With a near perfect climate, the Algarve is Portugal’s most popular destination. Not surprisingly, the coast is the main draw – it’s spectacularly beautiful with long golden beaches punctuated with bizarre rock formations, grottoes and tunnels.

But there’s more to the Algarve than just lazing on the beach. As the southernmost region of Portugal, it was the last stronghold of the Moors in the 13th century, and Moorish influences can be seen everywhere in the whitewashed houses, chimneys and narrow winding streets of the villages and towns.

More contemporary charms include the luxury resorts of Quinta do Lago, hang-out of the stars, Vale do Lobo and Vila Vita; the fantastic marinas of Vilamoura and Lagos; and vibrant nightlife in the main resort towns such as Albufeira.

Sports fans can of course pit themselves against the Algarve’s championship golf courses, but there are plenty of other activities to tempt, the active – windsurfing, diving, canoeing, horse-riding, tennis, and even hang-gliding. There’s another side to the Algarve too. East of Faro, the coast breaks up in tiny islets where it’s possible to get away from the crowds and relax among the sand dunes. For nature lovers, mud flats and wetlands attracts birds in their thousands. And inland, beyond orchards of figs and pomegranates, is the impressive Serra de Monchique mountain range – ideal hiking country, and home to the elusive Iberian lynx.

Highlights

Portugal’s crown jewel, this southernmost region, is famous worldwide for its stunning beaches, luxurious hotels, charming resorts, first class golf courses, and rollicking nightlife all in a historic setting. Check out Faro, the monument-studded district capital, as well as Sagres, the town where Prince Henry the Navigator set up a sailing school five centuries ago. Other highlights include the square, flat-roofed homes of Olhão and the quaint fishing village of Portimão.