Autumn is when leaves fall, the sky is painted in soft hues, and once-bustling streets take on a more serene atmosphere. This is the ideal time to appreciate the Algarve in its most authentic form.
Discover the Algarve away from the hustle and bustle of the summer months. Take your time to unwind, relax, and breathe in the fresh air of this corner of Portugal.
Did you choose to take your holiday in autumn this year? It was a wise choice, offering you the rest and adventure you deserve. We suggest some experiences that become even more special during this time of year.
Street Art Circuit in Lagos
Street art offers a fantastic opportunity to connect with local artists and the cities that showcase their work. In the Algarve, from the Sotavento to the Barlavento, you’ll find numerous large-scale creations in charming towns and villages, often overlooked by most tourists. Embark on an adventure and explore the streets and alleys of Lagos, where incredible artworks adorn the city’s walls. This artistic route is organised by the LAC – Laboratório de Atividades Artísticas.
While in Lagos, don’t miss the mural by the artist Mariana, known as A Miserável, located in Barão de São João. Take the chance to wander along the Passeio dos Poetas, situated in the National Forest of Barão de São João. Further east in Alte, you’ll encounter the mural by Menau, set against the stunning backdrop of this quaint parish, with its orange trees and the Vigário waterfall.
Nature in Its Purest State
Explore the natural beauty of the charming parish of Odiáxere, located in Lagos. Bring the family for a delightful day in the countryside by the stream that originates in the Monchique mountains and flows into the Alvor estuary. Take advantage of the opportunity to explore the estuary on foot, wandering along the wooden walkways while enjoying breathtaking views of the mountains, beach, and the diverse birdlife that inhabits the area.
If you enjoy water sports, you’ll be pleased to learn that the estuary is one of the premier kitesurfing locations in the country. You can indulge in this thrilling sport year-round, as all you need is wind, a wetsuit, a board, and a kite. To book your first lessons or hire equipment, click here.
Picturesque Villages
We begin our journey in Burgau, Vila do Bispo, where maritime traditions thrive. In the morning, witness the fishermen's daily routines as they launch their boats down the slipway into the sea. If the weather isn’t inviting for a swim, take a moment to relax on a terrace with beach views.
Next, we visit Alvor, in the municipality of Portimão, surrounded by expansive beaches adorned with dunes. This small parish is steeped in history, having been visited by King D. João II and having experienced the devastating earthquake of 1755. Remnants of the Moorish castle still stand in the centre, alongside the bell tower of the main church—monuments that survived the destruction. However, it is the welcoming people that truly make Alvor a must-visit destination.
Ferragudo is renowned for its picturesque white houses lining the Arade River. The village maintains the traditional Algarve layout, featuring single-storey homes, intricate chimneys, and roof terraces influenced by Moorish architecture. As a quintessential fishing village, Ferragudo invites you to enjoy strolls, with every corner presenting a detail worth photographing. After exploring the village centre, follow the Path of the Promontories, which begins in Ferragudo and ends in Carvoeiro, to discover the stunning beauty of the coastline.
In every season, the Algarve transforms and beckons for a new visit. Beyond its famous beaches, it is a welcoming region filled with hidden places rich in history and natural landscapes. In autumn, the days are perfect for short-sleeve strolls, while the evenings, with a light jacket, are ideal for enjoying a terrace and savouring the simplicity of the Mediterranean diet and fresh fish.
Experience the beauty of the Algarve in autumn with the Local Accommodations from Casas do Barlavento Rentals. Contact us to book your holiday home in the Algarve.