The Algarve, meaning "The West", is the southernmost region of mainland Portugal. The Algarve is the most popular tourist destination in Portugal, and one of the most popular in Europe. Its population triples in the peak holiday season thanks to a high influx of visitors, and receives an average of 7 million foreign tourists each year. Coastal Algarve receives much exposure for its breathtaking cliffs, golden beaches, scalloped bays and sandy islands. But the letter 'S' (for sun, surf and sand) is only one letter in the Algarvian alphabet: activities, beach bars (and discos), castles, diving, entertainment, fun... the list goes on!
Let's be frank: Portugal's premier holiday destination sold its soul to tourism in the sixties and never really looked back. Behind sections of the south coast's beachscape, looms massive conglomerations of bland holiday villas and brash resorts. However the west coast is another story – it's more about nature and less about development. And yet coastal Algarve is a 'drop in the ocean' for any visitor. The enchanting inner Algarve boasts pretty castle towns and historic villages, cork tree – and flower-covered hillsides, and birdlife. And the wonderful Via Algarviana walking track crosses its breadth. Algarve, Portugal, is without a doubt the perfect holiday destination for families, couples, independent travelers and backpackers, mixed groups and retired people...in fact, anyone who wants to enjoy a lovely chilled break!
Aleesha and her husband went to Algarve Portugal for their honeymoon, and the photos on this page are of their trip.
References: Wikipedia.com, algarveuncovered.com and lonelyplanet.com