It might not be the height of summer, but the sun still shines in the Algarve during winter! With quieter resorts, lush golf courses and average temperatures in the mid-to-high teens, there’s plenty to get stuck into here.

Whether you’re a keen golfer, a culture vulture or a beach bum, the Algarve is calling your name! Check out these fantastic things to do during winter.

Tee off

For any golfers out there, you’ve just found paradise. The Algarve is home to a fantastic selection of championship courses, where you can while away a day practising your swing in spectacular surroundings.

Check out the 18-hole Alto course. With bunkers, doglegs and plenty of obstacles to negotiate, it’s a guaranteed fun day out on the green. It’s also home to the Sir Henry Challenge, which is thought to be the longest hole in Europe – the perfect place to test out your skills.

Wander the board walk

The Algarve boasts some of the most spectacular coastlines you’ll see, and what better way to see them than from the Alvor boardwalk? This fantastic installation allows you to wander among some of Portugal’s most stunning wildlife. Along the way, you’ll see colourful birds flitting around you, flowers blooming beneath and the stunning seascape on one side.

The raised wooden path stretches for miles, allowing you to explore the wetlands of the Ria de Alvor Nature Reserve at your own, leisurely pace.

Secure your spot on the sand

Although it might not be as hot as it is in the summer, the Algarve still offers plenty of sunshine during winter. So, if you’re after a dose of vitamin D, this famously beautiful coastline is the place to be.

Visit coves like Praia dos Salgados for soft sand, plenty of sunbeds and clear waters. Or head to Armação de Pêra, which offers up one of the longest beaches in the Algarve – it’s great for a romantic stroll or finding a quiet spot with plenty of space to chill.

During winter, the number of tourists on the shores will be much smaller than in the summer months, so you’ll have plenty of space to spread out and enjoy the sun.

Enjoy beachfront dining

Al fresco dining isn’t just for summer. In winter, the warm temperatures mean eating at beachfront restaurants is definitely still on the menu. Head towards the shore at your local resort and you should find a lovely smattering of restaurants offering a range of cuisines, with stunning views.

A fantastic example of this is the Arte Nàutica near Armação de Pêra. This stylish beach restaurant offers front-row views of the spectacular sunset, which makes a superb backdrop for a fantastic meal.

See the Algarve from horseback

Known and loved for its stunning natural beauty, there are plenty of trails and walks you can take part in. Along these walks, you’ll find some spectacular panoramas and immerse yourself in this wonderful corner of the world.

But why not take this up a notch? Swap your feet for four hooves and pay a visit to the Algarve Horse Riding Centre. Here you can head out on off-road treks and discover the famously beautiful Ludo Valley or even explore sand dunes.

In the winter months, the slightly cooler temperature makes it a particularly enjoyable time to be out exploring.