Going to the beach in October just might sound like a crazy idea for most parts in the world, but it is a sweet reality for the Portuguese, who enjoy a long, warm and mild autumn with temperatures well above the average European ones.

So you can actually still enjoy a few days basking in the mild sun and walking on the lukewarm sand of the Algarve.

The Algarve, the southern part of Portugal, is the seaside spot of the country and one of the greatest seaside attractions in the world in recent years, having attained prominence as a welcoming, accessible and beautiful international destination.

You will definitely fall in love with the Algarve as soon as you arrive to see its dramatic landscape, huge rocks emerging majestically from the sea, the sun reflecting on the crisp cerulean waters of the ocean… plus there is a feeling that you are welcome and at home, a most inviting sense of lack of pretentiousness and natural appeal which you will surely adore.

We thought you might find some practical travel information practical at this point, so here it goes:

• Transport in Portugal is quite an accessible aspect, so you can rent a car in Algarve or get Faro airport transfers at very accessible and fair rates, especially if you book online in advance and enjoy the promotions.
• There are plenty of seaside resorts to choose from if the Algarve wins the place of best destination for you and your family or you and your group of friends.

Here are some of those great options:

Faro is the capital city of the Algarve. With a vibrant nightlife and cultural and economic activity, this can be a perfect choice if you want to spend a week at the seaside.

Albufeira is more than a seaside resort, it is a place where you can both experience the authentic Portuguese life and enjoy golf and water sports.

Portimao is a lovely seaside resort that can cater for all your travel needs.

If you are already ready for your low season vacation, we have a brilliant suggestion for you: Sagres Bird Watching and visiting in October 2018.

What’s the occasion? The new edition of the Sagres Bird watching festival, which is bound to take place between 4 and 7 October. You might be wondering what that is and if a bird watching event is what is sounds or… and the answer is yes, year after year, bird lovers gather to this part of the lovely Algarve to watch migratory birds flying by in an exotic and wonderful dance. Trust the Portuguese to organize such a gentle and touching event, in honor of nature and the variety of life.

The birds, including hawks, eagles, storks, vultures, falcons and owls, but also an amazing variety of seabirds, are making a last wonderful display before fleeing to the much warmer reams of Africa. A lot of photographers and biologists take a great interest in this event, so they are expected to come to the festival this year as well. They are the experts at work and on holiday here.

But that’s not to say that if you are not necessarily an avid bird watcher or if you have never attended such an event you are less welcome to join the Sagres festival. Quite on the contrary, it’s pretty much “the more, the merrier”, so you can come and see if you like what you see.

How to get to the festival venue? Just book a Faro Airport transfer and the driver will take you there with no delay.

So what is in store for those who enjoy bird watching but also wish to try other activities? Experiences available include bird ringing, field and boat trips, exhibitions and activities meant to entertain kids, diving, paddle boating and surfing, but also dolphin watching and more relaxing activities, such as therapeutic sessions and long walks in nature.