Dominated by cliffs, rolling dunes and clean waters, the Algarve’s Atlantic coast is perfect for water sports and sea fishing. The region is famous for its fish, including sea bream, catfish and rock bass, and for a range of shellfish such as goose barnacles, limpets and mussels.

The Natural Park also boasts the only national colony of otters that heads out to sea in search of food. Find them in the Carrapateira estuary and at the Praia do Castelejo beach.

The breathtaking geographical landscape is another of this region’s attractions. The large expanses of sand at Praia da Amoreira turn into beaches of schist and limestone, in a landscape with an almost lunar feel to it.

After heading down past Porto Côvo, through Vila Nova de Milfontes and Zambujeira do Mar, you reach Aljezur. Spend some time here to explore the beaches of the west coast, such as Arrifana, which remains in demand among surfers and body boarders even out of season.

To the north, and bordering the Alentejo region, is Odeceixe beach, which along with Vale Figueiras is a favourite destination for all kinds of water sports fans.

To the south, are the beaches of Bordeira and Amado (Carrapateira), which have hosted national and international surfing and body boarding events. You’ll find the Algarve Surf School & Camp here, offering both lessons and surfing-safaris. Further along the coast, the beaches of Carriagem, Vale dos Homens and Samouqueira are generally free of crowds even in peak season and are ideal for nature lovers.

In the district of Vila do Bispo, head to the beach at Tonel, which is particularly good for surfing, or Martinhal, where you’ll find a water sports school.

Along the west coast, many rural estates and properties open their doors to guests, providing quality accommodation, food and service to further enhance your visit to the Algarve.