Romantic Algarve - everyday can be Valentine's Day in the Algarve
Valentine’s Day comes just once a year but romance should be every day. The Algarve is a fabulous destination for lovers. Aside from the great villas and apartments that become your romantic hideaway, the region has more than it's fair share of secret, scenic spots to explore, luxurious and lush spas for relaxation à deux, enticing, picturesque restaurants for food lovers and lively nightspots for night owl love birds to party til dawn.
Secret Spots
All along the coastline, and among the inland hills, the Algarve offers surprise feasts for your eyes. From unbelievably beautiful cove beaches, stunning caves and grottoes, to miles and miles of fine white sand, the coastline in this part of Portugal is uniquely beautiful. Our favourite spots include the cliff top walk above Praia do Vau beach near to Portimão (see a ) and the amazing sea cave near to the small village of Benagil. An open dome cave, this is the perfect spot to pop the question or as a unique wedding venue, and is accessible by boat only which adds to it's charm. Near by, is the romantic Nossa Senhora da Rocha chapel – a tiny whitewashed structure perched atop the cliff on a narrow slice of land that separates two beaches. For nature lovers, the west coast is elementally gorgeous, with the majestic Atlantic waves rolling onto the pristine beaches of the Costa Vicentina natural park.
In spring the gentle rolling hills of the Algarve countryside pays testament to romance. Legend says a Moorish prince of Silves, saddened to see his young bride homesick for the snowy landscapes of her Northern home, ordered the planting of hundreds of almond trees. Each spring the delicate white and pink blossoms fall to the ground, covering the land in a lacy sheet of white, recreating the princesses’ childhood landscape and easing her sadness.
Luscious pampering
Nothing says summer and romance like languid days of relaxation in the sunshine. Visit Vale do Lobo’s iconic beach club at Breeze - a fabulous beachside location where you can lounge side by side by the huge circular pool, sipping cocktails and champagne, or even enjoy a massage. Some of our lovely apartments and villas include passes for Breeze. For serious pampering, treat yourselves to the Pure Indulgence Experience at Conrad Spa which begins with a private bathing ceremony for two in the VIP Spa suite, followed by a chilled glass of champagne and rejuvenating foot treatment, then side by side aromatherapy massage and end the experience with a candlelit dinner for two on the terrace.
For a different sort of pampering, why not charter a luxury yacht for a romantic sunset cruise or for a full day private, intimate, coastal cruise. Come ashore at a scenic beach restaurant or choose to have your favourite treats and drinks catered on board.
Say it with food
No matter which cuisine you prefer or what your budget is, you will find some fabulous restaurants in the Algarve. Opt for traditional Portuguese food and local wines for an authentic and value experience. At the opposite end of the spectrum, visit one of the Algarve’s Michelin star and fine dining restaurants, such as São Gabriel near Vale do Lobo, Henrique Leis in Almancil or Willie's in Vilamoura. For something truly Algarve, enjoy lazy lunches or sunset dinners at one of the many excellent sand-between-your-toes beach restaurants. Or for a more unique experience, have a private chef cater a sumptuous meal for two at your gorgeous SandyBlue romantic hideaway villa.
Party people
For party loving lovers, it’s hard to beat sunset parties at some of the fab beachside locations along the coast. Head to Izzys on a Sunday afternoon for live music, DJs and some dancing on the tables fun. NoSoloAgua at Vilamoura and Portimão serve up chic pool parties and music sessions on the beach. Montys at Vale do Lobo Praça is the place to go for late night fun…and celebrity spotting.
