Summer Adventure in Portugal’s Algarve

The Algarve lies where the Mediterranean Sea meets the Atlantic Ocean, and in many ways this region represents the best of both worlds. The weather is warm and pleasant year-round and the rainfall minimal, while the western coast is beautifully sculpted by years of salt spray and wind, its beaches rocked by surf-perfect Atlantic rollers. It’s the perfect location for a summer adventure in Portugal, whether you spend it inland or out at sea, and the wealth of different experiences makes the Algarve perfect for activity holidays for families of all sizes and ages!

Make the Most of the Stunning Landscape…

If you’re spending time in the Algarve, you’ll likely want to spend a good deal of time taking in the amazing countryside. There are a few ways to do this: hiking remains an excellent, cheap and ever-popular way of exploring the regions natural parks, while renting a four-wheel-drive and taking it through the interior of the Algarve makes for an unforgettable adventure through Portugal’s hills and rock formations. However, the Algarve is perhaps most highly regarded in adventuring circles for its cycling opportunities: activity holidays for families of cycling enthusiasts will be filled to the brim with world class rides and happy memories.

The Algarve’s swathes of unspoiled countryside, much of it within national parks, mean that you’ll be spoiled for choice when it comes to scenic rides. The weather is warm year-round and you’ll rarely have to deal with heavy rain or muddy trails. What’s more, the region’s enduring popularity among cyclists means that there are plenty of places where you can rent a bike. Some rental companies will take you by bus to their favourite routes.

• And Don’t Forget the Beaches!

Your activity holiday probably won’t be confined to the interior of Portugal. The coast of the Algarve is renowned for aquatic pursuits: scuba diving, snorkelling, and sailing are all perfectly suited to the region’s rocky and biodiverse coastline, and all make a fantastic addition to the itineraries of any activity holidays for families that feature spending time in the ocean. Additionally, the region is very popular among surfers.

The Atlantic Ocean reliably delivers excellent surfing waves, while the warm wind makes taking to the waves a uniquely enjoyable experience. Due to its popularity, the Algarve also has a wonderfully laid-back surfer culture, whether you’re a beginner or a semi-professional. If you’re just starting out, consider taking a course to learn the basics: just ask while you’re renting your gear.

Top Quality Accommodations

As a major holiday destination, the Algarve is equipped with some excellent hotels. We’d especially recommend Martinhal resort: whether you’d prefer a luxurious hotel room or the privacy of a villa, Martinhal will have something suitable. The atmosphere is relaxed and the staff are friendly and professional. The villas have fully equipped kitchens, and the resort also has a number of excellent restaurants, each of them offering a carefully curated menu, prepared with fresh ingredients.

Whether you choose to spend your holiday surfing, cycling or engaging in one of the numerous other activities the Algarve has to offer, you’re sure to have an unforgettable time in Portugal. With such a range of things to do, activity holidays for families of all kinds are beautifully catered for.

Richard Edwards is the Managing Director of Summit & Blue, an adventure holiday company offering independently crafted activity holidays for families to exciting destinations around the world, including France, Italy, Portugal, the USA and Canada. With unique itineraries and exciting activities like biking, hiking, white water rafting and canoeing, we create holidays for those looking for an experience a little more off the beaten track.

Writer and Online Marketing Manager in London.