It might seem that everything is slowing down until next spring, but there are still plenty of things to see and do across the region.

For many people who live in the Algarve all year round, autumn is actually one of their favourite seasons. The temperatures are finally a little cooler, making it much easier to enjoy outdoor activities, especially walking and exploring places that can be too hot during the summer months.

Daytime temperatures usually are in the low to mid-20s, and on particularly warm days, you can even spend an afternoon at the beach. Of course, the weather becomes less predictable as we move towards winter, but that doesn't mean you have to stay indoors.

And as you probably know, the Algarve has plenty of local fairs, markets and traditional celebrations throughout the year. Autumn is no exception.

Here are some of my favourite ways to enjoy the Algarve during this time of year.

Enjoy the Algarve's walking trails

Autumn is a great time to explore some of the Algarve's beautiful walking routes.

One of the most interesting places for a walk is the Ludo area near Faro, where you can explore the wetlands of the Ria Formosa. There are several walking routes around this area, taking you past salt pans, marshes and quiet waterways. It's also a great place for spotting birds, including flamingos, which are often seen here.


For something completely different, try the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail, between Praia de Vale Centeanes and Praia da Marinha. This is one of the Algarve's best-known coastal walks, and for good reason. Along the way, you will pass beautiful cliffs, hidden beaches and some of the region's most impressive coastal scenery.


The route takes you past Alfanzina Lighthouse, Praia do Carvalho and the Benagil area before reaching Praia da Marinha. There are some uphill and downhill sections, so comfortable walking shoes are essential.


Another option is the Rota Vicentina, which offers a large network of walking trails along the western Algarve and the Alentejo coast. You can choose shorter walks or spend several days exploring different sections.

If you prefer an easier walk, the Algarve also has some lovely boardwalks. The Alvor Boardwalk is one of my favourites, with views over the Ria de Alvor, while the Salgados Boardwalk is another beautiful place for a relaxed afternoon, particularly if you enjoy nature and birdwatching.


In Lagos, the Ponta da Piedade Boardwalk offers spectacular coastal views, with several viewpoints along the way. And if you would rather head inland, Monchique has beautiful mountain walking routes where you can enjoy a completely different side of the Algarve.

Try golf

The Algarve is famous for its golf courses, and autumn is a particularly good time to give golf a try. The weather is generally more comfortable than in summer, and you don't need to be an experienced player to enjoy a lesson.

There are courses all around the region, particularly in Vilamoura, Quinta do Lago and the central Algarve.

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If you are a beginner, you could look into lessons at Espiche Golf near Lagos, Gramacho Golf Course near Carvoeiro or the Amendoeira Golf Academy near Alcantarilha.

Many golf clubs offer lessons with professional instructors, so even if you have never held a golf club before, autumn could be a good opportunity to try something new.

Go birdwatching

Autumn is one of the most interesting times of year for birdwatching in the Algarve, as many migratory birds travel through the region.

Some species are heading towards their wintering grounds in Africa, while others arrive to spend the colder months in Portugal.

One of the best places to visit is the Ria Formosa Natural Park, which stretches for around 60 kilometres along the eastern Algarve coast. Its wetlands, salt pans and lagoons provide important habitats for a wide variety of birds.

More than 200 bird species have been recorded in the Ria Formosa area, including greater flamingos and Eurasian spoonbills.

You don't necessarily need specialist equipment to enjoy birdwatching here. Even during a normal walk around Ludo, Quinta do Lago or other wetland areas, you may come across some beautiful birds.

The Salgados Lagoon, near Armação de Pêra, is another place worth visiting, especially during the quieter autumn months.

Visit traditional autumn fairs

Just because summer festivals are over doesn't mean there are no events to look forward to. Autumn brings some of the Algarve's oldest traditional fairs, where you can enjoy local food, handicrafts and entertainment.

One of them is the Feira de Todos os Santos in Silves, a historic fair dating back to 1491. It traditionally takes place around the end of October and the beginning of November, with stalls, food and activities for families.

Another popular event is the Feira de São Martinho in Portimão, which takes place in November. This is one of the oldest fairs in the Algarve, with a history of more than 350 years. You can expect fairground rides, traditional sweets, roasted chestnuts and plenty of food stalls.

If you enjoy visiting the Algarve's inland villages, the Festa da Castanha in Marmelete, in the municipality of Monchique, is worth adding to your calendar. This year's event takes place on 1 November, starting at 2.30 pm, with roasted chestnuts, traditional food and live music.


Aljezur is also known for its Sweet Potato Festival, which celebrates one of the area's best-known local products. Visitors can usually enjoy different dishes made with sweet potatoes, discover regional producers and try local specialities. Check the official programme for this year's dates.

There are also Halloween celebrations across the region, including themed activities at attractions such as Zoomarine. It's worth checking their autumn programmes, especially if you are looking for something to do with children.

Explore the Algarve's islands

Visiting the Algarve's islands doesn't have to be just a summer activity. In fact, autumn can be a lovely time to explore them, particularly if you prefer quieter places.

From Olhão, you can take a ferry to Armona, Culatra or Farol, while Tavira Island is another beautiful option in the eastern Algarve.


Ilha da Armona is particularly interesting because there are no cars, and you can spend hours walking around the island, exploring its sandy paths, small village and beautiful beaches.

The ferry journey from Olhão takes approximately 15 to 20 minutes. There are also restaurants and cafés on the island, although some may have reduced opening hours outside the summer season.

Culatra and Farol are also worth visiting, especially if you enjoy fishing villages, long beaches and peaceful walks.

The ferries from Olhão operate throughout the year, although there are fewer departures during autumn and winter. I would recommend checking the return ferry before travelling, as the last departures can be much earlier than during the summer months.

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