To escape the cold Austrian winter, my partner and I are once again heading south this year—to Portugal’s stunning Algarve. From the plane, we already admire the coastline from above, and we can hardly wait to explore this natural beauty on foot. Upon arrival, the sea air greets us—still a little brisk, but already pleasantly mild. Instantly, I know I’ve made the right choice in picking this destination.
From Lagos in the west to Tavira in the east, we hike along scenic trails and forest paths, through charming villages, and for miles right along the sandy shoreline. This year’s vacation is all about summer, sun, and sea—or in our case: winter, sun, and sea. Everything is in bloom, and the mix of colorful flowers and exotic plants creates a breathtaking scene. From the very first day to the last, we’re captivated again and again by dramatic cliffs, massive rock formations rising from the ocean, and gorgeous beaches—still completely empty in March.