Alvor is known as one of the finest resort towns in the Algarve, and if you’re looking for a relaxing escape, it may well be the perfect destination for you. Boasting plenty of shops, bars and restaurants nestled around its narrow streets, this quaint fishing village has all the charm you’ll need on your getaway and also offers plenty of opportunity for exploration, wherever your interests lie.
Whether you want to explore culture and nature, chill out on the beach or sample the area’s delectable cuisine, Alvor is the place to be.
Soak Up the Sun
Relax into your Portuguese holiday by soaking up the rays on one of the town’s brilliant beaches. There’s nothing quite like a day on the sand – especially when you have the natural beauty of the Algarve surrounding you.
The main stretch of beach in this western paradise is Praia de Alvor, and you can easily spend a whole day here (providing you bring enough sun lotion!). There’s plenty of room to set up camp on the sand, whether you’re looking for peace and quiet near the dunes or a paddle in the shallows – the clear blue waters are wonderfully inviting, so make sure you bring your swimwear if you fancy a refreshing dip. There are also two restaurants in the area, so there’s no need to worry about bringing a picnic along on your day out.
Venture a little further east and you’ll find yourself at Praia dos Três Irmãos (or the Three Brothers’ Beach). This stretch of sand boasts plenty of shelter, so those who want to keep their sun exposure limited will enjoy a day out here. With interesting rock formations around every corner and gorgeous panoramic views, this spot is great for beach bums and nature lovers alike.
Good to Know: Both of these beaches are easily accessible, so there’s no need to worry about having to climb too many steps to enjoy them.
Sample Local Fare
There are plenty of great local restaurants around Alvor, so no matter what your holiday budget happens to be you’ll easily find some delicious local produce to sample. Head to the harbour for eateries offering dishes inspired by the catch of the day, or somewhere further inland if you’re a lover of old foodie traditions.
For something cheap and cheerful yet totally delicious, I can recommend A Lota, a restaurant located on a hill overlooking the harbour. The seafood served here is always fresh and prepared beautifully, bringing the signature taste of Portugal into every bite.
The Salsa Bistro in the heart of the town is a great dining option if you’re after something a little quirkier. Boasting interesting décor and a great atmosphere, this small bistro is a great option for couples looking to explore a cultural side of Portugal that tourists seldom see.
Where to Stay
Pestana Delfim Beach & Golf Hotel – If you’re really looking to relax and unwind while you’re away, opt for a hotel that’s all inclusive. That way, the only thing you’ll have to worry about is what you’ll be wearing to the beach that day! Pestana Delfim Beach & Golf Hotel has all you could possibly desire on your Portuguese getaway, from an outdoor saltwater pool to its own golf course and tennis courts. Everything you need for a luxurious, chilled-out getaway.
Aguahotels Alvor Jardim – Want to stay in the heart of the town? This hotel is your ideal option. With modern, stylish furnishings, a great location and a delicious continental breakfast served each morning, you really can’t go wrong. It also has its own garden and bar area, so if you don’t fancy heading out there’s ample opportunity to relax onsite.
How to Get There
From the UK, a flight to Faro Airport (FAO) is just over two and a half hours, so you’ll have just enough time to watch a film or have a nap before you arrive! Once you touch down, the quickest way to get to your chosen accommodation is via a shuttle transfer service. The journey from the airport to Alvor is just over one hour.
I would definitely recommend booking your private or shared shuttle transfer well in advance of your trip if you’re keen to relax on the journey. Having your travel arrangements sorted before you leave the UK will give you peace of mind and allow you to get that rest you deserve while you’re away without any added stresses.
Overview
- UK to FAO Flight Time: 2 hours 35 minutes
- FAO to Alvor: 76 kilometres
- Shuttle Direct Transfer Time: 1 hour 2 minutes
About Shuttle Direct
At Shuttle Direct, we offer private and shared airport transfers in various countries across the globe, and we strive to get our passengers to their destinations promptly and with no hassle. Book online via our website today and have your travel arrangements taken care of before you set off on your next adventure.
