The Algarve

The Vale do Lobo is one of the Algarve's premier and exclusive resorts. Located within the so-called 'Golden Triangle' it is known for its upmarket hotels, high end golf courses and pristine beaches.

Directly in front of the Vale do Lobo resort is the long sandy beach. Stretching for just over a kilometre the beach is backed by the typical Algarve ochre-coloured cliffs.

Given the long stretch of golden sand that lies in front of Quarteira it is little surprise that the resort was one of the earliest to be developed on the Algarve coast.

Praia da Angrinha is Ferragudo's other beach, after Praia Grande. Located just beyond the headland that is home to the fort of São João de Arade the beach here sits on the bank of the river Arade looking across to the marina at Portimao. 

Angrinha is actually the closest beach to Ferragudo town, just a couple of minutes walk along the riverfront and past the lifeboat house. It is a pleasant stretch of fine sand backed by low dunes and the outskirts of the town. Given its position on the river it is very much sheltered from the Atlantic waves.

Along with the neighbouring Praia do Cais da Solária, Praia da Batata is the closest beach to Lagos' town centre. Just a few minutes walk from all of the town's amenities this is the easiest option around. On the flipside this means it does tend to get busy fairly quickly during the summer months.

The beach is just across the main Avenida dos Descobrimentos from the town and can easily be spotted by the large plaza with a statue of São Gonçalo of Lagos that stands overlooking the Praia da Batata.

To describe the little cove of Praia do Pinhão as a hidden gem might be going a little to far, but it is certainly a gem, and by Lagos standards somewhat hidden.

Tucked away at the bottom of the steep ochre cliffs that stretch along the coast towards Ponta da Piedade the beach at Praia do Pinhão is only really obvious to those who are looking for it. It is accessed by a steep stone stairway that makes its way down the cliff in a series of terraces.

The view westwards over the beach at Burgau - easily recognisable by the towering, sloping cliffside that backs this end of the beach.

Burgau is a charming little fishing village, although it does tend to be a little busy in the summer. The beach here is obviously the main draw, but don't forget to check out the tide times as it all but disappears at high tide.

The Parque da Mina is a theme park with a genuine theme. Centered on an old iron ore mine the park provides an an entertaining view of the workings of the mine along with a range of fun activities in the surrounding park.

On the heritage side of things you can learn about the workings of the mine, visit the medronho (moonshine) distillery and tour the 18th century manor house. There is also a nature trail through the landscaped surrounds of the Sierra de Monchique with plenty of picnic spots amongst the trees.

Promoting conservation, environmental education and FUN! Zoomarine combines an important message with hands on shows and a huge water park.

Located just a few kilometers from Albufeira, here you can see presentations with the parks animals. The highlight of all these has to be the dolphin show which is along the lines of those at the famous Florida Seaworld. These feature displays of amazing acrobatics and the dolphins showing off their intelligence. Not only can you watch the performance, you can swim with the dolphins, although this does require booking in advance. 

Despite being located within an easy walk of the resort of Quarteira the beach at Praia do Almargem is surprisingly unspoiled. Here, instead of high-rise seafront apartments you will find a backdrop of sand dunes and pine trees.

The beach of Cacela Velha is located at the eastern end of the Ria Formosa Natural Park and could be considered an extension of neighbouring Manta Rota beach. What marks the start of the beach at Cacela Velha is the wide lagoon behind the spit of sand here.