Portugal - Algarve
This time I will be writing a little about Algarve, which is the most southerly region in Portugal and a great tourist attractions because of its fabulous beaches, amazing coastline and historical sites. I stayed in Algarve for a week to enjoy all of it!
If you are a surfer then you already know that Portugal is a surfer's paradise and every year, thousands of people way their way to Portugal to catch the biggest waves in the world. Also the Guinness record for surfing the highest wave was broke by a British surfer las year! The best place for people, who are into water sports is Algarve's Costa Vicentina - a national park, which was designed by the Portugal's government.
Cerro da Vila ruins are perfect place to visit if you want to see something historic. The ruins date back to the Roman occupation of the Iberian peninsula and the remains of a villa and other facilities are a good reminder of Portugal's past. Another site to go and visit is the Moorish castle, overlooking Silver stands. This is one of the best-preserved Moorish forts in the country, and also dates back to pre-Roman era. I personally thought it was a great place, and if you are not really interested in the history then you might be amazed by the gorgeous views over the surrounding area.
Portugal is famous for its vineyards and the northern port houses in Porto or Vila Nova de Gaia, but in Algarve I suggest to visit Quinta do Frances, which is a small, family owned vineyard. If you love wine, then you must go! They offer guided tours in the vineyard and its cellars and you can try various sorts if wines.
Algarve is mostly meant for relaxing and having the best time on your vacation. There are a lot of boat tours, that are a great way to spend some hours exploring the coast. A company called Dream Wave has tours with an old pirate ship that might be exciting for parents with kids. it also stops in some of the local villages, where you can enjoy a swim and local food. I went on one of these boat tours and it was very nice, and a bit more fun than just going to the beach. I wish I would have know about this earlier, but in Algarve you can also have a horseback tour. The Holistic Riding Centre offers something different, but if you want to try new things then this is it!
Algarve is a perfect travel destination and it has attractions to every taste and demographic. I know this was a quit small list of things to do, but because the variation is so big, I suggest you go and explore Portugal yourself.