Portugal's Algarve region usually hosts about 10 million visitors each year, most of whom make the best of the 200 kilometres of beautiful beaches. Further inland, there are hiking trails for those wanting to explore the far south-west corner of Europe which was once thought to be the edge of the world.
If you are planning to visit the Algarve as a couple, you can celebrate the date of your anniversary with your family before making the trip. This can work well if the trip is one of the silver anniversary gifts for parents that your wider family have been planning as a surprise. In this way, the couple can have two celebrations of the years together, which for a milestone anniversary will be well deserved.
When to go
If you want to travel in July and August, choose accommodation that has a pool and shaded areas away from the heat of the day. For a more active walking or cycling holiday, April -June are the best times to visit. Off-peak travel in September and October will still let you enjoy temperatures around 18-20 Celcius. Be aware that lifeguards are usually only on beaches in July and August. A festival in Sagres in early October celebrates the migration of birds to Africa is the last strategic point for birds migrating to Africa and the festival in early October lets twitchers wave bon voyage to feathered friends disappearing into blue skies
Accommodation
Aside from the usual hotels and resorts, the Algarve also offers eco retreats, organic farms and restored rural cottages where you can relax among the olive groves and dip in a swimming pool amidst the peace and quiet.
What to do
There are golf courses to enjoy and a multitude of walking routes of between 15 and 25 kilometres between villages. You can cycle on routes away from the main roads and there are plenty of tiny cafes to stop at for refreshments. If you are cycling, consider combining the Algarve with the adjacent region of Alentejo via the 110km Rota Vicentina to explore a little further to see more of what Portugal can offer.
Where to base your stay
When planning an anniversary celebration in the Algarve, your first decision is which area you want to stay.
Albufeira
The city of Albufeira has easy access to some stunning beaches and is well known for its nightlife. If you do not like buzzing neon and dancing till dawn, choose another spot to stay.
Lagos
Lagos has a traditional charm with its winding alleys and 16th-century defensive walls. Here you can also enjoy the beach, with interesting geological features and the chance to go kayaking.
Portimão
Like Albufeira, Portimão is best known for its beach and nightlife. Sailing during the day and enjoying the quaint historical centre can give visitors the best of both worlds and it also has a popular boardwalk.
Faro
Faro is a quieter location with the chance for lots of walking. As the regional capital, you can find much local culture amongst the churches, homes and plazas of the medieval city centre.
Sagres
Sagres is the place to be if you want a quiet retreat, this more remote site offers laidback bars and outdoor activities. Perhaps the most well-known area is Praia da Rocha home to beaches of soft sand, sheltered by stunning cliffs.
Choose things to do before you go
Many activities in the Algarve make the most of the water. You can swim with dolphins, find out more about aquatic conservation efforts and have fun at a water park if you want to keep out of the sunlight.
Among the best golden sandy beaches is Falesia Beach which is six kilometres long. Protected from coastal winds by a stretch of red cliffs, this is ideal for a seaside walk when you choose not to sunbathe or take a dip in the ocean. Praia da Rocha is another stunning beach with a choice of dining options nearby, with the Praia dos Olhos de Água offering the same with a more relaxed vibe. The Algarve also has many child-friendly activities for those celebrating as a family.
