Mazagón & Algarve: Summer Road Trip

1. Day 1 Arrival in the Algarve & Drive to Mazagón

   Adventure awaits! Begin your journey by picking up your rental car in Algarve and heading towards Mazagón, Spain. The drive takes just 1 hour and 30 minutes, spanning over 141 kilometers (87 mi). 

   Once in Mazagón, here is our suggestion for the day:

   • Upon arrival, settle into your hotel and unwind by enjoying the amenities, such as the pool and bars. Take a stroll along the promenade to get a feel for the town and its coastal atmosphere. In the evening, dine at a beachfront restaurant, savoring fresh seafood and traditional Spanish cuisine while enjoying views of the sunset.
2. Day 2 Free Day for Personal Activities (Mazagón)

   Suggestion for the day:

   • Head to Playa de Mazagón, the main beach in the area, and spend the morning soaking up the sun, swimming in the refreshing waters, and enjoying beach activities like beach volleyball or paddleboarding.
   • Drive to nearby Matalascañas, a charming seaside town known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant atmosphere. Don't miss the opportunity to visit Playa de Matalascañas, a stunning stretch of golden sand backed by rolling dunes and clear blue waters. (30-min drive)
   • Return to Mazagón and as the sun begins to set, take a stroll along the promenade in Mazagón, enjoying the cool ocean breeze and stunning views.
3. Day 3 Free Day for Personal Activities (Mazagón)

   Suggestion for the day:

   • Drive to Doñana National Park, one of Spain's most important natural reserves. Explore the park's diverse ecosystems, including marshlands, dunes, and forests, and keep an eye out for wildlife like birds, deer, and even the elusive Iberian lynx. (15-min drive)
   • For your final afternoon in Mazagón, consider heading into nearby Huelva to explore the city's historic center. 
     • Casa Colón
     • Plaza de las Monjas
     • Huelva Cathedral
     • Odiel River
4. Day 4 Drive to Algarve

   As your time in Mazagón comes to an end, it's time to bid farewell and set your sights on the Algarve for the final leg of your adventure. Get ready to embark on an exciting journey as you drive back to the Algarve, where new experiences and memories await.

   Suggestion for the day:

   • Spend the day indulging in your hotel's amenities and soaking up the Algarve's sun. Whether you choose to unwind in the nearby beaches or lounging by your hotel pool with a refreshing cocktail, embrace the laid-back vibe of a leisurely afternoon.
5. Day 5 Free Day for Personal Activities (Algarve)

   Suggestion for the day:

   • Visit Albufeira. Albufeira is renowned for its picturesque beaches, vibrant nightlife, and rich history, making it one of the most popular destinations in the Algarve. Visitors flock to Albufeira to enjoy its stunning coastline, which boasts beautiful sandy beaches like Praia da Oura and Praia dos Pescadores, perfect for sunbathing and water sports. In addition to its beaches, Albufeira offers a wealth of cultural and historical attractions. The historic center, known as the Old Town, is characterized by its charming cobbled streets, traditional white-washed buildings, and lively atmosphere. Here, you'll find historic landmarks such as the Clock Tower, as well as bustling squares and vibrant markets.
6. Day 6 <b>Boat Tour & Beach Barbecue (Included)</b>

   From 10 AM to 4:30 PM

   • Experience a breathtaking boat tour, complete with a beach barbecue experience along the stunning Algarve coastline. Sail past hidden caves, including the iconic Benagil Cave, before reaching an isolated beach for a delicious barbecue prepared by our experienced crew. You will have at your disposal equipment to enjoy every second, such as stand-up paddle boards.
   • Points of interest: São Rafael area to Senhora da Rocha area
   • Highlights: Arco do Triunfo / Gruta do Capitão / Praia do Submarino

   Included:
   Welcome, snack on board;
   BBQ menu (grilled shrimp, grilled meat – turkey kebab, pork and poultry sausage, grilled fish, chips, Algarve salad, seasonal fruit);
   Vegetarian menu must be requested in advance when buying the experience;
   Open bar on the beach and the boat (water, soft drinks, beer, white/red wine and sangria).

7. Day 7 Free Day for Personal Activities (Algarve)

   Suggestion for the day:

   • Explore Portimão. Portimão, renowned for its breathtaking coastline, beckons travelers with its pristine beaches, rugged cliffs, and azure waters. Visitors are drawn to its iconic shores, including Praia da Rocha and Praia dos Três Irmãos, where golden sands meet the Atlantic Ocean in a picturesque embrace. Delve into the town's storied past with a visit to landmarks like the historic Fortaleza de Santa Catarina and the Portimão Museum, offering glimpses into the region's maritime heritage. After a day of exploration, immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Portimão's waterfront, where lively cafes, seafood restaurants, and bars line the bustling marina.
   • End Your Algarve Adventure with a Sunset at the "End of the World": Sagres, nestled on the rugged southwestern coast of the Algarve, is a captivating destination brimming with natural beauty and historical significance. Perched atop towering cliffs overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, the Fortaleza de Sagres offers panoramic views of the coastline and serves as a window into the region's maritime past. Nearby, Cabo de São Vicente beckons visitors to witness one of the most mesmerizing sunsets in the Algarve, as the sun dips below the horizon, casting a warm glow over the dramatic cliffs.
8. Day 8 Return Flight Home

   Thank you for choosing Portugal Getaways. We're excited about the adventures that lie ahead and can't wait to create more unforgettable experiences together. 

Available Experiences

Included

Food & Wine: Beach Barbecue

Optional

Boat Tours: Ponta da Piedade Caves

Additional cost applies

Optional

Boat Tours: Lagos Coast Tour

Additional cost applies

Optional

Wine Tasting: Visit to the Cellar with Wine Tasting and Tapas

Additional cost applies

Optional

Boat Ride: Dolphins & Benagil Caves - Catamaran

Additional cost applies

Optional

Small Group: Benagil 7 Hanging Valleys - Walking Tour

Additional cost applies

Optional

Food &amp; Wine: Sunset Dinner in the Vineyard

Additional cost applies