefully restored to offer self-catering stays in wonderfully authentic whitewashed cottages overlooking pretty countryside. Members of staff are all friendly and helpful, and there is also a handy shop and an on-site bar and restaurant.
Fazenda Nova Country House
Estiramentens, Santo Estevão • (281) 961 913 • www.fazendanova.eu • €€
Set in a pretty valley, this British-run Portuguese country house has self-contained apartments and ten large suites – nine with a private garden or terrace. Traditional architecture is combined with fresh and contemporary interior design, and the grounds are delightful.
Forte de São João da Barra
Barroca, Cabanas • (960) 375 419 • No air conditioning • www.fortesaojoaodabarra.com • €€
This beautifully refurbished and secluded 17th-century fort overlooks the crystal-blue lagoons of the Ria Formosa. The grounds incorporate a plunge pool. Call for directions.
Pousada de Tavira – Convento da Graça
Rua D. Paio Peres Correia, Tavira • (281) 329 040 • www.pousadas.pt • €€
Housed in a stunningly refurbished, 16th-century convent replete with cloisters, the pousada’s modern rooms overlook a pool and the old town walls. Guest amenities include the Magic Wellness centre and a notable Portuguese restaurant.
Quinta das Achadas
Estrada da Barragem, Odiáxere • (282) 798 425 • No air conditioning • www.algarveholiday.net • €€
This refurbished family-run farmhouse is set in wonderful gardens on a tranquil, 3-hectare site. There is a swimming pool, an outdoor Jacuzzi and a children’s play area. A communal dinner is prepared twice a week.
Quinta do Caracol
Rua de São Pedro, Tavira • (281) 322 475 • www.quintadocaracol.com • €€
A 17th-century farm that has been converted into a series of beautiful apartments, each named after flowers. Birdsong from the garden aviary drifts through the outdoor dining areas.
Vila Valverde Design & Country House
Estrada da Praia da Luz, Valverde • (282) 790 790 • No disabled access • www.vilavalverde.com • €€
A boutique hotel with 15 individually decorated rooms. Amenities include heated indoor and outdoor pools, plus a fitness centre.
Quinta Bonita
Matos Morenos, Quatro Estradas, near Lagos • (282) 762 135 • www.quintabonitaalgarve.com • €€€
Embedded in landscaped grounds, this peaceful retreat combines traditional character with luxurious boutique flourishes. There is an enticing outside pool.
Hotels with Golf Courses
Amendoeira Golf Resort
Morgado da Lameira • (282) 320 820 • www.amendoeiraresort.com • €€
Fully equipped, self-catering apartments and villas with pools. The clubhouse features a restaurant and a golf academy, and overlooks the Faldo and O’Connor Jnr layouts. A free shuttle bus to the beach operates in July and August.
Morgado Golf & Country Club
Morgado do Reguengo • (282) 241 540 • www.nauhotels.com • €€
All 98 rooms at this stylish hotel overlook the Morgado Golf Course. Guests have the use of four swimming pools, and a kid’s club functions between July and September. Views from the restaurant and bars take in the region’s rustic hinterland.
Penina Hotel & Golf Resort
Penina, near Portimão • (282) 420 200 • www.penina.com • €€
Guests at this luxury resort can enjoy the use of the 18-hole, Sir Henry Cotton layout, which has hosted the Portuguese Open several times. There are also two 9-hole courses.
Pestana Vila Sol Golf & Resort
Morgadinhos, near Vilamoura • (289) 320 320 • www.pestana.com • €€
A renowned 18-hole Championship golf course designed by architect Donald Steel meanders around this five-star resort via several exciting water features.
Dona Filipa & San Lorenzo Golf Resort
Vale do Lobo, Almancil • (289) 357 200 • www.donafilipahotel.com • €€€
This resort offers five-star accommodation, and priority of play at the par 72 scenic masterpiece is offered to hotel guests.
Monte Rei Golf & Country Club
Sítio do Pocinho, Sesmarias • (281) 950 950 • www.monte-rei.com • €€€
Short-term villa rentals at this serene country club make it ideal for small groups or families. Exclusive leisure amenities include swimming pools, tennis courts, a spa and fine dining. There is also the peerless Jack Nicklaus-designed championship golf course (see Monte Rei).
Pine Cliffs Hotel
Praia da Falésia, Albufeira • (289) 500 100 • www.pinecliffs.com • €€€
The hotel has a spectacular clifftop course. The course and luxury hotel form the hub of the exclusive Pine Cliffs resort.
Mid-Range Hotels
Eurotel Altura
Avenida 24 de Junho, Altura • (281) 956 450 • www.eurotel-altura.com • €€
With a perfect location by the ocean, this smart, family-friendly resort offers rooms that face the ocean. Facilities include a wellness center, spa, tennis court and a children’s club. The Quinta da Ria golf course is nearby.
Hotel Eva
Avenida da República, 1, Faro • (289) 001 000 • www.ap-hotelsresorts.com • €€
Hotel Eva is very comfortable and conveniently situated right on Faro’s marina. The panorama from the rooftop swimming pool is outstanding and takes in the Ria Formosa. The city’s historic old quarter is a 5-minute walk away.
Hotel Jupiter
Avenida Tomás Cabreira 92, Praia da Rocha • (282) 470 470 • www.jupiteralgarvehotel.com • €€
Superbly appointed throughout, Hotel Jupiter’s beachfront accommodation includes “Deluxe” rooms, which enjoy majestic ocean views. An excellent spa offers a hydrotherapy circuit, among other treatments. There is a fitness room and indoor and outdoor pools (covered over in winter). The restaurant serves delicious regional cuisine.
Hotel Termal, Villa Termal das Caldas de Monchique Spa Resort
Caldas de Monchique • (282) 910 910 • www.monchiquetermalresort.com • €€
One of five hotel options within the Villa Termal das Caldas de Monchique Spa Resort, Hotel Termal’s 36 “Essencial” rooms are classically styled and afford pleasing views over the gardens and surrounding woodland.
Memmo Baleeira
Sítio da Baleeira, Sagres • (282) 624 212 • www.memmohotels.com • €€
Memmo’s stylish rooms enjoy picturesque garden and harbour views. Facilities include an excellent restaurant, spa, gym and a pool. There is also a surf centre where outdoor activities can be booked. Reservations are recommended for August.
Porto Bay Falésia
Quinta do Milharo, near Olhas de Agua • (289) 007 700 • www.portobay.com • €€
Overlooking the picturesque Praia da Falésia, this family-friendly resort’s prime location is complemented by a glorious outdoor pool surrounded by verdant gardens. The dining experience includes the Mediterranean-themed Il Basílico Restaurant.
Pousada Palácio de Estói
Palácio de Estói, Estói • (289) 990 150 • www.pousadas.pt • €€
The ancestral home of the Viscount of Estói has been carefully renovated. A contemporary wing was attached to create a luxurious pousada with ceiling murals, a spa, a swimming pool and French gardens.
Tivoli Carvoeiro
Vale do Covo, Carvoeiro • (282) 351 100 • www.tivolihotels.com • €€
Commanding views over precipitous cliffs, this hotel is within walking distance of Carvoeiro town centre. The interior is Moorish in influence, and some rooms have spectacular ocean vistas. The health club has a Jacuzzi, sauna and Turkish bath, and there is a diving school nearby.
Tivoli Lagos
Rua António Crisógono dos Santos, Lagos • (282) 790 079 • www.tivolihotels.com • €€
Near the old town, this smart hotel comprises a series of buildings set around a swimming pool. Guests also have the use of an exclusive beach club on the seafront.
Vila Monte
Sítio dos Caliços, Moncarapacho • (289) 790 790 • www.vilamonte.com • €€
A rustic-chic design defines this upmarket boutique property, located 15 minutes inland from the beach. Housed in different buildings, the rooms and suites are stylishly furnished. Guest amenities extend to the homely À Terra restaurant. Other activities include yoga, hiking, horseback riding, golf lessons and dolphin-watching.
Value for Money
Albergaria Vila Lido
Avenida Tomás Cabreira, Praia da Rocha • (282) 424 127 • Closed mid-Oct–Mar • www.vilalido.pt • €
Overlooking the beach, this charming villa, with its distinctive blue window shutters, exudes grace and elegance. Rooms are light and airy and offer either sea or garden views. Breakfast is eaten on a beautiful veranda.
Alte Hotel
Estrada de Santa Margarida, Alte • (289) 478 523 • www.hotelinalgarve.top • €
Alte is one of the prettiest villages in the Algarve, surrounded by the Serra do Caldeirão mountains. The views from the hotel are stunning, although its position at the summit of a hill means that having your own transport is useful. Leisure amenities include a swimming pool, tennis court and billiards.
Hotel Colina dos Mouros
Pocinho Santo, Silves • (282) 340 470 • Closed Nov–Mar • www.colinahotels.com • €
There is a great view of Silves castle from this friendly hotel, just a few minutes’ walk from the historic quarter. A sun terrace overlooks a circular pool and rows of orange groves.
Hotel Residencial Salema
Rua 28 de Janeiro, Salema • (282) 695 328 • www.hotelsalema.com • €
The hotel building is the centrepiece of an old quay that retains the charm of colourful boats and rows of fishermen’s huts. The rooms have views of the bay, and there are many bars, restaurants and cafés nearby.
Loulé Jardim
Praça Manuel de Arriaga, 8100 Loulé • (289) 413 094 • www.loulejardimhotel.com • €
Refurbished to an early 20th-century design, the mustard-and-cream façade faces a quiet park in the centre of Loulé. The town’s castle and Saturday market are both within easy reach, and the rooftop pool is a bonus.
Alcazar Hotel
Rua de Ceuta 9, Monte Gordo • (281) 510 140 • www.hotelalcazaralgarve.com • €€
With clean and comfortable beachfront rooms, this hotel is ideal for couples. It has won praise for its excellent customer service and hearty breakfasts. There is a bar and two outdoor pools. A perfect base from which to explore the eastern Algarve.
Casa da Moura
Rua Cardeal Neto 10, Lagos • (967) 177 590 • www.casadamoura.com • €€
The interior design of this 100-year-old manor house reflects a colourful Moorish style. A tiled patio garden surrounds a small swimming pool. The breakfast terrace affords fine views over the old town walls.
Vila São Vicente
Largo Jacinto D’Ayet, Albufeira • (289) 583 700 • www.hotelsaovicentealbufeira.com • €€
This traditionally-styled boutique property has rooms with terraces or balconies, and some with glorious ocean views. A modest swimming pool is sunk into the outside patio. The beach, old town and marina are a 10-minute walk away.
Budget Hotels
Casa Beny
Rua São Domingos 13, Loulé • (289) 417 702 • No credit cards • Breakfast not included • €
A smart property, located in the centre of Loulé. The sleek, well-appointed rooms all have a TV and fridge, and guests also have access to a very handy rooftop terrace, where superb views of the castle can be enjoyed.
Pensão Bicuar Residencial
Rua Vasco da Gama 5, Olhão • (289) 714 816 • No credit cards • No air conditioning • www.pensionbicuar.com • €
Centrally located, this self-catering budget option offers different room categories, all with a private shower. There is a fully equipped guest kitchen and Wi-Fi.
Pensão Luar
Rua da Várzea 28, Odeceixe • (282) 947 194 • No credit cards • No air conditioning • €
Some of the rooms here overlook the sweeping River Seixe valley, and this friendly pensão is ideal for the beach at Odeceixe. While secluded, this area is popular in summer, so booking is advisable.
Residência Matos Pereira
Rua Dr Sousa Martins 57, Vila Real de Santo António • (281) 543 325 • No credit cards • Air conditioning in some rooms • www.residenciamatospereira.com • €
Set in a pedestrianized street, the Residência looks like a typical town house, and is matched by an atmosphere that is both domestic and jovial.
Residencial Lagôas
Rua Almirante Cândido dos Reis 24, Tavira • (281) 328 243 • No credit cards • No air conditioning • €
Polished black and white azulejos adorn the façade of this pensão. Its proximity to the historic centre of Tavira makes it very popular in summer, so telephone ahead to check room availability.
Residencial Miradouro da Serra
Rua Combatentes do Ultramar, Monchique • (969) 158 301 • No air conditioning • www.miradourodaserra.com • €
The hotel name means “mountain viewpoint” and the panorama from this hilltop hideaway does not disappoint. The rooms are excellent value and the place makes a great base for hill walking or for simply pottering about in the pleasant market town of Monchique. All rooms have balcony views.
Residencial Pensão Limas
Rua da Liberdade, 25–7, Albufeira • (289) 514 025 • No credit cards • Breakfast not included • €
Wedged between bars and restaurants in a narrow, pedestrianized street, Limas’s bright yellow awnings grace a whitewashed façade. The staircase inside is steep and narrow, and leads to modest bedrooms.
Residencial Ponte Romana
Ponte Romana, Silves • (282) 443 275 • No credit cards • Break-fast not included • €
Standing by the Roman bridge on the south side of the River Arade, this location is hard to beat. The riverside rooms face the castle. The restaurant serves generous portions of delicious country food.
Sol Algarve
Rua Infante D. Henrique 52, Faro • (289) 895 700 • www.hotelsolalgarve.com • €
All 38 rooms at this cheery establishment are en suite, and most have a balcony. When it is sunny, breakfast can be eaten in an attractive inner courtyard.
Casa Azul
Rua D. Sebastião, Sagres • (282) 624 856 • €€
Stylish, bright and colourful, this superior guesthouse has captured the imagination of surfers and city slickers alike. Its central position makes it ideal for Sagres’ buzzing nightlife. Advance booking is recommended.
Character Hostels and B&Bs
Amazigh Design Hostel
Rua da Ladeira 5, Aljezur • (282) 997 502 • Breakfast not included • www.amazighostel.com • €
A stylish budget option configured with multi-bed dorms and private double rooms, all heated and with private bathrooms. A fully equipped kitchen provides self-catering facilities. Common areas have free Wi-Fi and plasma TVs.
City Stork Hostel
Rua Direita 70, Portimão • (962) 327 792 • www.citystorkhostel.com • €
Family-run and named after the white storks nesting on a nearby chimneystack, the hostel enjoys a great location near the riverfront. The double rooms and dorms have their own bathroom facilities, but guests share a kitchen. Breakfast is included in the price.
Loulé Coreto Hostel
Avenida José da Costa Mealha 68, Loulé • (966) 660 943 • www.loulecoretohostel.com • €
Male and female dorms and private rooms are available in a quiet and tastefully decorated environment, serviced to hotel standards. Bathroom and kitchen facilities are shared, and a buffet breakfast is served daily.
Quinta da Tapada do Gramacho
Sítio Tapada do Gramacho, Silves • (919) 667 048 • Closed Nov–Mar • www.tapadadogramacho.com • €
A traditional farmhouse has been renovated into this chic, rustic hideaway. Comprising of uniquely designed, en suite, self-catering apartments and B&B suites, the quinta’s amenities extend to a communal kitchen and lounge, and an exterior swimming pool.
Casa Beleza do Sul
Rua Doutor Parreira 43, Tavira • (960) 060 906 • www.casabelezadosul.com • €€
Three suites and one studio, all with a kitchenette, occupy this lovingly restored, 19th-century town house. Individually styled and utterly beguiling, each room has access to a patio terrace. There is also a larger roof terrace with wonderful views. Breakfast is optional.
Casa Modesta
Quatrim do Sul, near Olhão • (289) 701 096/(964) 738 824 • www.casamodesta.pt • €€
A striking example of a modern makeover, this lovely guesthouse set in countryside overlooking the Ria Formosa Estuary has nine suites, some with a private terrace and a kitchenette. The garden features a pool and a solarium. Dinner is prepared on request.
Casa Rosada
Rua Dr Silvestre Falcão 6-10, Castro Marim • (281) 544 215 • No credit cards • www.casarosada-algarve.com • €€
A tangible air of tranquillity pervades Casa Rosada’s interior, and with just three individually furnished bedrooms provided, its appeal is delightfully understated. It is ideal for couples, who are welcomed as family. Breakfast is healthy and wholesome and served in the garden.
Quinta do Mel
Olhos D’Água, Albufeira • (289) 543 674 • www.quintadomel.com • €€
This secluded rural retreat offers ten attractive rooms, each with a private bathroom. Comforts include TV and free internet. A pool is set in the landscaped grounds, artisan farm produce is sold in the teashop and a restaurant complements the breakfast offer.
Vilafoîa
Corte Pereiro, Monchique • (282) 910 110 • www.vilafoia.com • €€
A smart, modern B&B option set deep in woodland and ideal for exploring the Monchique hills. Rooms and studios are well appointed and enjoy splendid countryside views. The well-manicured gardens feature a salt-water swimming pool.
Campsites
Albufeira Camping
Estrada de Ferreiras, Albufeira • (289) 587 629 • www.campingalbufeira.pt • €
A sprawling camping and caravan site about 2 km (1 mile) from town, with three pools, an adventure playground, an à la carte restaurant, a supermarket and a nightclub.
Camping Olhão
Pinheiros de Marim, Apartado 300, Olhão • (289) 700 300 • €
This excellent site near the Parque Natural da Ria Formosa has first-class amenities and lively recreation facilities that include a swimming pool and a tennis court. There is also a mini-market, a restaurant and a bar.
Parque de Campismo de Armação de Pêra
Parque de Campismo de Armação de Pêra • (282) 312 260 • www.camping-armacao-pera.com • €
The nearest campsite to Armação de Pêra, this is great for budget travellers who crave the sights and nightlife of a lively resort. Modern facilities abound and it is also possible to rent bungalows.
Parque de Campismo de Monte Gordo
Monte Gordo • (281) 510 970 • www.cm-vrsa.pt • €
The conifer woodland near this campsite is home to the largest population of Mediterranean chameleon in Portugal. The walks here are superb, and Monte Gordo itself is a thriving town with a beach that has perfect conditions for sunbathing and swimming.
Parque de Campismo Muncipal da Ilha de Tavira
Ilha de Tavira • (281) 320 580 • Closed Oct–May • No credit cards • €
This island is car- and caravan-free; only tents are allowed. There are supermarket and restaurant facilities, and tent hire is possible too. The island is reached via ferry at Quatro Águas. The site is hugely popular in summer, so it is definitely best to book ahead.
Parque de Campismo Sagres
Cerro das Moitas, Sagres • (282) 624 371 • www.orbitur.pt • €
It is not uncommon to see surfboards outside the tents and cabins here, as the campsite is within easy reach of some very fine surfing beaches. The amenities are excellent, and Sagres town is just less than 2 km (1 mile) away.
Parque de Campismo São Miguel
São Miguel, near Odeceixe • (282) 947 145 • www.campingsaomiguel.com • €
Secluded under a canopy of pine, this is one of the most modern and well-equipped camping sites in southern Portugal. Facilities include tennis courts, a swimming pool, a supermarket and a restaurant, and the surrounding country-side is a national park. Sleek and modern caravans and bungalows can also be rented.
Parque de Campismo Serrão
Herdade do Serrão, Aljezur • (282) 990 220 • www.campingserrao.com • €
This friendly camp and caravan site is conveniently located near some of the western Algarve’s very best beaches. The facilities include a large swimming pool and a series of bungalows to rent, two of which offer wheelchair access.
Salema Eco Camp
Parque de Campismo, Quinta dos Carriços, Praia da Salema, Budens • (282) 695 201 • www.salemaecocamp.com • €
Set in a pretty valley, this campsite offers all the necessary facilities – toilets, hot showers, laundry rooms, shops and a restaurant. There are modern studios and apartments for rent as well as the tent pitches.
PRICE CATEGORIES
For a standard, double room per night (with breakfast if included), taxes and extra charges.
€ under €100 €€ €100–300 €€€ over €300