Guide to Alvor

"Alvor presents many pleasures – from massive sands to a beautiful lagoon and delicious quayside restaurants"

This quaint old port is one of the western Algarve’s natural gems. Facing a natural lagoon linking to the open sea, it’s an authentic chunk of Portugal with a bustling, modern resort. Cobbled lanes curl between white-painted cottages towards the medieval castle remains that crown the port.

Souvenir shops and grocers’ jostle with jaunty neon-signed bars for space. And around the quayside, simple fish restaurants advertise daily specials on cheery-looking blackboards. Elsewhere on the picturesque waterfront, friendly bars and restaurants set their tables at the water’s edge, enticing you to sit for a while.

If you’re here for the beach, then a bit of self-congratulation is due. It’s a massive swathe of sand, fringed by soft dunes, sandstone cliffs and striking rock towers. Pass the kids their buckets and spades and settle back to catch some.

When you’re peckish, pick one of the amiable dune-side restaurants to feast on fresh paella, topped with clams from Alvor’s lagoon. Fancy a change of scenery? Head for the picturesque cliff-enclosed coves – including the beauty spot of Praia de Rocha - along the nearby shores or treat the kids to the local waterpark.

And if mooching around is more your style, take a bus to Portimao with its fountain-decorated square, colourful shops and boat trips.

Whatever your day brings, dinner on Alvor’s waterfront is the perfect finale. Dig into freshly grilled sardines washed down with crisp vinho verde, before taking to the old town to savour the lively music bars and disco.

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