Think of the Algarve... mile upon mile of golden sands interrupted only by craggy outcrops of rock. But the Algarve, although well known as one of the sunniest areas of Europe, is much more than just a beach lover’s paradise. For five centuries this was the land of the Moors and their intriguing legacy is evident in local architecture, music and language. The region’s character is strongly influenced by the sea and, perhaps surprisingly, almost every coastal village still devotes itself mainly to fishing.
To the east of the Algarve, the Natural Park of Ria Formosa is a haven for bird and fish life. Covering an area of 18,400 hectares and stretching for 60km from Ancao, near Quinta do Lago, to Manta Routa, this coast has some of the regions most spectacular beaches – many only accessible by boat.
