Algarve

The Algarve has been inhabited for thousands of years. The first developed society was probably the Phoenicians in 1,100 BC. Due to the geographical position of the Algarve, this province has been invaded and fought over for centuries.

Transport is mainly by road although there is a train line running from Lagos to Vila Real do Santo António and connecting to Lisbon. The airport is in the centre of the Algarve coastline at Faro.

There are about 100 sandy attractive beaches washed by the Atlantic Ocean. Due to the shape of the sea beds and the currents the water temperature usually stays at a comfortable level all year round.

This region has possibly the most unpolluted climate in the European continent.

The Algarve has few remaining ancient structures as it has suffered several earthquakes since the first recorded one in 63 BC but there are many picturesque limestone caves and grottoes, particularly around Lagos, which are accessible by powerboat to keep you amused. There are many other beautiful places such as Albufeira, Vilamoura,Tavira and Sagres, Praia da Rocha, Lagos, Armação de Pêra, Alvor and Monte Gordo.

If you want some exercise then there are many golf courses along the Algarve coastline or why not visit one of the new spas which have been built in the area.