The old port and fishing village of Alvor is located at the mouth of the Alvor River in the western Algarve. Just 5 miles from Portimao, 12 miles from Lagos, and about 40 miles from Faro, Alvor is popular with families and couples looking for a quiet resort with uncrowded beaches. The resort is slightly less developed than other resorts in the Algarve, mixing the old with the new. The narrow cobbled streets are lined with the original traditional fishermen’s huts, which are a central point of the town. Alvor has a lot to offer everyone on their cheap Portugal holiday, including a long sandy beach, a fishing harbour, a riverside square, a promenade, the ruins of a 13th century castle and a 13th century church. XVI. Portimao and Praia da Rocha can be easily reached by bus that runs from Alvor to both resorts.
Alvor has a magnificent 4 mile stretch of sandy beach which has good facilities and is less crowded than other Algarve beaches. A variety of water sports are available at Alvor beach. There are many beaches to visit between Alvor and Portimao, including the beautiful Praia da Rocha beach. If you are looking for more secluded beaches, there is the beautiful cove of Praia dos Tres Irmaos, which sits below the red cliffs, the quiet beach of Praia do Vau and the small cove of Prainha.
Away from the beach there is plenty for the whole family to enjoy including golf, horse riding and the local water park to name just a few of the activities on offer. Alvor’s climate allows golf to be played in seasons of 2 months. Often referred to as a ‘golfer’s paradise’, there are over 30 world-class golf courses in and around Alvor. There are several riding centers around Alvor offering lessons for beginners and experienced riders alike.
Alvor is a popular destination with walkers and hikers, especially for holidays in December, when the sun is still shining and the temperatures are just right for exploring the surrounding area. Walkers can enjoy views of the estuary as they take a leisurely stroll along the river, stroll along the sandy beach or explore the towns and villages surrounding the resort. Nature lovers should visit the Quinta da Rocha nature reserve, which is an important site for wading birds. There are some great excursions that the whole family will enjoy on their direct vacation, including the caves and grottos of Joao de Areus and the quaint little town of Abidaca. Other excursions include the Monchique Mountains, Silves Castle, historic Lagos, Cape St. Vincent, and the city of Loulé. Boat trips from Portimao and Praia da Rocha are also very popular with families on holiday in Portugal. A great day out for the whole family is a trip to one of the area’s water parks where kids and adults alike can enjoy the pools and water slides before relaxing in the parks’ restaurants, cafes and bars.
Due to the good weather throughout the year, cycling is very popular in Alvor, especially among those who enjoy their holidays in winter sun. The quiet streets and flat landscape make biking very enjoyable and an easy way to explore the surroundings.
Nightlife in Alvor is relatively quiet with a nightclub and a few bars. Those looking for more lively nightlife can take a short trip to the neighboring resorts of Portimao and Praia da Rocha, which also has a casino.
Alvor hosts many different events throughout the year, including golf tournaments, cycling events, power boat races, and festivals and exhibitions for music and art lovers.
From May through October, Alvor enjoys brilliant blue skies and average temperatures of around 20 degrees. With 12 hours of sun a day during the summer season and 5 hours of sun a day in the winter, Alvor is not only the perfect choice for a summer beach holiday, but also a sunny winter holiday.
