Albufeira is a lively and historic resort on a beautiful part of the Algarve's curving coastline. Seven gorgeous sandy beaches with dramatic rock formations stretch both east and west of the town - from the long beach of Praia D'Oura to a string of small coves carved out of honey-coloured cliffs. It's still a working fishing town, with boats and the mending of nets on the beach. And the new marina has confirmed Albufeira as a contemporary sailing centre. You can take sailing trips along the coast, try windsurfing and diving, or hire your own boat for a short spin.
Local knowledge
The resort itself is as lively or relaxed as your holiday. There's a historic old town with steep narrow streets and whitewashed buildings - and a lively party strip for sparkling nights in bars and clubs. More relaxed evenings centre around waterfront restaurants - with Portuguese regional cooking, cafés and bars with lovely Algarve wines. There's lots of great shopping in Albufeira too - with traditional Portuguese design and weekly specialist markets. The Algarve is famous for its world-class golf courses and there are three great courses a short drive from Albufeira. The area around Albufeira is as beautiful as its beaches. There are lots of walks and inland the countryside has gorgeous views back out to sea.
Beaches
Gale - An expanse of sand that stretches for miles, between cliffs. It is equipped with a wide variety of tourist facilities. In the direction of Albufeira there are two small beaches that are quiet and little visited.
Castelo - A cove protected by the rock formations. Great natural beauty
Coelha - A small beach between colourful cliffs.
São Rafael and Vigia - Beaches of great beauty seperated by rocks. Tourist facilities. Nearby Ponte Pequena and Ninho das Andorinhas are fascinating rock formations.
Baleeira - A broad crescent of sand opposite Albufeira.
Albufeira- A long strip of sand with the city surrounding it like an amphitheatre, it is made up of three beaches: Peneco, Pescadores and Inatel.
Oura, Balaia, Maria Luísa and Olhos de Agua - A series of beaches each sheltered by colourful cliffs. Tourist and sports facilities.
Falesia - Endless miles of beaches fringed by the green pines and the many reddish colours of the surrounding cliffs. Tourist and sports facilities available.