February in the Algarve
Cannot believe it is already February! Time flies…. February in the Algarve, meaning Carnival in the Algarve. The Portuguese (and Dutch) say Carnaval… plus the orange blossom will start, meaning lovely smells, plus the almond blossom is full on… so nice, nice, nice time of the year!!! Plus Valentine’s day! Take your love for a romantic dinner! Plenty of choice in the Algarve!
Almost the end of the year 2017, and almost a new year to start 2018. Are you in the Algarve? Algarve Housing will give you a few options to do if you like to celebrate this new year’s eve in the Algarve outdoors, watching the fireworks at mid night. Most large towns at the coast of the Algarve, have fireworks at mid night. Some have an all-night music program we mentoin a few, from Lagos till Monte Gordo. And can you buy fireworks in the Algarve?
December in the Algarve, for an enjoyable, alternative Christmas holiday destination in Portugal. The winter months were typically the low tourist season for Algarve but over the last few years the Christmas holiday season has become more popular, as many of the North African winter sun destination have become unsafe due to political instability or terrorism.
The increase of visitors to the Algarve means that there are more hotels and restaurants open and there is a livelier atmosphere in the larger towns, like Albufeira, Vilamoura, Lagos…. Algarve Housing like to update you, and share with you some things to do in December in the Algarve.
I can’t believe it is already November! After a really hot October, we finally had a bit of rain, the clock has changed, so a bit of winter feeling coming up! Soon the wood burner can start doing his job! Yes November in the Algarve.
But writing this in my office, with doors open, the sun coming in, I realize how lucky we are living in the Algarve, and although November in the Algarve is low season, it is a great time to visit the Algarve! Why, well I just gave you 1 reason, the sun is still shining, and it is warm enough to spend your days outside. If you like walking, the temperatures are ideal for hiking, same for bicycling! Plus flights are cheap, as well as villa rental prices! So pretty nice November in the Algarve.
Algarve Housing like to share a few things to do in November in the Algarve:
October in the Algarve, the weather can still be nice, but it is a bit of a risk, so bring some warmer clothes with you, as evenings get more chilly. If you lucky you still can sunbathing during the day! Beaches are less crowded, but bars and restaurants are still open, plus cheap deals for rentals! Ideal for your half term holidays!
Algarve Housing, villa rentals Algarve, found a variety of things to do in October in the Algarve, we mention a few, please read below. Have fun, and enjoy the October Algarve, and extend your summer with one of the nice villas we rent!
Your body and head continues to be asking to get a break, a respite from the pressures of work, the requirements of family obligations, as well as the status of living the busy city lifestyle, and little sunny days. Thinking of some warmth and sun, thinking of spring in the Algarve? You searched the internet, asked around, as well as lastly made up your head and that’s you are going to have your holiday in Algarve, in the appealing Iberian nation of Portugal. If you did your research well, you have more than probably get a rough outline of your Algarve itinerary. If you aren’t yet bursting with thoughts and plans, I am going to make some useful suggestions anyways on the top 5 best things to do during a spring in Algarve! Apart form things to do during spring in the Algarve, I must mentioin the nature is at its best, loads of flowers and sweet smell everywhere….
Algarve Housing get you some ideas, together with one of the unique villas we rent, this can all add up to a perfect holiday in the Algarve.
Walking as well as Sightseeing – As temperatures are not red hot during spring in the Algarve, walking and sightseeing is ideal!
Algarve is a multicultural with the right mix of country qualities mixed in, making a kind of a surreal surroundings perfect for somebody who’d like to get from all of it, even for only several days. Algarve is modern and rural in the same time, in addition, it has a rich tradition and history. You will definitely be a witness to this should you go throughout the backstreets and investigate the Algarve on foot. Visit the Museu Regional in Lagos as well as the Archaeological Museum in Faro to get a blast to the previous encounter.
Golfing – Algarve has a number of the world best golf courses like superb Old Course in Vilamoura or the celebrated Royal Course in Vale de Lobo. A golfer may have the option from 9 holes to 18 hole courses of the more than 30 golf courses scattered around the Algarve terrain. During spring in the Algarve, paying golf is very popular, make sure you arrange your tee time upfront!
The southern area of Portugal has a perfect climate for golf, warm and dry climate, and the primary season is from late fall to late spring. The landscape can be exemplary, grasslands to coastlines, proving to be a little of the challenge, but still a very gratifying game.
Shopping – would you love shopping in another country? It is terrific way to enjoy and look into the culture and custom of Portugal and Algarve, particularly. You will surely find great deals in the shopping districts of Portimao, Loule, as well as Quarteira. You’ll locate everything from souvenirs, bags, shoes, garments, trinkets, components, and the list goes on. And new to the Algarve, the opening of IKEA near Loule, 30 March!!!!
With a beautiful shoreline, the Algarve holiday destination has a lot of things to provide for water sport enthusiasts. You can try your hand, and legs, at windsurfing or stand up paddling or ultimately encounter the wonders of the under water world by diving into the thriving marine life as well as the legacy of Algarve sunken past. Also the dolphins like the spring in the Algarve, as with a short drive in a speedy dinghy you will find them.
This article is brought to you by Algarve Housing, the rental company for beter holidays in the Algarve, with a wide selection of unique villas in the Algarve Portugal.
Warm regards,
Michele
The Algarve is the beautiful southern coastline of Portugal and the region makes for an enjoyable, alternative Christmas holiday destination. The winter months were typically the low tourist season for Algarve but over the last few years the Christmas holiday season has become more popular, as many of the North African winter sun destination have become unsafe due to political instability or terrorism.
The increase of visitors to the Algarve means that there are more hotels and restaurants open and there is a livelier atmosphere in the larger towns, like Albufeira, Vilamoura, Lagos….
Weather in December
You can say unpredictable, but mild. It can be sunny during the day, and you can even sunbath, but it can also be rainy and windy!
Yes it is November, winter in the Algarve started! Less people, empty beaches, but good news, temperatures are still mild and very nice to explore the Algarve! Okay, I must admit, it can rain too, and when it rains it really rains! But after a few days we have the sun back, so nice. I love the winters in the Algarve! And with me many others, as the first of November Algarve Housing has a long list of arrivals with long stay winter tenants! But good news, there are still a few villas free, for you to book your winter holiday in the Algarve!
What to do in November in the Algarve? Algarve Housing like to inform you!
October is a lovely month to stay in the Algarve. Temperatures are very nice, not too hot, so ideal for activities and exploring the Algarve. Think of playing golf in the Algarve, walking, cycling, or how about a dolphin watching trip at the Atlantic ocean!?
Myself will start this weekend with an introduction lesson for Stand Up Paddling. How nice is that?! Will let you know how this was soon!
But there is more to do in the Algarve in October. Algarve Housing will give you a few options of festivals and activities.
August in the Algarve, is the busiest month of the year. Apart from lots of foreigners all over the world visiting the beautiful Algarve, the Portuguese also have holiday. Meaning, busy beaches, bars and restaurants, but also lots of entertainment, like festivals. Below Algarve Housing will inform you with a few large festivals of the Algarve in August.
You do not like crowds? No problem! There are many beaches, and very large beaches, so if you do not like crowds, I recommend the West coast, or find one of the many large, white stretched sandy beaches of the Algarve, and just walk a bit to the left or right and you have more or less your private beach! Do not forget to bring your parasol, water or other drinks, and ofcourse sun cream!
May is a wonderful time to visit the Algarve. The flowers are in full blossom, the climate is wonderful, and it’s just got warm enough to swim in the sea and lounge on the beautiful beaches that can be found all over the region. Algarve Housing like to share with you a few things to do in May in the Algarve.
There are plenty of things to do in the Algarve in May, so whether you are heading there as a family, or with a partner or a group of friends there really is something for everyone. Here is a selection of the best events taking place in the Algarve in May.
May Day takes place on the first of May and is a fantastic celebration where you’ll find lots going on all over the region. Here you can join in the fun by heading into the countryside along with the locals and enjoying a picnic lunch in the sunshine. Or, if you prefer to get into the hustle and bustle of it all, then head into the cities for a fiesta style atmosphere where you can enjoy street music, food and dancing.
The May Fair in Azinhal is an event not to miss and if you head to the picturesque village of Azinhal, you can soak up the atmosphere, stroll through the market stalls and sample local foods. In addition to this you’ll find beautiful examples of bobbin lace, basketwork, embroidery, tapestry and weaving of esparto grass – all perfect souvenirs to take home with you and remind you of your memorable trip.
Festa da Pinha – this lovely festival celebrates the humble pine cone and takes place on the second of May to commemorate the coming of spring. Here witness men in traditional dress riding proudly through the streets on brightly decorated donkeys. Music is a core part of the festival and you’ll enjoy many bands playing as well as be able to watch the procession of burning torches and an excellent fireworks display.
“The Gastronomy of the Sea” -is a fun filled festival in Tavira held throughout the month of May where the local restaurants come together to bring you a wealth of culinary delights all inspired by the fresh seafood ingredients on their doorstep!
If you love arts and culture then the international sand sculpture festival at Pêra starts in May and runs right through until October. Here you can admire the beautiful sand sculptures created by talented artists. It is in fact known as the largest sand sculpture festival in the world and has been running since 2003!
Sounds of the Atlantic – For those who love traditional and folk music the Sounds of the Atlantic is a celebration which they will not want to miss. Throughout the whole of May you can enjoy wonderful concerts that take place each night at the Centro de Congressos do Arade in Ferragudo. This is one for the party goers though as music doesn’t usually start until 10pm.
These fantastic events will leave you with lots to do on your holiday in the Algarve in May, so now all that’s left is to remember to bring the sun cream!
This article is brought to you by Algarve Housing, the Algarve villa rental company for better holidays in the Algarve.
Please contact me for any further information.
Warm regards,
Michele
Things to do in the Algarve in April
April in the Algarve is when the region starts to get busier ahead of the summer months. The Algarve is a popular destination, and many of the tourist attractions which close down over the winter start to open again during this time.
The weather in the Algarve in April is usually bright and warm, with over 9 hours sunshine a day and very little rainfall. If you are looking for a place where pleasant weather is practically guaranteed during April, then the Algarve is a wise choice. While it may be a while off swimming season, visitors can still enjoy days on the regions stunning beaches, boat trips and water sports, as well as outdoor dining. During the evening the temperatures will drop to around 11 degrees though so it is important to make sure you bring layers to stay warm when the sun goes down.
During April there is plenty to see an d do. Algarve Housing like to share a few not to miss:
9-17 April- Algarve Spa Week
You want to pamper yourself in the Algarve in April?
Do not miss The Algarve Spa Week – 9th to 17th April. This year’s theme is “Spa and Sports” with great discounts for the areas 5 top spa resorts. A free sports workshops also takes place. For more information visit Algarve Spa Week on Facebook.
Festa da Mãe Soberana in Loulé 10th April: This wonderful Algarve festival is centered around the “Festa Grande” in honour of Mãe Soberana, the Sovereign Mother. There is a fantastic procession and a wonderful fireworks display at midnight too,
Marco Paulo concert which takes place on the 24th April. This fantastic Portuguese singer, is sure to delight and will be playing a one night only performance at Portimão Arena in western Algarve. Tickets can be purchased online at Ticketline.
The Faro Flamenco Festival -on the 30th April – this fantastic celebration delights locals and visitors alike. With wonderful traditional and flamboyant flamenco dancing this is an event not to miss. It is taking place at the Figuras Theatre in Faro and tickets cost 12€.
For family fun there is Zoomarine theme park, which is a sure fire hit for all the family where children can enjoy an exhilarating afternoon on all the rides, and meeting the various animals such as aquatic birds, and even alligators!
The Zoo Lagos is another great trip and on a sunny day children and adults alike will enjoy having great fun on the karting tracks in Almancil, Portimão (at the Autodrome) and Olhão.
Aqualand is another hugely popular family attraction, and the Algarve in April is just about warm enough to enjoy the outdoor rides and pools. Aqualand is popular with children of all ages and has rides and attractions catering to all, with fun gentle rides for the little ones right up to thrilling white knuckle rides for older children, and grown ups of course!
For the dads the Algarve is hugely attractive due to its celebrated range of golf courses. The most famous is the Sir Henry Cotton Championship Course, or “The Penina” which can be found at the Penina Hotel & Golf Resort. It was the very first resort to be built in Portugal and is popular with tourists and locals alike.
Of course if you are looking for a bit of culture than the Algarve will not disappoint. The region boasts a huge number of castles, churches and monuments to visit where visitors can learn about the fascinating history of the area.
The stunning natural landscape is perfect for those who love a more active holiday in April in the Algarve and the breathtaking scenery will impress those who love lengthy walks and hikes. The Algarve is the perfect place for those who love to explore, and there are many ways you can get out there and enjoy all that the region has to offer. Wonderful horseback rides are available through the beautiful landscapes or on the stunning beaches, or you can hire quad bikes to get further afield and explore the more rugged parts of the area.
For adrenaline junkies the good weather means there are plenty of outdoor extreme sports to get involved with and ski diving and coasteering proving particularly popular.
Boat trips also are popular in the Algarve in April and shark and dolphin watching trips are a particular highlight. If you don’t fancy having a dip in the sea just yet you could try your hand a kayaking or hire a pedal to get out there onto the water!
April is a fantastic time to visit the Algarve, with the weather heating up and plenty to see and do, whether you are a family looking for a fun April break, or a couple looking for that perfect mix of activities and lounging in the sun, the Algarve has plenty to offer.
This article about Algarve in April is brought to you by Algarve Housing, the villa rental company for better holidays in the Algarve. Please contact me for any further information regarding April in the Algarve or Algarve villa rentals Portugal.
Warm regards,
Michele
Is March the perfect time to visit the Algarve? It might just be. Still considered an ‘out of season’ month, March in the Algarve is actually a fantastic time of year to visit where the weather is warming up, yet you are free of the crowds. This means that glorious beach days, exciting afternoons exploring the towns and cities, as well as sampling the delicious local food and drink all with personal attention from the waiting staff are just some of the elements you can enjoy on your trip to the Algarve in March.
While the Algarve has a great programme of events available to holiday makers and locals alike all year round, the Algarve in March has a few particularly special events which make it well worth looking into this as your holiday destination this Easter. Check with Algarve Housing for available villas in the Algarve!
Did you know that the Algarve boasts over 300 days of sunshine each year? And with the colder, more wintery months out of the way you can expect warm, sunny days which are perfect for exploring the stunning beaches and exquisite countryside that the Algarve has to offer. The Algarve in March is the perfect month to go on boat trips, and to admire the beautiful cliffs, as well as the glorious spring flowers that can be found in abundance at this time of year. Remember to back a warm jumper or two for the evenings though!
The colder months can mean that many usually bustling tourist attractions close, as there simply aren’t enough people visiting to make it worth their while staying open. However March see’s many of those opening their doors once more, which is particularly useful for families who may want to schedule in some fun, family friendly activities as well as soaking up the sun, sea and sand and enjoying the local history and culture of the area.
One of the most anticipated events that takes place 9 March in the Algarve is the Festival of Hot bread and fresh cheese (Feira do Pão Quente e Queijo Fresco) which takes place in Vaqueiros- Alcoutim. This is a celebration of delicious food, and many market stalls will line the streets where you can sample local produce. The fair has a fun and friendly atmosphere which makes it perfect for families with children too.
The Traditional Sausage Fair in Monchique is another great March event for food lovers, and the Gastronomy Festival of the Serra in Tavira (March/April) is also sure to delight.
Of course, this year Easter falls in March and so why not celebrate in style at the Feira de Doces d’Avó at Easter in Alcoutim? This is a fantastic event for adults and children alike where you can not only stuff yourself silly with delicious local homemade treats, but also sit back and relax, listening to live local music. There are plenty of activities for the kids too, such as children’s games, traditional egg painting and face painting too!
So there you have it, some fantastic tips on what to do in the Algarve in March. It really is a wonderful time of year to explore this beautiful part of the world, so what are you waiting for?
Algarve Housing rent unique villas in the Algarve, please contact us for any further information.
Warm regards,
Michele
December is a wonderful time to visit the Algarve with many wonderful things to see and do. The beaches may not be quite as packed, and a dip on the ocean not quite as appealing, but heading to the Algarve during the winter months means the streets are less busy, the tourist attractions are quieter and you will be able to enjoy your holiday in te Algarve at a more leisurely pace. So what kind of activities and events can you expect to enjoy in the Algarve in December? Read on to find out about things to do in the Algarve in December!
Vila Real de Santo António Christmas Village, Aldeia de Natal
Each year this charming town transforms into a magical Christmas village which both adults and children will enjoy. With quaint market stalls selling homemade goods, an ice drink and live entertainment, if you are in the Algarve in December, this village is well worth a visit.
Christmas Market in Almancil
This will be held at the Jardim das Comunidades, Rua do Centro Comunitario. This annual event features some great entertainment, festive stalls and music from the Salvation Army Band. This year the market will be held on the 6th December, with a special visit from Father Christmas and all proceeds going to Associação Social e Cultural de Almancil (ASCA), which supports local people in need, you are sure to leave feeling all warm and fuzzy inside.
Holiday Inn Hike, Armação de Pêra
Each year the Holiday Inn Algarve put on a fun itinerary of events to get you into the festive spirit. The Great Father Christmas Walk at Armação de Pêra takes place in December where people are invited to donate their walking shoes, pull on their Christmas jumpers and hike together. They usually host two swimming events too, so for the bravest among you it is a chance to take a dip and raise some money for a good cause. Donations are welcome and go to help buy shoes for children who are in care.
Zoo de Lagos, Barão de São João, Portugal
Every December the Zoo de Lagos turns into a winter wonderland. This is the perfect place to visit if you have children, who will be enthralled with the events and entertainment provided here, as well as the huge ice skating ring of course!
Christmas Shopping
The Algarve is the perfect place to pick up charming and thoughtful Christmas gifts for your loved ones back home. There are some wonderful places to shop in the Algarve from massive department stores and designer boutiques to independent arts and crafts shops, to street markets and fairs. Traditional sweets such as marzipan sweets, and the wonderful Christmas cake ‘Bolo Rei’, which has a topping of candied fruit, along with a glass of mulled wine will give you the energy to shop until you drop!
Concerts and Music
Throughout December be sure to catch a Christmas concert in the Algarve. They are held all over the region, but usually the Philharmonic Association of Faro put on a good show, and the The Algarve Rock Choir, who teamed up with the Sâo Bras Sally Army last year are a real treat.
So if you are visiting the Algarve in December with these great activities you are sure to have fun and really get into the festive spirit!
This article is brought to you by Algarve Housing, the Algarve rental company Portugal, with unique villas for rent.
Contact me for any more details.
Warm regards,
Michele
New year in the Algarve!
Spending New Year in the Algarve? You struggling to think what to do with new year in the Algarve? Algarve Housing will give you some suggestions. There are festivities, parties all over the Algarve. The main attraction is Albufeira.
Firework displays you can find all over the coast, the fire work displays of the Algarve, are well known and considered the best of Portugal!
Albufeira
The 2015 New Year’s Eve celebrations in Albufeira include a lot of entertainments throughout the city. The entertainment programs include bands, pop music, dance and performance by theatre groups. The NYE is a massive celebration in Albufeira. Besides the various entertainments with live bands playing throughout night, there will be spectacular display of fireworks announcing the birth of the New Year.
Open air concerts at the fisherman’s beach (Praia dos Pescadores), before and after 12 o’clock, bars and clubs are open till early mornings.
Fisherman’s Beach: 10pm D.A.M.A; 11.15pm Tiago Bettencourt; Midnight fireworks; 12.05am back to Tiago!
Faro
Taking place in the Manuel Bivar Garden, New Year in Faro promises entertainment for the whole family! Starting at 10pm the program includes WALLABEE JAM BAND with guest Gonçalo Bilé & music into the night from DJ Mr. Kool. There’s also a fantastic finale of fireworks & pyro-musical show at midnight!
Vale de Lobo
Monty’s New Years Eve Party, at the Praça in Vale de Lobo, with food, drinks, dancing, DJ’s, fireworks and FUN!
Ferragudo
New Year’s Eve in Ferragudo is being celebrated with the Arade Music Fest, which is taking place at the Arade’s Conference Centre (‘Centro de Congressos do Arade’) in Parchal. The electronic music festival will include house, electro, progressive & chill out. It’s on from 9.30pm to 5am and is sure to be a top night!
Lagos
Lagos New Year celebrations start at 10.30pm with music from popular artist AUREA in Praça do Infante (free entry) and then fireworks at midnight over the waterfront.
If it’s like previous years the Avenida will be packed & then the bars will party into the wee hours!
Tavira
Tavira will be welcoming the New Year with a great music line-up (featuring DJ Guilherm & VJ Zayle) & pyro-musical firework displays! It starts at 10pm in Praça da República with entertainment & DJ, then at 11.30pm it’s Banda Iris, fireworks at midnight & from 2am until 4am there’s more music.
Monte Gordo and Vila Real de Santo Antonio
This is one of the biggest New Year parties in the Algarve with a massive 4 days of celebrations on the beachfront!
31st: 10.30pm – 6am; 1st Jan: 10.30pm – 3am; 2nd & 3rd: 10.30pm – 5am. There’s also a special São Silvestere night in Vila Real de Santo António on New Year’s Eve from 22.45pm!
Rest me to say, whatever you do, where ever you are, Algarve Housing wishing you a great New Year’s Eve, and more important, a prosperous New Year!
Warm Regards,
Michele
