Alvor holidays

When it comes to food, Alvor’s marine life is its biggest draw. With traditional fishing boats bringing in daily catches, seafood has become a staple on menus in the Algarve. Àbabuja is a great choice for those wanting to try uncommon fish dishes with clams and cuttlefish being served here. Benefiting from a stunning harbour, dinner with a view is also an option with plenty of restaurants lining the ocean’s edge. From Michelin star eateries to family-run restaurants and takeaway spots, you’re in food heaven.

Looking to try some national flavours, then piri piri chicken is just the dish. More recently, this Portuguese favourite has gained popularity all over the world, but with local chefs experimenting with flavours and age-old menus being carefully adapted, nothing tastes as good as the country it originated in. Portugal also has its roots in wine-making, so you can expect some varied flavours. Douro comes highly recommended thanks to grape varieties.

Praia de Alvor is Alvor’s main beach. Made up of white sand and gentle waters, this popular shore is easily accessible from the town. Not only does it come with a flashy Blue Flag, but it’s also considered one of the most beautiful stretches in the Algarve thanks to its striking good looks. Keen wind and kitesurfers will prefer the watersport hotspot Torralta Beach where the waves are full of activity. Nervous swimmers can also benefit from shallow lagoon waters.

Alvor is a jack of all trades when it comes to its offerings with history, culture and beaches catering to a diverse holiday crowd. Start by wandering its old cobbled streets where you’ll bump into an antique castle and medieval churches. You’ll also find that its fishing day roots are proudly on show with colourful boats filling the harbour and locals taking to the waters daily. With restaurants placed over these waters, holidaymakers can enjoy the freshest seafood accompanied by a sunset viewing. Or, you can stay out late and soak up the resort’s laid-back drinking spots.

Experience the great outdoors at Ria de Alvor Nature Reserve: When you want to get away from it all, a trip to Ria de Alvor Nature Reserve should be top of your list. Found at the bottom of the town and beach, simply wander along the boardwalk and you’ll come to a natural oasis with blooming plant life and wild animals commanding your attention. Known for its vast array of bird species, keep an eye out for the many pink-feathered flamingos gracing its waters. With wooden walkways taking you over its wetlands, getting around is easy. From here, you can also enjoy sensational views of Alvor harbour.

Sightseeing in Silves: Just a short drive away sits Silves, a fortified town which was the region’s former capital. This historical hotspot is surrounded by a rolling landscape, so its scenery is just as impressive as its ancient relics. The red sandstone Fortaleza Castle is a fine example of Moorish architecture and a sightseeing must! After getting lost in its quaint cobbled streets, it’s worth squeezing in a coffee stop with an abundance of cafes perfect for people-watching. Café Ingles at the top of the hill comes highly recommended. Silves is also known for its white storks, which are often seen looking over the town from its crimson rooftops.