The Algarve Portugal has 300 days of sunshine each year. And it attracts millions of visitors. But sticking to beaches and golf means missing out. With 200km of coastline there's lots to discover. Five ­centuries of Moorish left a rich legacy. And secrets can still be found in the Algarve.

Spend time in Faro old town

Restaurants like Tertúlia Algarvia serve up Algarve specialties such as Cataplana. And try the rooftop bar at Hotel Faro for sunsets over Ria Formosa.

Admire street art in creative Olhão

In the suburbs, abandoned buildings and churches showcase Portuguese artists. And if want to buy art, many town shops sell the work of local artisans.

Explore the natural wonder of Ria Formosa

• A complex system of sandbanks, reefs and islands.
• A natural habitat for protected plant and wildlife.
• Home to isolated, unspoiled island villages.
• Protects traditional local communities and lifestyles.

Explore Ria Formosa by boat. Ferry services run from Faro and Olhão. Want a more personal experience? Take a catamaran cruise from Olhão for a day of island hopping.

Watch birds galore in Algarve Portugal

• Regular sightings include seabirds, shorebirds, ducks, and birds of prey.
• Bird spotting is a year-round activity in the region.
• Many overwintering birds can be seen from November to February.
• Ria Formosa and Sapal de Castro Marim Nature Reserve are prime spotting territory.
• Flamingos can be seen around Olhao and Fuseta for much of the year.

Want to spot birds with local experts? Book an eco-friendly bird watching tour of Ria Formosa.

Eat fresh and local all over Algarve

It's a foodie playground. The seafood's fresh as can be. And head inland to discover vineyards, olive groves and carob trees.

Centuries ago, eastern Algarve supplied salt to the Roman Empire. Today it still cultivates some of the world's finest. And Sal Marim is found in Michelin starred restaurants all over Europe.

Prefer to leave planning and booking to experts? Have a look at some sample itineraries. Both Complete Portugal or Portugal Itineraries offer inspiration. All Tailor Made Trips can be modified together with your local expert, then booked for a stress-free holiday. Click 'Modify this itinerary' to contact a local Portugal expert.

Be surprised by grand Algarve architecture

Marquis de Pombal recreated his Pombaline style in Vila Real de Santo Antonio. He designed a grid-plan around a central square. And then he combined neoclassical elements with whitewashed facades and red roofs. The town's Art Nouveau riverfront was designed by Swiss architect Ernesto Korrodi.

Tempted to experience some Pombaline style? Consider at stay at Pombaline Building, in the heart of Vila Real de Santo Antonio.

Take to the water in Algarve Portugal

Western Algarve is where the Atlantic is wildest. It's the coast for experienced surfers and sailors.

Algarve weather is warmer to the east. And seas are calmer closer to the Mediterranean.

You can go dolphin or whale watching right along the Algarve coast. Try Lagos or Albufeira for guided cruises. Grottos and caves can be explored by yacht or kayak. And Portimão, Faro or Olhao are all good for boat trips.

Ready to take to the water? Catch a dolphin watching guided cruise from Lagos with local experts.

Escape to wild west Costa Vicentina Natural Park

Costa Vicentina Natural Park has no major developments. There are no new urban areas. And the park stretches from near Lisbon, south to Porto Covo in Alentejo.

Heavily protected Costa Vicentina is the Algarve's best preserved coast. Sustainability is high on the agenda. And the focus is on protecting the environment and local communities.

The park's networked with 1750km of hiking and cycling trails. Try one of 24 circular routes. Or go for the Historical Way or Fishermen’s Trails.

Find your favourite Algarve beach

Head east for Praia da Ilha Deserta. It's on an island on the Ria Formosa. Completely unspoiled, it's reached by ferry. Praia da Culatra is another eastern beach to try.

Need more beach facilities? Make for western Algarve. Praia de Dona Ana, Praia de Benagil, and Praia da Falesia are all great choices.

Praia da Bordeira is north on the Atlantic coast. It's perfect for walking or surfing.

Ready for a trip to Portugal? Read more about the best time to go to Portugal, the best places to visit and best things to do in Portugal. For inspiration use the Portugal Itineraries from The Rough Guide to Portugal and created by our local travel agents in Portugal. A bit more hands on, check out the map of Portugal and learn about getting there, getting around the country and where to stay in Portugal once you are there. And don't forget to buy travel insurance before you go.

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