Where to Stay in the Algarve: 5 Great Places to Stay

Situated along the coast in southern Portugal, the Algarve is one of the most popular visitor destinations in all of Portugal. And with the area’s dramatic coastal scenery, beautiful white sandy beaches, exciting resort towns, and over 300 days of sunshine each year, it’s easy to see why it’s a staple on our Portugal itinerary.

We found ourselves in the Algarve in December, when the scorching hot summer days had transformed into very mild – though still warm – winter days, perfect for hiking (though it was a little cool for the beach).

While we don`t usually spend our time at beaches, we found the Algarve region of Portugal to be a lovely place to explore over the course of a little over a week, as we traveled from the eastern town of Tavira all the way to the southwesternmost point of Europe in Sagres.

One aspect we found interesting is that each locale and town along the approximate 100 mile stretch of coastline has its unique charm and appeal, and different towns cater best to varying styles of travelers.

Given its extensive and widely distributed coastal region, determining exactly where to stay in the Algarve can prove challenging.

Are you seeking a base to explore the full region? Or one area to linger in for a relaxing beach trip? Are you an adventure traveler on the hunt for top surfing and hiking spots? Or a food enthusiast searching for the area’s finest restaurants and bars?

In this guide, we will explore precisely where to lodge in the Algarve based on our personal encounters investigating the region.

We’ll start with an overview of the geography so you can understand what we mean when referring to location, then we’ll delve into the five top places to stay in the Algarve, in accordance with our perspectives, anyway.

For each place, we’ll provide our perspective on the advantages and disadvantages of residing there (e.g. proximity to the beach, parking availability, etc), explore our favorite activities and sights nearby, and mention three to five specific lodging options that caught our attention, like the places we actually stayed.

By the end of the guide, our goal is to provide you sufficient information to pick an accommodation in the Algarve tailored to your distinct style, spending plan, and interests.

Sound good to you? Let’s get into it. 

P.S. If you’re looking for our thoughts on how to structure your trip – how many days are needed, the best things to do and see, how to get there, etc – head over to our guide to planning a perfect Algarve itinerary.

Disclaimer: Some of the links in this post, like hotel links, are affiliate links, meaning at no additional cost to you, we make a little bit of money if you click through and book. That being said, we would never recommend something to you that we don’t stand behind 100%.

A Quick Algarve Geography Overview 

Before getting into the guide about specific places to stay, we think it’s probably worth taking a moment to discuss the layout of the Algarve.

The Algarve rests on the southernmost suggestion of Portugal (and southwestern suggestion of continental Europe), adjoining Spain to the eastern and the Atlantic Ocean to the western and southern.

The region has three principal geographical areas; the coastline, the central ‘Barrocal’ region, and the hilly north. Though the entire Algarve is full of beautiful natural landscapes, most visitors are drawn to the area’s stunning beaches and exciting seaside towns along the southern shore.

The Algarve’s extensive shoreline runs roughly 155 km (96 miles) from west to east.

For the purpose of comprehension and simplicity, we’re going to divide the region into three sections; the Western Algarve, the Central Algarve, and the Eastern Algarve.

TheWestern Algarve boasts the most scenic stretch of coastline, with dramatic towering cliffs, secluded coves, and crashing waves. Here you’ll find many smaller seaside towns such as Sagres and Luz.

The western region has fewer large tourist resorts compared to other parts of the area, and provides a much more relaxed atmosphere (for example, Sagres is a great town for surfing).

The Central Algarve attracts the most tourists along the coast (and we`d argue understandably so).

It`s home to numerous expansive beach resort towns, including Lagos,Faro, and Albufeira. It`s also where several renowned high-end golf resorts can be found within the prestigious “Golden Triangle” area.

The Eastern Algarve, near the Spanish border (we took a bus here from Sevilla), has a slightly less impressive landscape than the two regions farther west but is still a splendid area to explore in its own right.

It’s home to several picturesque small towns such as Tavira (we were fond of Tavira, for what it’s worth) and the beautiful Ria Formosa Natural Park.

Where to Stay in the Algarve: 5 Excellent Places to Stay 

Now that you better understand the region`s landscape, where is the best area to stay in the Algarve?

Well, the amount of time available, your travel preferences, and what you hope to gain from the trip will influence how you structure it.

Being spread across a large area, traveling from one section of the Algarve to another can require extensive traveling. The journey from Sagres in the west to Tavira in the east takes over two hours by automobile, and even longer using public transportation (by the way, we believe you will definitely want to rent a vehicle during your time here).

If exploring the full Algarve region, centrally located lodging makes sense to avoid repeated transit, which is why several places we recommend below are right in that central zone.

For whatever it may be worth, we think focusing your time in the western and central parts of the island would be most prudent, as the majority of top-rated beaches, hiking trails, and small villages are found in those locales.

Below, we’ll guide you through some of the best places to lodge in the Algarve providing more detail, like highlights of the areas and our top hotel and resort recommendations.

One important note: If you’re traveling in peak season (which essentially covers anytime between May and September) you need to ensure to reserve AT LEAST four to six months in advance. My mom is currently planning a September trip in mid-June, and nearly every single place in this guide is sold out for her dates by now. Book early!

Now, we’re well aware that a few of you are currently eager to toss your left shoe at the screen, saying “I don’t have time to read all of that, JUST TELL ME THE BEST PLACE TO STAY!”

Here is a brief summary of the key points covered in this guide in case you have limited time, though exploring the section relevant to your chosen lodging will offer location-specific recommendations and activities.

• Our general recommendation is to reside in Lagos, which provides the best combination of amenities and location for exploring the remainder of the Algarve. We based ourselves here for half of our trip, and it was pleasant to be within walking distance of multiple spots to eat, drink, and shop (not to mention beaches). We stayed right in the center of all the action at the Salty Lodge, and highly recommend it.

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• If a tranquil atmosphere is sought after (or surfing interests you), Sagres is recommended. Positioned at Europe`s southwestern tip, it is considered one of the world`s prime surf destinations due to towering rocky cliffs and stunning sandy beaches. Numerous excellent lodging options exist, but favored ones include the beautiful boutique Memmo Baleeira with ocean views or the more affordable Casa Azul with rooms and apartments.
• For excellent accessibility to the central and western Algarve and a more residential atmosphere, consider Carvoeiro. We spent time here during our trip and truly enjoyed it. The town itself is great (as is the beach), but the real advantage is being within 10-15 minutes of many of the Algarve’s finest beaches, and the best hike in the region. We stayed at Hello Villas, and had a pleasant private villa to return to after exploring the day away.

Lagos: The City with the Best Amenities in the Algarve

The Wawona Meadow Loop Trail takes you around the only golf course in the national park. Watch out for fly-away golf balls!

Surrounded by some of the area’s most beautiful scenery and beaches that stretch for miles, the vibrant city is one of the Algarve’s most visited places as a tourism destination.

From sheltered bays and coastal hikes to historic landmarks and energizing watersports, Lagos has something for every style of traveler.

Additionally, the city boasts some of the Algarve`s finest amenities, with a bountiful dining scene, cafes and bars along with various lodging options to suit all budgets.

Importantly, staying in Lagos puts you within walking distance of numerous restaurants, cafes, bars, and shops. This proximity is probably the greatest advantage of staying in this location.

Additionally, beaches are near! There’s a pleasant walking route connecting beaches in the town center, including the excellent Praia dos Estudantes, one of our favorite beaches along the Algarve coast.

Lagos is also advantageously located at the center of many of the area`s top towns and attractions, making it a superb base for first-time visitors to explore the region.

Pros and Cons of Staying in Lagos

Pros of Staying in Lagos:

• Central location. Lagos is an ideal spot for exploring all of the top towns, beaches, and attractions along the Algarve.

• Restaurant and bar scene. The city has one of the largest collections of restaurants, cafes, and bars in the Algarve.

Cons of Staying in Lagos:

• Tourist crowds. Lagos is among the most visited places to remain on the Algarve Coast, so you can expect higher costs, busier beaches, and longer lines at attractions during peak travel seasons.

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Lagos Highlights

• The brew: Lagos hosts many excellent coffee shops. Some favorites include Coffee & Waves,The Coffee Studio, and Black and White, all situated within a short walk of Lagos` core.

• Mar d’Estórias: Cool rooftop bar and restaurant with a ground floor shop selling locally handcrafted goods.

• Praia do Camilo: One of the most famously beautiful sandy beaches in the Algarve region, with golden sand.

• Praia de Dona Ana: Lovely sheltered cove with a wide sandy beach surrounded by rock formations and sea caves.

• Praia dos Estudantes: Beach featuring a majestic rock formation jutting into the ocean.

• Ponta da Piedade: Coastal cliffs with stunning rocky formations and arches at water level. Hike along the bluffs for scenic views and to visit the famous lighthouse.

The Best Places to Stay in Lagos

This hiking trail stretches out to approximately four miles with an elevation gain of just under 1,000 feet.

The Salty Lodge: Nice Apartments in a Great Location (Where We Stayed)

This is where we stayed on our recent trip to Lagos and we couldn’t recommend it more highly.

The Salty Lodge is a small complex in Lagos with numerous self-catering apartments. Ideally situated in the heart of old town, the complex has countless restaurants, cafes, bars, and attractions right nearby.

It’s also just a few minutes on foot out to the water with several beautiful bays and beaches within walking distance.

Boasting modern, stylish design and full amenities, each apartment provides all expected conveniences for guests` stays. Small kitchens allow for independent meal preparation.

But the real highlight has to be the communal roof terrace from which you can appreciate breathtaking views over the town and ocean. It’s the perfect spot to unwind with a glass of local wine after a day exploring the coast.

Casa Mãe: The Coolest Hotel in Lagos

A deserted coastal estate converted into a dream vacation home, Casa Mãe is undeniably one of the most beautiful hotels in Lagos.

The luxurious whitewashed property is surrounded by lush Portuguese greenery and provides an idyllic setting for a special event or romantic vacation in the Algarve.

Spread across three buildings, you can opt for bohemian chic, minimalist or vintage style rooms. The hotel also features a gorgeous pool and sun terrace as well as a restaurant serving homemade dishes utilizing only the freshest local ingredients.

Lagos Village: An Affordable Guesthouse on the Outskirts

Lagos Villageis a charming and affordable guesthouse on the outskirts of the historical center, situated a mere 5-10 minute walk to the city’s primary attractions and beaches.

The rooms are contemporary and spacious, with huge encompassing windows that bring in a lot of common light. Each room likewise has a patio to appreciate breakfast and your morning coffee on, which you can make in your little in-room kitchenette.

The property boasts an outdoor swimming pool and sun terrace. And the friendly and accommodating staff are pleased to assist you in booking excursions and activities.

Lagos Village has everything one could need from a base in the Algarve region, without exceeding the budget.

Sagres: The Best Place to Stay For Surfing

Sagres is a small coastal town on the westernmost point of the Algarve region. In ancient Rome, it was the farthest explored location to the southwest on the continent, hence known as ‘Promontorium Sacrum’, meaning ‘the end of the world’.

Nowadays, this stands as one of Europe`s premier surfing hotspots (and possibly the world). The laidback ambiance attracts a youthful, surf-loving clientele to its cool bars, cute cafes and local eateries.

It is extremely popular with surfers who come to make the most of the secluded beaches, crashing waves, and rugged natural scenery surrounding the town.

Sagres does have a noticeably younger feel than other places in the Algarve – probably due to the surfing. This makes it one of the best locations in the region to find low-cost lodging and for meeting other young travelers.

Located as far west as possible along the coast – much further than the bulk of other towns and attractions – Sagres isn’t an optimal place to stay if your aim is to explore all parts of the Algarve.

If staying in one place and enjoying local attractions and surroundings is a priority, Sagres makes a great vacation spot in the Algarve region, with many exploring options nearby as well.

Pros and Cons of Staying in Sagres

Pros of Staying in Sagres:

• Stunning scenery. Sagres is surrounded by some of the most beautiful untouched natural landscapes in the entire Algarve.

• Diversity of adventure activities. If you’re wanting more from your Algarve vacation than simply sunbathing on the beach, Sagres is the place to be. There’s a whole range of thrilling activities to enjoy, from surfing and kayaking to deep-sea fishing, epic hiking trails, and so much more.

• Less influenced by tourism. Sagres has been impacted less by tourism than many other towns along the Algarve, meaning you can still appreciate its peaceful natural beauty without huge tourist crowds.

• Good for budget lodging. Being a favorite spot with younger and more adventurous travelers, Sagres has some of the best hostels and inexpensive accommodations in the Algarve. There are also campsites and parking for campervans.

Cons of Staying in Sagres:

• It’s farther than expected from the airport. The township is situated 115 km from Faro airport – the primary airport in the Algarve region. A taxi ride would take about 1hr 15mins, but the fare could easily be €100-150. To use public transportation, one would need to board the bus from Faro to Lagos, then transfer buses to Sagres. The entire journey takes three to four hours in total.

• Its remote location as the westernmost region also indicates that it`s quite far from many towns, beaches, and attractions of Central and Eastern Algarve. Staying in Sagres means limiting activities to Western Algarve generally.

Sagres Highlights

• Praia do Martinhal: A wide sandy beach located outside Sagres that is popular for windsurfing and watersports.

• Fortaleza de Sagres: Scenic sea fort situated on bluffs providing stunning views along the coast and over the ocean. The historically significant fort constructed in the 15th century by Prince Henry the Navigator during the period of maritime Discoveries.

• Praia do Beliche: Our favorite beach on the Algarve. Walk down steep stairs and you’ll find yourself in a protected cove with views of the towering cliffs. It’s also a popular surf spot.

• Cabo de Sao Vicente: The westernmost mainland point in Europe! Be advised that windy conditions regularly occur here.

• Gelateria Alice, Art & Heart: Exactly as described… delicious Italian gelato and tasty homemade pastries. Offers a good selection of dairy-free and vegan ice cream too. Grab something to takeaway or enjoy in their sunny backyard garden.

The Best Places to Stay in Sagres

A few selections for quality places to spend the night in Sagres have been compiled.

Memmo Baleeira: Beautiful Boutique Hotel 

Memmo Baleeira is a large luxury hotel situated overlooking Sagres’ historic fishing harbor and beautiful Baleeira Beach. The hotel offers many services that could be useful during an Algarve vacation.

The hotel`s outside swimming pool offers magnificent panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean. Inside, guests can relax in the heated hot tub, Turkish bath, and sauna.

The on-site dining establishment ‘Fornaria’ offers tasty homemade pizzas, cooked in a wood-burning oven, that patrons can enjoy on the terrace as the sun sets over the surrounding body of water.

Families can also make good use of the kids club and helpful concierge services at the hotel.

The lodgings at Memmo are contemporary and cozy. Each feature luxurious bathroom amenities, an area for sitting, and a flat-screen television. Some rooms also have a private balcony with ocean perspectives, though you’ll pay somewhat extra for it.

​​Cercas Velhas: Affordable and Charming Apartments

Cercas Velhas is a charming small hotel situated inside several restored houses once occupied by a local agricultural family. The original structures have been kept largely unchanged, aside from the vibrant red and blue paint job that provides a striking contrast from the surrounding greenery.

Arranged around a central courtyard area, each room is a cozy self-contained apartment with charming and homely furnishings and a fully-equipped kitchenette.

Cercas Velhas is situated in a tranquil area of Sagres, immersed in untouched nature, and just a brief walk from the ocean and Tonel beach.

Martinhal Sagres Beach Family Resort: Cool Resort for Families

A spacious five star family resort with panoramic views of Martinhal Beach, Martinhal Sagres Beach Family Resort provides roomy lodgings and villas merely steps from the sand and ocean.

The resort is ideal for those looking to keep little ones occupied. There are plenty of fun amenities and activities for kids of varying ages, like swimming pools, soft play areas, video games, surf lessons, paddle tennis games, football challenges, and nightly family entertainment.

And for the adults, the resort also has 3 upscale restaurants, 4 bars, and tennis courts.

The hotel’s double and family rooms include a private terrace or balcony overlooking the sea. Each also comes with a minibar and coffee machine. Or if you prefer more space, the luxury townhouses and villas all feature a large open living area and a fully equipped designer kitchen.

Casa Azul Sagres: Hotel Rooms + Apartments

There are numerous fun outdoor activities available near the area. Some options include tubing down the river, hiking through the forested areas of the Alpine Lakes Wilderness, or angling in Fish Lake. The downtown area of Leavenworth is also a short drive away if you need to stock up on souvenirs or wine during your visit.

Each living area at Casa Azul has a personal washroom, comfortable seating section, TV, and a small terrace or porch with hammocks/deck seats.

The apartments also feature a fully equipped kitchen for preparing meals each day. Some even have outdoor grilling facilities on their private outdoor space.

Wavesensations: Affordable & Comfortable Surf Hostel

A cozy surf house just seconds from Tonal Beach, Wavesensations is one of the best places to lodge in Sagres for those wanting to learn how to surf in the Algarve.

Wavesensation provides affordable lodging in the Algarve along with some of the best surf lessons and camps in the region. Classes are available for all skill levels, allowing guests to hit the waves at nearby beaches daily. There’s also a yoga studio to stretch and unwind after surfing.

Wavesensations has several stylishly furnished private rooms, and shared dormitories for females and mixed groups. Each dorm bed has curtains, individual reading lights, power outlets, and sizable lockers. The shared bath facilities are clean and spacious.

The hostel’s communal lounge and terrace are nice spots for socializing with other surfers and travelers. It’s not a wild party hostel, though plenty events and weekly barbecues help guests meet.

Carvoeiro: Residential Area with Great Beach Access (Good for Families)

Carvoeiro is a little, picturesque coastal town in Central Algarve renowned for its charm. Less high-energy than places like Lagos and Albufeira, the idyllic seaside community stands out for its traditional whitewashed fishermen`s homes surrounded by sweeping golden cliffs.

Carvoeiro’s beach, Praia de Carvoeiro, is small but spectacular. Once one of the Algarve’s best kept secrets, the beach has grown hugely in popularity ever since receiving the title of Best Beach in Europe in 2018.

But the biggest draw of staying in Carvoeiro has to be its fantastic location. The town is a great place to stay for trekking the renowned Seven Hanging Valleys Trail and visiting the many beautiful white sand beaches along this stretch of coastline.

Pros and Cons of Staying in Carvoeiro 

Pros of Staying in Carvoeiro:

• Central location. Carvoeiro is placed near the famed Seven Hanging Valleys Trail, many of the region’s top beaches, and various of the Algarve’s most visited tourist towns, like Lagos and Albufeira. It’s in an ideal spot for exploring everything that Western and Central Algarve has to offer.

• Local vibe. Despite being a popular tourist resort, Carvoeiro still functions as a living town where people work and live. If you visit during the low season, you’ll get to experience authentic local life in the Algarve at its finest.

• Good amenities. Downtown Carvoeiro has a variety of fantastic restaurants, casual beach bars, cool cafes, grocery stores, and everything else you might need during your stay in the Algarve.

• Family-friendly. The town is a particularly appealing destination for families, thanks to its abundance of child-oriented amenities and resorts. Carvoeiro also does not have a late-night party or clubbing scene like numerous other resort towns on the Algarve do.

Cons of Staying in Carvoeiro:

• Crowded during peak months. Carvoeiro is a small but popular resort town in the Algarve, meaning it can get pretty crowded during peak periods. The small beach can get very packed during the summer time.

Carvoeiro Highlights

• The Seven Hanging Valleys Trail: One of the most famous hikes on the Algarve. Along the 11 km route, you’ll discover sweeping coastal panoramas, blue-green waters beautifully contrasting with the golden sand of countless lovely beaches, and unique sinkholes forming deep caverns (only accessible by boat).

• Carvoeiro Boardwalk: A picturesque clifftop walk on the hill above the town’s beach with some great views over the coast.

• Praia do Vale de Centeanes: A beach with golden colored sand situated just east of Carvoeiro. An excellent location to watch the sunset.

• Praia do Paraíso: Chilled slender shore in a little cove that can be arrived at by means of a lot of white stone stairways.

• Praia da Marinha: This award-winning beach is one of the most iconic in the Algarve, if not all of Portugal. Don’t miss the picturesque orange sandstone cliffs, sea rock formations, and sea tunnels that surround the beach.

• Benagil Caves: Famous coastal caverns known for unique perforations in the roof. Can be visited on a boat or kayaking tour from Carvoeiro.

The Best Places to Stay in Carvoeiro

Here are a few of our top selections for places to reside in Carvoeiro.

Hello Villas: Excellent Private Villas (Where We Stayed)

This is a description of where we stayed in Carvoeiro and how much we enjoyed using it as a base to explore more of the central part of the Algarve region.

The Hello Villas complex provides 58 single or double room townhouses in a relaxed section of Carvoeiro. The villas are situated about 15 minutes away from the beach and 5-10 minutes from the town center.

Each contemporary villa contains a fully equipped kitchen, a separate living space with a sofa and television, and indoor as well as outdoor dining areas. The spacious homes are ideal for those seeking a bit more room while traveling.

The complex centers around a garden area with a communal outdoor pool, kids` pool, plenty of lounge chairs poolside, and a snack bar by the pool. Free parking is also available on site for exploring more of the Algarve region by vehicle.

Hotel Carvoeiro Plaza: Solid Midrange Hotel a Block from the Beach

If you’d prefer to stay near the water, the Hotel Carvoeiro Plaza is located just 25 meters from Carvoeiro Beach, with panoramic views over the scenic bay.

The charming three-star hotel presents double and twin rooms, and two-bedroom suites for families and larger groups. Each room is outfitted with a private bathroom, TV, A/C, and tea and coffee-making amenities. Some rooms also have a private balcony with ocean perspectives.

Additionally, if guests wish to immerse themselves in the water without going to the shore, the lodging has an exterior swimming pool with an adjacent deck, sun loungers, and a poolside bar.

You can also unwind at the end of each day at the hotel’s stylish rooftop bar, Skybar; the perfect spot to watch the sunset over the beach with a glass of local wine.

Quinta das Andorinhas: Guesthouse with Rooms and Suites

Embrace the more authentic and local side of Carvoeiro with a stay at Quinta das Andorinhas, a charming family-run establishment.

The large home features just 20 rooms, giving it a more low-key, family atmosphere. The friendly owners and staff will ensure that you feel at home right away.

Situated inside a traditional whitewashed house with bright yellow embellishments, the property has a variety of rooms, suites, and studios that can sleep up to 4 people. All living quarters are roomy, clean, and modern, with conveniences like a television, hairdryer, and air conditioning. Each space features a small balcony or terrace with barbecue facilities.

The guesthouse also features a garden including an outdoor pool for recreation, a cozy communal lounge area for socializing, and a shared kitchen containing a refrigerator and microwaves available for guests to utilize.

But don’t worry about buying any breakfast supplies. Each morning, you’ll be treated to a delicious and filling homemade breakfast by the hosts.

Castelo Guesthouse: Affordable Guesthouse with Sea Views

Another good choice for staying near Carvoeiro’s beautiful beach is the charming three star Castelo Guesthouse, just minutes from the water.

The distinctive yellow building sits on the east side of Carvoeiro Beach, providing panoramic perspectives of the sandy shoreline, the Atlantic Ocean, and back over the town itself. Guests have use of a summer terrace, lending library, and breakfast area.

You can choose between shared accommodations for two people, family lodging, or an upgraded suite depending on your budget and group size. Each room is decorated in its own unique style, from pretty green floral designs to Portuguese blue and white tile patterns and more.

The regular rooms come with a view overlooking the street. You can opt to pay a little extra for a private patio/balcony that overlooks the beach and ocean – in our opinion, it`s completely worth it! There is nothing better than waking up to the sight of the ocean and the sound of crashing waves.

Important notice – during peak season, there is a minimum stay requirement of either three or four nights, so this may not be ideal for shorter trips.

Salema: A Charming Small Town Right on the Beach

Salema is a working fishing village and quaint seaside resort located in the protected Costa Vincentina Natural Park, an area of outstanding natural beauty. The charming village sits between Sagres to the west and Lagos to the east in Western Algarve.

Despite increasing popularity with international tourists in recent years, Salema remains one of the least developed destinations along the Algarve coast.

Centered around a small bay and golden sandy beach, the serene little village is renowned for its whitewashed cottages, narrow cobbled streets, cozy family-run cafes and restaurants, and colorful wooden fishing boats bobbing on the horizon at sunset.

It is one of the few locations remaining in the Algarve where locals and visitors coexist in (somewhat) harmonious coexistence.

For a relaxing and laid-back place to base yourself in Western Algarve, you’ll find nowhere quite like Salema.

Note: We unfortunately didn’t have the chance to see much of Salema since everywhere was closed for the off-season when we were there in early December.

Pros and Cons of Staying in Salema

Pros of Staying in Salema:

• Calm atmosphere. Salema is one of the more serene and relaxed destinations on the Algarve for those wanting to avoid the crazy tourist crowds and bar/party scene.

• The seafood. The fisherman’s village has some really good seafood restaurants in the Algarve, with plenty of delicious fresh fish and seafood caught daily.

Cons of Staying in Salema:

• Closes amid the off-season. While the tranquility is part of Salema’s charm, the village nearly closes fully amid the off-season. Many guesthouses and restaurants shut fully and locals leave the village for the winter. We’d advise only staying in Salema amid the summer months.

• Fewer amenities for tourists. As a smaller village, Salema has fewer hotels, eateries, activities, and points of interest compared to other locations along the Algarve coast. Unless content relaxing on beaches and enjoying leisurely seafood lunches, access to a vehicle will likely be necessary to regularly explore the area and stay occupied.

The Best Places to Stay in Salema

A few selections for quality places to spend the night in Salema have been compiled.

Hotel Residencial Salema: Affordable Hotel on the Beach

Hotel Residencial Salema is a lovely modest hotel with three stars that overlooks the beautiful golden sandy coast and sparkling blue waters of Salema Beach. The affordable hotel is perfectly located just moments from the water and minutes away from many of the town’s top eateries, cafes, and other amenities.

Each double or twin room includes a private sea-view balcony where breakfast can be enjoyed while taking in the lovely scenery of the beach and surrounding cliffs below.

The hotel also has an on-site bar and lounge where guests can sip a drink while watching sports on the satellite TV each evening.

Salema Eco Camp: Glamping Just Outside of Town

If taking in the region’s natural splendors fully and enjoying a more relaxed pace of living appeals to you, Salema Eco Camp is one of the top places to lodge in the Algarve.

Situated just outside of Salema, within the Natural Park of Costa Vicentina that protects the local environment, the campsite provides accommodations for all types of travelers regardless of budget or style of travel.

You are able to choose lodging such as tents, dome-shaped tents, and teepees, or more spacious mobile homes and private apartments. Some apartments can sleep up to seven people, making it a great accommodation choice for bigger groups.

Some lodging have cooking areas, equipped with a refrigerator, a small refrigerator with alcoholic drinks and snacks, and a stovetop burner. Campers can take advantage of the camp’s on-site Mediterranean-inspired NAZARI restaurant and lounge. Other communal spaces and services include an outdoor patio, garden, children’s playground, ATM, bike and car rental, and free vehicle parking.

Plus, in November 2021, Salema Eco Camp became the first and sole lodging in the Algarve to earn its Certificate of Carbon Neutrality. This makes the camp the top place to stay on the Algarve for sustainability-conscious travelers.

Salema Beach Village: Private Villas 

For a slightly more luxurious stay in Salema, the Salema Beach Village resort complex just 500 meters from the beach provides a comfortable option.

The peaceful complex has many spacious homes that can accommodate two or three bedrooms each. Every holiday residence offers comfortable private bedrooms, separate areas for relaxing and dining, a fully equipped kitchen, a washing machine, a terrace, and a balcony. Some units provide a relaxing spa bath, while others present stunning ocean views.

The resort also provides a seasonal outdoor swimming pool with a poolside bar, padel courts, a children`s play area, an outdoor gym, and bike rental for guests.

With every potential long-stay amenity, Salema Beach Village truly functions as a temporary home away from home.

Tavira: A Quiet Town at the Eastern Edge of the Algarve

Tavira is a sizable yet comparatively peaceful town on the most eastern edge of the Algarve, close to the Spanish border. The town crosses the Gilão River, which flows down through the beautiful Ria Formosa Natural Park to achieve the ocean.

Arguably the most charming destination in Algarve, the historic town has been molded by hundreds of years of control by numerous empires, like the Romans and the Islamic empire in northern Africa (who governed most of southern Spain and Portugal for several centuries).

The town is renowned for its cobbled roadways, picturesque squares, stunning Gothic and Renaissance churches, and the grand Roman bridge spanning the wide river.

While not directly situated along the coastline itself, Tavira is in close proximity to some of the most beautiful stretches of sand lining the Algarve region, like the white beaches of Tavira Island.

The most crucial thing we should note here is that Tavira is not the place to stay if you want to spend time in the Western Algarve and locations such as Lagos, Sagres, etc.

The eastern town is located quite far from these well-known spots. Therefore, if exploring the western section is your top priority, you should stay in a location nearer to that area.

That being said, we were coming from Seville and took the bus to Tavira, which was a lovely place to spend a couple of nights before making our way west.

Pros and Cons of Staying in Tavira 

Pros of Staying in Tavira:

• Rich in culture. For those with an interest in history and culture, Tavira is certainly one of the most fascinating towns throughout the entire Algarve region. You’ll find ancient ruins, historic churches, and intriguing tales from the town’s long and noteworthy past.

• Good tourist amenities. Tavira is a large town with many fantastic local and international restaurants, relaxed bars, and modern hotels and guesthouses.

Cons of Staying in Tavira:

• Distance from other places. One will not be able to easily visit locations like Sagres without a very long drive. Staying in Tavira means sticking to the Eastern Algarve region.

• While Tavira offers proximity to waterways, its location away from the coast means beachgoers must take a ferry or drive to reach sandy shores. This lack of walkable beach access may not suit those seeking an easy seaside vacation on the Algarve coastline. For such travelers, Tavira could prove an unsuitable choice.

Tavira Highlights 

• Ilha de Tavira: Take a boat trip to this beautifully scenic windswept spit for some peacefulness and beautiful unspoiled beaches and salt flats.

• Castelo de Tavira: A visit to the well-protected ruins of the town’s medieval hilltop fortress is worthwhile. Within the ancient walls, travelers will be greeted by fantastic views over the town and river below. Entry to the castle is free of charge.

• Santa María do Castelo Church: This historic house of worship holds the tombs of 7 knights killed by the Moors. You can also climb the bell tower for beautiful vistas over the town.

• O Tonel: This establishment served the finest cuisine we sampled during our complete visit to Portugal, in my view. The food was excellent, the reasonably priced house wine was good, and there was a pleasurable ambiance accompanied by welcoming staff members.

• Praia do Barril: Sandy shore close to Tavira. Famous for its unusual cemitério das âncoras (anchor graveyard) of old tuna-boat anchors.

The Best Places to Stay in Tavira 

A few selections for quality places to spend the night in Tavira have been compiled.

Formosa Guest House: Where We Stayed in Tavira

Formosa is a charming and affordable guesthouse right in the main square of historic Tavira, just 150 meters from the Roman Bridge.

The guest house features many bright, contemporary, and spacious bedrooms, elegantly furnished with antique pieces.

You can keep your stay affordable by booking a double or twin room with a shared bathroom. Or you can splurge a little for a room or suite with a private bathroom. All rooms feature views of the town or river – ours had an incredible river view!

A spacious roof terrace atop the property offers the tranquil experience of sunset watching over the river each evening. Meanwhile, the garden presents a relaxing spot to enjoy morning coffee in peace and solitude.

There are two fully equipped kitchens on each floor so you can prepare your own meals during your visit. That’s if you can resist the temptation of the numerous cafes and restaurants right nearby.

Colégio Charm House: A Beautiful Boutique Hotel

Colégio Charm House was an 18th century family villa that had been transformed into a lovely boutique hotel near Tavira Castle located just a 5-minute walk from the historic town center.

Just lately opened in late 2021, the striking hotel includes 20 sophisticated rooms and suites. Each room is tastefully decorated with a mix of modern features and antique furnishings, together with Portuguese textiles and art, and unusual artifacts from across the world. It’s safe to say that no two rooms are alike.

Upgrades to the whitewashed mansion include an outdoor terrace and heated swimming pool, while some of the more spacious suites offer private pools as well.

Colégio`s restaurant and bar located on-site serves a delicious seasonal menu using ingredients sourced from artisan suppliers in the surrounding region.

Each evening, you can enjoy the set meal paired with local wines and accompanied by gentle jazz and candlelight. The ultimate romantic setting for a unique occasion.

With its elegant decor, idyllic setting, and extremely accommodating staff, Colégio’s is undeniably one of the most luxurious hotels in the Algarve.

Pousada Convento de Tavira: Cool Hotel inside a Convent

One of the most unique places to stay in the Algarve is to check out Pousada Convento de Tavira.

The unique 4-star hotel is situated around the quiet courtyard of a 16th century St. Augustine`s Convent. The historic building and tower have been skillfully renovated to include a number of spacious rooms that combine modern amenities with a traditional Portuguese design.

All rooms overlook the columned courtyard or the large garden which contains an outdoor pool. Sunbathers can sunbathe on one of the numerous loungers, while those seeking some respite on a hot day can relax under the historic cloisters.

In the evenings, you can enjoy dining at the on-site restaurant of the lodge, which offers locally sourced and global cuisine or unwind by a welcoming fireplace in the elegant lounge while reading.

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