Things To Do
Beachfront Cliffs and Caves
While Alexander and Paul prefer the vibe of the towns in the eastern Algarve, the beautiful rust colored rock cliffs and caves are a sight to see in the west of the Algarve. Starting around Vale do Lobo and heading westward, you can find many gorgeous beaches like Praia de Falésia, Praia dos Aveiros, Praia de Benagil & Benagil Caves, or Alexander and Paul's personal favorite: Praia de São Rafael. It was at this last beach (pictured & linked) where they officially decided to get married in the Algarve.
WELL Beach Club
There is no better way to enjoy the sun in the opulent Golden Triangle of the Algarve than by lounging (or even partying) at a cliffside pool club overlooking the ocean! Alexander and Paul visited WELL during their first visit to the region and not only loved their experience but also the friendly and welcoming staff too.
Explore the town of Tavira
The cultural and historic hub of the far eastern Algarve, this quaint town is still guarded by its castle and old town walls. Tavira is very walkable and calls for a stroll along the streets filled with cute shops/restaurants near Praça da Republica, a jaunt over the Old Bridge across the Gilão River, or a listen to traditional Fado music at the azulejo adorned sixteenth century Igreja da Misericórdia (Church of the Misericórdia). Those of you who to choose to stay at Colegío Charm House or near/with the wedding party and family will have this town at your fingertips.
Restaurante Mato à Vista
Alexander and Paul visited this restaurant on a previous visit at the urging of their wonderful wedding planners Fernanda and Marta and it truly is not to be missed. The restaurant has amazing Portuguese food and an expansive wine selection to really indulge in the local culture. While there, Alexander and Paul were treated to a tour of the cellar by the sommelier who helped them pick the perfect wine for the meal. The restaurant is also nestled amongst tons of lemon and other citrus orchards and provides you an opportunity to see these colorful farms that dot the hills above the better known beaches of the Algarve. Located right off the main highway as you enter the region, it will likely be an easy stop for those of you driving from Lisbon.
Parque Natural da Ria Formosa
The Algarve is known for beautiful natural landscapes and visiting the Parque Natural da Ria Formosa (or Formosa River Nature Park) allows you to relax and explore the protected environs and beaches along the oceanfront. Who knows, you might even make friends with some of the local flamingoes and chameleons.
Visit a Vineyard
Portugal is know for its wine, in particular some of its unique types. While you may have had of the Douro Valley, the Algarve is one of the major wine producing regions in Portugal as well. Don't just take our word for it; it's even been written about in Travel and Leisure in the last few years. Quinta da Tor is highly rated and closest to the festivity venues but find a more comprehensive list to choose from at the link.
Live the High Life in the Golden Triangle
The most "posh" part of the Algarve is known as "The Golden Triangle" - it includes the towns of Quinta do Lago and Vale do Lobo, the resort town of Vilamoura, and the more inland city of Almancil. These towns are known for their modern mansions, luxury hotels, and the marina and casino district in Villamoura, as well as being the home to many of the golf clubs that make the Algarve famous. Head to this area to explore any of the above options or some of the best restaurants in the area as well, like Gusto by Heinz Beck at the Conrad. See some of those premier dining options at the Michelin link included.
Praia do Barril
The Ilha de Tavira (Tavira Island) off the coast of said town has large sandy beaches that are expansive enough to provide you quiet even during the July busy season. While the island itself has many beaches, Praia do Barril (Barril Beach) has available parking linked by bridge where you can access the island via a little train (as some of you saw on Tik Tok...). While enjoying the beach you can also see the famous "anchor cemetery" amongst the beach grass left by the long gone tuna fishing industry.
Palácio de Estoi
Visit the other wedding guests or experience your own very unique stay at a real Portuguese palace. Integrated with one of our recommended hotels, the grounds and old palace are available to explore. And you can even grab a quick drink at the hotel bar after.
Roman Ruins of Milreu
The Algarve is steeped in history, all the way back to the Romans. You will find ruins scattered across the various towns but some of the best preserved in the region are at the Roman Ruins of Milreu (Ruínas Romanas de Milreu) - it holds the remains of a Roman villa from the first century.
Embrace the Sardines
While they may not be everyone's favorite food, Portugal and particularly the Algarve is known for supplying most of the world's sardines. Don't be surprised to even find a few sardine shops in the airport in Lisbon. As a whole the Algarve is known for seafood so we encourage you to explore some of the amazing local fish markets, seafood restaurants scattered around each town, or even go all in and visit the museum in Portimao (western Algarve) dedicated to the sardine industry (see link here.)