Christmas & New Year on the Algarve

This holiday is a combination of our two one week holidays, Delights of the Western Algarve and Tavira, Pearl of the Algarve.

The scent of orange groves and pine trees accompanies you as you stroll along ancient paths fringed with abundant wild flowers, to a viewpoint where you can rest and drink in beautiful scenery and the silence.

The western Algarve offers a glorious mix of coastal, mountain and inland landscapes. The varied geology produces a rich diversity of scenery from granite mountains to dramatic limestone escarpments and sea cliffs, all greatly complemented by the local flora and fauna. Experience stunning coastal views, charming Algarvian villages. Walk past lemon and olive groves in the valley of the Rio Arade to historic Silves. Explore the dramatic "Seven Valleys" coastal walk, concluding in Carvoeiro. Witness local villages preserving centuries-old traditions. Enjoy scenic coastal walks from Alvor to Portimao, taking in the dramatic Alvor estuary, and from Lagos to Burgau. Head to the end of Europe in Parque Natural de Costa Vicentina, the continent's south-westerly point.

Trails take you to Tavira Island in the Natural Park, taking in one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, and to pretty coastal villages such as Santa Luiza, Cabanas and Cacela Velha. Inland wind your way between hills and valleys to the low peak of Zimbral, with some rewarding views. Ancient trails take you past farms, through an intricate patchwork of orange groves, olive and carob orchards. Sometimes you'll walk beside rivers; other times amongst the pines and cork oaks. Throughout the season, immerse yourself in the ever-changing spectacle of beautiful flowers, creating a truly enchanting experience.

You'll stay in the picturesque town of Portimao for three nights before spending your final four nights in the western Algarve in the centre of Lagos.  Lagos is a historical and characterful city decorated with authentic restaurants, cobbled streets and dramatic natural scenery. It is a popular day trip destination with its picturesque sandy beaches and beautiful harbour area.

During your second week, the scenery changes dramatically from dramatic sheer red cliffs and magical sea caves and grotto to long sandy beaches. Charming Tavira straddles the Rio Gilão as it meets the Atlantic Ocean and flows into the shallows of the offshore Ria Formosa Natural Park. Narrow streets lead between whitewashed buildings, decorated with colourful Arab style tiles, flower filled balconies and painted strips of blue and yellow decorating door and window frames. 

Please check individual Holiday Information Sheets for further details regarding your accommodation.