Set on Portugal's southern coastline, the Algarve is renowned for its year-round sunshine and beautiful beaches. Holidays in the Algarve combine long stretches of golden sandy beaches with secluded coves, and modern tourist resorts with quaint hillside villages. This south-facing coastline is flanked by the Atlantic Ocean and characterised by dramatic limestone cliffs. Heading inland, visitors will find lush valleys, rolling hills of orange groves, blossoming almond trees, and whitewashed villages.

The 96-mile coastline boasts more than 100 sandy beaches. Holidays in the Algarve often centre round popular beach resorts, including: Albufeira with its lively bars, restaurants and clubs set along 'The Strip'; Vilamoura , with its busy marina and two golden sandy beaches; Portimao with its busy fishing port and beach resort; and the resort of Praia Da Rocha with its gently shelving sands, cliff-top promenade and 17th-century fort. Those seeking relentless partying and all-night dancing should head to Albufeira, which is bursting with thumping bars and nightclubs.

Holidays in the Algarve are especially popular with golf enthusiasts. The Algarve features 20 courses, which include some of the best in Europe. Other activities include a wealth of water sports and hiking and biking in the scenic countryside. The Algarve hosts numerous local markets where visitors can pick up handicrafts such as colourful pottery, jewellery and leather goods. Restaurants on the Algarve specialise in locally caught seafood, but many of the resorts also offer a wide choice of international cuisine, including traditional British pub grub.