Alvor Beach Resort Guide
Introduction
The vibrant Western Algarve resort of Alvor, which has sprung up around an attractive white washed fishing village, wows holidaymakers with its expansive sandy beaches, first-rate seafood and idyllic location overlooking the Bay of Lagos. The nefarious nightlife of Praia da Rocha is also within easy reach. Meandering through the narrow cobbled streets of Alvor's historic core, unfurling a towel on the beach, or taking a dip in the crystal clear waters of the Atlantic Ocean, holidaymakers quickly slip into the leisurely pace of local life. A smorgasbord of watersports awaits those who still want to get active. Meanwhile year round sunshine makes a game of golf at one of the nearby courses attractive at any time of year. Whether you want to unwind on the beach, get active in the Atlantic surf, or work on your handicap Alvor has something for everyone.
Who goes there?
Alvor attracts mainly European tourists who hail from cooler climes further north. Visitors come from all walks of life. During the main April to October season families are attracted by kilometres of sandy beach, while those in their 20s and 30s are drawn by Alvor's watersports and bars. In winter, when the pace of life slows, Alvor is popular with more mature holidaymakers escaping harsh winters.
Where in the world?
Alvor is located in the Western Algarve on Portugal's southern coast. Approximately 8km (5 miles) west of Portimao, 8km (5 miles) east of Lagos and 5km (3 miles) west of Praia da Rocha, and 75km (47 miles) from Faro Airport.
Spread along the shores of the Bay of Lagos, Alvor encompasses an old fishing village, the Praia do Alvor beach and the Ria do Alvor river estuary. The resort is fairly hilly.
When to go?
The climate in Alvor is mild, with little rainfall and plenty of sun throughout the year, making it an ideal year-round destination. July and August are the hottest months of the year, with temperatures averaging 27°C (80°F).
Beach
When it comes to beach holidays, Alvor is hard to beat. Praia do Alvor boasts kilometres of golden sand, where you will find a private spot to unfurl your towel even at the height of the summer. Heading east past the Torralta holiday complex, Praia dos Tres Iramos is an Algarve icon whose fluffy sand is spectacularly backed by golden cliffs.
Beyond the beach
East of Alvor, Aqualand Algarve in Alcantarilha (
www.aqualand.pt) is one of the region's premier water parks. Myriad swimming pools help keep you cool, while the terrifying drops of the Kamikaze and Banzai Boggan water rides offer a thrilling day out. You can also go horse riding, play golf, go motorbike scrambling or play paintball near the resort.
Family fun
Alvor is excellent for families with kilometres of sandy beach at the heart of the resort. Youngsters can build sandcastles, ride pedalos and splash in the sea, while older children can join in the thrill of a banana boat or donut ride, as well as trying their hand at watersports that range from canoeing to sailing.
Retail therapy
Alvor has all the shops that you would expect to find in a bustling holiday resort, with myriad stores selling everything from sunglasses and beachwear through to clothing, jewellery and tourist-orientated souvenirs. To stock up on cheap cigarettes and alcohol before heading home the resort's grocery stores are the best option.
A night on the town
It may be much quieter than neighbouring Praia da Rocha, but Alvor still knows how to throw a party. Irish bars, English style pubs with live music, informal cafe-bars and a sports cafe tempt after dark with draft Guinness and exotic cocktails. Serious clubbers should make the short journey east to Praia da Rocha.
Eating out
Alvor's British and Irish bars happily cater to holidaymakers seeking British breakfasts and English style pub grub. Alongside photo menu meals, Alvor also boasts a raft of restaurants, serving up Portuguese chicken and meat specialities, as well as fresh seafood. Alfresco dining opportunities abound.
Getting around
The resort has a decent local bus service, with routes running further afield to Lagos, Albufeira, Portimao and Praia da Rocha. Taxis are good value. If you want to explore the Algarve at your own pace then it is a good idea to hire a car. Bicycle rental is available locally.
Exploring further afield
The inland village of Silves is one of the Algarve's best-kept secrets. Getting here is all part of the fun with a boat trip from Portimao along the River Arade. After taking in the view from the ramparts of the Moorish castle (the biggest in the Algarve), meander through the Almedina's tight warren of medieval streets as they tumble down towards the river. No visit to Silves is complete without dining on fiery piri piri chicken by the river.
Splashing out
Head to the spa at the
Pestana Alvor Praia (Praia dos Tres Irmaos) (
www.pestana.com), which offers a diverse range of pampering treats including facials, massage and hot stone therapy. For the ultimate in self-indulgence book a half-day package that incorporates body exfoliation, a facial, spa pedicure and Indian head massage.
Flying in
Faro Airport (FAO)
