Where to stay in the Algarve
For those looking for beautiful, unique and authentic places to stay, the Algarve is both a blessing and a challenge. As one of Europe's most famous tourist destinations, many places have suffered the consequences of mass tourism, but on the other hand, the Algarve still offers a wide selection of small villages or areas that remain with their original charm, and where you can find our accommodation. This small guide is divided into:
- Where to stay and what to visit in the Algarve?
- The Western Algarve: our favourite towns, villages and places to see
- Eastern Algarve: our favourite towns, villages and places to see
- What to do: activities, traditions and culture
- What gastronomic delights await me in the Algarve
We have compiled a list of the best boutique hotels and B&Bs in the Algarve. Generally, these places are not located on the seafront, as building directly on the sea is not permitted in the protected areas. Our accommodation are in rural areas with orange groves and rolling hills. You will also find small hotels in villages such as Tavira, Olhão or Lagos. The further inland you go, the more beautiful the scenery becomes. If you are really looking for nature and don't mind being half an hour away from the beach, staying in the Serra de Monchique is an excellent alternative.
If you want to be more independent and savour the local environment, we have beautiful holiday houses and luxury villas in the Algarve, some with sea views. You can select your accommodation according to our collections:
Our favourite towns and villages in the Algarve where you will find our small boutique hotels and villas
The Algarve, Portugal's southernmost province, is known for its beautiful coastline with warm beaches and gentle waves compared to the rest of the country. In addition to its stunning beaches, the region is home to numerous sandy islets, salt marshes, rugged cliffs and coves with mysterious grottoes and unique rock formations.
The best places to stay in the Algarve are the Western Algarve with its unspoilt beaches on the western coast and the Eastern Algarve with its quaint towns that have remained authentic and the Ria Formosa estuary with its beautiful beaches on the offshore islands. We recommend towns such as Tavira and Olhão in the East, Lagos, Ferragudo and Sagres in the West as well as the hinterlands of the Central and Eastern Algarve.
Where to stay in the Western Algarve
In both the eastern and western Algarve, you will find unspoilt and enchanting beaches. The south coast is characterised by steep cliffs plunging into the crystal blue sea. On the west coast, where the Atlantic Ocean is wilder, you will discover extensive beaches, some of which are virtually untouched. In addition, the Monchique region, in the mountains, offers a calm and serene atmosphere. We cannot fail to mention the state-protected Vicentine Algarve coast, where you will find the Carrapateira area with magnificent beaches, some of them practically deserted. However, be aware that the sea can be colder and rougher in this area.
We have selected beautiful beachfront hotels in Sagres, where the wind blows a little stronger, charming bed & breakfasts in the picturesque town of Silves, elegant design and luxury hotels in Lagos, a city with a beautiful harbour. In addition, you will find beautiful holiday homes and luxury villas in the western Algarve. Whether you are travelling as a family, on a romantic getaway or simply with friends, we have something for everyone. Take a look at our guide for more information.
Where to stay in the Eastern Algarve
In the eastern Algarve, you'll find long sandy beaches and beautiful coastal towns. Of particular note is the fascinating Ria Formosa Natural Park, a vast estuary that stretches from the city of Faro almost to the Spanish border. Many towns in the eastern Algarve have escaped mass tourism and remain hidden gems. Tavira, with its charming bed & breakfasts and boutique hotels, is one of the most beautiful. Another authentic and unforgettable experience is to stay in an elegant flat or luxury holiday home in the old fishing village of Olhão. Tavira and Olhão are perfect for those who want the convenience of being close to the beach and, at the same time, have access to the city's offer of restaurants, shops and activities.
What to do in the Algarve
Both in the eastern Algarve and on the west coast, you can find unspoilt beaches, although the west coast tends to be windier. Some notable beaches include Dona Ana Beach (Lagos), Albandeira Beach (Lagoa), Camilo Beach (Lagos), Praia dos Tres Irmãos (Portimão), Praia do Barril (Tavira), Praia da Arrifana (Aljezur), Odeceixe Beach (Odeceixe) and Cacela Velha Beach (Cacela Velha).
The region offers a wide variety of activities. In Faro, the Renaissance-style Convento de Nossa Senhora da Assunção and the 16th and 18th century church of São Francisco are worth a visit. In Lagos, don't miss the churches of São Sebastião, Santa Maria de Misericórdia (16th-18th centuries), Santo António (Baroque style) and the wonderful Ermida de São João, from the 8th and 9th centuries.
Nature also has special treasures to offer here. A trip to the Monchique mountain range in the western Algarve is a must. The Fóia mountain is perfect for a drive, while the Picota is ideal for hiking. The Ria Formosa National Park, with its lagoons and beaches, is a haven for hundreds of bird species in spring and autumn. Exploring Culatra Island and the Rias Formosa by boat will allow you to appreciate the wonderful marshlands with their rich flora and fauna. There are different tours available with various price and duration options.
For cycling enthusiasts, there are routes in Monchique, Ria Formosa and from Vilamoura to Quarteira. More information can be found on the following website: https://algarvefun.com/pt-pt/algarve-dicas/ciclovias-do-algarve/
Don't forget to visit the village of Porches with its handmade baskets made of cane and willow, and beautiful pottery.
For the little ones there is a visit to the Zoomarine of Albufeira.
Algarve - gastronomy
Fish and seafood take pride of place in the gastronomy of the Algarve. Start with the delicious fish soup, and then move on to the "arroz de marisco" (shellfish and rice stew) or the cataplana (cockles cooked in a sealed wok with smoked pork sausage, cured ham, tomatoes, and onions). Fried pork loin and bread soaked buck are delicious meat specialties. For dessert try the egg sweets and fruits mixed with almonds.
As for beverages, Lagoa produces the best wines in the region. Try the white aperitif wine, and the flavoured Medronho from the Monchique hills. Most wines carry a high content of alcohol and sugar.
Our collections
Don’t know where to go? Let our collections inspire you.
