Walking In The Algarve
For many years the Algarve has not been considered as a ‘real’ walking destination, but rather the domain of golfers in winter and sun worshippers during the summer but that opinion is rapidly changing. An increasing number of people are beginning to realise that there is far more to this area than first meets the eye – besides a spectacular and dramatic coastline, there is a huge interior that sees very few visitors. Here the varied geology helps produce a rich range of scenery from volcanic hills to dramatic limestone escarpments. This diversity is complemented by the local flora and fauna that flourish in the equable climate of mild, sunny winters and long, hot summers. All this, combined with a local population that is warm and generous, makes walking here fascinating.
When To Go
The Algarve has one of the best climates in Europe, with an average annual temperature of 17C. The summers are long, hot and dry and the blue skies can be guaranteed day after day and not ideal for long walks unless you want to start at sunrise.
The idea months for walking are late September through to early June. Springs is particulary lovelt: in Janurary and February millions of almond trees come into flower, producing beautiful blossoms in profusion before the leaves appear, so the whole hillsides have a pink and white glow. The spring flowers also begin to appear and are in full bloom during March and April, when orange blossoms fills the air with a heady fragrant scent.
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Did you know: Look out for farmers selling oranges and lemons by the side of the road. You will be doing them a favour if you stop and buy from them. The EC rules insist that the fruit must be graded for size and quality to be sold in supermarkets. Unfortunately for many farmers their plots are to small for the grading scheme, so they have to sell their sweet fruit my the side of the road.
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Wild Flowers
The Algarve's wide varirty of soil types and habitats and mild and sunny climate, combine to produce an astonishing range of flowering plants and shrubs. These are at their best from February to June, when the whole landscape; from the highest mountains to the coastal cliffs are enriched by blazes of colour. In September and October the flowering season begins again and the tall spikes of the sea squill shoot up from their enormous bulbs before the leaves emerge.
Birds & Wildlife
The fine climate, rich variety of habitats and position at the southwestern corner of Europe all combine to make the Algarve a haven for many birds. Over 200 species inhabit the area or pass through it during spring and summer migrations. Bird enthusiasts visit during these times, keep watch on the sea cliffs at Cape St. Vincent to observe the passage of gannets, skuas, terns, shearwaters and other seabirds. For the interrested walker, many seabirds are resident and can readily be seen in the area around the apartment.
Away from the coast and especially in the mountains one bird likely to catch the eye is the azure winged magpie, with its bright blue. One many hill walks, particularly near woodlands, woodpeckers are frequently heard calling. There are three species: green, greater-spotted and lesser-spotted. These areas are also good for crested tits.
The scrubland of the barrocal and lower hill slopes make an ideal habitat for small songbirds. Sardinian Warblers are everywhere, stonechats are often seen perched on top of a long stalk, and flocks of goldfinches a frequent sight. Black redstarts are common, as are chiffchaffs, meadow pipits, robins and Crag Martins.
Of particular interest are the many storks that nest on town chimneys as well as treetops and electricity pylons. Other exotic birds to be seen are large colonies of flamingos and the avocets. More rare is the purple gallinule, a large bird with purple plumage which can be see in a number of nature reserves in the Algarve.
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The Apartment
The apartment is ideal for walkers. Located close to the local bus centre where you can get a bus to anywhere in the Algarve. People over 60 can claim a free bus pass which entitles you to free use of all buses in the region (the cost of the card is appox €5.00) The apartment also has a private car paking space making the whole region is very close at hand.
