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10 ideas for making your holiday memorable
 Explore the countryside
As the warmth returns the Algarve countryside springs into life festooned with almond blossom, wild flowers and butterflies. The sunny, mild days are ideal for exploring the little whitewashed villages and winding country lanes. So why not pack a picnic and head out for the day on foot, horseback, or cycling?
Take to the skies
See the Algarve from a whole new angle. If you have a taste for adventure try paragliding. Beginners can go on a tandem flight-the instructor controls the glider so you can just admire the view. If you’re more of the romantic sort how about a hot air balloon ride over the beaches and hills of the Algarve?
Go crazy on the golf course
Have you set foot on one of the Algarve’s celebrated golf courses yet? If not the warm spring mornings are a great time to start. There are top class courses and academies in Vilamours, Vila Sol, Quinta do Lago and Vale do Lobo. If you have a wannabe Tiger Woods Junior in your party maybe its time to head to Vilamoura Crazy Golf for a showdown!
Discover the Algarve’s History
We’re not the first to be drawn to the Algarve by the thought of sizzling sardines and sunshine! The Algarve has a rich history that is clearly reflected in its culture and place names. So why not take some time to visit the Roman remains in Vilamoura and Estoi, the ornate tiled church of São Lourenço or the impressive castle at Silves?
Be pampered
Ever since King Dom João II visited Monchique in 1495, the Algarve’s spas have been a popular place to unwind and recuperate. Today’s spa lovers are spoilt for choice with luxurious spas in Quinta do Lago , Vale do Lobo, Vilamoura and Vila Sol offering all the latest, most indulgent treatments. Want to follow the footsteps of royalty? The spa in Monchique still exists in a romantic woodland setting.
Play like the rich and famous
Make the most of the Algarve’s sun-and-sea lifestyle and spend an afternoon on the water. The Algarve’s marinas are packed with gleaming crafts and you’ll find champagne cruise, dolphin watching, jet skis, fishing, sunset cruises and much more on offer.
Relax on the Ilha de Faro
This is one of the Algarve’s hidden gems. Branch right at Faro airport roundabout, cross the bridge and you’ll find yourself in this little laid back community. Lunch at one of the many excellent restaurants, saunter along the beach, try your hand at canoeing or windsurfing or wander through the Ria Formosa natural park.
Take a break
Holidays are all about relaxing but sometimes it’s hard to unwind. So make sure you have some time to yourself perhaps try yoga, aromatherapy or tai-chi. Horse lovers may be interested in s holistic approach to horse riding practised on an organic farm in Western Algarve-helping you work in harmony with your horse.
By Central Algarve 22 Magazine,Spring 2008
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