Where to go for winter sun in Portugal

Olhão

Just along the coast from Faro is Olhão, a popular destination due to its proximity to Ilha da Armona, a large beach full of sand dunes. As well as being an excellent suntrap in the Eastern Algarve, Olhão is also home to a bustling waterfront promenade and marina, market halls flanked by pavement cafés, historic churches, charming cobbled streets, and a lagoon where people can enjoy fishing trips or boat cruises to nearby ilhas (isles of Portugal).

Tavira

One of the least explored areas of the Algarve, Tavira is a sleepy fishing town with a historic heart, a beautiful harbour and a 14km-long unspoilt beach, Ilha de Tavira. Ideal for couples and families, the quiet town invites visitors to step back in time and enjoy a peaceful break from the coast’s busiest resorts. In winter, it’s easy to spend hours wandering Tavira’s cobbled streets, sampling local Portuguese seafood and exploring the town’s ancient churches and castles. With its blue and white azulejos, the Igreja da Misericórdia is considered one of the finest churches in the area, while the best views of the town can be found from the stone towers of the 13th century Castle of Tavira.

Carvoeiro

Carvoeiro is a small fishing village-turned-seaside resort that’s a favourite among holidaying families. The town’s small but sheltered beach is bustling during summer but quiet in winter, making this a peaceful place to soak up some winter sun in Portugal. There’s plenty to entertain visitors of all ages throughout Carvoeiro, from restaurants, cafés and bars to water sports centres offering a range of activities such as scuba diving and jet skiing. Enjoy a scenic walk along the cliffs for unbeatable views of the coast and the ocean.

Vale Do Lobo

If it’s a winter golfing holiday you’re after, visit Vale do Lobo. While many courses in northern Europe freeze over at this time of year, the courses at this exclusive golfing resort are open throughout the winter. There are two challenging courses to choose from, the Royal and the Ocean, where visitors can enjoy a round of golf accompanied by stunning views. Nearby, there’s a 2km sandy beach flanked by bars, restaurants and ice-cream parlours, for when the sun comes out.

Porto

For something a little different, enjoy a winter wine tasting holiday in Porto. Located 2.5 hours north by car from Lisbon, Porto may be cooler than the Algarve but the town is full of medieval charm. Head into the countryside to explore expansive vineyards and visit wineries, or stay in the town centre and relax with a glass of Portuguese wine or port in the comfort of Porto’s many wine bars. As well as wine tasting, visitors can discover the town’s many museums, take a stroll along the Douro River, or explore Ribeira – a UNESCO World Heritage-protected site full of colourful houses, quaint cafés and traditional Rabelo boats.