Algarve region guides

The Algarve is famous for long stretches of sand, succulent seafood and non-stop nightlife. But with a million visitors arriving here annually, finding a secluded spot to spread a towel or a local dining spot calls for insider knowledge. Our guides know the back roads and secluded beaches, so book a private Algarve tour to escape the tourist hordes and find your own piece of Portuguese paradise. The Algarve has plenty of sun, sand and surf. The Praia de Rocha offers wide stretches of white-sand goodness, but if you'd rather sunbathe where locals bronze their bodies, hop aboard your guide's motorcycle sidecar and zip along the towering cliffs to Praia dos Carenos. Though the coastline is the biggest draw, the town of Portimao is a charming place to while away the hours. At dinner, avoid the bars catering to the burger-and-chip crowd; ask your guide to recommend a little restaurant serving cataplana, a clam and pork dish, and a glass of vinho verde.