Holiday rentals and lettings in the Algarve

Sculpted sea cliffs and idyllic beaches

Booking holiday rentals in the Algarve with a sea view places you in a region of southern Portugal that extends along a rugged coastline for 150 kilometres. On the eastern end, you will find Tavira while the region's westernmost tip ends at Cape Saint-Vincent. This stretch of coast is renowned for its rocky coves that are protected by towering sea cliffs, endless fine sand beaches and picturesque fishing villages that guarantee visitors an unforgettable experience. The Algarve is also the point where two of the world's major bodies of water converge. Its shores are washed by the waters of the Mediterranean Sea in the east and the Atlantic Ocean in the south. The area is also well-connected by road, rail and air. The main airport is located in the regional capital of Faro. This is the primary hub for arrivals to the Algarve. You can also move around the area by train, bus or even taxi. If you are keen on exploring some of the harder-to-reach villages, your best option is to hire a car. What is certain is that southern Portugal is an idyllic destination for sun and nature lovers whether you seek adventure or solitude.

The Algarve, a traveller's dream destination

Sun and surf lovers will find themselves at home on the Algarve's large beaches. Meia Praia is one of the most popular options. It is located in the ancient maritime town of Lagos and is popular for swimming and windsurfing. Many visitors select Vale do Lobo holiday lettings for convenient access to this area's iconic stretches of sand and its family-friendly attractions such as the ParTee Family Park. The Algarve is also acclaimed for its golf courses. Several of them were designed by high-ranking pros like Severiano Ballesteros and Nick Faldo. This fact has led to the World Travel Awards designating the area as the Best European Golf Destination. Visit Sagres and sign up for windsurfing courses in a small harbour town with impressive sea cliffs and gorgeous beaches. This is the area where Prince Henry the Navigator set up his iconic nautical school in the 15th century. If you want a close-up view of the natural rock arches and grottoes, many boat operators run tours in the area. Perhaps you would prefer to wander down narrow, cobblestone-paved streets that are lined with lush bougainvillaea bushes in the historic quarter of Tavira. A scuba diving excursion is another highly recommended adventure. When the sun sets, you can go nightclubbing along the Avenida Francisco Sá Carneiro. This party paradise is easily accessed when you book Algarve holiday villas in Albufeira.

1. Ría Formosa Nature Park, home to thousands of birds
2. Tavira, a gem of the Algarve
3. The magic of Silves
4. Cape Saint-Vincent, the westernmost tip of Europe
5. Hiking in Sierra Monchique

id="tip-1"1. Ría Formosa Nature Park, home to thousands of birds

A visit to Ría Formosa Nature Park is one of the most recommended experiences in the Algarve. Join a bird-watching tour from Faro to this wetland that is considered to be one of the most important in Portugal. Discover a labyrinth of fresh and saltwater lagoons, sand and mud banks, ponds, lakes, dunes and pine woods. Thousands of birds nest in its 180 square kilometres of ochre-coloured rock formations. Their caverns and arches have been sculpted by nature over countless thousands of years. The park is a convenient day trip destination for visitors staying 22 minutes to the northwest in the best holiday rental and lettings in Almancil.

id="tip-2"2. Tavira, a gem of the Algarve

Book holiday rentals in the Algarve near the historic city of Tavira to enjoy the old-world charm that the area is renowned for. It is located at the region's easternmost tip where the Gilão River flows into the Atlantic Ocean and was a major port city until the 17th century. You can cross the river by way of a beautiful Romanesque bridge while gazing at the spectacular 18th-century mansions that line its banks. Among the many historical treasures to explore are Tavira's dozens of churches such as Santa Maria do Castelo which dates to the 13th century.

id="tip-3"3. The magic of Silves

To the northeast of Portimao, you will find the inland city of Silves. This is a location where you can glimpse Portugal's cultural past. The city is situated on the banks of the navigable Arcade River and once served as the Moorish capital of the Algarve until the region was conquered by Christians in 1249. Discover its red sandstone hilltop castle known as the Castelo dos Mouros and walk along ancient, crenellated battlements while enjoying panoramic views of the city and the surrounding countryside.

id="tip-4"4. Cape Saint-Vincent, the westernmost tip of Europe

Cape Saint-Vincent is Europe's most southwesterly headland. It boasts impressive sea cliffs and an iconic red lighthouse that was originally built in 1515. Watch a spectacular sunset from the lofty heights of the cliffs or soak up the sun on the area's picturesque beaches. Heading east toward the town of Sagres, you will also find many traditional ceramic workshops and stores where you can pick up a souvenir or two!

id="tip-5"5. Hiking in Sierra Monchique

Booking the finest accommodation in the Algarve to rent also offers you the chance to explore the Sierra Monchique mountain range. It is covered by lush vegetation and boasts plenty of beautiful hiking trails with breathtaking views over a spectacular landscape. Climb up to the lookout on the summit of Pico da Fóia where you will find yourself at an altitude of 902 metres or take a small detour to the spa of Caldas de Monchique. These Roman-built baths utilise natural spring waters that are said to have curative properties. The mountains are a convenient day trip option for those staying 46 minutes to the south in Carvoeiro holiday rentals conveniently booked on Holidu.

Welcome to our virtual tour of Portugal's stunning coastline! From golden sand to crystal-clear waters, this coastal paradise is home to some of the most stunning beaches in Europe. Whether you're a sunbather, a water sports enthusiast or a nature lover, this list has something for everyone.Holidu, the booking portal for holiday homes, after extensive research into social media data has revealed the most popular Algarve and Portuguese beaches on social media! Whether you're a sunbather, a water sports enthusiast or a nature lover, this list has something for everyone. So grab your sunglasses, put on some sunscreen and get ready to immerse yourself in the beauty of the Algarve's best seaside treasures!