subject: The Secret Algarve - Far from the Madding Crowds [print this page] The Secret Algarve - Far from the Madding Crowds
The Algarve region of Portugal is blessed with an idyllic climate. Winter dayson the southern coast ofPortugal usually peak at around 16 degrees, which is perfect for walking. Nightimes can be cool, but frost is almost unheard of on the coast.In the winter and springtime the Algarve is fairly quiet, and prices are much lower than in the summertime for accommodation. If you are thinking of visiting the Algarve outside the busy (and expensive) tourist season, a great time to visit is springtime, which in Portugal starts in January.
For walkers and wildlife enthusiasts, the coastal area just to the west of Albufeira surrounding Gale is an area of outstanding natural beauty rich in wildlife. Many of the birds from northern europe spend the winter and early spring along the wilder parts of the Algarve such as Gale and the surrounding area.
In the winter and springtime, swallows, jays, storks, egrets and a huge range of other birds are visitors to the Algarve to escape the harsh northern european winter.February to May is also a great time for seeing butterflies and lizards. The fauna of the area is typified by pines, eucalyptus trees, and mimosa bushes, In the winter and springtime the area is lush and green, but by late May through to September most of the region is dry and arid, andthe wildlife is more difficult to find.
The beach at Castello Everista (pictured above) is a goodlocation to start a days walking or wildlife watching. It is easily accessible by car, and there is plenty of parking. The area is around a 15 minute drive to the west of Albufeira. There are coastal paths to the east and west, but be careful of the huge waves which can catch the unsuspecting visitor by surprise on the coastal rock areas. Note that this area is not good for surfers due to the rocky nature of the beaches.
If you requirea rental car in Albufeiraor for more ideas of places to visit in the Algarve please visitourwebsite. If you are visiting the Algarve in winter, check that your accommodation has heating, as Portuguese properties are designed to keep the heat out, and nightimes can be chilly in an unheated apartment.
