Must-Do Activities: Reasons to Visit the Algarve in Autumn

Need reasons to visit the Algarve in autumn? This region transforms with the seasons, and autumn, being the calmest time of the year, holds a special place in the hearts of those who visit the Algarve during this time. The landscapes take on new hues: the leaves turn yellow, and the sky, in the evening, is bathed in an orange light. The best part is that temperatures remain pleasant, perfect for long outdoor walks without the summer crowds.

If you enjoy exploring the more authentic side of your destinations, autumn in the Algarve offers unique traditions: local festivals, roasted chestnuts, deserted beaches, and stunning scenery, all enveloped in the tranquillity of this season.

Have you booked your autumn holiday yet? If not, find out what you can't miss! Explore unique places, take part in must-do activities, and enjoy unforgettable days in the Algarve.

Photo by Annie Spratt – Unsplash

1.    Watching the Sunset in Autumn in the Algarve

We’ve already mentioned that the end of the day in the Algarve has a special magic in autumn. The region offers numerous spots to sit and admire nature’s most beautiful spectacle. With mild temperatures, you can watch the sunset over the horizon without any clouds getting in the way. One of the most popular places to see the sunset is in Sagres, specifically at Cape St. Vincent. Arrive early, choose a comfortable spot, and bring some snacks and a jacket, as this area is known for being windy. To find out the exact sunset time in Sagres, please check this sunrise and sunset timetable website.

Alternatively, you can opt for a tour organised by one of our partners to watch the sunset. For more information, visit the reception at Belmar Resort.

If this is one of your favourite pastimes, discover other locations in the Algarve to enjoy the magnificent sunset.

2.    Birdwatching Festival 2024

The iconic Birdwatching Festival in Sagres is happening this weekend. From the 3rd to the 6th of October, Sagres will once again welcome nature enthusiasts with a passion for photography, birdwatching, artistic drawing workshops, kayaking tours, and many other activities that celebrate the wildlife and flora of the Costa Vicentina. Activities require registration, which can be done online through the festival's official website.

3.    Algarve Classic Festival – Algarve International Circuit

With cooler weather arriving, classic cars are coming to the Algarve. For car enthusiasts, this is an event not to be missed. The classic car meeting will be at the renowned Algarve International Circuit from the 25th to the 27th of October. For three days, the iconic AIA track will host motorsport legends, including Formula 1 cars, GTs, and many others that have made their mark in motorsport history.

To purchase tickets for this event, visit the Algarve International Circuit's website.

4.    Magusto in Monchique

Magusto celebrations happen across the country, but each region has its traditions. In the Western Algarve, the most iconic Magustos occur in the small villages of the Monchique mountains. Alferce and Marmelete, with around 400 and 700 inhabitants, come alive on 1st November, drawing people in search of the best-roasted chestnuts. The traditional festival attracts visitors to taste chestnuts roasted over small bonfires in the main square. During the event, there are Portuguese folk music concerts and traditional dances. It's common to find stalls selling medronho, melosa, and regional sweets. To check this year's Magusto programme, visit the Monchique Municipality website.

5.    Sweet Potato Festival in Aljezur

We continue to explore the typical flavours of the Algarve, this time in Aljezur, a municipality where the countryside meets the sea on the horizon. Every year, Aljezur celebrates the sweet potato with a festival dedicated to this antioxidant-rich tuber. The event, running from the 24th to the 26th of November 2024, showcases new culinary approaches, with various stalls promising to liven up the evenings by offering dishes where the sweet potato takes centre stage, along with regional sweets and local crafts. In addition to sweet potatoes, the Algarve region offers a wide variety of rich flavours. If you wish to explore a culinary route during your holiday, follow the suggestions in this article.

Do you enjoy genuine places where tradition is still alive? Autumn in the Algarve could be the perfect season for your holiday. During the autumn and winter months, the so-called off-season, everything becomes more authentic: the landscapes take on autumnal hues, and the peaceful days create a serene atmosphere. Take advantage of this season to enjoy quality moments with your family, away from the summer bustle, at Belmar Spa & Beach Resort.