SURROUNDINGS
Algarve
Portugal is the land of grilled sardines, port wine, fado, and expansive beaches. The Algarve, the southernmost region of Portugal, is best known as a sun, sea, and beach destination, with endless golden sandy beaches, striking rock formations, and crystal-clear waters.
The Algarve enjoys a pleasant Mediterranean climate influenced by the Atlantic Ocean, with an average of around 300 days of sunshine per year. But this region has much more to offer than just sun and sea. The landscape is remarkably diverse, ranging from rugged cliffs and coastal areas to a green, hilly inland.
In the countryside, you’ll discover historic fortified towns, charming whitewashed villages, and rolling hills dotted with cork, carob, almond, and citrus trees. This makes the Algarve not only popular with beach lovers but also an excellent destination for walkers, nature enthusiasts, and those seeking peace and tranquility.
We are happy to share more about the Algarve and provide our personal tips. To explore the region fully, we recommend renting a car during your stay, giving you the freedom to discover the Algarve’s diversity at your own pace.
Silves
Silves is an excellent base for exploring the Algarve. The town is located just 15 kilometers from the coast, making it ideal for a beach holiday or a varied combination of beach, nature, and culture.
From Silves, you can easily reach the region’s most beautiful beaches, walking routes, and attractions.
After a day of exploring, it’s a pleasure to return to the tranquility of Quinta das Piteiras. The quinta is centrally located, with unobstructed views over the Monchique mountains, while the historic center of Silves is just a short distance away, with all amenities within easy reach. Silves offers a wide variety of restaurants, cafés, and supermarkets. Dining out or enjoying a coffee on a terrace remains very affordable, and there is something to suit every taste — from traditional Portuguese dishes to international cuisine.
Silves is also a charming medieval town with a rich history. During the Moorish period, it flourished as the capital of the Algarve. The impressive castle, perched on the hill above the town, is visible from afar. The historic center is perfect to explore on foot, with its narrow streets, old buildings, city gates, and the imposing cathedral — all landmarks that make Silves well worth a visit.
Monchique
Monchique is both the name of a mountain village and the expansive natural area that surrounds it. Thanks to the pure mountain air and natural springs, Monchique has long been known as a wellness and spa destination. The village is characterized by narrow streets paved with small stones, lined with charming houses dating from the 18th and 19th centuries.
The drive to Monchique is an experience in itself. You travel through a beautiful landscape of green hills and dense forests, dominated by cork and eucalyptus trees. This area reveals a surprisingly lush side of the Algarve, very different from the coastline.
The region around Monchique is also famous for its local spirit, Medronho, also known as “firewater.” This potent drink, made from the berries of the strawberry tree, has an alcohol content of almost 50% and is part of a centuries-old tradition in the mountains.
A short distance from the village lies Fóia, the highest point in the Algarve. From here, you can enjoy spectacular panoramic views over the rolling hills, the coastline, and on clear days, even the Atlantic Ocean. If you prefer not to drive on the winding mountain roads yourself, it is also possible to book a jeep safari — a relaxed yet adventurous way to explore this unique area.
ACTIVITIES
Hiking
The Algarve is an ideal destination for walking enthusiasts. Around Silves and Monchique, you’ll find beautiful hiking routes through the mountainous inland, offering stunning views and a varied landscape. A particularly special route is the Percurso de Vale Fuzeiros, which passes archaeological sites such as menhirs and ancient graves.
Along the coast, the boardwalks in places like Alvor and Carvoeiro provide scenic walks along cliffs and beaches. The Seven Hanging Valleys trail in Lagoa is also highly recommended, with spectacular views of cliffs, hidden valleys, and turquoise bays. The many beaches are perfect for a relaxing coastal stroll as well.
At Quinta das Piteiras, we offer a selection of walking guides, making it easy for you to plan your own routes and fully enjoy the surrounding area.
Beautiful cities, dinosaurs and the end of Europe
Besides Silves, Lagos is another city well worth a visit. Lagos is one of the older towns in the Algarve and has a rich history. In the 13th century, the city was reconquered from the Moors and developed into an important center for maritime explorations. The covered slave market, once the center of the European slave trade, is now an exhibition space.
The compact historic center is charming and easy to explore, featuring parts of the old city walls, colorful azulejos, and atmospheric streets. Key sights include the Forte da Ponta da Bandeira and the Igreja de Santo António, a church with a stunning interior richly decorated with gold.
Near Lagos lies Ponta da Piedade, an impressive natural area with steep cliffs and dramatic rock formations, perfect for walks or a boat tour along the coast. A little further along is Praia do Salema, where dinosaur footprints dating back 125 million years can be seen in a limestone rock.
On the southwest coast is Europe’s southernmost point, Cabo de São Vicente, with a rugged coastline, cliffs, dunes, and deserted beaches. Here you will also find the Fort of Beliche and the imposing Fortaleza de Sagres, a 16th-century fort that played an important role during the era of Portuguese discoveries.
For the kids
Even for children (welcome at our property from age 10), the Algarve offers plenty of fun and activities. Of course, the beaches are a major attraction, where kids can easily spend hours playing, but the area around Quinta das Piteiras also has several parks and entertainment options.
A day at Aqualand in Alcantarilha is guaranteed fun, with numerous slides and water attractions. Slide & Splash in Lagoa is another large water park, ideal for children who are confident swimmers.
For a combination of animals and water fun, Zoomarine in Guia offers animal shows, pools, and water attractions. In Quarteira, Aquashow is a large water park with slides, pools, and various attractions.
For those who enjoy active water adventures, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, or surfing along the coast are all great options. You can also book a boat trip along the coastline, including a visit to the stunning Benagil Cave.
Beaches
The Algarve boasts kilometers of stunning beaches in all shapes and sizes. In the municipality of Silves, you’ll find Armação de Pêra, home to the beautiful Praia Grande. A wooden boardwalk over the dunes leads to the wide, expansive beach. Along the lagoon, there are lovely walking paths where you may even spot flamingos.
Near Carvoeiro, Praia da Marinha is often cited as one of the most beautiful beaches in Europe. Praia do Carvalho is another hidden gem, surrounded by steep cliffs and accessible through a short tunnel.
In the eastern Algarve, you can take a ferry to nearby islands, such as Ilha de Tavira, with quiet, secluded beaches. At Praia do Barril, a small train even takes you directly to the beach.
On the west coast, near Lagos, beaches such as Praia Dona Ana and Praia da Batata each offer their own charm and photogenic views.
There are simply too many beautiful beaches to mention, so we recommend renting a car and discovering your own favorites.
5 special places in the Algarve and Silves area
Get our free e-book, in which various hidden gems are described.- with tips of 5 special places to visit during your holiday in the Algarve.
- these activities are not far from our accommodation, and are also perfect for the low-mid season.
- we can tell you all about these activities during the holiday, register and stay informed about inspiration and special offers from the Algarve!
