If you follow travel accounts on Instagram “religiously” like me, you’ve probably seen photos of the Algarve in your feed. The southernmost region of Portugal has no shortage of dream places and landscapes. Seeing its whitewashed, tiled villages, sparkling golden sand beaches, rocky cliffs and caves that look like they came straight from the Jurassic era, and ancient castles might make anyone want to book a family trip .
Parts of the Algarve could easily be confused with somewhere along the Mediterranean coast. It even shares the same climate. But what you’ll find about 150 miles south of Lisbon is a coastal paradise full of hidden gems, where your dollar takes you much further. Here are five reasons why you should consider a family trip to Portugal in the Algarve.
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1. Seaside villages are just as charming as other popular coastal destinations throughout Europe.
The whitewashed buildings scattered along the beach like icing sugar give off a “Costa Brava” vibe, while the cobbled streets lined with pastel-colored houses and sidewalk cafes could easily transport you to the French Riviera . But the Algarve’s seaside villages aren’t all pretty pictures. You’ll also generally see fewer people than in more visited coastal destinations such as Mediterranean towns.
Carvoeiro, in the western Algarve, is the perfect springboard for families to get a taste of the region. It’s quieter than more noteworthy cities like Lagos and Faro, plus it has a laid-back beach. Families can also enjoy easy access to one of Portugal’s most iconic landmarks, the Benagil Cave, as well as short trips to Lagos and Ferragudo, arguably the cutest little town around.
(Psst: My top restaurant picks in the Western Algarve include Travia in Lagos, Ferragudu’s Terrace in Ferragudo and Chef’s Kitchen in Carvoeiro. Although there are no dedicated kids’ menus, the dishes are fun and versatile, high chairs are plentiful, and the establishments are incredibly accommodating for those with little ones.)
2. Your money will go far in the Algarve.
Taking children to Europe does not necessarily require breaking the bank. When traveling to the Algarve, cost is one of the most attractive factors. This is due to frequent flight deals to Lisbon, where you can easily rent a car and drive a few hours south; economical accommodation, especially during the off-season; and an overall lower travel cost when it comes to food, activities and more.
With strategic planning and timing, such as traveling during the country’s low season (December to March) or the shoulder season of May, June, September and October, a family trip to Portugal in the Algarve could actually cost less as the visit to certain destinations in Portugal. UNITED STATES. Yes, you heard correctly.
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3. Recreational activities are relaxed and easily accomplished.
Adventures abound in the Algarve for families of all activity levels. The famous Benagil Cave is accessible by a rugged but fairly flat footpath, as well as by boat (some tours are wheelchair accessible) and kayak.
Hiking the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail to Benagil Cave is free but does not take you inside the cave like paid tours do; however, you still get awesome views. Note: The trail is just under four miles long in total, but the cave viewpoint is less than half a mile from the parking lot.
Further adventures await at ancient castles and fortresses along the Algarve coast, as well as the Carvoeiro promenade (stroller and wheelchair accessible), the award-winning Praia da Marinha beach and the estate family winery Quinta dos Vales. Families traveling during the warmer months may also want to visit the Slide and Splash Water Park.
4. Family complexes go beyond children’s expectations.
At first glance, the Monte Santo Resort in Carvoeiro, where we ultimately decided to stay in March at the end of the low season, may seem more like a honeymoon retreat than a family resort. However, a closer look at the property and other properties in the area will reveal great attention to detail when it comes to child-friendly offerings.
Monte Santo Resort offers a well-equipped youth club and playground, dedicated activities for the whole family, childcare services and a range of baby equipment (i.e. cribs portable chairs, high chairs, potty training seats, baby monitors and swim diapers) available free of charge. or a small fee.
Families also enjoy spacious accommodations, including two-bedroom suites and three-bedroom townhouses; swoon-worthy swimming pools; free parking; a short walk (10 minutes) from the picturesque Carvoeiro town center and beach; and central location to all area highlights. The value of a stay at Monte Santo Resort is unbeatable, with low rates for a resort of its caliber and deals offered throughout the year.
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5. The weather is pleasant all year round.
It’s almost too good to be true. The Algarve is located in the Mediterranean climate zone, so the region experiences comfortably warm summers and mild, refreshing winters. Stronger winds, especially in the western part of the region, also help keep it from getting too hot and humid.
When we took our family trip to Portugal in the Algarve, we found the weather in March during our stay to be ideal. Daytime temperatures typically hovered between the 60s and 70s, while constant sunshine made it feel even hotter.
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