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  • When?March 2015
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Introduction
Itinerary
Hotels
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The Algarve Coast & Country
from Per person

The Algarve Coast & Country

  • 7 Night Holiday
  • B&B / Half Board
View Dates & Prices

Stretching across the southernmost tip of mainland Portugal, the Algarve is famous for its year round superb climate, fantastic beaches, dramatic landscape and quaint villages.

The Algarve is one of the most popular holiday destinations in Europe, with modern resorts offering every amenity a holidaymaker could wish for, as well as historic whitewashed towns and fishing ports, full of tradition and atmosphere. The resorts offer an abundance of great bars, shops, cafés and restaurants, while trips to colourful local markets provide an entertaining and rewarding pastime. With warm sunshine and a lively ambience in summer, the quieter, cooler months are also an ideal time to enjoy this most appealing destination.

Coach transfer to and from Belfast (Chichester Street) to Dublin Airport on selected dates.

Please note that some excursions on this holiday will involve walking on hilly terrain and uneven surfaces.

 

Map of Portugal

Practical Information for this holiday

Currency
Euro (€)     
Local Time
Portugal is in the same time zone as Ireland and the UK, i.e. UTC + 00:00 in winter, UTC + 01:00 in summertime.
Passport
A valid passport is required for this holiday. EU citizens do not need a visa, however non-EU citizens should check requirements. 
Climate

The Algarve enjoys a temperate coastal climate, with mild and sunny spring and autumns with average temperatures between 18c and 24c. Summer months are typically sunny and warm with little rain and winter is mild with cool evenings.
Food & Drink
While in Portugal you can enjoy delicious food matched with beautiful local wines at incredibly reasonable prices. Try the local specialities Piri Piri chicken or 'Cataplana', and really fresh seafood, complemented by tasty, ripe vegetables and fruity olive oil. Vinho Verde is a refreshing, slightly sparkling white wine which is light in alcohol and a pefect match for grilled fish dishes.
Average Prices for Region
  • Coffee: €1.45
  • Beer: €2.50
  • Glass of wine: €3.00
  • Light lunch: €7.00
  • Soft Drink: €1.00
  • Bottled Water: €0.30
Packing List
  • Your valid passport
  • Sun cream
  • A continental plug adaptor
  • A rain jacket
  • A small backpack
  • A sun hat
  • Comfortable shoes
  • Camera
Recommended Reading/Viewing

Breaking Tracks by Sally Hope Johnson

The Drifters by James A. Michener

Spice & the Devil’s Cave by Agnes Hewes

Holiday highlights

Lagos

Located in the western Algarve, Lagos is full of historical interest. The 16th century walls still encircle part of the old town with its pretty cobbled streets. There are plenty of bars and restaurants to enjoy in the modern part of the town before taking a walk down to the Ponte da Piedade to admire the views of Lagos Bay.
Monchique Mountains 

The Serra de Monchique  is a thickly wooded mountain range that separates the Algarve from the neighbouring Alentejo Region. The mountains provide a beautiful backdrop to many of the views along the Algarve coast.
Traditional music

The Algarvians love to welcome visitors with a display of traditional music and dance.  At festivals and entertainment venues, troupes of colourfully costumed folk dancers twirl and spin to the infectious rhythms of the ‘Corridinho’.   For a quieter form of musical entertainment, seek out a ‘Fado’ house and listen to the soulful songs of the Fado genre, performed by solo singers and accompanied by Portuguese 12 string guitar. 
Beaches

There are about 100 attractive sandy beaches on the Algarve’s Atlantic coastline, with rust-hued cliffs and rock formations forming an impressive backdrop to many of them.  Due to the maritime shelf and water currents the sea temperature is surprisingly warm.   Keep an eye out for dolphins and whales, which can often be spotted on this coast.

 
Olhão Markets

Sit back with a coffee at one of the pavement cafés and enjoy the buzz of Olhão’s two large markets. Situated side by side along the town’s waterfront, the markets display a huge range of locally grown fruit and vegetables, freshly caught seafood and local olives, nuts and honey. 

Practical Information for this holiday

Currency
Euro (€)     
Local Time
Portugal is in the same time zone as Ireland and the UK, i.e. UTC + 00:00 in winter, UTC + 01:00 in summertime.
Passport
A valid passport is required for this holiday. EU citizens do not need a visa, however non-EU citizens should check requirements. 
Climate

The Algarve enjoys a temperate coastal climate, with mild and sunny spring and autumns with average temperatures between 18c and 24c. Summer months are typically sunny and warm with little rain and winter is mild with cool evenings.
Food & Drink
While in Portugal you can enjoy delicious food matched with beautiful local wines at incredibly reasonable prices. Try the local specialities Piri Piri chicken or 'Cataplana', and really fresh seafood, complemented by tasty, ripe vegetables and fruity olive oil. Vinho Verde is a refreshing, slightly sparkling white wine which is light in alcohol and a pefect match for grilled fish dishes.
Average Prices for Region
  • Coffee: €1.45
  • Beer: €2.50
  • Glass of wine: €3.00
  • Light lunch: €7.00
  • Soft Drink: €1.00
  • Bottled Water: €0.30
Packing List
  • Your valid passport
  • Sun cream
  • A continental plug adaptor
  • A rain jacket
  • A small backpack
  • A sun hat
  • Comfortable shoes
  • Camera
Recommended Reading/Viewing

Breaking Tracks by Sally Hope Johnson

The Drifters by James A. Michener

Spice & the Devil’s Cave by Agnes Hewes

Trip Itinerary - Day by day

Day 1 - Travel to Portugal

Travel to Portugal

Upon arrival in Faro, you will be met by our local representative in the airport before being transferred to your hotel.

Day 2 - At Leisure

At Leisure

Today there will be a welcome meeting at your hotel. During the meeting your guide will provide lots of tips and information about the local area to help get your holiday off to a great start! You will also receive suggestions of ways to spend your free days to suit your specific interests. You will have the day at leisure to relax at your hotel, stroll and get to know your surroundings. 

Day 3 - Lagos & Sagres

Morning

Lagos

Enjoy a full day excursion which includes a guided tour of the town of Lagos, taking in its historic centre and wonderful panoramas.

Afternoon

Sagres

In the afternoon you will visit Sagres and Cape St. Vincent, where Portugal’s famous explorer Henry the Navigator set off on his voyages of discovery. From this rugged cliff top setting you can admire great views of the unspoilt Western Algarve.

Day 4 - At Leisure

At Leisure

Today, you will have a day free to enjoy the sea views and take in the local atmosphere.

Day 5 - Silves

Morning

Silves

This morning, visit the well preserved historic town of Silves, an inland gem filled with beauty and history, with its Moorish castle and cathedral. Along the way, you’ll travel through the Algarvian countryside and will discover some of its most beautiful and traditional villages.

Afternoon

At Leisure

Enjoy a relaxing afternoon at your hotel or take a trip to the nearby beach. 

Day 6 - At Leisure

At Leisure

Today, you will have a day free to relax and take in some further sightseeing at your own pace. You might like to spend some time in the town centre and pick up some souvenirs. Afterwards, enjoy a cool drink outside one of the small bars that line the streets, and watch the world go by.

Day 7 - Faro Town & Olhao Market

Morning

Faro Town & Olhao Market

On today’s half day excursion, you’ll depart for Faro, capital of the Algarve region. Explore its cobbled lanes, quiet squares and pedestrianised streets, dotted with historic churches and small shops. Continuing east to the fishing town of Olhao, enjoy a visit to its vibrant market, with an amazing array of fresh fruits and vegetables and wonderful displays of fresh seafood.

Afternoon

At Leisure

Enjoy a relaxing afternoon at your hotel or take a trip to the nearby beach. 

Day 8 - Return Home

Return Home

Today, you will transfer from your hotel to the airport for your flight home, with guide assistance.

* Please note that the order of your excursions on the itinerary above is provisional and subject to change

Customer reviews

Hotel & accommodation available for this trip

Hotel Vila Gale Cerro Alagoa 4

Located in the lively resort of Albufeira and close to its superb beaches, this hotel is in a great position for those who are looking to relax and enjoy the sun, as well as explore the many shops and entertainment venues. In warm weather, guests may choose to take advantage of a... read more read more read more

Located in the lively resort of Albufeira and close to its superb beaches, this hotel is in a great position for those who are looking to relax and enjoy the sun, as well as explore the many shops and entertainment venues. In warm weather, guests may choose to take advantage of a cool swim in the hotel’s impressive outdoor swimming pool. If the sun is too much or the weather is a little cooler, the heated indoor pool provides an ideal alternative. The Wellness Centre* is an excellent way to seek further relaxation, through a Jacuzzi, sauna, Turkish bath, or a satisfying massage. Guests can also unwind at one of the two hotel bars, which offer a variety of drinks and cocktails. 

*Charges would apply for some services at the Wellness Centre 

Hotel address
Hotel Vila Gale Cerro Alagoa
Rua Do Municipio. Lote 26


Albufeira
View available dates for this hotel

Hotel da Aldeia 3

Hotel da Aldeia lies in the heart of Albufeira’s lively entertainment district.  Its guest rooms are simply furnished. With an extensive pool terrace and Algarvian-themed indoor spaces, it is a popular choice for those who like to be in the resort’s centre with easy access t... read more read more read more

Hotel da Aldeia lies in the heart of Albufeira’s lively entertainment district.  Its guest rooms are simply furnished. With an extensive pool terrace and Algarvian-themed indoor spaces, it is a popular choice for those who like to be in the resort’s centre with easy access to the many bars, cafes and shops.   There are several beaches in the area, with the nearest an approximate 10 minute walk from the hotel.  

Hotel address
Hotel da Aldeia
Av. Dr. Francisco Sá Carneiro
8200-280 Albufeira
Portugal
Algarve
View available dates for this hotel

Hotel Santa Catarina 3

With an enviable location opposite the wide, sandy Praia da Rocha beach, Hotel Santa Catarina offers its guests a warm welcome and attentive service.  All of the resort’s amenities on its doorstep, including the Algarve Casino and an array of bars, cafes and restaurants. Por... read more read more read more

With an enviable location opposite the wide, sandy Praia da Rocha beach, Hotel Santa Catarina offers its guests a warm welcome and attentive service.  All of the resort’s amenities on its doorstep, including the Algarve Casino and an array of bars, cafes and restaurants. Portimão’s colourful marina is just 600 metres away and there is a regular bus service to the town centre, known for its great shopping. With its functional, well equipped rooms, continental buffet breakfasts and simple, local-style evening meals, Hotel Santa Catarina provides an ideal base for sightseeing and relaxing in the Algarve.

Hotel address
Hotel Santa Catarina
Avenida Tomás Cabreira
8500-802 Praia da Rocha
Portimão
Portimao
View available dates for this hotel

Hotel Boa Vista 3

This hotel rests high on a hilltop in Albufeira, with stunning panoramic views of the Old Town and the ocean from its pool and terrace. Century old artefacts and vintage furniture decorate many parts of the hotel, adding to its quaint appeal.  Holidaymakers looking to sit ba... read more read more read more

This hotel rests high on a hilltop in Albufeira, with stunning panoramic views of the Old Town and the ocean from its pool and terrace. Century old artefacts and vintage furniture decorate many parts of the hotel, adding to its quaint appeal.  Holidaymakers looking to sit back and unwind may take advantage of the hotel’s spa facility, where there is a variety of treatments available (charges apply).  Breakfast and simple, rustic evening meals are served in the sea-facing restaurant. The location is ideal for discovering the charms of Albufeira’s town centre, with its great choice of restaurants, as well as the wonderful beaches of the area.

*Please note that this is an adults only hotel and does not admit children under 16 years of age.

Due to its position and varying levels within the hotel property, this hotel is not suitable for guests with restricted mobility. Please contact us if you require further information.

Hotel address
Hotel Boa Vista
Rua Samora Barros, nº 20,


Albufeira
View available dates for this hotel

Hotel Do Cerro 3 Superior

This long established, family-run hotel has a scenic hilltop position in Albufeira, overlooking the Old Town and the sea.  With a quirky layout and home-from-home style, it offers panoramic terraces where guests can sit back and relax while enjoying the views, as well as co... read more read more read more

This long established, family-run hotel has a scenic hilltop position in Albufeira, overlooking the Old Town and the sea.  With a quirky layout and home-from-home style, it offers panoramic terraces where guests can sit back and relax while enjoying the views, as well as cosy indoor sitting areas.    A continental breakfast and buffet dinner are served in the hotel’s restaurant.

The location is ideal for discovering Albufeira’s great choice of cafes, restaurants and shops as well as its superb beaches.

Due to its position and varying levels within the hotel property, this hotel is not suitable for guests with restricted mobility. Please contact us if you require further information.

Hotel address
Hotel Do Cerro
R. Samora Barros, 8200-178 Albufeira, Portugal
Portugal

Albufeira
View available dates for this hotel

Hotel Aqua Pedra dos Bicos 4

Located in the lively resort of Albufeira, this Adults Only hotel is in a great position for those who are looking to relax and enjoy the sunshine, as well as explore the many shops and entertainment venues a short stroll away.   The hotel is ‘boutique’ style, with comp... read more read more read more

Located in the lively resort of Albufeira, this Adults Only hotel is in a great position for those who are looking to relax and enjoy the sunshine, as well as explore the many shops and entertainment venues a short stroll away.   The hotel is ‘boutique’ style, with compact, stylish rooms and a contemporary design.  Guests can avail of a pathway and steps to a secluded sandy beach just 500m below the property.  

Hotel address
Hotel Aqua Pedra dos Bicos

8200-381, Urb. Quinta Pedra dos Bicos
Albufeira, Portugal
View available dates for this hotel

Jupiter Algarve Hotel 4 Star

Located in Praia da Rocha and close to its superb beach, this hotel is in a great position for those who are looking to relax and enjoy the resort’s amenities, which include a casino as well as a selection of bars and restaurants.  The hotel features a contemporary, sea-insp... read more read more read more

Located in Praia da Rocha and close to its superb beach, this hotel is in a great position for those who are looking to relax and enjoy the resort’s amenities, which include a casino as well as a selection of bars and restaurants.  The hotel features a contemporary, sea-inspired décor throughout.  Indulge yourself in the Spa, an excellent way to seek further relaxation, or unwind with a cocktail at the bar.

Hotel address
Jupiter Algarve Hotel
AVENIDA TOMÁS CABREIRA 92, 8500-802 PORTIMAO PORT
Praia da Rocha
TEL: +351 282 470 470
Praia da Rocha
View available dates for this hotel

* Some hotel facilities may be seasonally operated or under maintenance and therefore unavailable at the time of your stay. Charges may apply for certain facilities.

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