Algarve

The Algarve is Portugal's golden coast: 200km of dramatic cliffs, hidden coves, and beaches the colour of caramel. Benagil Cave — the iconic sea grotto with a hole-in-the-ceiling — is the most-photographed spot in the country and only reachable by boat or kayak. Boat tours from Albufeira, Lagos, and Portimão all stop here; kayak tours offer the rare chance to actually land inside. Beyond Benagil, the western Algarve (Sagres, Cabo de São Vicente) feels wilder and less developed. The central section (Albufeira, Lagos) is the family beach hub with the largest concentration of tours. East of Faro, the Ria Formosa lagoon hides quiet beaches reachable only by ferry. Dolphin sightings are reliable from May to October across the whole coast. The Algarve's tourist season runs April to early November. July-August is peak European holiday season; book accommodation and popular tours well ahead. May, June, September, and October offer 22-26°C and far fewer crowds.