When we visited the Algarve, Portugal’s sun-drenched southern coast, it felt like we had discovered paradise wrapped in golden cliffs and turquoise seas. This region has a long and storied past — once part of the Moorish Al-Gharb, its name still echoes those influences through its whitewashed villages, tiled facades, and fortified towns. The Algarve is famous for its breathtaking beaches, dramatic limestone formations, and some of the most scenic coastlines in Europe. We spent a week here, and it offered the perfect balance of relaxation, exploration, and natural beauty.
Every day brought a new adventure — from wandering the charming old town of Lagos to standing at the windswept cliffs of Cape St. Vincent, where the Atlantic meets the edge of Europe. We explored Albufeira’s lively streets, tasted freshly grilled sardines in small seaside restaurants, and admired the peaceful charm of Tavira, where time seemed to slow down. But one of our most unforgettable moments came in Carvoeiro, where we visited the famous Praia da Marinha, often ranked among the most beautiful beaches in the world.
Standing atop the cliffs overlooking Praia da Marinha, we were awestruck by the contrast of golden rock, emerald-blue water, and hidden coves carved by centuries of waves and wind. The beach’s most iconic feature — the “M Rock”, a stunning double arch formation shaped like the letter “M” — stood proudly against the sea, perfectly embodying the Algarve’s rugged beauty. We hiked part of the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail, which runs along this coastline, offering spectacular views and endless photo opportunities.
Our week in the Algarve passed in a sunlit blur of coastal drives, lazy afternoons on the sand, and evenings filled with seafood, local wines, and pastel sunsets. Whether exploring seaside caves by boat or simply enjoying the laid-back rhythm of coastal life, the Algarve captured our hearts completely. A week was perfect, yet we left already dreaming of returning to those golden shores.