Wrap up warm and take a bracing walk on the wild western side of the Algarve. Explore the bays between Lagos and Sagres and witness the tremendous power of the Atlantic. There are plenty of tiny bars and cafes to warm up in along the way.
Be sure to stop in Aljezur, a mecca for surfers. Caldas de Monchique is a tiny village midway up the mountain of Foia, the highest point in the Algarve. It's the source of Monchique mineral water and you can see the production centre in action. If you're peckish, be sure to sample the bread - the village bar staff bake it in a communal outdoor oven.
Continue up Foia to enjoy lunch in one of the famous piri-piri restaurants - the views are spectacular. Tavira in the eastern Algarve is an appealing combination of attractive 18th century houses and bustling shopping streets. Bargain hunters should look out for painted tiles, lace tablecloths, snug sheepskin slippers and shell art. There is also a handicraft market on the waterfront.
