Keeping the kids entertained when on holiday is a priority for us parents, and even though my daughter is not even two yet, it won’t be long before she is old enough to want to get out and explore more. I have travelled with friends who have older children to the southern Portuguese seaside resort of Alvor and I can highly recommend it for families with teenagers. Her is my run down of ways to keep the kids happy and entertained while you are away in Alvor.
Family Fun Water Activities in Alvor
Boat Trips
Boat trips are a great activity for the whole family to enjoy, and the breath-taking coastline along southern Portugal is definitely best explored by boat. The coastal cruises are all eco-friendly and offer you and the kids a real insight into the natural world of Alvor, Lagos and Portimão. Kids can try their hand at fishing, while mums and dads can appreciate one of the stunning sunsets that bless this region.
Slide and Splash
Great for kids with lots of energy to burn, the Slide and Splash Water Park, within easy reach of Alvor, is a real highlight. While the youngsters challenge themselves on the ‘Kamikaze’ ride, the ‘Black Hole’ or the ‘Bonzai’, you parents can take some time out relaxing in the Jacuzzi or in one of the more tranquil pools. I love this place because it is so well organised and the staff are very security conscious, meaning you can relax in the knowledge that the kids are properly supervised. There are restaurants and other snack venues, plus a cocktail bar, which is a real bonus!
For prices and timetables, click here.
The Beaches
Of course, you don’t have to go far for fabulous beaches in this region. Alvor Beach to the west and the Beach of the Three Brothers to the east are simply beautiful. Undulating sand dunes roll their way down towards the Alvor River lagoon, providing a calm and sheltered place ideal for water sports. The golden sands offer the perfect opportunity for a spot of sunbathing too, which is great news if you have kids who want to work on that all-important tan!
Family Fun on Dry Land
The Lagos Zoo
Lagos Zoo is a gem of a find, especially as I don’t know any children, big or small, who don’t love animals. With 120 species residing here, including many tropical birds, giant porcupines, and even tortoises, your whole family will be kept occupied for hours!
Family Friendly Nightlife
With little ones nightlife isn’t really a consideration, but teenagers are not going to want to go to bed before they absolutely have to when on holiday! Luckily, Alvor is a real family friendly place and exploring late into the evening is lots of fun. With so many welcoming places to eat and drink, Alvor is well set up for parents who like to take their children out to enjoy food from the region while experiencing some local culture.
How To Get to Alvor from the UK
There are several budget airlines including easyJet, Thomson and Ryanair that fly to Faro, the nearest airport to Alvor. In less than three hours you can fly from the UK to Faro, and many budget airlines offer flights for between £150-£200, which is very reasonable for families having to pay full price for older kids.
For reliable airport transfers to Alvor, Shuttle Direct is the company to choose. No doubt, as soon as you arrive, your teenagers will be itching to get to the hotel and get started on their sunbathing or swimming. Book with Shuttle Direct and, after a personal meeting at the airport arrivals hall, your driver will take you in your own private vehicle direct to your accommodation in resort. The journey takes approximately one hour, and for a total cost of £46.50 one way, you and the kids can look forward to seamless airport transfers to Alvor and back again at the end of your trip.
Where to Stay:
Apartamento Vila Marachique – Having a pool at your accommodation is so important when you have teenagers with you, and the advantage of this bright and airy hotel is that the pool is open year round. There is also satellite TV, which is bound to please the youngsters, as well as free Wi-Fi. I love the self-catering facilities at Apartamento Vila Marachique that mean you are not tied to eating out every night. You could even make your own delicious Portuguese meal from local produce you have picked up during the day.
Appartamento Clube Bemposta – Homely and very spacious with plenty of ‘green’ areas and a great pool, Appartamento Clube Bemposta also has a tennis court. The apartments have their own seating areas and some have a patio too. Kids will appreciate the free Wi-Fi, which parents will also be thankful for when some down time is needed.
Alto Club – This apartment complex is wonderful for teenagers, as there is an outdoor and indoor pool as well as tennis courts. The landscaped garden at Alto Club offers plenty of secluded spots to relax with a book, but apartments all come with a balcony or terrace so you have your own private space too. Free Wi-Fi will make you popular with the kids, as will the satellite TV. Kitchens are really well equipped and ideal if you just want a quiet family night in playing cards or chatting. The dishwasher is a bonus, as are the laundry facilities. There is a restaurant, sauna, and fitness centre, which lots of parents, and indeed teenagers, will love.
About Shuttle Direct:
Providing airport transfers throughout Europe and North Africa, Shuttle Direct are the number one choice for family groups of travellers searching for reliable, fixed price transfers. Look forward to a personal greeting at the airport and an efficient and comfortable journey to your accommodation. Private or shared options can be booked, and with advance booking options, you can have everything organised before you even arrive.
