algarve-365-blog

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Pestana Alvor Blue

Alvor Blue is the latest in a long line of Pestana developments in Alvor. Alvor Blue opened at the beginning of April 2019. This now brings the total number of developments owned by Pestana in Alvor to 8

Arial view Alvor Blue

Pestana Hotels in Alvor

These include: Pestana Alvor BlueDom Joao II Pestana DelfimSouth Beach Alvor PraiaAlto ClubAtlanticoAlvor Park Some people have been critical of this and say that Pestana are now holding too much influence over the area. Importantly we only see this as a good thing as they are committed to the area. They will only want to see improvements in the the area into the future.

Above all, this will bring extra employment to the area and also increase the capacity of rooms in Alvor. Which during peak season months becomes very hard to make bookings. The only down side to Alvor Blue is that the hotel is all inclusive. This means the money stays in the hotel chain and does not get spread around the village. The hotel complex is quite large so we can only assume there is plenty to do within the grounds. They are also building what looks to be a link bridge across the dual carriageway. I am guessing this will then link Alvor Blue to both Alvor Praia and the Delfim. Therefore if you or your family are looking to visit this all inclusive complex and don't want the hassle of waiting for your tour operator coach to drive you around the Algarve before reaching your destination then please feel free to Contact Us for a quotation. All of our drivers are originally from the UK and personally trained by Donna and myself until we feel they meet our strict requirements. We look forward to greeting you to the Algarve in the near future. Read the full article

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Algarve Cycling Tours

Algarve Cycling Tours Algarve Cycling Tours was started last year when we team up with a highly respected bike hire company in the Algarve. What started out as bike hire has slowly become assisted cycling tours. Over the last 12 months we have assisted Canadians, Americans, English and last week the Welsh boys. Previous trips have been on mountain bikes and cycling along the coast line and countryside. The Via Algarviana is also very popular with dozens of different routes!

The guys from Gwalchmai CC however wished to use carbon road bikes for their Algarve warm weather riding so some of those routes were not suitable. We met the guys at Faro Airport to deliver the bikes and collect their luggage. They then cycled from the Faro Airport to Vila Real Santo Antonio on the Spanish boarder. This was approximately 60kms. When The Going Gets Tough! After using the EN125 for that trip the guys decided they wanted something a little quieter and scenic. I told them it could be done but would be "a little more hilly". After completing this trip they nicknamed me Porkie Pie Pete as its seems it was hillier than I suggested :)

VRSA to Portimao Cycling Route They covered an impressive 133kms that day. Taking in Tavira, cutting across to Sao Bras de Alportel, Salir, Alte (Stop for lunch), Messines, Silves and then to Portimao. Whilst all that was going on I had taken the luggage from VRSA to Portimao and then went home to jump on my own bike. I met the guys between Messines and Silves and guided them in via some back routes to Portimao marina. Day 3 saw them cycling down to Praia da Luz just to keep the legs loose as the following day we had "the climb". Day 4 saw me joining the guys again. This time to cycle up to the highest point in the Algarve known as Foia. The round trip ride was just under 80kms, but the climb (only around 15km in total) was over 3,300ft and in hot temperatures.

Everybody took it at their own pace but every rider managed to make it to the top. There was only a gap of around 7 minutes from first to last. At the top we took in the views before heading back down to Monchique for a traditional Piri Piri lunch. The boys had a great time and are already talking about new routes for next year. If you think we can help you plan your Algarve Cycling Tour routes, hotels, luggage transfers or bike hire then hit the contact us button above. Read the full article

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Soul In The Algarve

Soul in the Algarve began back in 2006 and has grown significantly over the years. The event has been held every year in Alvor.

Soul in the Algarve. Based in Alvor What started out as a small event now sees over 800 people alone coming from the UK. They dance, sing and party with other soul music lovers from all over Europe. Soul in the Algarve is not just about the music. It's about making friends for life and also hosts sporting events during the week Beach Olympics, Salsa, Zumba, Football, Rounders, Netball, and water aerobics! Don't forget the quiz night and of course the highlight of the week, the SITA Carnival in the streets of Alvor. Some of the best Soul DJ's around attend the event giving you a great mix of soul. 70s – 80s Soul, Funk, Rare Groove, 90s R&B & Club Classics, Soulful House , Jazz, Boogie & Neo.

ALVOR

Alvor really is one of the best locations to host this event. White sandy beaches, perfect blue skies and sea. Lovely clifftop walks along the coast. What more could you ask for! SITA have events running every day and every night, from the minute you arrive until the final second you leave the events just don't stop. You can choose to dip in and out of the events of your choice , chill out or Party Hard and attend them all. It really is up to you. There is something for everyone. All Night Beach Parties, Club Nights. Catamaran Party, Quiz Night, Cliff Top Pool Party, Chill Out VIP Party. If you need any assistance getting to the event then Algarve365 will be more than happy to help. We offer Private Transfers for small and large groups. We will get you direct to Alvor in record time so that you can get the most of every single minute from this unique event! Read the full article

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Soul In The Algarve

Soul in the Algarve began back in 2006 and has grown significantly over the years. The event has been held every year in Alvor.

Soul in the Algarve. Based in Alvor What started out as a small event now sees over 800 people alone coming from the UK. They dance, sing and party with other soul music lovers from all over Europe. Soul in the Algarve is not just about the music. It's about making friends for life and also hosts sporting events during the week Beach Olympics, Salsa, Zumba, Football, Rounders, Netball, and water aerobics! Don't forget the quiz night and of course the highlight of the week, the SITA Carnival in the streets of Alvor. Some of the best Soul DJ's around attend the event giving you a great mix of soul. 70s – 80s Soul, Funk, Rare Groove, 90s R&B & Club Classics, Soulful House , Jazz, Boogie & Neo.

ALVOR

Alvor really is one of the best locations to host this event. White sandy beaches, perfect blue skies and sea. Lovely clifftop walks along the coast. What more could you ask for! SITA have events running every day and every night, from the minute you arrive until the final second you leave the events just don't stop. You can choose to dip in and out of the events of your choice , chill out or Party Hard and attend them all. It really is up to you. There is something for everyone. All Night Beach Parties, Club Nights. Catamaran Party, Quiz Night, Cliff Top Pool Party, Chill Out VIP Party. If you need any assistance getting to the event then Algarve365 will be more than happy to help. We offer Private Transfers for small and large groups. We will get you direct to Alvor in record time so that you can get the most of every single minute from this unique event! Read the full article

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Head To Algarve’s Hidden Gems And Save Money!

So you’ve settled on Portugal for your next holiday – well, if you look to an Alvor airport transfer, you could just save a lot of money compared to the busiest areas in the Algarve according to M&S Bank research. Travellers to Portugal could save on average 24.5 per cent on a trip if opting for Alvor over the city of Funchal in Madeira – that’s the difference of more than £700 on a family holiday according to The Sun. However, the research also found that almost half of people wouldn’t book to visit an area either they or their friends or family hadn’t visited before – making them less able to sniff out a great deal on a holiday destination. Only 15 per cent of holidaymakers say they like to look at alternative areas from the most popular tourist resorts. Paul Stokes, head of products at M&S Bank, believes that great value destinations can still be found in Europe: “Although holiday prices have risen slightly – partly due to the decline in value of sterling against the euro – families can still pocket savings this half-term by looking for alternatives to the more popular tourist destinations,” he said. When it comes to being able to afford a holiday, these alternatives might just help you get the very most for your money. Why pay through the nose, when you can visit a gorgeous resort such as Alvor and save hundreds of pounds? It’s only a short transfer journey from the airport and still popular with tourists, so you really don’t have to go too far off the beaten track to find a gem of a saving in the Algarve! Read the full article

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Algarve Cycling Holidays, Luggage Help

Algarve Cycling Holidays, Luggage Help. Cycling holidays in the Algarve are becoming more popular every year. But what do you do with your luggage? The answer is simple, use a company like Algarve365 to move your luggage from hotel to hotel leaving you to concentrate purely on your riding. We have a system whereby we will arrange to collect your luggage after 10am. This allows you time to have breakfast and use the last of your things before packing up. And then we will make sure your luggage is at your next location before 3pm.  

The whole process is very bespoke. We can arrange to have you collected from the airport. Also if it falls during opening time we can drop you at one of the many bike shops in the Algarve to hire a bike that suits your size and needs. Before coming to the Algarve it would be prudent to know your capabilities on a bike and plan your route accordingly. Then using google maps or similar plan your route and look for hotels in those areas for your particular days you will be there. Algarve Cycling Holidays, Luggage Help Once your route is planned and your hotels are booked you can send us your itinerary. We will make sure your luggage is collected and delivered before you arrive at your next check point. There are various way to tour the Algarve. Some prefer more of a challenge and go for the more hillier routes along the back roads of Alte, Messines, Silves, Monchique and Aljezur. Some people prefer to stick to the coastline and go from East to West. Starting in Vila Real Santo Antonio, maybe stopping over in Olhao. Then from Olhao to Vilamoura, after that Vilamoura to Carvoeiro. Carvoeiro to Lagos or Praia da Luz and then finally Praia da Luz to Sagres/Cape St Vincent. Whatever your route and whatever your skill level, in the Algarve there is suitable bike riding routes for all types. And Algarve365 would be happy to assist you on your journey. Algarve Cycling Holidays, Luggage Help Read the full article

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Algarve365 Bicycle Hire

Algarve365 Bicycle Hire   Algarve365 has teamed up with one of the most respected bicycle hire companies in the Algarve. A wide range of bikes to choose from. City Bikes, Mountain Bikes and Race Bikes. All bicycle hires can be delivered anywhere in the Algarve. Areas local to Portimao, Alvor and Praia da Rocha will be free. Other areas will incur a delivery and pick up charge. Below is a complete breakdown of costs for the different types of bikes. Don't hesitate to contact us with any questions you may have.

Read the full article

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What is the CHEAPEST Airport Transfer

As many people will have seen on the news today, Taxi drivers across Portugal took action to show their displeasure of the new Uber laws coming into effect in November.

Taxi's protesting against Uber earlier today For me personally I think the Taxi drivers have it wrong. Certainly where it comes to airport transfers. Take a look at the image below as some solid proof as opposed to rumour.

As you can see from the image above. I have done a mock quotation asking for a transfer from Faro airport to Alvor and the prices are quite alarming. A normal taxi can vary just as much. You would expect to pay anything between 70 and 80 Euros for 1-4 people from the airport to Alvor. A bigger vehicle and after 9pm at night and you can easily pay 120 Euro. UBER As you can see with Uber, an UberX could probably carry 4 people but you would be lucky to get luggage for 4 people into an X type vehicle. Yet you could still pay up to 85 Euro to get to Alvor. An UberXL can carry from 6 to 8 people but again you could end up paying 126 Euro to get from Faro to Alvor. This is the bit that a lot of people don't understand. Uber is based on supply and demand. As you can appreciate from an airport the demand will always be high. In turn this means you will pay a premium for an Uber, you may also have to wait for vehicle availability. Algarve365 With Algarve365 getting from faro to alvor costs only 55 Euros for up to 4 people. Staggeringly a low price of only 65 Euros for up to 8 people. Another thing to add is that your driver will be waiting for you and not you waiting for your vehicle. Additional to this if you have any children with you the safety seats will be automatically provided for you. Neither a local taxi or an Uber can provide these for you. The conclusion from all of this is that I don't see Uber taking much work from the Taxis at the airports. However with demand being lower in the resorts the prices will be cheaper. This is where I think most of the anger lies. If you are traveling from Faro airport to Alvor in the near future then Algarve365 remains your best bet! Read the full article

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Fire in Monchique, Algarve

As I was doing an airport transfer from Alvor the other day I spotted the small bellows of smoke coming from a fire in Monchique, Algarve. Little did I know the disaster that was about to follow. So much of the hillside has been scorched beyond recognition. People have lost house and livestock but luckily so far no casualties.

I spotted a smaller fire being put out only the day before on the motorway exit from Alvor, it looked very much like somebody had thrown a cigarette from a car which is one of my pet hates in the Algarve. You would think people living in an area where fires are so common that they would have more sense. I only hope that this latest disaster has not been started in a similar fashion. To think of such conditions all caused by a careless cigarette thrown from a car does not bear thinking about. As I am writing this blog we know that there are over 1000 people working on trying to get the fire under control. Many villages have been evacuated. Water planes and helicopters are also in action. The last I heard it was 15 in total. We also have help from our Spanish neighbours which is much appreciated too.

Monchique Fire Volunteers As some people may know the fire service here is known as Bombeiros. It is known as a voluntary organization. From my understanding they are not paid a set wage. They get an hourly rate only when called into action. Because of this a lot of charity and donation efforts have been put into place. Many locals set up drop off points so that others can donate bottled water, fruit, socks, burn cream etc. Once they are full they then take this to one of the main distribution areas who will get the right things to the right people who need it most.

If you wish to contribute to help out the Bombeiros then please see options below. All pictures and videos kindly provided by Bruno Costa. Donation options: Bank Transfer: AIL-ASSOCIACAO PARA ALERTA DE INCENDIO FLORESTAL NIPC 514208295 NIB: PT50 0033 0000 4549 9091 2130 5 Paypal: Bombeirosalgarve@gmail.com

  Read the full article

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Algarve Weather Set To Soar

The Algarve weather is set to soar over the next 10 days.

In the last 12 years of living here it has to be said that this is the most topsy turvy summer of all. January was spectacular, yet March was the second wettest on record. Everything else since then has been a sea saw event. With certain regions of Portugal set to hit the mid 40's this week we are quite happy for the Algarve weather to be in the low 30's. However as most people know the figure on paper is always a good 5 degrees down on what we call "real time" temperature. As always when on your holidays the UV Index needs to have close attention paid to it. Source for below: WeatherOnline The strength of the sun's ultraviolet (UV) radiation is expressed as a Solar UV Index or Sun Index.The UV Index does not exceed 8 in the UK (8 is rare; 7 may occur on exceptional days, mostly in the two weeks around the summer solstice). Indices of 9 and 10 are common in the Mediterranean area. The Sun Index forecast refers to the daily maximum. So with the above being noted and the UV in the Algarve this week set to keep hitting 10 what does this mean to you? Source for below: epa.gov A UV Index reading of 6 to 7 means high risk of harm from unprotected sun exposure. Protection against skin and eye damage is needed. Reduce time in the sun between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. If outdoors, seek shade and wear protective clothing, a wide-brimmed hat, and UV-blocking sunglasses. If you are traveling to the Algarve in the coming weeks make sure to bring your sun cream! Read the full article

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Algarve Holiday Bargains and Why!

You may have been hearing that the Algarve has not been as busy this year and to a point that is correct. From a personal company point of view Algarve365 Airport Transfers had a record month in June. However July had lots of people in a panic.

I think if you are the only company on a downward trend then you start to panic. yet if people sit back and look at things logically they will see a pattern emerging. So lets look at what  you can get and why! The reasons for a downturn in visitors are many. Firstly some of the other destinations that have previously scared tourists away have started to open again. Egypt, Tunisia and Turkey to name a few have come back aggressively this year. They have some killer deals that have turned people heads for sure. Add to this the World Cup where England had such a good run, this also kept people at home. Then of course we have the superb weather currently being enjoyed in the UK. Why pay crazy hotel and flight prices when you can jump in the car and go somewhere right!! Emma Grimster, from comparison website Travelsupermarket, says: 'With the hot weather, as well as the World Cup earlier in the summer having caused a slow start to the holiday lates market, travel providers are now doing all they can to fill their planes and get people away. So, now we know why people have been staying away it puts everything into perspective. However it has caught some of the travel agents out and they have started to slash prices of holidays. If you listen to what the papers are saying then some companies are slashing package holidays by up to 60%. And according to Skyscanner flight prices have dropped by 10% from the same time last year. Can I get A Bargain? For example I have just jumped on a travel site and found a 1 week holiday with flights included in the Algarve for £370 per person. My advice if you are looking for a break, even if it is late September is grab yourself a bargain now while the Travel Agencies are in a spin. As soon as the weather starts to turn in the UK I think the feel good factor will prompt people to still want that good weather. And you could well see those prices start to shoot up again. As always, especially if coming to the Algarve. Please remember to book your Private Airport Transfer from Faro with Algarve365! Read the full article

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RYANAIR - Claim Your £222 Compensation

As I explained in an article earlier this week Ryanair strikes mean you may be able to claim £222 compensation. We had customers this week who were given the option to either claim a refund or re-book for no extra cost onto a different Ryanair flight.

As I was driving the customers to Faro airport on their return transfer we got talking about this issue and they explained how they had been left £150 out of pocket. The only alternative flight with Ryanair meant they would have had to stay in Albufeira for an extra 2 days which for them wasn't an option. In the end they had to book with Jet2 and leave a day earlier than planned, and that it cost an extra £150 on top of the original flight. What these customers were not aware of is that if ANY flight in Europe is canceled with less than 2 weeks notice then under EU law you are entitled to £222 compensation. Now, Ryanair have said they will refuse to pay this as they are saying it is under extraordinary circumstances and that if beyond the airlines control then they do not have to pay. However this is what the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) have said in a statement. "When a flight cancellation is caused by strike action by the airline's employees, the airline is required to pay compensation to passengers in respect of the cancellation of the flight, if it has not warned passengers of the cancellation at least two weeks prior to the scheduled time of departure". So just to finish off, my advice to you would be this. File the claim, you may not get the money but legally you are entitled to it. If you are a family of 8 for example it may even be worth taking a little further if Ryanair refuse. Read the full article

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Cliff Walking in Carvoeiro with Algarve365

Cliff Walking in Carvoeiro with Algarve365

Cliff walking in Carvoeiro with Algarve365. The boardwalk is on the east side of Carvoeiro. To find it easily simply follow the signs for Algar Seco to go cliff walking in Carvoeiro.

Carvoeiro Boardwalk During the bad weather a few weeks ago we decided to take the in-laws to Carvoeiro for an afternoon. I think a lot of people dismiss Carvoeiro as they see the small beach in the centre of town and assume there isn't much more to it. How wrong they are!

A few years ago they spend a good amount of money constructing a fabulous wooden boardwalk. This stretches from the east side of Carvoeiro beach towards Benagil. The coastal views are simply breathtaking and my amateur camera phone skills do not do it justice.

Once on the boardwalk you will see gates that give access to the rocks areas. Looking from the boardwalk you don't immediately see that there are steps carved out into the rocks. It is quite a long walk down to the bottom which would probably be too dangerous to do without these carves out walkways.

As you can see above not only have they carved out the steps but they have made archways and mini tunnels to make access even easier.

Once down at the bottom I could personally spend hours down there just watching and listening to the waves crashing against the rock face.

The picture below probably gives the best view of the boardwalk. The point where I took this from even has a little gallery seating area, this must have amazing views in the peak of summer with the sun shining down onto the sea. Behind where I am stood would provide amazing sun set views as well.

Should you wish to visit and go cliff walking in Carvoeiro then please bear Algarve365 in mind for your airport transfers to Carvoeiro Read the full article

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Ryanair Confirm Algarve Strikes

Ryanair Confirm Algarve Strikes, Ryanair has cancelled over 300 flights that will affect many regions of Europe this week including the Algarve. Other areas affected by the cabin crew strike are Belgium and Spain.

Apparently up to 50,000 passengers could have their holidays disrupted over the coming weeks and approximately 50 flights between Portugal and the rest of Europe have been scrapped. Customers will be notified a week in advance of the disruptions which Ryanair have have said are "unnecessary strikes". On days where strikes occur Portugal will be forced to remove one in three flights but as of yet which flights and airport to be worst affected is unknown. Ryanair’s Chief marketing Officer, Kenny Jacob has apologised to passengers but still couldn’t help having a dig at the Ryanair staff, "Ryanair apologizes to customers affected by these disruptions, which we tried to avoid at all costs. Whereas Ryanair's cabin crew earns excellent salaries of up to €40,000 per year in countries with high youth unemployment, leading work hours within the industry (14 days off per month), excellent sales commissions, a uniform allowance and paid sick leave, these strikes are completely unjustified and will only result in disruption to family holidays and will benefit competing airlines in Portugal, Spain and Belgium." Read the full article

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Holidaymakers ‘Should Be Wary Of Travel Insurance Exclusions’

Those planning a lovely summer holiday to Portugal and are already organizing their Faro airport taxis have been advised to look at their travel insurance policy carefully to make sure they are fully protected when they head abroad.

Reduce The Stress On YOUR Holiday! Comparethemarket.com found 45 per cent of insurance policies only protect customers for cancellation of travel or accommodation worth less than £3,000. It also revealed only one in ten provide cover for valuables worth over £500, while 49 per cent protect valuables that are £250 or less. Gemma Sonfield, head of travel insurance at comparethemarket.com, said: “Despite the fact that they are designed to provide reassurance, travel insurance policies can result in substantial costs for those who fail to read the small print.” She added that many holidaymakers buy travel insurance at the last minute, so they do not have protection if they have to cancel their trip prior to this. The price comparison site also revealed 32 per cent of policies do not give any compensation for missed connections, and 14 per cent do not cover missed flights. Ms Sonfield stated cheaper policies “may look attractive” but advised holidaymakers going to Portugal to look closely at the fine print, as they could have much higher excesses and exclusions. Those who are heading to the Algarve with adequate insurance this summer can enjoy lovely family days out, with lots to see and do in the region. Among the many attractions are Zoomarine, Lagos Zoo, Aqualand, and Pirate Ship Cruise, which will ensure the entire family will have lots of fun on their holiday. Read the full article

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Holidaymakers ‘Should Be Wary Of Travel Insurance Exclusions’

Those planning a lovely summer holiday to Portugal and are already organizing their Faro airport taxis have been advised to look at their travel insurance policy carefully to make sure they are fully protected when they head abroad.

Reduce The Stress On YOUR Holiday! Comparethemarket.com found 45 per cent of insurance policies only protect customers for cancellation of travel or accommodation worth less than £3,000. It also revealed only one in ten provide cover for valuables worth over £500, while 49 per cent protect valuables that are £250 or less. Gemma Sonfield, head of travel insurance at comparethemarket.com, said: “Despite the fact that they are designed to provide reassurance, travel insurance policies can result in substantial costs for those who fail to read the small print.” She added that many holidaymakers buy travel insurance at the last minute, so they do not have protection if they have to cancel their trip prior to this. The price comparison site also revealed 32 per cent of policies do not give any compensation for missed connections, and 14 per cent do not cover missed flights. Ms Sonfield stated cheaper policies “may look attractive” but advised holidaymakers going to Portugal to look closely at the fine print, as they could have much higher excesses and exclusions. Those who are heading to the Algarve with adequate insurance this summer can enjoy lovely family days out, with lots to see and do in the region. Among the many attractions are Zoomarine, Lagos Zoo, Aqualand, and Pirate Ship Cruise, which will ensure the entire family will have lots of fun on their holiday. Read the full article

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Family Days Out In The Algarve

Family holidays can be tricky to organize. It’s always best to plan as much as you can in advance so you know what you’re going to do and when if you have young children in tow, so you can keep boredom at bay and ensure everyone has a fun trip away. Here are a few ideas of where to go in the Algarve for family-friendly days out.

Slide & Splash

For me Slide and Splash is one of the est days out in the area. But be warned it is one hell of a sun trap and the queues in peak season of July and August means you have a perfect recipe for sunburn. However, don't let that detract you, cream up and get in those queues!

Zoomarine

Here you’ll find turtles, seals, sea lions, dolphins, tropical birds and more – all in one place! If your children are aged six or over they can even swim with dolphins, so it’s the perfect excursion for your holiday in the Algarve. Just make sure you book in advance!

Lagos Zoo

Sticking with the animal theme, head to Lagos Zoo for a great day out. There’s a petting farm so your kids can have a lovely time familiarising themselves with all sorts of different animals and it’s the perfect place to go for a picnic as well.

Aqualand

You can’t go somewhere like the Algarve without heading to one of the waterparks to be found here, absolutely ideal for young children. Depending on their age, you can take them down some of the scary rides to be found here, like the Kamikaze. Or even think about taking them white-water rafting down the Rapids Ride!

Pirate ship cruise

What better way to see the local area than on your very own pirate ship? You’ll be taken to lots of beautiful beaches, caves and grotto's, as well as having plenty of time to splash about in the azure sea. Get in touch with us if you need help booking Algarve airport transfers as well. Read the full article