The Sunny Side of Portugal: The Algarve
- jaime de sousa
- Oct 28, 2015
- 4 min read
The south of Portugal, the Algarve region, is like Cinderella's slipper. Perfect for some and an uncomfortable fit for others. While the south boasts some of the best beaches, most of it has transformed into cookie-cutter towns built for english speaking tourists.
I wouldn't recommend the south if you're looking for the quintessential cities and towns of Portugal, filled with rich apparent history, an abundance of local cuisine, and friendly locals. For that, go north. But if you want to stay up late bar hopping, watch cheesy cover bands, ride banana boats and go parasailing then yes, the south is for you, especially the towns of Lagos, Albufeira and Portimao.
There's a little variation in the southern towns, but in general if you see one, you've essentially seen them all; a number of bars playing really loud music, many non-traditional restaurants, and seaside shops selling sarongs and boogie boards. Faro, the seemingly awkward sibling of the south has escaped the typical tourist scene, for now. So, if you decide to go to the Algarve region, here 's a quick list of where to go, what to do and where to stay.
Lagos
What to do: Party in town, on the beach or on a boat. Enjoy some of the south's most iconic beaches. Kayak instead of hiking the few kilometers of clif side in this town for a striking new view of the town.
Where to stay: Old Town Lagos Hostel, an inexpensive party-focused hostel filled with energetic backpackers who are always up for a good time. The hostel even runs their own private tours to ensure you'll enjoy Lagos. Or sleep at a quieter slightly more expensive Blue Moon Hostel.
Where to eat: For traditional food check out, Casinha do Petisco. Non-traditional, Rokefellass
When to go: May, June, September and October. You'll skip most of the dense tourist season. However, the party scene dies down a bit after September begins. Like almost non-existant.
Portimao
What to do: Walk along the strip. Head to the beach, Praia dos Tres Castelos and Praia do Vau are some favorites.
photo via Hostel San Jose
Where to stay: Hostel San Jose offers a tranquil place to rest, but offers a prime location close to the main strip. They have ample common space including hammocks to lounge in and an outdoor eating area equipped with a grill.
photo via Hostel San Jose
Where to eat: For traditional food try, Mira.
When to go: Same as Lagos.
Albufeira
What to do: Get lost in this multileveled town. Walk along the boardwalk visiting a number of good restaurants and great beach space.
Where to stay: Ale-Hop Hostel. Yes the chain of "sellers of random quirky items you never knew you needed" also has a Hostel. It's right in the heart of Albufeira and uses it's small footprint in a very efficient way. Rooms feel spacious and common areas are ample.
photo via ale-hop hostel
Where to eat: Dom Carlos is quite the popular place.
When to go: Same as Lagos.
Faro
What to do: Dive into the growing alternative art and music scene. Take a boat tour of the Ria Formosa. Walk around the old walled city. Discover the underground tunnels. Take an informative tuk-tuk tour.
Where to stay: 1878 Hostel, an interesting hostel in a building with lots of fascinating history. Former antique refurbishers and sellers started this hostel just a few years back. The pieces of furniture are really cool, most handmade and the terrace is extraordinary.
Baixa-Portugal Terrace Hostel is another cool option a little outside of the old town center. The hostel is designed using traditional Portuese motifs, but in a very modern and cool way. And as the name mentions, they do have a terrace where they often serve breakfast and is available most hours of the day for guests.
Faroway is a newer hostel adding itself to the mix. In a great location, this hostel is often full of guests who help make the space feel like a home away from home. Jorge Guiomar, the manager of Faroway is from the area and can offer some great advice on things to see, places to go and secrets of the city. Every once in a while Jorge and his staff will make an amazing barbecue dinner on their terrace. This is a great opportunity to have a great meal and meet fellow backpackers and vacationers.
photo via Faroway Hostel
Where to eat: For traditional, Vivmar Restaurant, Taska do Ricky, Tertulia Algarvia. Dois Irmaos. Non-traditional, Papparazzi Pizzeria, Hamburgeria da Baixa, and A Venda. Let's just say, you won't go hungry. Bon appetite!
When to go: May, June, September and October. You'll skip most of the dense tourist season.
I hope that despite my emotions of the south, this can be a helpful resource for your travels! Enjoy!
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