Discover Portugal’s Hidden Algarve

25th May 2012

Take one look at the yachts and golf courses of the coastline and you might think beach resorts are all there are to Portugal’s beautiful Algarve. It may come as a surprise to find that authentic Portugal is never far away. Step away from the tourist crowds and be rewarded with rustic fishing villages, stunning mountain forests and lively local festivals, all within easy reach of Faro airport.

Thanks to centuries of Moorish influence, the traditional Algarve towns and villages are filled with beautiful architecture, and many regional dishes are similarly North African inspired. 

Discover Local Specialties 

Travel high into the mountains to sample local classics based on chickpeas and traditional spices in the friendly market town of Monchique. This lively local community is particularly well-known for producing ‘aguardente’, a stiff brandy made in copper stills to chase down your meal with.

Or why not visit the quaint fishing village of Olhão, known locally as ‘the city of cubes’ due to its geometric whitewashed buildings - another mark of the Moorish style. Enjoy the bustle of the local fish market, or take a trip to one of the nearby off-shore islands for a little more peace and quiet.

Discover the delights of hidden Portugal for yourself with a cheap flight from Jet2.com.