The Algarve

Part of the Vicentine Coast Natural Park, this wild and rugged stretch of beach is located near the village of Rogil, on the very north-western edge of the Algarve.

This area has almost entirely escaped the developments of the tourist industry that dominate the southern Algarve. Praia de Vale dos Homens is set in farmland and pine forests, and whilst you won't find much in the way of facilities here access to the beach is fairly easy via 285 wooden steps which snake their way down the cliffs.

The small cove of Praia das Adegas is separated from its better known neighbour, Praia de Odeceixe by high cliffs, although at low tide it is possible to walk around. This gives the beach a rather secluded feel and definitely helps keep the crowds down and also makes it a popular spot with naturists.

The beach of Praia do Monte Clérigo is set towards the north-western corner of the Algarve, which makes it a very different place to the well known spots on the south coast. The Algarve's west coast has a fairly wild feel about it characterised by wide sandy beaches facing into the full force of the Atlantic Ocean. Set in the Vicentine Coast Natural Park, an area of outstanding natural beauty, this beach has been well protected from the slightest hint of over-development.

Looking towards Portimão's main attraction - the superb beach of Praia da Rocha. Almost a mile of golden sand backed by the typical ochre cliffs of the Algarve beyond which lies the lively resort town of Portimão itself.

Despite being one of the most popular beaches on Portugal's Algarve the beach here is still well worth a visit.

Not a lot remains of the 13th century Castelo de Moura. The castle was built during the rain of Dom Dinis on the site of a Moorish citadel following the reconquest of the Alentejo. However the castle was largely destroyed by the Spanish Duke of Osuna in the 17th century Restoration War.

Tucked around the corner, but only around a kilometre, form Praia da Rocha and Portimão is yet another fantastic Algarve beach, Praia da Vau. Like its neighbours, the beach here is a swathe of golden sand backed by ocre coloured cliffs. Praia da Vau is a little more sheltered than Praia da Rocha with the cliffs to the west blocking most of the wind. Along the lengthy stretch of sand the cliffs form several distinct coves which almost have the feel of separate beaches at higher tides.

Just north of Sagres is the headland and lighthouse of Cabo de São Vicente. The sheer cliffs here mark the southwestern-most point in mainland Portugal and overlook some of the busiest shipping lanes in Europe. As a result the lighthouse's lamp is one of the most powerful in Portugal.

Cape Saint Vincent is part of the Costa Vicentina (Vincentine Coast) and the cliffs are home to a range of birds including peregrine falcons.

Looking over the rocky point that separates Alvor from the beach at Praia da Vau. The beach here is popular and has its own resort but is just far enough away from Portimão to escape from the major holiday crowds of neighbouring Praia da Rocha.

Nestled away behind the rocks of the point is the lovely little cove of Praia do Barranco das Canas - but you can't quite see it here!

Praia dos Pescadores (Fisherman's beach) is situated right in front of Albufeira's old town. It is one of the resort's main beaches along with neighbouring Praia do Túnel and as such can get pretty busy in the summer months. Of course there are advantages; it is easily accessible from the Old Town - there is even an escalator down to beach level from the cliffs behind.

Situated at the bottom of a steep hill in front of the resort village of Oura, is one of Albufeira's best beaches. A long sweep of golden sand backed by a promenade lined with cafes, bars and some nice restaurants the beach here is a little more laid back than those closer to Albufeira town.

The beach itself stretches all the way to neighbouring Praia dos Olhos d’Agua, about 2km (1.3 miles) when the tide is out. So there's plenty of space.

Praia da Oura is an accessible Blue Flag beach making it a great,safe family beach.