the travel blogger

At the time of writing, Portugal is on the UK’s Green list, and as of 17 May they are welcoming UK travellers with a negative PCR Test. So for those who don’t know the sunny Algarve personally, let me introduce you to 4 of the most loved beaches

Praia da Marinha About halfway between Albufeira and Lagos, an iconic spot regarded as one of the loveliest beaches in all Europe, with stunning cliffs looming over its golden sands and hidden coves to explore at low tide. This is a great sport for snorkelling and for clifftop walks. The beach is accessed by steps down the cliffside – the reason such a gorgeous spot remains so pristine and untouristy. Praia dos Olhos de Água A generally quiet, unspoilt spot away from the crowds thanks to its setting in a fishing village just west of the resort of Oura with all its amenities. Lined by brightly painted fishermen’s huts and boats, the beach is most famous for the freshwater springs that once provided drinking water for the villagers; kids love to explore them at low tide, along with the interesting rock formations. There are a handful of restaurants on or overlooking the beach, ideal for a sunset aperitif or a dinner of fresh local seafood to round off the day.

Praia de Falésia Another spot familiar from a thousand and more photographs thanks to its soaring red sandstone cliffs, regularly appearing in TripAdvisor lists of the very best beaches in the world. It’s so vast (more than 6km long) that even in summer you can usually find your own quiet spot, yet it’s just 1km from the vibrant resort of Vilamoura with all its attractions for families and other, including a marina with boat trips and a water park. The eastern part of the Praia de Falésia is the place to head for great beach restaurants (don’t miss the local conquilhas clams, which can be collected on the beach itself) and activities – there’s paragliding, diving and a surf school.

4 of the Algarve’s best beaches

Praia da Marinha

Praia de Falésia

Praia da Barreta

Praia da Barreta On the secluded ‘Desert Island’ reached only by a half-hour’s boat ride from the Cais da Porta Nova in Faro – one of the five barrier islands of the Ria Formosa. Ideal for those feeling a little adventurous, these 7km of unsullied sands are some of the most remote in the Algarve, with waters so crystal clear that you can see shells on the seabed. There’s nothing else on this uninhabited island but a daytime restaurant, a lighthouse and a pier – so stay for sunset if you can but make sure not to miss the last boat home!