The Algarve has changed dramatically from its peaceful, almost backward way of life where farmers carried produce to market on the backs of donkeys and in donkey carts and rode mules from town to town. Where fishermen handled nets by hand and children herded skinny goats barefoot in the fields. Now the Portuguese have embraced tourism as a new way of life welcoming people from all over Europe to shores and towns.

There are few places in Europe where the beaches match the beautiful sweeping stretches of white and golden that Algarve  holidays have to offer. These coupled with ideal temperatures for holidaymakers of between 26 to 30 degrees - hot but not too hot and tempered by pleasant Atlantic breezes make Algarve resorts perfectly family friendly. The Portuguese have capitalised on this providing a wealth of family activities ranging from riding schools, karting tracks, tennis academies, zoos, water parks, boat rides and many other intriguing attractions.

Algarve holidays do not just consist of activity based attractions. There is plenty of history and places to visit ranging from the many Manuelive Churches, Cathedrals and spooky chapels. There are castles and sites depicting the historic battles between the Spaniards and Moors or the British redcoats who teamed up with the Portuguese to challenge the French.

One thing the Portuguese have in abundance is Ice Cream Parlours which are guaranteed to keep the little ones happy. Travelling families can be assured that children are well catered for with traditional Fish fingers, chips and peas for the kids while adults can enjoy a delicious plate of grilled sardines and of course more ice cream for desert.

Carnival season in August is guaranteed to captivate tourists of all ages with Loulé carnival – the Portuguese equivalent of Mardi-Gras captivating locals and visitors with floats, parades, stalls and firework displays. And let’s not forget the International Sand Art Festival that runs from June to October taking full advantage of the miles of beautiful beach where children can help build a replica of Hogwarts Castle or one of the many towers and keeps of Middle Earth in the Lord of the Rings Trilogy. Truly Algarve holidays cover any taste.