What springs to mind when you think of the Algarve? If you are like most people, you are probably picturing the region at the height of summer, the beautiful beaches teeming with holidaymakers. However, what most people don’t tend to realise is that some of the magic of the Algarve is better experienced during the so-called “out of season months”, such as February. Pleasant (albeit slightly cooler) climate, fewer crowds, fantastic value, a wealth of cultural events – there are loads of reasons why a February half-term trip to the Algarve is a big ‘yes’ for us here at Clickstay. As a wise man once said; “there’s never a wrong time to visit the Algarve…”

 

Beaches

The beauty of the Algarve’s beaches is no secret. What people don’t tend to realise, however, is that they are arguably more breath-taking without the hustle and bustle of the holidaymakers who descend upon the region in summer.  Temperatures average around 17 degrees in the sun, but this feels like mid-twenties when the sun is out (which is often). This means it can frequently t-shirt/sunbathing weather (by British standards anyway). The temperature is perfect for taking a stroll down the beach, or even a jog if you’re the active type!

 

Water Activities 

"My sister and grew up in the Algarve where we sold tickets for dolphin watching tours during our summer holidays. Soon, we realized how big the potential of the boat tours and watersport marker in the South of Portugal was and so, we decided to try to sell these tickets online to reach more travelers and be able to bridge them to local tour providers. What we like the most about SeaBookings.com is to be able to help the most authentic and small tour provides, like a local fisherman for example, who, so now and then, takes some tourist on his fishing adventures. Now, we're in more than 5 countries in Southern Europe and provide a very broad range of sea experiences in the main beach destinations, like boat tours, sunset trips, surf lessons, SUP tours and even scuba diving!"- Bo Irik, co-founder at SeaBookings.com, an online marketplace to book sea experiences

The sparsity of tourists means way more space for water sports. The stunning coastlines, full of kids and families in summer, are transformed into a playground for surfers, water-skiers, and bodyboarders (as well as those who just like to swim in peace and quiet!).

 

Food & Drink 

Some restaurants and bars close during winter months, but the majority remain open.  At the larger resorts – such as Lagos and Albufeira – there are bound to be a good selection open for business. Being less busy, the service tends to be more personal.

 

Carnivals 

Carnival often falls in February; sometimes perfectly in sync with half term. Each town has its own unique way of celebrating, most involving colourful parades and music. Go to Loulé for the most vibrant celebrations, home to one of Portugal’s oldest carnival parades. Here you will find parades that are traditionally heavy in political satire.  Allegorical floats, gigantones (giant puppets) and cabecudos (figures with massive paper maché heads) fill the streets. There are also plenty of samba schools if you feel like trying your hand at dancing like a local!

 

Volta ao Algarve

February is the month for the ‘volta ao Algarve’ – aka the Portuguese tour de France. This cycling race has trails which showcase the very best of the Algarve's mountainous landscapes. It attracts 25 of the world’s best cycling teams, and is also open for amateur teams, who can sign up on their website.  Even if you don’t fancy cycling, it’s worth driving between the check points to take advantage of the carefully scripted views the routes offer.

 

Villas 

The Algarve has been named the cheapest destination for UK tourists in the past by the Post Office Travel Money’s worldwide holiday costs barometer. The beauty of going in February is that it’s even better value. Flights, accommodations, and even eating out, are all cheaper in the winter months, making it hard to find a better value trip out there.                      

And this isn't just our opinion - look what Lucy, a Clickstay renter who went to the Algarve in February, wrote:

"Perfect villa for our winter escape! The manager met us and was easy to contact with information when necessary. All very clean and tidy with a very well equipped kitchen for those evenings we ate in. Being February the local restaurants were closed but it wasn’t far to drive to find hospitable eateries. The Spar down the road was very convenient for fresh bread every day. All the local beaches were beautiful. The pool was a huge asset to us and used every day. We would recommend this villa!"

 

 

     

So, the Algarve in February – yes or no? If your answer is a ‘yes!’, check out these holiday villas in the Algarve and have your own adventure in February!