Summer is right around the corner, which means that it’s almost the holiday season. It’s a time when the weather starts to warm up, the days are longer and a lot of families head abroad in search of sun, sea and sand. There are a lot of destinations to choose from, but every year a growing number of families head to the Algarve. The Algarve is a popular holiday destination in the south of Portugal, attracting visitors from all over the world. With its stunning beaches, picturesque villages and warm climate, it’s no wonder that the region is a top choice for families and those with children. But, will children actually enjoy an Algarve holiday? When you are spending a lot of money on a holiday, you want to do so knowing that it’s going to be a hit for everyone. In this blog, we have taken a closer look at whether children will enjoy an Algarve holiday, or whether you’re better off heading somewhere else.
Reasons Kids of All Ages Love the Algarve
Beaches – The Algarve is renowned for its stunning beaches, with kilometres of coastline to explore. From secluded coves to wide, sandy beaches, there’s something for everyone. For families with young children, the calm, shallow waters of some of the region’s beaches make them ideal for paddling and playing. Some beaches offer a range of activities, from banana boat rides to pedalos, and there are plenty of beachside restaurants and cafes where you can grab a bite to eat. There are also many quieter, tranquil beaches for those who prefer something a little more peaceful. In short, children are sure to love the beaches of the Algarve.
Theme Parks – The Algarve is home to several theme parks that are sure to keep children entertained for hours. One of the most popular is Zoomarine, which offers dolphin and sea lion shows, as well as a range of water slides and swimming pools. There’s also Krazy World, which has a petting zoo, mini golf, go karts, and more. For older children, there’s Aquashow, which has a range of water slides and rides, as well as a wave pool and a mini-golf course. With so many options, there’s bound to be something that appeals to children of all ages.
Nature – The Algarve is home to a diverse range of wildlife, from dolphins and sea turtles to flamingos and chameleons. There are several nature reserves in the region, where families can go on guided walks and boat tours to see these creatures in their natural habitats. For families who love animals, there’s also the Lagos Zoo, which is home to over 120 different species, including monkeys, tigers, and crocodiles. Children will love seeing all the different animals up close and learning about their habits and habitats.
Culture – While the Algarve is famous for its beaches and theme parks, it also has a rich cultural heritage that is worth exploring. The region is home to several historic towns and villages, such as Silves and Tavira, that offer a glimpse into Portugal’s past. There are also several museums, such as the Museu Municipal de Faro, that are dedicated to preserving the region’s cultural heritage. Children may not appreciate the history and culture as much as adults, but they will certainly enjoy exploring the narrow streets and discovering the hidden corners of these charming towns and villages.
Food – Portuguese cuisine is renowned for its seafood, and the Algarve is no exception. Children who love fish and seafood will be in heaven, with a range of dishes on offer, from grilled sardines to octopus salad. There are also plenty of child friendly options, such as pizza and pasta, as well as the popular chicken piri piri. For those with a sweet tooth, there are also plenty of delicious desserts to try, such as pastel de nata and bolo de bolacha. Children may not be adventurous eaters, but there’s enough variety on offer to ensure that everyone finds something they like.
Accommodation – Finally, it’s worth considering the type of accommodation you choose when travelling with children. The Algarve has a range of options, from all inclusive resorts to self catering apartments, so you really won’t struggle to find accommodation that your little ones will feel at home in. Many resorts offer kids’ clubs and activities, as well as pools and play centres. There are also a range of private apartments and villas, which provide you with a home away from home feel to your holiday. This also gives kids space to relax, unwind and roam without having to worry about other guests. You could even head to a local campsite and enjoy being outdoors.
As you can see, there are a lot of reasons to love the Algarve, and you’re unlikely to find a child that doesn’t enjoy their time in Portugal. From the moment they arrive, kids have a tonne of things to see and do. Whether they enjoy being in the water or at the park, swimming in the sea or splashing in a swimming pool, the Algarve isn’t lacking in any way.
One of the great things about the Algarve is that it appeals to kids of all ages, from toddlers to teenagers. This is ideal if you have children of varying ages, and you want to find a holiday destination that appeals to everyone. You can go to the Algarve, knowing that it has activities and attractions to suit everyone’s needs.