Algarve Overview

Behold the Algarve: a land where happy campers come to bask in the sun. Off the sands, the geometric designs and minaret-style chimneys of Algarve’s old houses reveal a strong Arab influence. While regional crafts specialize in basket-weaving, the Algarve’s most perfect craft is its delicious seafood—local favorites include flavorful sardinhas assadas (grilled sardines) and the creamy caldeirada (seafood chowder). Almonds and figs also make their way into most regional cooking, especially in divine desserts like figos cheios. In the winter, the resorts empty and wildlife of a different sort arrives, as roughly one-third of Europe’s flamingos migrate to the wetlands surrounding Olhão.

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