Mention the word ‘Algarve’ and you might immediately conjure up images of blue skies, hot dry summers and sandy beaches. And while this region is indeed perfect for family summer holidays, those with an interest in history will also be fascinated by its links to the ‘Age of Discovery’, during which seafarers used it as a base for global exploration. Why not set off on your own odyssey and discover Portugal’s south coast for yourself this summer?
Orbitur Camping Sagres
A great place to start would be Orbitur Camping Sagres, a pleasant open-all-year site located less than four miles from Cabo de São Vicente (Cape St Vincent), the most south-westerly point in mainland Europe. Here you will find a famous red-topped lighthouse that houses a small museum showcasing Sagres’ role in Portuguese maritime history – it is thought that bonfires were first lit in this location as a guide for sailors during the early 1500s.
Even closer is the Fortaleza de Sagres (Sagres Fortress) – commissioned by Prince Henry the Navigator. Little is left of the original structure, but be sure to seek out the extraordinary ‘Rose of the Winds’. Carved into the ground and only discovered by accident in 1921, it features a star radiating in 32 directions.
Orbitur Camping Sagresis home to 52 pitches, many of which are sheltered from the sun by pine trees – it’s a great base from which to visit a selection of sandy beaches as well as the town of Sagres with its shops, bars and restaurants.
If you fancy heading a little further out for the day, consider Lagos, just 20 miles to the east. Here history enthusiasts can visit the Museum de Cera dos Descobrimentos (Wax Museum of the Discoveries) and come face-to-face with lifelike models of Prince Henry and explorer Vasco da Gama or the multi-site Lagos Museum. As well as the Dr José Formosinho Center (look out for scientific exhibits in the Cabinet of Curiosities and a collection of works in palm, basketry and pottery) and the Gunsmith’s Warehouse (part of the town’s military complex from the mid 17th century), the site collection also features a ‘Slave Route’ facility, which is intended to offer “a new perspective on a dark period in Portuguese history”.
A further historical attraction not to be missed is the nearby Ponta da Bandeira Fort – built in the late 1600s it was one of the most technically advanced fortresses of its time, featuring thicker walls on sections facing the sea.
Yelloh! Village Turiscampo Algarve
Another great base for exploration in Lagos isYelloh! Village Turiscampo Algarve. Lying about five miles outside of town, this large site offers fantastic facilities, including a bathing area with lagoon, paddling pool, covered swimming pool, restaurant/bar with buffet, pizza bar and takeaway. Meanwhile, for watersports fans – or those who simply fancy a sandy laze in the sun – the beach at Praia da Luz is less than two miles away.
Camping Albufeira
Heading east once again, we arrive atCamping Albufeira, which sits about two miles from bustling Albufeira town and its beaches. Guests benefit from swimming pools, à la carte and self-service restaurants as well as sunbathing terraces, bike hire opportunities and more. If you fancy a day out, you could head about six miles inland to Paderne to see the remains of its Moorish castle. Believed to represent one of the seven castles featured on the Portuguese flag, the fortification was badly damaged in the catastrophic Lisbon earthquake of 1755 – the strongest ever to hit Europe. Nearby you will find the Ponte Medieval which, as the name suggests, was constructed in the Middle Ages.
Our final destination on this Algarve adventure isCamping Olhao, about eight miles east of the regional capital of Faro. Sitting on the edge of the Ria Formosa Natural Park, the campsite offers the opportunity to visit unspoiled beaches such as Praia da Armona and Praia da Ilha Deserta. Guests who would like to explore more of the park and see its wildlife (including the purple swamphen) should pay a visit to the Marim Environmental Education Centre for information on pedestrian trails and observatories.
If you still haven’t had your fill of history, head for the cobbled streets of Faro’s Old Town – be sure to see the Arco da Vila (a Neoclassical arch built after the 1755 earthquake) and the tree-lined square of Largo da Sé. Here you will find the 18th-century Bishop’s Palace and Faro Cathedral, the latter housing a small museum of sacred art (climb to the terrace and you can enjoy far-reaching views over the town and natural park).
After a hard day’s exploring, back on site you can enjoy the restaurant and cafe, a swim in the pool or perhaps a game of tennis.
We’ve barely scratched the surface of Algarve’s treasures here – but if you’re looking for a sunny getaway or a historical adventure, Portugal’s south coast is ripe for discovery.
Sports Stars
Renowned for its high quality golf courses, racquet facilities and waterborne attractions, sports lovers are spoiled for choice in the Algarve. Here are just three things to try…
Vilamoura Golf, Quarteira
Home to several high-quality layouts, many are drawn to the famous ‘Old Course’, which won ‘Portugal’s Best Golf Course’ at the 2025 World Golf Awards. Built in 1969, this immaculately maintained design is set against a backdrop of mature pine trees.
Contact: vilamouragolf.com
Rocha Brava Racquet Club, Carvoeiro
About 30 minutes’ drive from Camping Albufeira, Rocha Brava Racquet Club is a great destination for tennis enthusiasts with court rental costing €20 per hour. Those interested in the emerging sport of pickleball (which combines elements of tennis, table tennis and badminton) might like to try the Tuesday taster sessions.
Contact:rochabravarc.com
Windsports Center, Lagos
Located at Meia Praia beach, about five miles from the Turiscampo campsite, this centre offers everything from kitesurfing and wind surfing experiences to kayak rental. After your high-octane day out, why not relax in one of the nearby bars or restaurants?
Contact: windsportscenter.com