The Algarve that matters: Roadmap of the best choices

We divided this work into four categories: eating, with the best restaurants; drink with a selection of bars; diving, with beaches not to be missed; and sleep, with irresistible hotels.

Eat

You can eat well in the Algarve. The phrase, in fact, could be written in any Portuguese region. But the Algarve is - for geographical and demographic reasons - more versatile than most of them in terms of gastronomy. Fish and shellfish stand out for obvious reasons. But inside there is fabulous food for sustenance, long stews, meat from well-bred animals and a remarkable variety of sausages. As for haute cuisine, the region is very well served: only Michelin-starred restaurants are eight. We start with those specializing in fish and shellfish.

Ribeira do Poço, Vila do Bispo

Mr. Álvaro, owner of this classic Vila do Bispo, is a man beaten in the art of choosing the best fish and seafood for the window of his restaurant. Only the best raw material of the region enters there. If the charges are thin, do not buy. If the barnacles are still not good, ditto. The requirement is synonymous with the full house in summer: it is advisable to arrive early or have a lot of patience to wait for a table.

R. Ribeira do Poço, 11, Vila do Bispo.

Sítio do Rio, Carrapateira

Restaurants such as Sítio do Rio are the absolute proof that when the fish is fresh and the grill is competent you do not have to invent much to satisfy customers. Thanks to an excellent network of contacts between the local fishermen, every day, live samples of neighbouring waters are delivered here, which the grill treats with the necessary dignity.

Estrada da Praia da Bordeira, Carrapateira.