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Coastal Charm: Hiking from Lagos to Luz – An Algarve Must-Do!
The cliff-top trek from Lagos to Praia da Luz is Algarve magic in its purest form. Starting at the iconic Ponta da Piedade, this 7km trail winds along golden limestone cliffs, offering bird’s-eye views of hidden sea caves and turquoise coves.
The path is rugged but rewarding, culminating in a descent toward the "Black Rock" and the whitewashed charm of Luz. It’s a 2.5-hour journey where the Atlantic breeze and wild scenery steal the show. A must-do for any coastal explorer.

Katie Durie
1 day ago4 min read


Hiking The Seven Hanging Valleys: A Masterpiece of the Algarve Coast
The Seven Hanging Valleys trail is a must-do for its accessibility and high-impact views. The 12 km round trip is well-marked but rocky, requiring sturdy shoes and plenty of water. To avoid the crowds and midday heat, start at Praia da Marinha by 8:00 AM. Whether you hike the full distance or just a section, it remains the most efficient way to experience the Algarve’s famous sea caves and cliffs firsthand. Don't forget your sun protection; there is very little shade.

Katie Durie
4 days ago3 min read


Winter in Luz Portugal: Coastal Walks and Cozy Corners
Discover the quiet charm of Luz, Portugal in winter. From the scenic coastal hike to Burgau and watching surfers at Rocha Negra to the best open restaurants and nearby shopping in Lagos, find out why the Algarve's off-season is a hidden gem for walkers and sun-seekers alike.

Katie Durie
Feb 152 min read


Chasing Silver Linings: Making the Most of a Rainy Algarve Day
Think a rainy forecast ruins an Algarve vacation? Think again. From the thrill of the "Sunshine Sprint" to the peaceful solitude of post-storm beachcombing, discover how to turn grey skies into your best travel memories. We’re diving into the region’s cozy side: world-class thalassotherapy spas, boutique retail therapy in Loulé, and the magic of misty cliffside walks. Embrace the silver linings and find out why the Algarve shines even when the sun takes a break.

Katie Durie
Feb 135 min read


A Rainy Day in the Algarve
There is a quiet beauty to the Algarve in February that the summer sun usually hides. When the Atlantic clouds roll in, the region sheds its 'holiday resort' skin and reveals something far more grounding: a world of neon-green hillsides, the scent of damp pine, and a pace that finally allows you to catch your breath. This isn't a season for checklists or tan lines; it’s the ultimate lesson in slow travel.

Katie Durie
Feb 74 min read


Silves, Portugal: The Algarve’s Best Kept Off-Season Secret
While the coastal resorts of the Algarve retreat into a winter slumber, the ancient Moorish capital of Silves begins to breathe. Stripped of the summer heat and the heavy footfall of tour groups, this hilltop gem reveals its true character: a mix of red-sandstone fortresses, narrow medieval labyrinths, and a surprisingly sophisticated dining scene. From navigating the 'medieval parking traps' to sipping local Negra Mole wine in the shadow of the castle, Silves proves that the

Katie Durie
Feb 65 min read


"The Inside-Out Winter: What I Wish I’d Known About the Algarve in February"
Packing for the Algarve in February? I wish I’d known about the "refrigerator effect." Outside is a sunny 17°C, but inside these cement-walled villas, it’s a walk-in freezer. I spent my second day at Primark buying wool sweaters and fleece-lined pants just to stand in my own kitchen. From the ice-cold tile floors to the stunning almond blossoms and unexpected rain, here’s the honest truth about the "inside-out" winter and the essential gear you'll actually need to survive it.

Katie Durie
Feb 54 min read


Beyond the Golden Triangle: Algarve Villages on the Rise in 2026
Looking beyond the Golden Triangle, the Algarve has up-and-coming villages perfect for living, investing, or slow travel. Explore Olhão, São Brás, Aljezur, and more for authentic Portuguese charm and year-round community.

Katie Durie
Feb 43 min read


The Golden Seven: A 7-Day Algarve Golf & Sightseeing Itinerary
A relaxed seven-day golf itinerary in the Algarve, combining top courses, easy travel days, and time to enjoy the region beyond the fairways.

Katie Durie
Feb 34 min read


Tee Off in Paradise: Your Ultimate Guide to Golfing in the Algarve!
The Algarve is one of Europe’s leading golf regions, offering mild winter weather, scenic coastal landscapes, and some of Portugal’s top courses. This article explores why the Algarve works so well for golf travel and highlights some of the region’s best-known courses.

Katie Durie
Feb 23 min read


Printable One-Month Winter Packing List for the Algarve
A practical, realistic packing checklist for a one-month winter stay in the Algarve, focused on layers, comfort, and everyday walking.

Katie Durie
Jan 222 min read


One-Month Winter Packing List for the Algarve (What You Actually Need)
What to pack for a month in the Algarve in winter, with a practical list designed for walking, cool evenings, and relaxed daily life.

Katie Durie
Jan 223 min read


Slow Travel in Tavira, Portugal in Winter
Winter mornings along Tavira’s riverfront, where daily life moves at an easy pace. Tavira, Portugal, is one of the Algarve’s most charming towns—and winter is when it shines for slow travelers. Without summer crowds, Tavira feels calm, walkable, and genuinely lived in, making it ideal for travelers who want to stay longer and move at a gentler pace. If you’re looking for a winter destination in the Algarve that prioritizes daily life over tourism, Tavira is an excellent choic

Katie Durie
Jan 193 min read


Algarve vs Andalusia in Winter: Which Is Better for Slow Travel?
A quiet Andalusian village street, where winter slows everything down. If you’re considering winter or off-season travel in southern Europe, the Algarve (Portugal) and Andalucía (Spain) often rise to the top of the list. Both offer sunshine when much of Europe is cold and grey. Both are rich in culture, history, and everyday beauty. And yet, they deliver very different slow-travel experiences. This comparison isn’t about which region is “better” in general—it’s about which o

Katie Durie
Jan 154 min read


Slow Travel in Lagos, Portugal: Is this the Algarve Base for You?
Lagos in winter: fewer people, more boats at rest, and a harbour that finally exhales. Lagos is one of the Algarve’s best-known towns, often associated with dramatic cliffs, golden beaches, and busy summer streets. What’s less talked about is how Lagos functions in winter—and whether it truly works for slow, off-season travel rather than a short holiday. This article looks at Lagos not as a postcard destination, but as a place to live into for a while. Then you decide, is s

Katie Durie
Nov 19, 20254 min read


Off-Season Travel in Algarve and Andalusia - Why its the Perfect Time to Visit
Traveling during the off-season can be one of the most rewarding experiences for those looking to explore the stunning regions of Algarve and Andalusia. With fewer crowds, lower prices, and a more authentic experience, off-season travel allows you to immerse yourself in the local culture and enjoy the breathtaking landscapes without the hustle and bustle of peak tourist times. In this blog post, we will explore essential tips to make the most of your off-season adventure in t

Katie Durie
Mar 27, 20254 min read


Top Winter Activities in Algarve and Andalusia
Winter in the Algarve and Andalusia offers a unique blend of mild weather, stunning landscapes, and rich cultural experiences. While many people flock to these regions during the summer months, winter provides a quieter, more intimate atmosphere to explore. Whether you're seeking outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or culinary delights, this guide will help you discover the top winter activities in Algarve and Andalusia to enjoy during the winter months in these beautif

Katie Durie
Feb 26, 202515 min read


Portugal to Spain Day Trip: A Slow Travel Ferry Trip Across the Guadiana River
Take the Guadiana Ferry from Vila Real de Santo António, Portugal to Ayamonte, Spain in just 15 minutes. There is a magical, disorienting moment right in the middle of the Guadiana International Bridge. Your radio signal flickers, the clock on your dashboard jumps forward an hour, and the "Bom Dia" you’ve been practicing suddenly becomes "Buenos Días." For most, the border between Southern Portugal (the Algarve) and Southern Spain (Andalusia) is a 120 km/h blur on the highway

Katie Durie
Jan 20, 20254 min read


Why the Algarve is Ideal for Winter and Off-Season Travel (and Who It's Not For)
Golden cliffs, turquoise sea, mild temperatures and sunny days - Algarve in winter. Southern Portugal’s Algarve is often marketed as a summer playground—golden beaches, packed resorts, blazing heat. What’s rarely discussed is how different the Algarve becomes in winter and the quieter months, and why that version of the region may actually be the best one. For many, the Algarve is ideal for winter trips. This article isn’t about selling a fantasy. It’s about setting realisti

Katie Durie
Jan 10, 20254 min read


Winter Travel Getaways in Portugal and Southern Spain: Discover Algarve and Andalusia
Alhambra - Where centuries of art still speak softly. Winter is the perfect time to escape the cold and rejuvenate in the sun. Why not take the time to explore new destinations that offer a blend of culture, history, and stunning landscapes, while avoiding the crowds of summer? Two regions that shine during the colder months are Algarve in Portugal and Andalusia in Spain . With their mild climates, rich traditions, and breathtaking scenery, these areas provide the perfect bac

Katie Durie
Jan 9, 20258 min read
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