Discover The Algarve: Home To Europe's Best Beach For 2026

Golden beaches, dramatic cliffs and over 300 days of sunshine each year have made the Algarve one of the UK's favourite holiday destinations for decades.

Now there's another reason to visit Portugal's stunning southern coastline.

Monte Clérigo Beach has been crowned Europe's Best Beach for 2026, bringing international attention to one of the Algarve's most beautiful and unspoilt coastal locations.

But there's much more to the Algarve than award-winning beaches.

From spectacular sea caves and historic towns to luxury marinas and breathtaking coastal walks, here's why the Algarve deserves a place on your holiday wishlist.

Located within the beautiful Costa Vicentina Natural Park, Monte Clérigo Beach offers a very different side of the Algarve.

Instead of busy resorts, you'll find peaceful surroundings where nature takes centre stage.

Visitors love Monte Clérigo for:

• Wide golden sandy beach
• Spectacular Atlantic sunsets
• Impressive cliffs and coastal scenery
• Excellent surfing conditions
• Seafront restaurants serving fresh local seafood

Whether you're looking to relax by the ocean or explore Portugal's rugged coastline, it's easy to see why this beach has been named the best in Europe.

The Algarve is filled with unforgettable natural attractions.

One of the region's most famous landmarks is Ponta da Piedade, near Lagos.

Its golden cliffs, hidden caves and crystal-clear waters make it one of Portugal's most photographed locations.

Another must-visit attraction is the spectacular Benagil Cave.

Accessible by boat or kayak, this natural sea cave is famous for its enormous dome and circular opening that fills the cave with natural light.

These breathtaking coastal landscapes are among the highlights of any Algarve holiday

Away from the beaches, the Algarve is full of charming towns waiting to be explored.

Visit Lagos, one of Portugal's most beautiful coastal towns, where cobbled streets, historic city walls and waterfront restaurants create the perfect holiday atmosphere.

Other places worth discovering include:

Vilamoura — famous for its luxury marina, golf courses and stylish restaurants.

Albufeira — a lively resort combining beautiful beaches with a charming Old Town full of cafés, shops and nightlife.

It's the perfect way to experience both the authentic and modern sides of the Algarve

An Algarve holiday can be as relaxing or adventurous as you choose.

Popular experiences include:

✔ Boat trips to Benagil Cave
✔ Dolphin watching cruises
✔ Coastal walks along dramatic cliffs
✔ Surfing and paddleboarding
✔ Exploring traditional Portuguese towns
✔ Fresh seafood restaurants with ocean views

Whether you're travelling as a couple, with friends or as a family, the Algarve offers unforgettable experiences for every type of holiday.

Looking for your next Portugal escape?

Here are some of our favourite Algarve holiday deals:

4* The Editory By The Sea Lagos — Lagos

Stay close to some of Portugal's most spectacular coastline and discover the authentic Algarve.

✔ Bed & Breakfast
✔ Close to beaches & Lagos Old Town
✔ Ideal for exploring Ponta da Piedade
❤️ 2 Adults
📅 28 Aug 2026 | 7 Nights
✈️ London Luton
🔥 From £838pp
👉 View Deal

5* Pestana Vila Sol — Vilamoura

Fantastic value for a relaxing Algarve getaway.

✔ Bed & Breakfast
✔ Beautiful gardens & golf resort
✔ Close to Vilamoura Marina
❤️ 2 Adults
📅 27 Jul 2026 | 5 Nights
✈️ Birmingham
🔥 From £675pp
👉 View Deal

5* Hilton Vilamoura As Cascatas Golf Resort & Spa — Vilamoura

Luxury accommodation with first-class facilities.

✔ Room Only
✔ Award-winning spa
✔ Elegant pools & gardens
❤️ 2 Adults
📅 30 Aug 2026 | 5 Nights
✈️ London Stansted
🔥 From £851pp
👉 View Deal

4* Luna Miramar Club — Albufeira

A fantastic choice for families looking to enjoy the Algarve together.

✔ Self Catering
✔ Spacious family suites
✔ Close to Albufeira Beach
❤️ 2 Adults & 2 Children
📅 19 Aug 2026 | 7 Nights
✈️ Newcastle
🔥 Total from £2,201
👉 View Deal

Your next Portugal escape starts here.

With Holiday Best:

✔ Flights Included
✔ Accommodation Included
✔ Resort Transfers Included
✔ ABTA & ATOL Protected
✔ Support from booking until you return home

Looking for something different?

Explore more Algarve holiday deals online or speak to our friendly holiday experts.

📞 0808 196 7971

Find your perfect Algarve holiday today.