Roam Iberia’s Corner on this Border-Crossing Algarve Road Trip

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Well-known for its scalloped bays, picturesque fishing villages, and soaring cliffs, Portugal’s Algarve region and its capital of Faro have been on my bucket list of places to visit for some time now. Fortunately, our paths have finally crossed and all I can say is that this whole Algarve road trip experience by campervan exceeded all of my expectations.

From the charming Guadiana Valley Natural Park and the city of Seville in the Andalusia region to the cobbled streets of Algarve’s Tavira and the popular beach resort town of Lagos, there is definitely plenty to look forward to on this journey.

Covering an area of roughly 70,000 hectares between Ribeira do Vascão and the area of Pulo do Lobo, the Natural Park of the Guadiana Valley is home to landscapes ranging from lush valleys to wild areas covered in dryland trees and cistus.

From the highest point in the park on São Barão and Alcaria Hill, try spotting local wildlife like eagles, otters, and the (extremely shy) Iberian lynx, while gazing over cork and oak trees, roaring rivers, and colourful patches of wildflowers.

A pretty sight to kick off the holidays, isn’t it?

Your Algarve road trip takes you to the village of Mértola where the local tourist office offers a variety of excursions including canoeing activities, trips in motorboats from Mértola / Pomarão to Vila Real de Santo António, and other activities by bicycle or on foot.

The small whitewashed village isn’t just the perfect launchpad for exploring the park and the lovely nearby Pulo de Lobo Waterfall but is itself worth a visit, perched confidently on a hill overlooking the Guadiana river. It’s mosque-turned-church and domineering castle speak volumes of the reconquista of the 13th century. 

I didn’t know much about Seville before my Algarve road trip and this itinerary proved the perfect opportunity to explore the Spanish city. The capital of Andalusia is famous for many things, but flamenco and tapas definitely come first to mind.

From the palaces and the cathedral in the historic centre to picturesque parks, bars with a laid-back vibe, and flamenco clubs, there were plenty of attractions and activities to keep me entertained for 2 days.

The Gothic Cathedral is probably the most iconic landmark here in Seville. It’s one of the largest cathedrals in the world and I have to admit that it looks seriously awesome.

You can also check out the 10th-century Alcázar Palace, which is the oldest royal palace still in use in Europe, go for a stroll through the lovely Maria Luisa Park and admire its flower beds and orange trees, or see paintings and sculptures from the Sevillian School at Museo de Bellas Artes.

No campervan road trip adventure from Faro is complete without visiting one of the prettiest towns in the area, the lovely Tavira. Famous for its cobbled streets and whitewashed buildings, this small town on the Gilão River is an ideal destination for getting away from it all and experiencing the local Algarve life.

If you are looking for overcrowded tourist attractions, you won’t find them here in Tavira. Besides the ruins of an ancient castle and the Roman Bridge, there isn’t anything that stands out in particular here.

Instead, the charm of Tavira lies in small things like wandering through the old streets and alleys, taking photographs of all the colourful buildings around you, ordering the catch of the day at a local restaurant,  and admiring the stunning coastline of pristine beaches nearby.

If you are into bird-watching, make sure to visit the Ria Formosa Natural Park. The easiest way to explore the park is by boat and there are dozens of tours that depart from Tavira’s harbour.

Lagos is one of the most sought-after coastal towns in the Algarve region and an ideal destination to finish your Algarve road trip adventure.

Whether you are looking to explore the stunning natural treasures of Lagos, navigate through the old town and indulge in some fine cuisine at the local restaurants, or explore the sandy bays with tiny coves and stunning rock formations, Lagos offers something for everyone.

Go on a kayak tour along the coast and explore hidden sea caves and ancient grottos, visit the Lagos Zoo to see a variety of mammals and birds, or spend a day swimming on Praia de Dona Ana.

There’s also the Slave Market which houses exhibits that show the dreadful history of slavery in Portugal and the lovely Lagos fish market where you will find dozens of stalls selling everything from fresh fish to homemade Portuguese sauces and fresh fish.