West Algarve

We consider West Algarve to extend from Albufeira and westwards. This was where Portuguese explorers set sail in the 15th century on their voyages of discovery around the world. The landscape features mountains inland, rolling cliffs to the west and flatter coastline to the east. In the cities of Silves and Lagos, you can feel history's presence and see preserved traces of the Moorish past and the age of exploration. Algarve's least developed area is the north-western corner with its protected nature reserves, untouched beaches, wild coastlines and dramatic cliffs. Here you'll find Europe's most south-westerly point, Cabo de São Vicente, where the mighty Atlantic makes an awe-inspiring impression.

The hub is Alvor and Portimão with their long beaches and genuine fishing harbours. From here you can reach everything from championship golf courses to the cliff drama of Ponta da Piedade, and in the evening you can enjoy cataplana in the harbour quarters or watch the sunset from Lagos' ancient walls. In winter you'll often have both the golf courses and beaches almost to yourself – and prices are at their best.