Back in October 2021, I travelled to Algarve for a little bit of sun and a first post-pandemic vacation. Photos I had seen online somehow reminded of the Canary Islands, even though the less extreme climate made for ‘softer’ landscapes.

Experiencing Algarve was mostly about visiting the local towns and beaches. In no particular order, here’s where I went.

Praia da Rocha, Portimão

Praia do Camilo, Lagos

A few hundred steps down and you’d discover this sheltered, sandy cove divided by ochre-colored rocks with hand-dug tunnel.

Vila do Bispo

Further west, the town of Vila do Bispo and his white houses was a pretty quiet stop. You can imagine how that town must get hammered by the sun in the summer.

Praia da Cordoama

A pretty iconic beach reminiscent of Cofete in Fuerteventura.

Monchique

Besides beaches, Algarve has some mountains, and the Serra de Monchique reaches about 900m of elevation. If you’re a cyclist, it’s worth climbing up to the town of Monchique, and stop for a break at Velochique, the iconic café for cycling nerds. (No photos of the café below, sorry to disappoint.)

Benagil

This was the view from the restaurant O Pescador in Benagil, an Algarve fishing village known for its picturesque beaches and sea caves — a pretty dreamy setting!

And with food served! (Say “hi!” to my mum!)

Praia da Falésia

 

Olhão

And some time around the pool

Until next time! 👋