Family Bonding in Faro

For many people Faro serves as the jumping-off point for a golfing or beach holiday in the Algarve. But with around 300 days of sunshine a year, and plenty to do besides, it’s a pretty enticing destination in its own right.

Below are a few suggestions about how you can make the most of your time there.

The Old Town

Faro enjoys a rich history, and only became part of Portugal in the 13^th century. Previously it was part of the Moorish kingdom, and in some ways it still has a North African feel to it. Nowhere is this more apparent than the city’s old town, which is crammed with handicraft markets, cafes and – of course – tourists.

The Beach

The good thing about the beach – apart from the fact that it’s a mere seven km away from the city – is that you can make your own fun there. The perfect antidote to the hustle and bustle of the old town, meanwhile, comes in the form of Sao Bras de Alportal, where you can enjoy the tranquil scenery as a family, gazing in wonder at the abundance of figs and almonds growing on the trees.

Adrenaline junkies – and golf

We’ll start with the latter. The Algarve is often named the world’s best golfing destination and it could be a great place for your kids to learn. Why not raise the stakes by engaging in a family fourball? The losers buy the drinks! Elsewhere there is no shortage of things to do for those who enjoy the great outdoors. Take your pick from horse-riding, dolphin watching, paragliding, quad-biking and bird-watching.

Messing about in boats

If you fancy combining the great outdoors with a boat trip, then perhaps Ria Formosa National Park is the place for you. This protected island wilderness, which is twice the size of Guernsey, attracts some 270 species of birds, including flamingos. You can cruise the seashell islands with a guide in a painted wooden fishing boat.

Festival fun

If you’re constrained by the summer holidays, never fear: you can still find plenty of deals on flights to Faro in August, and if you’ve planned carefully, you might just be able to take in the annual Folkfaro Festival, which hosts a variety of parades and dances by performers from all over the world.

To conclude, there is more to the Algarve than beaches and golf. Take a boat ride, take a hike, do something different. Make this summer an unforgettable experience for you and your loved ones.