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With fantastic beaches, beautiful countryside, and some great things to do on land and on water, the Algarve region of Portugal is renowned across the world for its local charm, natural environment, and sense of adventure. With great weather all year round, and some stylish places to stay, the Algarve is a top destination for a range of adventure activities.

One of the best ways to get around the Algarve is by bicycle. Whether its the stunning coastline or beautiful nature reserves, cycling in the Algarve is an enjoyable and exciting experience. Whether you are after a one day mountain bike tour, or a week long cycling expedition, there are plenty of hire shops and cycling tour companies that specialise in a range of trips and routes that are suitable for all abilities and ages.

The advantages of cycling in the Algarve are many, with the mild climate, unspoilt tracks and trails, villas in Algarve situated close to many of the best cycling areas, and good bicycles to hire. Cycling holidays in Algarve can be fascinating between February and June, with everything fresh and green and the flowers in bloom.

For uncrowded waves and beautiful beaches, the Algarve is ideal for surfing. Whether you are just starting out in the sport, or are an experience surfer, this is one of the best places in the world to ride a wave. There are many companies that specialise in tuition and dedicated surfing holidays, while its easy to hire a surfboard at many beaches on the Algarve.

Canoeing is also a popular water sport in the Algarve, with some great stretches of coast and inland rivers to explore. The beautiful river of Aljezur runs directly to the charming village of Aljezur, before reaching the coast. Like many rivers and lagoons on the Algarve, a leisurely paddle amongst marshland and grassy flats can be combined with some sea kayaking in the surf and swell. One of the great things about kayaking on the Algarve is that it can bring you closer to nature, with a range of wildlife and geology to explore and discover.

Look out for a Centro Hipico in the Algarve, which is Portuguese for riding centre. Horse riding in the Algarve can be great fun and whether you are a beginner or more experienced, there are plenty of pony treks and tours available. With a choice of countryside or coastal scenery, discovering the Algarve from horseback can be a rewarding and enjoyable experience. Beach rides can be great fun, cantering or gently trotting the sands.

Whatever type of outdoor activities you are keen on, the Algarve has some great places to stay, including a range of stylish villas, where you can enjoy the freedom of self catering and combine it with some great locations for cycling, swimming, trekking, climbing and a range of watersports. Far from the crowds, rock climbing in the Algarve can be both exhilarating, and a chance to find some space and tranquillity amongst nature. Deserted beach crags, hidden forests and secluded sea cliffs all make for a chance to enjoy climbing areas for a range of abilities.

When the sea is flat and the wind is light, rather than simply taking a swim, you could always try out wakeboarding. It works in a similar way to snowboarding or water skiing, and participants are pulled along by boat on a flat board, using the wake from the watercraft to perform a range of tricks and moves.

Getting to the Algarve is easy, with regular flights to Algarve from the UK. With authentic Portuguese culture, good food, and luxurious places to stay, an adventure sports holiday here is ideal any time of the year.