Portugal

In 2023, we embarked on a trip to the Algarve, Portugal, following a fantastic winter experience in Dubai the year before. Despite the vast differences between the two destinations, we were eager to discover what the Algarve had to offer during the off-season. While we had heard that many people hibernate in the Algarve during the winter months, we were pleasantly surprised to find very few crowds. Although the climate was not as warm as Dubai, we were able to enjoy a wide range of activities in mild weather. From playing on the beach to indulging in fresh seafood and taking winter walks through picturesque towns, we found the Algarve to be a delightful winter getaway for families. In this blog post, we'll delve into why we recommend the Algarve as a great destination for families seeking a break from the winter blues.

1. Mild Weather

Although it's winter, the Algarve's climate is mild, with average temperatures ranging from 15 to 20°C. While it may not be hot enough for swimming in the sea (although we did spot some surfers out in the waves), the weather is ideal for exploring the region's many attractions without the stifling heat of summer. We also could spend a few days just lounging on the beach, our kids enjoyed playing in the sand and we managed to catch some rays.

2. Fewer Crowds

After a stressful December, we were in desperate need of some peace and quiet at the beginning of the new year. That's why one of the best things about traveling to the Algarve in winter was the lack of crowds. We were able to visit attractions and landmarks without the long queues and hustle and bustle of peak season which was a refreshing change of pace. This may be particularly important for families with young children who may struggle with long waits and overcrowded spaces. However, it's important to note that some shops and restaurants may be closed during the off-season, so it's always a good idea to bring enough snacks and drinks in case you need to find an open location. Despite this, the peaceful atmosphere and lack of crowds make the Algarve a fantastic destination for families seeking a relaxing break from the chaos of everyday life.

3. Lower Prices

Off-season travel to the Algarve not only means fewer crowds but also lower prices. This can make a big difference for families who want to explore the region's attractions without breaking the bank. Flights, accommodations and rental cars are all significantly cheaper in the winter months, making it easier to plan a family trip to the Algarve on a budget. We were able to find great deals on our flights and airbnb, and even our rental car provider offered a discount. This allowed us to enjoy all that the Algarve has to offer without worrying about overspending. Whether you're exploring historic landmarks or enjoying the region's natural beauty, traveling in the off-season can save you a significant amount of money, making the Algarve an even more appealing destination for families.

4. Beach Walks and Hikes

While swimming may not be an option in the winter, the Algarve's beaches are still stunning to explore on foot and our kids loved splashing around in the waves at the beach. They also admired stunning rock formations and collected tons of beautiful seashells. It was great to see them forget about the cold they brought with them from Germany and have some fun in the sun. One of our favorite beaches was Dos Salgados because it was located close to our Airbnb, and we had the option of renting surfboards or taking surf lessons nearby. Although we didn't take advantage of this option due to health concerns and the water temperature, we still enjoyed long walks on the beach, which eventually led us to another beautiful beach called "Praia de Armação de Pêra" with plenty of cute seafood restaurants nearby. It was lovely to soak up the winter sun while exploring the stunning coastline and trying delicious local cuisine. So, even if swimming isn't an option, the Algarve's beaches have plenty to offer families looking for a relaxing winter vacation.

5. Fun Activities

One of the most enjoyable activities we had during our winter trip to the Algarve was going on a boat trip to see the dolphins and visit the fascinating caves in the region. Even though it was off-season, we found plenty of operators offering these tours, and it was a fantastic way to spend a day on the water with the family. Although we were not lucky enough to spot any dolphins, we still had a great time exploring the breathtaking caves that the Algarve is renowned for, and our knowledgeable guide made the experience both educational and entertaining. However, what truly made this trip special was the skippers' exceptional kid-friendly attitude. They went above and beyond to ensure that everyone on board had an enjoyable time, and our children felt included and welcomed throughout the excursion. The skippers were especially patient with the little ones, taking the time to answer their questions and even letting them steer the boat for a bit. As parents, we were delighted to see our kids having a blast and feeling safe on the boat. The skippers' attention to detail and care in ensuring that everyone had a memorable experience was truly impressive. If you're searching for a family-friendly activity in the Algarve, we highly recommend taking a boat trip with X Ride Algarve.

On our way back home, we had an extra day in Lisbon planned but unfortunately, we arrived during a big storm with plenty of rain and wind and we were not prepared for such weather. So we couldn't do much except indulge in some local food at Toca da Raposa. We take it as a sign to visit Portugal again in the future. Nevertheless, we can confidently say that the Algarve is a nice destination for families seeking a winter getaway. With mild weather, fewer crowds, lower prices and plenty of outdoor activities, there is something for everyone to enjoy. We had a memorable time in the Algarve and we are sure you would like it, too.