I recently had the pleasure of visiting the Algarve in early spring, a perfect escape from the grey skies of the UK. The region’s endless sunshine and fine white sand beaches provided the ideal setting for relaxation, even though the sea was still a bit chilly for swimming. Instead, we enjoyed long walks along the shore, letting the soothing rhythm of the waves wash our worries away.

One of the highlights of our trip was the boat excursions. We took two memorable trips, exploring the stunning coastline from the water. Walking along the cliff tops, we watched the sun cast golden hues on the limestone formations and set over the sea stacks and arches. While I’ve previously written about our stay at Quinta do Lago Country Club and the activities around Faro, this time, I want to share our experiences at the sea and lagoon, the wild cliff tops, and the serene waters of the Ria Formosa.

Our stay on the edge of the Ria Formosa Natural Park naturally led us to take a boat trip in the lagoon, a must-do if you’re near Faro. The Ria Formosa, protected since 1987, is a haven for birds and covers a coastal lagoon, sandy islands, and natural wetlands. Boat trips can be easily arranged along the Faro waterfront, near the Portas do Mar of the old town. Options range from ferries and water taxis to guided tours that might even take you outside the lagoon to spot dolphins.

We took a sunset boat trip with Islands4you, departing from Faro in a comfortable open boat. As we sailed, we looked back at Vila-Adentro, Faro’s walled old town, and enjoyed the sunny afternoon on the water. Despite the spring chill, the experience was delightful.

Our tour passed reed-filled areas where we saw sea birds, and continued to Ilha Deserta, also known as Ilha da Barreta. This quiet, sandy island overlooks the lagoon’s mouth, with lighthouses marking the entrance. Ilha Deserta is true to its name – a vast sandy expanse with low-growing plants and a long, uncrowded beach. There’s no shade, but boardwalks lead to Estaminé, the island’s only café, which serves local seafood and features sustainable design with solar power and purified groundwater. After a quick coffee and a walk around the beach, we moved on to the next island.

Next up was the village of Farol on Ilha da Culatra, home to a tall lighthouse and charming summer houses with decorative Algarve chimneys. The village has a few cafes and is lively in summer when visitors come from Olhao. We wandered through the narrow lanes, admired the gardens and terraces, and enjoyed the peaceful sunset over the lagoon as we headed back to Faro.

Our accommodation at Quinta do Lago Country Club was luxurious and conveniently located just a short drive from Faro Airport. The resort, set on the edge of the Ria Formosa natural park, features beautifully landscaped gardens, indoor and outdoor pools, and easy access to the beach. Our apartment was spacious, with restful decor and a private patio. The resort offers various dining options, including a continental breakfast with hot dishes cooked to order.

Quinta do Lago Country Club has recently updated its decor, with all public areas refreshed in a contemporary style. The resort offers one, two, and three-bedroom self-catering apartments with hotel-like facilities, creating a friendly atmosphere. Reservations can be made directly through the website, and I highly recommend this resort for a relaxing holiday, especially in the less crowded spring and autumn seasons.

We also explored the nearby beaches and nature trails. A short walk from the country club led us to Quinta do Lago beach, accessible via a wooden bridge over the salt marsh. The nature trail features information about local plants, and the mud flats and lagoon are important bird-watching sites. The beach itself stretches for miles, offering a peaceful spot for walks and relaxation.

In addition to boat trips and beach excursions, we visited Ponta da Piedade, known for its dramatic limestone cliffs and rock formations. Numerous paths offer stunning photographic viewpoints, and a stone staircase leads down to a small cove where boat trips are available. Our boat trip with an expert guide was a highlight, navigating through sea caves and arches while learning about the area’s history.

Another beautiful spot was Praia Marinha, one of the Algarve’s most scenic beaches. The coastal trail offers breathtaking views, and the beach itself is perfect for a relaxing day. The Praia Marinha is also the starting point for the Seven Hanging Valleys trail, a marked walk that connects several beaches and provides stunning cliff-top views.

Visiting the Algarve outside the peak summer season is highly recommended. The weather is warm, the beaches are less crowded, and the natural beauty of the region can be fully appreciated. From boat trips to beach walks, the Algarve offers numerous opportunities for relaxation and adventure.