When: Based on a September departure
Price: £2,563 per person (including flights, based on two sharing)
Duration: 6 days
The Algarve has thrown off its ‘80s package tour reputation, settling into a new persona as one of Europe’s most natural coastlines, and boasting some of the continent’s finest gastronomy. With endless beaches to relax on, and quaint seaside towns that have resisted the bulldozers of modernisation, the Algarve is where Mediterranean culture and great food combine to create an unforgettable experience. But it’s not all horizontal appreciation with a Douro Valley white in one hand and a good book in the other – the Casino in Vilamoura is a lively night out! The Algarve is also well-known as a golfing destination and we would recommend playing a round or two in one of the numerous world-class golf courses, such as Ombria nestled in the hillsides north of Loulé, or the Salgados course in Albufeira.
Where You’ll Stay
Octant Vila Monte is a charming and peaceful golf and country resort located between Faro and Tavira in the Eastern Algarve, 15 minutes away from the airport. We visited earlier this year (we wrote about it here) and were blown away by the glorious tranquility of the place. Accommodation comprises three different areas: the Riad with 18 rooms and suites; the Orangerie with 25 rooms and the Kashbah with 5 more rooms and suites. Guests have a wide range of on-site facilities available, most notably a 3-hole golf academy with driving range and resident pro. Another highlight is the Orangerie restaurant, which specialises in authentic Mediterranean cuisine and boasts a superb art collection.
Octant Vila Monte, Deluxe Room, with Breakfast Included
What You’ll Do
Day 1: Oysters of Ria Formosa, 3 Hours
Experience the authenticity of Ria Formosa. Depart from Olhão and enjoy a boat trip around the different islands. Passing through deserted islands and fishing villages, you will have the opportunity to pit stop at the oyster farm where you’ll eat the freshest possible oysters and wash them down with some Portuguese white wine.
Day 2: Full Moon Escape Hike, 3 Hours
On the night of the Full Moon, take to the hills of the Serra with a guided hike starting from Vila Monte. Focusing on nocturnal wildlife, your journey will be lit solely by the light of the full moon, activating your senses to create an unforgettable memory.
Day 3: Learn to Surf: Praia de Faro
Portugal’s Atlantic coast is home to the world’s biggest wave at the seaside town of Nazaré, but around Faro the conditions are much less hairy, with small consistent waves perfect for beginners looking to improve their skills. The 5km stretch of beach at Praia de Faro is an aquatic playground of 2-3ft waves ideal for learning on.
Day 4: Premium Wine Tasting
Live a unique and private experience with our sommelier. Take your palate on a journey across the country to discover the complexity of Portuguese wines, accompanied by a selection of traditional cheese. From the full-bodied reds of the Douro Valley to the crisp and zesty vinho verde of the Minho region, after a few hours you’ll be a bona fide Portuguese oenophile. Or just very drunk.
Day 5: Visit a Traditional Market & Taste the Local Flavours, 3.5 Hours
Since the earliest of times, Loulé has been a centre of commercial activity in the Algarve, well known for its skilled artisans (coppersmiths, palm weavers or potters) and you can still see some of them working at their workshops. But Loulé’s market is the main attraction here: a magnificent centuries-old edifice of neo-Arabic style that extends into to the surrounding streets. Here you can find all sorts of amazing local products and delicacies..
On this tour you will visit the old and traditional city of Loulé, and meet some special people that give the town its character. You’ll also have the opportunity to taste the regional pastries and local delicacies such as the dried fruits that are always served with a Medronho shot (traditional firewater), followed by a light lunch in an old traditional tavern.
Price is from £2,563 per person, based on two sharing. Based on a September departure including flights, car rental, accommodation and experiences.
5 Days Car Rental (AUDI A6 Station Wagon Automatic or similar)
Book Now
Please fill out the form below, and one of our agents will be in touch within 24 hours to discuss this itinerary further. We are dedicated to tailoring our itineraries to suit your preferences, ensuring your experience is as personalised and fulfilling as possible.
Book now to experience the finest that the Algarve has to offer.
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Secret Trips is in partnership with Club Voyages. While Secret Trips promotes unique travel experiences, Club Voyages, licensed under the Civil Aviation Authority (ATOL number 1458), acts on behalf of Secret Trips to manage bookings and ensure compliance with UK travel regulations. Discover more about our offerings through Club Voyages at Club Voyages.
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Club Voyages hold membership with ABTA under membership numbers P8503 & Y6784, adhering to the ABTA Code of Conduct. For unresolved complaints, ABTA offers a dispute resolution scheme, approved by the Chartered Trading Standards Institute, accessible at www.abta.com.
Club Voyages, acting on behalf of Secret Trips, provides financial protection for your money when purchasing a package holiday. Club Voyages Ltd serves as an agent for Hays Tour Operating Ltd (ATOL 10531). All flights and flight-inclusive holidays are financially protected by the ATOL scheme. After payment, you will receive an ATOL Certificate. Verify that all components of your booking are listed on this certificate. Additional details about financial protection and the ATOL Certificate are available at www.caa.co.uk.
