Algarve

The Algarve is Portugal's southernmost region and the Iberian Peninsula's most visited coastal destination. Its south coast, running 150 kilometres from the Spanish border in the east to Cape Sagres in the west, is carved from compact limestone that has produced one of the most spectacular coastal landscapes in Europe: ochre and golden cliffs sculpted by the Atlantic, sea caves accessible by swimming or kayak, sandy coves tucked between rock formations and open beaches exposed to the ocean winds.

Lagos, in the western Algarve, is the region's flagship town for travellers seeking authenticity and dramatic scenery: Ponta da Piedade, a complex of limestone cliffs and arches a short walk from the town centre, is one of the most photographed geological formations in Portugal. Praia da Dona Ana and Praia do Camilo, both walkable from Lagos, regularly appear in lists of Europe's ten finest beaches. Further east, Albufeira concentrates the nightlife and resort atmosphere, while Faro, the regional capital, offers a charming island old town and access to the Ria Formosa, a natural reserve of turquoise lagoon waters protected by a chain of barrier islands.

The region's single most iconic attraction is the Benagil cave (Algar de Benagil), reachable only by sea: a marine cavern of spectacular proportions topped by a natural oculus that sends a column of light down to the interior beach. Boat or kayak excursions from Carvoeiro or Benagil run daily from March to November. At the western tip, Cape Sagres and Cape São Vicente — the most south-westerly point of mainland Europe — offer breathtaking views of the Atlantic and an end-of-the-world atmosphere that contrasts sharply with the summer energy of the beaches.