The sun drenched Atlantic coastline is famous for its wild beauty, featuring miles upon miles of sundrenched beaches, it is for many a great spring and summer destination. In fact most of the Algarve visitors will simply prefer to laze on the soft sands of sheltered coves, soaking up the sun and enjoying a swim or two, in the crystal clear waters of the coast.

However that is not what the region has to offer, not by far, those looking for a more active holiday, or those on a more adventurous streak can pursue a wide range of activities such as fishing, diving, horse-riding, windsurfing, sailing and many-many more. Nature lovers will also be thrilled to visit the region because there are several nature reserves to explore, such as Ria de Albor and Ria Formosa – both of them are paradises for bird-watchers, while those who are interested in wildlife in general can enjoy the beauty and tranquility of the forested hills.

You happen to be a golfing enthusiast? Well then you’ll be visiting one of the best places for the sport on the entire surface of the European continent. There are somewhere around thirty top-notch golf courses in the Algarve, which cover the entire range of skill level, so rest assured that whether you’re looking for a challenge or you’re just a beginner, this region will have something ready for you.

Those interested in diving into the local traditions and culture will find exactly what they’re looking for, in the many small Algarve towns and villages that dot the landscape. It should be noted that the main resorts are rather touristy, so for such an experience you’ll want to venture a bit off the very beaten tracks.

All of these attractions, and more are available to you with the help of our Algarve car rental services.

The Lagoon is made up of a system of barrier islands that communicates with the sea via six inlets, and it was created in 1755 by the last great oceanic earthquake. Due to tidal changes, the sand dunes, islands and bars that make up the lagoon are always in a constant state of change, what does not change however, are the archaeological sites that show remains of Roman and pre-Roman settlements.

The area has been a nature reserve since the mid-eighties, so as to be a safe haven for the many sea water birds that use it as a breeding place, as well as the many traveling bird species that make a stop here during the winter.

Birds aren’t the only fauna that benefit from the reserve status of the area because there are many species of fish as well as other marine organism that use the place to reproduce.

Even though this is a nature reserve, you’d be interested to know that there are quite a few productive activities being done here under strict guidelines, such as salt harvesting, shellfish farming and small-scale fishing. Traditional sea salt gathering is actually possible thanks to wonderful water quality, without any detectable contamination by human industry or agriculture.

Those planning to stay either in Tavira, Faro or Olhao will have the quickest access to the nature reserve.

The Natural Park here is indeed one of the most amazing places that you’ll find in the Algarve, and it should be on your list of must-see places while on a trip here. The best way of doing so, even if you’re nowhere near it, is with the help of our Algarve car hire services.