Because of its gentle climate, warm sea temperatures and year-round sunshine, the Algarve has a Mediterranean atmosphere, moderated by gentle breezes coming from the Atlantic. This atmosphere is reflected by the white houses and their peculiar chimneys.

On the Algarve coast, which extends for 150 kilometres along great beaches of white sand that are fringed by reddish cliffs and sandstone rocks, there is an infinite variety of water sports to complement your golfing. Most of these facilities are available at excellent hotels and resort developments.

Ponta da Piedade

Faro, the region's main town, is served by an international airport. It is well worth visiting its medieval walls, the cathedral built over an old mosque and the church of Saint Francis, which is decorated with a beautiful collection of painted ceramic tiles dating front the 18th century. It is a cosmopolitan town and a colourful postcard of the Algarve.

To the west of Faro lies the town of Lagos, where the ships were built that once sailed away on great adventures marking the Age of Discoveries.

Lagos - D. Sebastião Statue

The headland of Sagres, a short distance from Lagos, is a place of symbolic significance, for it was from here that Portuguese sailors weighed anchor under the orders of Prince Henry the Navigator, the inspiration behind the Age of Discoveries. To the east of Faro, Tavira's houses are mirrored in the calm waters of a silvery river; its narrow streets have an almost oriental charm.

In the hinterland stands the town of Silves, with its Moorish castle and famous cistern. Set amongst the unusual and exuberant vegetation of the Monchique mountains, one can discover the town bearing this name, which was founded by the Romans, who considered its hot springs to be sacred.

Promontório de Sagres

In terms of gastronomy, the Algarve region offers a wealth of seafood and fish dishes. Some are still cooked in the old manner - such as the famous cataplana, which uses clams as its basic ingredient. Fig, almond, and egg sweetmeats have their origins in old Arab recipes. You should not miss any of these after enjoying a good game of golf, and before heading for one of the region's famous discotheques.

Climate - This coastal region, with the Atlantic breezes has a warm and dry climate, ideal for visitors throughout the year.
Season High 29 C / 84F - Low 15 C / 59F

[Text: ICEP]