The Algarve: Europe's Most Famous Secret

With the promise of teetering cliffs, gold-sand beaches and a taste of Portugal’s coastal Mediterranean lifestyle — we set off for the Algarve.
Previously published for Visit Portugal and edited for timeliness.

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ot even the wind could cool us down as we sped through the harbor. Hot wind tousled my hair and sea-spray quickly turned my straight locks into random, kinky waves. “You brought sunscreen right?” Soraia, our Visit Portugal liaison for the week, asked skeptically as I closed my eyes and let the sun’s rays flood my skin — bright days are few and far between back in the Netherlands. I nodded back, but I hadn’t put it on yet. I could already feel the magic of the Portuguese sun tanning my skin and bleaching my hair.

In an early morning whirlwind, we’d landed in Faro, our first destination for the trip to Portugal's Algarve coast. They call it Europe’s most famous secret, and if you’re there in late June — decidedly the high season — like we were, you’d understand exactly what that means.

The coastline is littered with breathtaking beaches — teetering cliffs, gentle swells, turquoise waters, periwinkle skies and all. Yet, even the most popular beaches weren’t crowded. While hugging the coast by boat, you’ll spot dozens of pockets of beaches secluded from one another by massive rocks — completely empty. Other times, you’d glare enviously at the couple who had a beach to themselves, enjoying a picnic and a swim.

Yes, I am indeed talking about the coveted southern shores of Europe, and it’s practically untouched.

Can you keep a secret?

In recent years, Lisbon has flooded the travel scene with mouthwatering bites, lip-puckering mixology, thumping nightlife and a diverse cultural scene. It’s no secret that Lisbon is the new European capital staple — so many of us flocking here to climb those hilly streets, scarf pastel de nata and snap photos of yellow streetcars.

Yet, just a few hours south lies the Algarve, and it’s mostly slipped under the radar. Yes, it’s been named to have the world’s best beaches, and some design-led boutique hotels and sprawling villas have lured some savvy holiday-makers from the Costa del Sol and Côte d'Azur. But, the Algarve still largely flies under the radar.

In all honesty (and selfishly) we kind of hope it stays just the way it is. Over our three-day trip, we were spoiled with empty beaches, breathtaking vistas, copious amounts of strong coffee and endless Mediterranean lunches. There weren’t streets inundated with travelers, we sped from beach to beach with little to no traffic, and there was a real authenticity that lingered in the air.

Despite the temptation to keep all our secrets to ourselves, we’ve partnered with Visit Portugal to showcase all the Algarve has to offer this summer. Just because it’s under everyone else's radar, doesn’t mean it should slip under yours.

Wander coastal cities

The Algarve stretches from one end of Portugal's southern coast to another — covering stunning cities like Lagos, Faro, Tavira and Olhao. It's well worth it to rent a car and cruise from one city to the next, making your base in one of these cities then venturing out to the beaches. 

In Lagos, climb the hilly streets to get a bird's eye view. In Faro, revel in the monumental architecture. Head to Tavira — lovingly called the Venice of Portugal — to wander through gardens and get lost in colorful streets. In Olhao, relish the old Moorish culture left behind and stop here to eat their famed fish. 

Explore fishing villages

At one point, the Algarve coast was made up of seemingly endless fishing villages. Today, some have blossomed into cities and others have faded into time. But, there are still places like Ilha Do Farol, lighthouse island, left. You might notice the towering lighthouse from afar, but once on the tiny fisherman's island, the colorful houses and lush blooms will distract you.

Today the island is inhabited by a small group of fishing families year round. But come summer, many come to holiday on the island, too. Take the ferry from Faro to the island for the day to soak up the sun, watch chameleons climb cacti, and listen to waves lap the coast.

Hit the beach and cruise the coast

There's a reason these beaches have been named some of the best in the world. And this here to the right, Praia Dona Ana, is a fine example. Can you believe how few umbrellas dot this beach in late June?

Around Lagos, there are plenty of beaches to lay out on — from Pinhao to Praia do Camilo. But if you ride the coast, like outside Albufera (don’t bother visiting the city itself) you'll stumble upon much smaller beaches you might even be able to claim for yourself.

For a change of perspective, we also suggest heading out on a boat to cruise the coast. You'll get to admire the golden cliffs from afar and maybe even scope out the next beach you want to visit.

Indulge in the seafood

You already know that in the Med, lunch is a pretty big deal _ literally. So plan to block out a few hours for lunch if you want to get the whole experience that comes with enjoying the local catch in the Algarve.

Your table is bound to be overflowing with crunchy bread, cold salads and fish right after you sit down. And while you're there, indulge in everything the sea has to offer — try octopus salad, savor baked white fish, slurp oysters, and by all means, don't leave without eating the beloved tuna. 

All of your meals will be based around a few simple elements — salt, oil and vinegar. Almost like a Portuguese umami. That delicate balance will follow you through every meal, no matter what you order. Relish in the simplicity. 

Where The Suitest would stay in the Algarve

Casa Céu, Olhão

Pensão Agricola, Tavira

Casa Mae, Lagos