The Formula 1 in Portugal, the 2020 Portuguese Grand Prix, takes place over 66 laps of the 4.684-kilometre Autódromo Internacional do Algarve, in Portimão, on Sunday, October 25th. If you’re planning to assist this spectacular race, please enjoy Portugal to the fullest during your stay. As part of SeaBookings’ team is from the Algarve, we’re happy to share some of the things to do in Portugal during your visit for the Formula 1.

Regarding the 2020 Portuguese Grand Prix, on the official website of Formula 1, you can find the full weekend schedule, including details of practice and qualifying sessions, support races, press conferences and special events, plus the latest news headlines, circuit information and F1 race results.

The 2020 Portuguese Grand Prix takes place in Portimão, in the Western Algarve known for its lovely weather, stunning beaches, great hospitality and delicious cuisine. Given that part of SeaBookings’ team is from Lagos, close to Portimão, we decided to share some local insight on the things you should do during your trip to the Formula 1 in Portugal.

Given the current situation of the pandemic, our tips on things to do in the Algarve are mostly outdoors and all recommended tour providers and establishments comply with the Portuguese Clean & Safe stamp.

What to do during your trip to the Formula 1 in Portugal

Visit Ponta da Piedade, Lagos

The incredible rock formations of Ponta da Piedade are the natural highlight of the city of Lagos. Lagos is situated very close to Portimão and to the Autódromo Internacional do Algarve. You can easily reach Lagos by car, Uber, train or taxi. You can visit Lagos as a day trip beside the unmissable Ponta da Piedade, the city’s downtown is surely worth a visit too.

Ponta da Piedade’s red cliffs are a true natural sculpture with its unique arches and caves shaped by the wind and sea. To visit Ponta da Piedade, you can take the steps down to the clear water, which is protected by the rocks and has an enchanting turquoise colour. You can also take a walk on the wooden footpath over the cliffs and enjoy the view from the headland, which stretches all the way to Cape St Vincent, in Sagres, in the west.

Another way to enjoy Ponta da Piedade is on one of the typical one-hour boat trips. These boat tours depart from the modern Marina de Lagos (which is worth a visit too with its great restaurants surrounded by a nautic vibe). Onboard a small motorboat, a local guide will take you to explore the caves and creeks.

Visit the Benagil Caves

The Caves of Benagil are some of the most-known sea caves in the world. These impressive rock formations are located right next to the beach of Benagil, but to reach them, you need a kayak, SUP board or a boat. Inside the unique Benagil caves, there’s a little beach.

The Benagil caves are located close to the town of Lagoa, which is only 20 minutes away from the Autódromo Internacional do Algarve. You can easily reach Lagoa and Benagil by car, Uber or taxi. You can read more about how to get to the Benagil Caves here.

There are many different ways to visit the Benagil Caves. The most adventurous might prefer a kayak or SUP tour to Benagil. We also have many different boat tours to the caves. You can join a 2-hour boat tour from Portimão, for example. To visit the Benagil Caves in a  more luxurious way, you might want to charter a catamaran or motor yacht in Portimão.

Spot wild dolphins

Watching wild dolphins in their natural habitat is a truly unique experience. Great news: dolphins love the waters of the Atlantic around the coast of the Algarve and they can be spotted all year round.

We have dolphin tours from several locations, so it can be a nice day trip for your trip to the Formula 1 in Portugal:

• Sagres: visit the most Southwestern point in Europe to go dolphin watching.
• Lagos: embark on “Tornado”, a 950HP jet-propulsion RIB in search of wild dolphins.
• Portimão: on this trip, you can go dolphin watching and visit the Benagil caves too.
• Albufeira: this dolphins and caves cruise in Albufeira is a must for families.
• Vilamoura: the dolphin safari and caves boat trip in Vilamoura is a two-in-one too.
• Olhão: from Olhão, the dolphin trips are only for early-bids, when the conditions are best.
• Tavira: Tavira is a very nice town to visit, the perfect combo with a boat trip.

Have lunch in Monchique

Located inland and referring to the villages and countryside of the largest mountain of the Algarve, Monchique is a gem for nature lovers.

On clear days, you can see the Monchique mountains from almost all of the central and western Algarve. To get to the base of the mountain, it’s only a short drive from Portimão where it is well signposted both from the highway A22 and from the national road EN125. Actually, the Autódromo Internacional do Algarve, is located right at the foot of Monchique. 

We strongly recommend visiting Monchique during your trip to the Formula 1 in Portugal. The road that mounts up the hill is small and narrow, so enjoy it calmly, as the views are breathtaking and worth taking the time to admire.

There are quite some things to do in Monchique, especially for those who like some outdoor adventure. Monchique is a great place for hiking, trail running, downhill cycling or off-road on mountain biking to explore the forest. For those who rather take things at an easy pace, a jeep safari tour or even a few hours at the spa can be a nice idea.

What we definitely recommend is having a meal in Monchique, either for lunch or dinner. At “O Império”, you’ll find the best chicken piri-piri and at “Luar da Fóia”, you can try some local dishes on a terrace with panoramic views and charming service. For both restaurants, we recommend booking a table.

Of course, there are many more things to do in the Algarve. If you’re looking for something else, feel free to contact us at any time. At SeaBookings, we’re specialized in sea experiences, but as we’re locals from the Algarve, we’re very happy to help you to make the most out of your stay in Portugal for the Formula 1.

The Canary Islands have seen loads of tourists visiting the country for the past two decades. They are modern, cosmopolitan, and have Caribbean-like beaches. In other words, by visiting the Spanish Islands, you have diverse options in food, landscape, and entertainment and for reasonable prices. The archipelago of seven main islands is part of Spain. But the feeling you get when you set foot there, it’s completely different. You’ll fall in love with the laid-back style of living and the warm hospitality of the locals. We have the 5 tips you need to plan your vacations in the Canary Islands before you book that flight ticket. 

When to Go and What to Pack

The Canary Islands are an all-year-round destination. They have pleasantly warm weather, not extremely hot summers and mild winters. In the summer, the maximum temperature is 30°C and a minimum of 16 – 17 °C, mostly during the early morning. These temperatures remain stable until October. Spring is equally beautiful, with temperatures ranging from 15 – 24 °C. Travelers from north cold countries prefer to visit the Canary Islands in the winter for a nice warm sunny break. In off-peak months, like March, May, and September to November, you can enjoy the lovely weather and the low prices in accommodation. Not that summer is an excessively expensive period to visit the islands, but it’s more crowded at this time. When planning your trip to the Spanish Islands, cοnsider price and weather conditions and decide where the scale tips for you.

At times, it can get a bit cold or humid, so bring a light jacket or sweater. Apart from sandals, also get a pair of sneakers for walking or hiking. Pack a beach tote to always have with you a swimsuit, a hat, and sunscreen. It goes without saying that if you’re visiting during the hot months, you’ll need shorts, t-shirts, and summer clothing in general.  

How to Get to the Canary Islands

After you decide when to go to the Canary Islands, it’s time to search for flight tickets. There are three main airports: La Palma, Lanzarote, Gran Canaria, and Tenerife Airports. Gran Canaria Airport connects the Islands with the Spanish mainland and the rest of Europe, so it sees the most passenger traffic. Flight tickets are usually cheaper and there are more flights from Gran Canaria than the other airports. 

If you’re flying from the US, you’ll need to take a connecting flight from one of the major Spanish Airports and then board on the plane to the Canary Islands. Don’t forget to think about how you want to get to the airport, too. Since you have such a long flight ahead of you, it’s preferable to drive and park your car at the airport rather than dealing with public transportation. You can reserve an airport parking spot online so you don’t risk missing your flight.  

Getting Around the Islands

Getting around the island is a cinch if you decide to rent a car. It will give you the freedom to go around and explore the exotic beauty of this place. You’ll be surprised by how cheap a car hire is for a week. An economy car can cost from €60/$70 for seven days, which is even more affordable than public transportation. Past visitors have spent €41/$48 per person, per day, on local transport. To get from one island to another, you’ll have to use the ferry services that interconnect the islands. 

Which Island to Visit

The Canary Islands have everything for every kind of visitor. Famous for the miles of deserted white sand and clear blue waters, Fuerteventura is the place to do watersports or just relax on the coast. Sotavento Beach is where all the surfers and kite-surfers frequent. Tenerife beaches are also renowned for many reasons. Unlike Fuerteventura, Tenerife has golden sand and volcanic-black beaches. Some of them are crowded, while others are more secluded. Las Palmas and Gran Canaria will be highly appreciated by nature lovers who like to explore mountains, rainforests, and even beaches. La Gomera and El Hierro are also ideal places to hike and discover remote wild nature. Lanzarote has breathtaking volcano-clad sceneries. It’s also the place to experience the Canarian culture with its world-renowned vineyards, bustling nightlife, and open-air markets. 

Local Cuisine and Restaurant Etiquette

No vacation starts without having good food and exquisite flavors in mind. Due to the high tourist traffic, many restaurants serve cuisine from different cultures. But, you didn’t fly all the way to the Canary Islands to eat what you ate back home. Try the local cuisine that includes fresh seafood, like parrotfish and sea bass, soups, and stews with slow-cooked meat, vegetables, and spicy peppers. Pair this delicious food with local wine, cultivated in volcanic mineral-rich soil.

In the Canary Islands, the waiter won’t rush you to finish your meal or ask you every five minutes if you’d like to order anything else. Take as much time as you need to enjoy the food and the paradise you’re surrounded by. The pace here is slower than what you’re used to. Lunch is served from 12:00 to 16:00, and dinner can be around 19:00 or even later, after 21:00. So, spend as many hours as you want on the beach or hiking the mountains, knowing that the restaurants won’t close until late at night. After finishing your meal and paying the bill, although not required, you can leave them a tip. 

Safety Tips

The Canary Islands are considered a safe travel destination when it comes to the crime rate. Petty thefts can occur in tourist areas where large crowds tend to flock. When going to the beach, it’s best not to bring valuable items with you. Have some cash with you if you’re visiting a restaurant or shops afterward and avoid carrying your credit cards to the beach. If you can’t, make sure to put them in a safe and locked place. Generally, you can consume tap water, but most tourists prefer to buy bottled water just to be sure.

Descubre las mejores playas en Lagos, Portugal.

Hemos vivido en Lagos casi 18 años. Vivir en Lagos es genial y las playas de Lagos nos siguen sorprendiendo todos los días. Lagos es reconocida a nivel mundial por sus deslumbrantes playas.

De hecho, hay playas para todos los gustos. En los alrededores de Lagos puedes encontrar amplias playas de arena blanca y playas recónditas súper acogedoras. Todas las playas de Lagos son maravillosas y todas son diferentes.

Nuestras 6 playas favoritas, probablemente, son Porto de Mós, Praia da Batata, Meia Praia, Praia do Pinhão, Praia D. Ana y Praia do Camilo. Pero no fue fácil elegir y vale aclarar que también nos gustan las playas que están un poquito más alejadas de la ciudad.

Una de las mejores formas de pasar un día cálido en Lagos es en una de las tantas playas a lo largo de la costa de la ciudad.  

Durante la temporada alta, las playas más populares pueden ser bastante concurridas. Para encontrar una playa más tranquila y no turística, recomendamos rentar un coche y manejar algunos kilómetros.

Por favor, no olvides protegerte del calor y del sol, lleva un sombrero, protector solar y agua.

Aquí compartimos una selección de nuestras playas favoritas en Lagos:

Playa Porto de Mós, Lagos

Porto de Mós es una de las playas más grandes de Lagos. Su amplia extensión hace que Porto de Mós sea ideal para una larga caminata por la playa.

Además, debido a su extensión, siempre encuentras un lugar lindo y tranquilo para estirar tu toalla, leer un libro o relajarte. La Playa Porto de Mós es una playa de arena, solo en el extremo derecho hay algunas rocas.

Porto de Mós tiene dos restaurantes de playa. Campimar, a la izquierda, es un bar-restaurante junto a la playa ideal para comer o picar a cualquier hora del día. António Bar de Playa es excelente para tomar un batido, cerveza, agua o helados. António Restaurante también ofrece muy buenas cenas.

Entre los locales, la Playa Porto de Mós es un lugar popular para ir los domingos por la tarde y disfrutar de unas cervezas para terminar el fin de semana. Está lleno de lugares para aparcar (gratis).

También puedes llegar a la playa caminando desde el centro de la ciudad, pero es una caminata de casi media hora. También puedes ir en bus.

Playa de Batata, Lagos

La Playa de Batata (o Potato Beach en inglés) es una de las playas más populares en Lagos para las generaciones más jóvenes. Durante los meses de verano, esta playa se llena de gente joven.

Después de salir por la noche en Lagos, aquí es donde los jóvenes van a seguir la fiesta o a disfrutar de la resaca al sol.

La Playa de Batata también es muy buscada por los viajeros activos. Desde esta playa puedes tomar una  excursión de stand up paddle boarding o una excursión en kayak a Ponta da Piedade.

Si te gustan los deportes y quieres explorar la costa de Lagos de forma activa, kayak y SUP son actividades que no te puedes perder durante tu estadía en Lagos.

Playa Meia, Lagos

La Playa Meia es la playa más grande de Lagos. La amplia extensión de 4 km de Playa Meia la hacen ideal para una larga caminata o para correr.

Además, para disfrutar del sol, esta playa es una de las favoritas de los locales con muchos visitantes habituales de Lagos. ¡Si te gusta una playa extensa y los deportes acuáticos, este es el lugar para vos!

Los bares de playa de Lagos

A lo largo de la playa puedes encontrar bares de playa para todos los gustos. Algunos bares más elegantes con deliciosos mariscos y otros bares de surf con música en vivo.

Una parada obligatoria es en el Bar Linda, al comienzo de Playa Meia, pasando la Marina de Lagos. Aquí puedes disfrutar de jugos frescos y sabrosas alitas de pollo con miel.

Solemos ir aquí después de un largo día de playa a beber cerveza con limón y cebollas fritas.

Bahía Beach bar es fantástico si te gusta la música brasilera o africana en vivo. Todos los domingos cerca de las 6 o 7 p.m., la fiesta comienza.

Un lindo ambiente y buena música para bailar y divertirse están garantizados. Recomendamos las increíbles tapas, las pastas de camarón y los cócteles.

Un poco más lejos de Lagos, pero aún en Playa Meia, puedes encontrar más bares de playa. Disfruta de pescado fresco a la parrilla en Gaivota’s beach bar.

Este bar es, sin dudas, un buen lugar para comer pescado fresco y deleitarse con un “Vinho Verde” (vino verde) portugués. 

El Bar Quim, es EL lugar para comer camarones. Los mejores camarones al ajillo de Portugal están aquí.

Aquí puedes disfrutar tu comida con un buen vino blanco local mientras aprecias las majestuosas vistas y los niños juegan en la arena frente a la terraza.

Si te gustan los deportes acuáticos, definitivamente, tienes que ver las actividades disponibles en Playa Meia, Lagos.

Desde parasailing hasta alquiler de jet ski o lecciones de windsurf, la Playa Meia ofrece una amplia variedad de actividades.

Playa de Pinhão, Lagos

La Playa de Pinhão es una muy buena alternativa a las playas más grandes y concurridas de Lagos, cerca del centro de la ciudad. Al igual que Dona Ana y Camilo, Pinhão es maravillosa.

Las torres de roca alrededor de la playa crean áreas con sombra a medida que el sol se abre paso durante el día. Por esa misma razón esta playa es ideal para los días ventosos.

Las escaleras largas desde la carretera y el aparcamiento hasta la playa brindan un buen entrenamiento diario.

Playa D. Ana, Lagos

La Playa D. Ana es una de nuestras favoritas en Lagos. La Playa D. Ana (o Dona Ana Beach en inglés) ha ganado muchos premios y es considerada la mejor playa por muchas referencias en turismo. Por cierto, es una de las playas más populares en Lagos.

Aunque esta playa ha sufrido algunas modificaciones para aumentar su zona de arena, sigue siendo hermosa como siempre. Playas similares a la Playa de Dona Ana, son Playa de los Pinheiros (Praia dos Pinheiros) y Playa de los Estudiantes (Praia dos Estudantes).

Es importante tener en cuenta que esta playa no es recomendada para personas con discapacidades físicas, ya que es conocida por sus largas escaleras hacia la playa. El estacionamiento puede ser difícil en los meses más concurridos del verano, pero el esfuerzo, con seguridad, merecerá la pena.

Para las personas con discapacidades físicas recomendamos la Playa da Luz.

Playa do Camilo, Lagos

La Playa do Camilo es una pequeña caleta protegida, en el camino de Lagos a Ponta da Piedade.

La belleza de esta playa es evidente cuando la aprecias desde arriba, desde donde puedes aparcar tu coche. Sus aguas cristalinas y los acantilados imponentes dan lugar a esta pequeña perla.

Como resultado, la Playa do Camilo es una de las mejores playas de Lagos para realizar snorkel, ya que el suelo marino rocoso y poco profundo atrae gran cantidad de vida marina.

Además, la Playa do Camilo está muy bien protegida del viento la mayoría de los días, lo que también da lugar a aguas más tranquilas. 

Solo a unos minutos puedes dar un increíble paseo por arriba de los acantilados de Ponta da Piedade.

Para acceder a esta playa, es importante tener una buena condición física ya que hay unas largas escaleras. Puedes aparcar en la parte de arriba de la playa, al lado del restaurante.

El restaurante, “Camilo”,es una visita obligada para los amantes del pescado fresco o los mariscos, aunque los precios son un poquito más altos que el promedio local. También puedes ordenar comida ligera, cerveza o helado.

Bonus: Sagres

Desde Lagos, el punto suroeste de Europa, Sagres, está a solo 30 minutos en coche. También hay buses que conectan Lagos con Sagres. En Sagres tienes muchos lugares increíbles con menos gente. La mayoría de sus playas son reconocidas por las condiciones espectaculares para el surf .

Puedes sentir la vibra surfera en el pueblo de Sagres con sus tiendas, bares y campamentos de surf. Por eso, recomendamos Sagres a los viajeros que buscan naturaleza, playas más tranquilas o experiencias de surf.

Si te quedas más de una semana en Lagos, no te pierdas de visitar Sagres.

Esperamos que esta lista de nuestros lugares favoritos y el recordatorio de que Sagres merece una visita también te ayuden a planificar tus vacaciones. Cuéntanos si llegas a descubrir otras playas que valga la pena compartir aquí y ¡disfruta!

Si estás planificando vacaciones en Portugal, en especial a la región del Algarve, seguro ya has oído hablar sobre las cuevas del Algarve. De hecho, la costa de Portugal es reconocida por sus increíbles cuevas y formaciones rocosas. En este artículo, te contamos sobre las mejores 5 cuevas del Algarve que no te puedes perder.

Para escribir este artículo, hablamos con nuestros socios que conocen las costas de Portugal como la palma de su mano.

Los pescadores locales y capitanes de las populares excursiones en barco son expertos en las cuevas de Portugal. Lo más importante es que se sienten orgullosos de compartir su conocimiento sobre las cuevas del Algarve.

En otras palabras, nosotros hemos experimentado varias excursiones por el Algarve y las cuevas deberían ser una visita imprescindible en tus próximas vacaciones.

Las 5 mejores cuevas marinas del Algarve que no te puedes perder son:

1. “Algar de Benagil” – La Cueva de Benagil

La  Cueva de Benagil en Portugal es una de las cuevas más extraordinaria y reconocida del mundo. Originalmente, es llamada “Algar de Benagil”. En el 2014, esta popular cueva de Portugal fue publicada entre “Las 10 mejores cuevas del mundo” por la revista estadounidense “The Huffington Post”.

Bien, si esta es una cueva de reconocimiento mundial, con seguridad es una de las mejores cuevas del Algarve.

¿Dónde está ubicada y cómo llegar a la Cueva de Benagil?

La cueva de Benagil está ubicada en el Algarve, en la costa sur de Portugal. Justo al lado de la playa de Benagil.

La ciudad más cercana a esta gruta es Lagoa. Benagil es un pueblo pequeño dedicado en gran parte a la pesca. La cueva de Benagil está ubicada justo al lado de la playa de Benagil.

La asombrosa cueva marina de Benagil no es de fácil acceso. A las cuevas y grutas se puede acceder solo en barco, kayak, SUP o si eres un buen nadador, nadando.

Ingresar a las cuevas en barco ya es una gran aventura en sí misma. Sin embargo, si te gusta la adrenalina y te interesa nadar hasta la cueva de Benagil, asegúrate de que el océano esté en calma. 

La forma más segura de llegar a las grutas es en barco y esta actividad es apta para todas las edades. Las excursiones en barco a Benagil tienen salidas diarias desde la playa Carvoeiro, Lagos, Portimão, Alvor, Albufeira, Faro o Armação de Pêra.

2. “Zorreira” – La cueva Zorreira

La cueva Zorreira es otra cueva imperdible en Portugal. Está ubicada en la zona de la cueva de Benagil. Si tomas una excursión en barco a la cueva de Benagil, lo más probable es que visites esta cueva también.

Dentro de las casi 20 cuevas que son parte de las excursiones en barco a la cueva de Benagil, la cueva de Zorreira es, sin duda, una de las más impactantes.

3. “Arcos de Marinha” – Los arcos de Marinha

La playa de Marinha es una de las playas más emblemáticas de Portugal. La playa también se encuentra en la zona de Lagoa. Por lo tanto, esta es una playa que, sin dudas, debes visitar en tus vacaciones a Portugal.

La Guía Michelin considera la “Playa de Marinha” como una de las playas más hermosas de Europa y como una de las 100 playas más lindas del mundo.

La playa de Marinha es muy famosa por sus impresionantes formaciones rocosas y sus aguas cristalinas. Como el mar es muy tranquilo en esta zona, es un lugar ideal para realizar snorkel.

La amplia variedad de formaciones rocosas es un hábitat elegido por la flora y la fauna marina local. Las formaciones rocosas alrededor de la playa de Marinha tienen dos arcos. Los arcos de Marinha son unos de los símbolos más reconocidos del Algarve.

Por esta razón, los pescadores locales y los capitanes consideran que los arcos son un lugar de Portugal que sí o sí debes visitar.

Nuestra conclusión es que la mejor manera de explorar los dos arcos de la playa de Marinha es en barco. La mayoría de las excursiones en barco a la cueva de Benagil, que mencionamos más arriba, también pasan por estos impresionantes arcos.

4. “Gruta do Capitão” – La cueva del Capitán

La cueva del Capitán, como la llaman los locales a esta alucinante cueva en el Algarve, también es una de nuestras favoritas. Esta cueva está ubicada entre Carvoeiro y Armação de Pêra, al lado de la Playa de Estaquinha y Playa de Barraquinho.

A esta cueva es muy difícil de acceder. De hecho, es un privilegio poder llegar hasta esta cueva del Algarve, ya que no puedes ingresar ni caminando ni nadando, solo en barco. Incluso en barco esta cueva es de difícil acceso.

La cueva de Zorreira solo se puede apreciar de cerca si las condiciones del mar están perfectas. Las condiciones ideales que se requieren para visitar la cueva del Capitán en el Algarve son marea baja y sin olas.

La visita a estas cuevas del Algarve es parte de la Excursión en barco Cuevas y Delfines que sale desde la Marina de Albufeira.

Esta excursión en barco es una de las más elegidas del Algarve, ya que combina dos cosas: la observación de delfines y la visita a las sensacionales cuevas del Algarve. La mayoría de las excursiones en el Algarve visitan esta cueva en pequeños barcos pesqueros.

5. “Elefante” – Elefante

La cueva llamada “Elefante” está ubicada en la zona de Ponta da Piedade, Lagos. Lagos es un pintoresco pueblo pesquero (o ciudad). Si visitas Lagos, la cueva marina “Elefante” es una que no puedes dejar de conocer.

Los pescadores locales y los capitanes de las excursiones en barco en Lagos nos aseguran que “Elefante” es una de las cuevas marinas más increíbles de Portugal.

Entonces, cuando visites el oeste del Algarve, deberías ir a Ponta da Piedade.

¿Qué es, dónde es y cómo llegar a Ponta da Piedade?

Ponta da Piedade no es una playa y allí no hay arena para recostarse. En cambio, Ponta da Piedade es un lugar mágico donde altos acantilados rocosos se extienden desde el cielo azul hasta el profundo océano.

En los alrededores de Ponta da Piedade hay muchas grutas que puedes visitar en una excursión en barco, excursión en kayak  o excursión de standup paddle.

La formación rocosa “Elefante” en Lagos es una cueva de Portugal que no te debes perder, porque es parte del conjunto de cuevas más hermoso.

Los niños disfrutan de reconocer las figuras en las formaciones rocosas y el “Elefante”, sin dudarlo, ¡es una de las favoritas! Por ejemplo, buscar figuras en las formaciones rocosas de Lagos, es como buscar figuras en las nubes. Un juego divertido para los más chicos.

Como mencionamos antes y como dicen los expertos locales, “Elefante” es una cueva de Portugal que debes visitar.

Las mejores vacaciones con las mejores excursiones a las cuevas

Hay muchos lugares desde donde puedes tomar una excursión en barco, la mayoría tienen aparcamiento gratuito y de fácil acceso. Sin embargo, en la temporada de verano, las excursiones en barco a las cuevas son muy solicitadas, por eso recomendamos reservar con anticipación para evitar decepciones.

En conclusión, hay muchas más cuevas fascinantes que nos encantaría compartir contigo. Deseamos que tengas una hermosa aventura al descubrir las mejores cuevas del Algarve, Portugal. Si tienes preguntas o sugerencias, no dudes en contactarnos.

Surrounded by glittering turquoise waters, Greece is a treasure island for sun lovers. But with thousands of islands scattered across the Ionian and Aegean seas, it’s easy to get confused when deciding where to go first. 

Popular Beaches in Greece 

1. Lalaria Beach, Skíathos Island

Considered one of the best beaches in Greece, Lalaria is located in the north of Skíathos Island. Its white pebbled shore is one of its kind. If you’re looking for quiet, remote little beaches in Greece, Lalaria should head your list. You can only reach it by boat; there are no walkways on the hill and no way to reach the shore by car. 

There is a price to pay for relaxing in nature. Lalaria doesn’t offer any services, so you will need to pack your own water, food, and other essentials. To get there, you will need to catch a boat from the old Skíathos port.

Boats only leave two times per day: mid-morning and late afternoon. The journey is about 40 minutes one way, so keep this in mind when deciding which one to take. Get plenty of water, food, and supplies that you will need for the day.

Lalaria is routinely named one of the most beautiful beaches, and its beauty has made it a tourist hotspot. Although not as remote as it used to, but it is still worth visiting this incredible seaside during your stay.

2. Super Paradise Beach, Mykonos

One of the best-known beaches of Mykonos, Super Paradise is a stunning bay with golden shores and crystal-clear waters. It is also known for its lively nightlife.

The Super Paradise Beach Club is always packed with partygoers, celebrities, jet setters, and VIPs. It’s one of the more popular beaches in Greece, with a lifeguard on duty, restaurant, and boutique.

Public transportation is available from Fabrika Square and Old Port every 30 minutes from 9:30 am to 8:30 pm. Departures back to Fabrika Square and Old Port also run every 30 minutes from 10 am to 9 pm.

3. Elafonisi, Crete 

One of the gorgeous beaches in Crete and all of Greece, Elafonisi has pink sands, clear waters, and a laid-back vibe.

Elafonisi is located 75 kilometers from the town of Chania, in southwestern Crete. It is an islet, but you can walk there on foot, without even getting your toes wet. 

It’s one of the more exotic beaches in Greece and is worth the effort to see. Elafonisi is part of a protected area. Once you get there, you walk into paradise. The islet is only a mile long, but there is plenty to explore along the way, including a number of small coves, rock formations, and sandy beaches.

Elafonisi is worth the trip because of its natural beauty, but there aren’t many amenities nearby, aside from a few small hotels. This beautiful place is the ideal choice for a day trip.

4. Myrtos Beach, Kefalonia

Located between Argostoli and Assos, Myrtos is surrounded by the Kalon Oros and Agia Dynati mountains. The blinding white sands are contrasted with the azure blue waters and green forested mountains. 

Known as one of the most dramatic beaches in Greece, Myrtos offers a mile and a half of sands. It was the backdrop for Captain Corelli’s Mandolinand voted the best Greek seaside 12 times.

You can reach it from the village of Divarata. The steep, winding road has dangerous hairpin turns, so be cautious if you’re driving. If you want to avoid the stress and hassle of driving, the city of Pylaros runs a bus service to and from the beach from Agia Efimia. 

There are several tavernas in Divarata, as well as a beach bar. Beach umbrellas and sunbeds are also available for hire.

5. Porto Katsiki Beach, Lefkada

Porto Katsiki sits at the base of the towering white cliffs of Lefkada. It has been rated as one of the best beaches in all across the Mediterranean Sea. It differs from the beaches on Mainland Greece because of the steep climb down to the shore.

To get to Porto Katsiki, you will have to traverse 80 steep steps along the cliff. But the journey is worth the effort. The stunning turquoise waters, white sandy beaches, and dramatic cliffs make this an unforgettable place. At the top of the stairs, you will find snack bars and a car park. 

The beaches in Greece are the most beautiful in the world. With clear azure waters, soft sandy shores, and incredible landscapes, Greece should be the number one of any traveler’s list. Which beaches in Greece have you visited or are going to visit?

Author Bio:

Thomas Quarry is a data scientist, treasure hunter, animal lover, aspiring wildlife photographer, and outdoor fanatic. In between writing and photography, Thomas likes hiking, climbing, camping, or daydreaming. He has been contributing to nature publications for several years and enjoys new writing challenges.

One stage, multiple dance floors and the western Algarve composing the scene. That was how, through the hands of the Portuguese startup SeaBookings, Lagos (Portugal) plunged into the first edition of the Algarve Boat Festival. This innovative concept of multiple private parties, together, for a single show, allowed a safe event according to the guidelines of the Directorate-General of Health of Portugal (DGS). Physical distance and open-air are guaranteed.

In charge of the music, on the stage-boat, were Pete Tha Zouk, DJ Astrella and the local Carlos Sax. In its first edition, the Algarve Boat Festival sold out, with almost 30 boats that anchored around the stage-boat in front of the emblematic Praia Dona Ana. The stage-boat had no customers on board, only staff. Festival-goers joined on their own boat, whether theirs or rented, be it a motorboat or sailboat.

The Algarve Boat Festival had the support of the Municipality of Lagos and the Marina of Lagos. The Marina offered the night after the festival for boats from other Marinas. And the Port of Lagos, as well as the maritime police, were present to enforce the Contingency Plan in order to comply with the “Safe Event” requirements, according to the DGS guidelines. The Clube de Vela de Lagos, the local sailing club was also present to provide support where needed.

The show started at 3:30 pm in the best possible setting, in front of the emblematic Praia Dona Ana, and should have lasted for 3 hours. But the Algarvian DJ Pete Tha Zouk was so excited to be playing in times where all discotheques are shut, that the party prolonged for another hour for those who wanted to stay. Seems like we were all needing to dance!

For those who were unable to be physically present, the Festival was available to everyone through live streaming. There are no official dates for the next edition, but taking into the consideration of festival-goers, this is only the beginning!

Are you overdue for an adventure? Whether you’ve gone a bit stir crazy due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, or you’re just ready to try something new when it comes to travel, nothing can beat turning your next trip into a sea expedition. After all, it’s easy to feel like an old-fashioned explorer when you take advantage of all the water has to offer. 

Planning an adventure on a boat or alone a coastline is a great way to try something different. Plus, there are so many things to do whether you’re a solo traveler or you’re bringing your family along. 

If you want to travel by boat, the benefits include everything from going at a slower pace and being able to breathe in the fresh air, to being able to move around freely in a way you can’t in a car, train, or airplane. But, you don’t necessarily have to get out of the water once you reach your destination. 

Let’s look at a few great ways you can “dive in” to some sea adventures during your next trip, and how those adventures can benefit you. 

Adventure Is Out There And it Can Benefit Your Health!

If you’ve ever seen the Pixar movie Up!, you’re probably well-versed in the meaning of this subtitle. While the characters in that film may have taken to the skies for their adventure, the premise remains the same for any unique form of transportation. 

While a trip to a theme park or luxury hotel can be relaxing, doing something more adventurous and unique may actually be more beneficial for your mental health and wellbeing. Adventure traveling gets you out of your everyday routine and your comfort zone. As a result, you have more time to think about yourself and your life, and what you truly want out of it. It’s a great way to boost your sense of self-reflection. If you have children, going on an adventure can help them to get their eyes off of their video games and phones, and experience everything the water has to offer. 

Travel, in general, has also been linked to boosting mental health. One survey performed on 485 adults in the U.S. found that traveling was linked to an increase in: 

• Empathy
• Focus
• Energy
• Attention

Simply being out in nature is a great way to improve your mood and give you more energy, so if you’re planning on taking a trip any time soon, why not choose something out of the norm, that will transform you into a real-life adventurer? 

Live the Pirate Life

Okay, you don’t have to pillage and plunder, but there are plenty of deep-sea adventures that can make you feel like a real-life pirate without all of the danger involved. One of the best ways to do that is to go on a treasure hunt. 

Treasure hunting is a great way to involve your whole family in your sea adventure. That’s especially true when you decide to shallow water hunting. That involves going out about knee-deep into the water. When you use a metal detector to do your hunting, you and your kids can find everything from coins to jewelry, and it’s often easy to dig up. 

If you’re looking for more serious treasure, you’ll want to get out to at least six feet of water, where you can find things like: 

• Gold and diamond rings
• Military uniform buttons
• Trading tokens
• Religious medallions

Depending on where you go, the possibilities are truly endless when it comes to what you can find!

If you want to spend more of your time actually exploring the seas themselves, consider getting on board with the underwater tourism market, and taking a submarine tour. They can be quite costly, starting at around $800 for some of the less expensive tours. But, if you have a vested interest in the world’s oceans and you want an immersive experience, it’s truly an adventure unlike any other. 

Where to Make the Most of Your Travels

The oceans make up about 70% of the earth’s surface, and for as much as we know about them, there is still so much that is left to be explored. So, how can you be sure you’re visiting the best possible places for unforgettable adventures? The possibilities are truly endless, but having a little guidance doesn’t hurt. 

The best places to have adventures on the sea really depend on what you’re interested in. For example, if you’re a bit of an adrenaline junkie, you might want to try coasteering (and cliff jumps!) or canyoning in Maderia. If you’re bringing the family along and want to experience something everyone can enjoy, take a boat tour in Lagos to see dolphins swimming around in their natural habitat. It’s a sight that truly never gets old. 

If you want to take a break from ‘adventuring’ and relax with friends or family, the water is the best place to do it. Consider a boat tour in Ibiza for a relaxing afternoon in the sun that everyone can enjoy. 

As you can see, adventure really is out there. It’s waiting for you on the sea and near the shore, so consider making your next trip an unforgettable one by making memories on the water. 

If you’re a fan of the water and have always been someone that enjoys riding the waves rather than soaking up rays, you’ll be pleased to know that there are tons of aquatic sports that you can enjoy in gorgeous Barcelona. With a coastline that stretches for 4.5km, there’s a wide variety of excellent beaches to try out these activities.

Whether you’re looking to try a water sport out for the first time, or you’re already a seasoned pro, there are plenty of great clubs and schools peppered along Barcelona. Below we’ve got a list of some of the best watersports in Barcelona to get you started. 

Windsurfing in Barcelona

Windsurfing is essentially a form of sailing that involves a board being powered across the water by the wind. It’s not for the faint-hearted as it requires an immense amount of strength, stamina and of course, courage. 

If you’re looking for an adrenaline kick, however, it’s one of the best water sports to try out. You’ll start out on a bigger board with a small sail when you’re learning the basics before moving to a smaller board as your skill increases. The best thing about windsurfing is that it can be enjoyed at any age. In Barcelona, you can check out classes or rent equipment along the Mar Bella beach. 

Paddleboarding in Barcelona

Known as SUP (stand-up paddleboarding), this water sport is a great way to have fun playing in the water while also providing a full-body workout. Since you’re standing upright on the board, you’ll also get to admire the views.

While paddleboarding isn’t as fast-paced as some of the other water sports out there, it’s great for your core, and there’s also a growing trend of individuals doing yoga on their paddle board – talk about intense! In Barcelona, there’s no shortage of schools available and there’s plenty of places for you to rent boards or even practice SUP yoga.  

Surfing in Barcelona

While the Barcelona area may not have the biggest waves in the world, it’s still a great place to get your surf on. If you’re a beginner, Barcelona’s also a fantastic starting point and there are plenty of great spots along the Catalonian Coast. 

Garraf is one of the most picturesque surf spots in Barcelona with old fishermen’s hut on the beach along with houses peppered all over the cliff for a unique appearance. Another popular spot just north of Barcelona is Masnou. There, you’ll have access to the longest waves of the area. There are plenty of surf schools in Barcelona such as Pukas Surf School that’s great for beginners that are just starting to ride the waves. 

Renting a boat in Barcelona

While it may not be a sport per se, it deserves a brief mention. When you’re in Barcelona, you’ve got to rent a boat as it’s a great way to enjoy the open seas. Head on board as a family or gather a group of friends and you’re sure to have a wonderful afternoon or evening.

From medium-sized yachts to luxury superyachts, there is plenty of options to cater to everyone. On a budget? No worries, in Barcelona you can rent license-free boats and have fun exploring the waters on your own. 

Renting Jet Skis

Feel like you’re flying on water thanks to the high speeds you’ll experience on a jet ski. As you zoom across waterways, you’ll also get to take in the stunning coastal views. 

In Barcelona, you can choose to rent a jet ski for 30-minutes to a couple of hours for some fun. Alternatively, book an excursion that’ll take you a little further to areas such as Costa Brava or Garraf. 

Hoverboarding & Flyboarding

If you want to take it to the next level, give hoverboarding and flyboarding a shot. This relatively new water sport is a great way to get the adrenaline pumping. You’ll be propelled into the air thanks to the two powerful water jets that are attached to a pair of special boots. 

You’ll feel as free as a bird and it’s an incredible feeling. Hoverboarding is not difficult to learn, but it’s important to have the right balance. You’ll soar up to 10 meters into the air, and you can even enjoy this activity with your friends or family and have an amazing time together. 

Similar to hoverboarding is flyboarding. Instead of the water jets being attached to a pair of special boots, however, the water jets will instead be strapped to your feet. Feel free to do somersaults, jump and create whatever shapes your heart desires over the water. With flyboarding you’ll reach a height of up to 30 feet in the air – an exhilarating adrenaline experience that’s an absolute must. 

Crazy Sofa & Banana

You’ve probably tried the banana boat, but have you tried the crazy sofa? For something fun and exciting to do together with your friends and family, you’ll want to try this out. In this exhilarating activity, you’ll be sitting on an inflatable sofa and get dragged around by a tire that’s attached to a speedboat. 

As you whizz around the ocean, you’ll get to see who ends up being the last one sitting. It’s an exciting activity that’s sure to get everyone laughing. Best of all, there’s no previous experience required and anyone above the age of 10 is welcome to join embark on a crazy sofa adventure. 

Flying Fish 

This new unique water sport is something you absolutely need to check out when visiting Barcelona. Here, you’ll be sitting on an inflatable rubber boat that takes the shape of a flat fish while being pulled by a speed boat. As the boat accelerates, you’ll get lifted above the ocean for a heart pumping experience. 

As you take in the views of the coast, you’ll be blown away by the breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea as you look out over Costa Brava. The Flying Fish can take up to six people with the minimum age being 18 years old. This is an activity that you wouldn’t want to miss in Barcelona. 

There you have it, some of the best water sports in Barcelona! Either than water sports, there’s also plenty to do from visiting the La Sagrada Familia to admiring other modernist landmarks around the city. Finding comfortable accommodation in Barcelona is also key to a fantastic vacation. Why not check out some of these vacation rentals in Barcelona, Spain for a memorable trip unlike any other.  

One of the most recognizable islands in the world, Santorini is a symbol of Greece. Known for its whitewashed Cycladic houses, ancient archaeological sites, and the fact that it’s built on the remnants of one huge volcano make it a pretty spectacular place for a holiday. And we haven’t even mentioned the spectacular sunsets! It’s one of the most memorable places you could visit – though it’s probably not the first place you’d think of taking your family. Nevertheless, there are lots of things to do for all ages on the island. 

Of course, one of the most popular draws is its white, red, and black beaches. Each has its own personality and character, but after a few lazy days on the beach, you might start to crave something that will get the adrenaline flowing a little more. How about trying some watersports? 

In this post, we’ll take a look at some of the best family-friendly watersports in Santorini. Hopefully, it’ll make it easy to plan and make the most of your trip! 

Stand up paddle boarding in Santorini

Santorini’s waters are known for being calm. So, unfortunately for some, that means surfing is off the menu. However, if you feel at home on a board you could try stand up paddleboarding instead. The fastest-growing watersport in the world, it’s a great workout for your core – and who wouldn’t want to say they’d SUPed in the remains of a collapsed volcano?!

Try it at sunrise or sunset, and if you have plenty of SUP experience, you could even have a go at yoga on your board. The ability to do SUP at a slow and relaxed pace means that it’s an ideal way for the family to see the scenery of Santorini together.

There are several different paddle boards depending on what you want to use yours for. So, if you’re wondering which paddle board do I choose? You can either get some expert information at the link there, or find a reliable rental service on the island who will find the best board for you!  

Swimming in Santorini

Something that can be very off-putting when deciding which watersport to do is the need for equipment. Thankfully, with swimming, all you need is a swimsuit. And perhaps a pair of goggles. With swimming spots all over the island, you’re sure not to be disappointed with Santorini. 

Kamari black sand beach is the most popular beach on the island, and there are plenty of sunbeds and umbrellas to rent for breaks between swimming. The black sand beach at Perissa has a water park where children can swim safely, while Red Beach has an awesome swimming spot amongst impressive rock formations.  

Snorkeling in Santorini

One way of exploring the fascinating waters and the underwater world of Santorini is through snorkeling. Snorkeling in Santorini is one of the best ways to see colorful sponges, groupers, snappers and many schools of fish. Book your tours with SeaBookings and explore the treasures under the sea in safe conditions.

Sea Kayaking in Santorini

Another great way to take in the caldera of Santorini is by kayak. Like stand-up paddle boarding, kayaking gives you a great core workout but you’ll be sat down instead. You’ll be able to enjoy some of Santorini’s most famous sights, including rock formations, the Akrotiri lighthouse, while also ducking into sea caves for a bit of shade from the relentless Mediterranean sun. 

Of course, while you kayak you’ll have the opportunity to stop off at a number of beaches that are inaccessible to the busloads of tourists you might find on other parts of the island. 

Parasailing

Maybe one for families with older kids here – and definitely not for anyone scared of heights. Parasailing will see you dragged along behind a speedboat attached to a parachute. You’re likely to reach heights of up to 100 metres! It’s an incredible activity to tick off your bucket list and the views of the caldera below will be etched into your mind forever! 

Water-biking

Shaped like Volkswagen Beetles, water-bikes are basically just fancy pedalos. You might not think of the Beetle as a family-sized car, but there’s space for four on one of these cute little vessels and the good news is it’s very difficult to fall off one!

Scuba Diving in Santorini

If you enjoy diving, Santorini boasts its beaches as it offers great chances for scuba diving due to its volcanic geological background. For people who have experience in scuba diving, this should be one of your highlights during your stay in Greece. Many diving centers and tours have opened over the last couple of years offering diving courses for all ages and levels. Just rent the necessary equipment for your scuba diving experience and your experienced guides will take you out for an amazing time in the underwater world of Santorini. There are also options available for first-timers.

Jet Skiing

Another activity that may be more suitable for families with older kids. Jet-ski safaris are a popular way to see Santorini’s collapsed volcanic craters. Thanks to the high speed of a jet ski, you’ll see what you would in a whole day on a kayak in just a couple of hours. And it really gets the adrenaline pumping! The only issue here is that it’s more difficult and expensive to do as a family. 

Flyboarding

Have you ever wanted to fly above the water before diving down to the depths of the ocean? Okay, maybe not the depths. You want to give flyboarding a go. You’ll be strapped to a jetpack which will enable you to fly more than 10 metres in the air – all you need to do is keep your balance. This unusual activity is just 10 minutes long and it’s available on many of Santorini’s beaches. 

Catamaran Cruise

Okay, a catamaran cruise isn’t exactly a watersport, but after all of the high adrenaline activities on this list, it might be time to do something a little less taxing. With a range of options, you could enjoy a sunset dinner cruise or a full day exploring the caldera and beyond. A cruise as a family may be a little pricey, so make sure to find something all inclusive.

A panel of travel experts at Clickstay.com has voted the Algarve as the best destination for British tourists this summer.

52% of the in-house travel pros voted in favour of the Algarve, the South of Portugal, citing successful control of Coronavirus as one of the key factors.

“Local government has done fantastic work in limiting the spread of the virus and put in sensible measures to ensure people can enjoy their holiday safely”, said Tom Hughes, founder and MD at Clickstay.

“Their use of technology, such as the Info Praia app where tourists can real-time information about the level of occupancy of the beach, is a great example of how the government is being innovative in its approach”, he added.

The article about this study mentions that Portugal recorded a considerably lower number of Covid-19 cases than the UK, so is considered low risk by the UK government. On the other hand, the Portuguese government considers that the UK has got the virus ‘under control’ and is calling for a so-called ‘air bridge’ between the two countries, which would allow British tourists to go on holiday to the Algarve, and the rest of Portugal, without having to quarantine on arrival.

According to these travel experts, there’s a wide range of activities which you can enjoy safely, making the Algarve is the best holiday destination this summer, above other destinations in Europe.

During your stay in the Algarve, you will be able to visit the vast range of beaches without worrying about overcrowding, thanks to social distancing and hygiene protocols and dedicated beach surveillance.

“I usually go on a beach holiday during the summer but was a little anxious having seen some photos of very crowded beaches in the UK,” said one of Clickstay’s holidaymakers, “If social distancing is properly enforced on the beaches in the Algarve, I will definitely consider making the trip”.

Outdoor activities like swimming, kayak tours, SUP tours, and surfing are permitted and most boat tours are already running, all with hygiene and safety protocols in place. In fact, these tours and activities are all recognized by the Portuguese «Safe & Clean» seal. This is surely another big boost for the region’s tourism prospects. According to Tom Hughes, “Many of our customers love to go surfing in their summer holidays, so being able to do that in a safe environment would be a massive attraction’.

For those looking for a more cultural experience, restaurants, hotels, museums and galleries are also already open, with social distancing protocols in place. So yes, you can enjoy some of the local fresh seafood and terraces in under the blue sky are abundant for a safe food-experience.

The research shows that the geography of the Algarve has also been a factor. In the Algarve, there are many relatively quiet places to rent a villa compared with the busier coastlines of France and Spain, which make it a good destination for those wishing to keep their distance and enjoy a relaxed holiday. 

What do you think? Would you consider the Algarve for your holidays this summer?