As the majestic Everest beckons adventurers to its lofty heights and the enigmatic ruins of Machu Picchu lure thrill-seekers to the Andes, there is one destination that has recently captured my heart for a delightful November hiking getaway: the Algarve. With its unparalleled accessibility, irresistible charm, and unwavering hospitality towards British visitors, it was the Portuguese region which left me yearning to return.

On being driven from Faro Airport to the Westin Salgados Beach Resort after a three hour flight from Birmingham International, my driver summarised the draw of the Algarve that attracts over 4 million UK visitors each year: “The British come for a holiday, then simply fall in love.” A bold claim indeed, and I was about to find out why the high-season hotspot known best for its world-beating beaches such as the over three miles-long sands of Praia da Marinha appeals off-season for travellers looking for a deeper connection.

My journey would take me from the bustling coastal tourists hubs into the breathtaking Monchique mountain range, home to the region’s highest peak, Fóia, standing tall at 2,960 feet. As I embarked on my first late afternoon trek along the ecologically vital Salgados Lagoon, my knowledgeable birding guide, João Ministro, revealed a key factor that keeps certain UK tourists returning year after year: “This region is one of the most important to some of the most precious migrating birds from Africa – we have Greater Flamingo, Purple Swamphen, and Kingfisher.”

I discovered that the British, and notably the UK’s RSPB, have played a pivotal role in studying and protecting several bird species I spotted within just a couple of hours from the walkways and hides, making this area one of Europe’s most cherished bird-watching destinations. This contribution might explain the locals’ warmth towards visitors from our shores. The Algarve’s commitment to preserving its natural heritage and the collaborative efforts between Portuguese and British conservationists have fostered a deep appreciation for the region’s ecological treasures.

The following morning, I marveled at the topological drama of western Europe’s most spectacular cliff-topped coastlines, the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail, where each corner of the easy trail rewarded with views to rival that of Dorset’s Jurassic coast or Ireland’s wild western Atlantic coast. The Algarve coast boasts magnificent ‘algars’, reminiscent of Mexico’s Yucatan cenotes, carved into the landscape by the sheer force of geology. These water-filled sinkholes connect with the sea under the trails, imbuing each one with a roaring tidal-powered life of its own. These natural wonders can be explored closely by those wishing for a moderately challenging trek, offering a thrilling adventure for nature enthusiasts and hiking enthusiasts alike.

For the final leg of my trip, I indulged in a delectable lunch at the home of piri-piri, Ramires (yes the chicken was better than Nandos), visited the Morgado do Quintao vineyard, guarded by thousand-year-old olive trees and run by the Caldas de Vasconcellos family, and savoured oil-tasting at the home of olive-oil producer Miguel Gonçalo Oliveira Santos Bigodinho before ascending into the Monchique range. The trek, starting from the town of Monchique, covered a five-mile loop through the Percurso das Hortas (Vegetable Garden Path), immersing me in the lush landscapes and rural charm of the region.

My guide for this leg of the trip, Algarve Roots founder Francisco Simões explained: “The Monchiquense see themselves as apart from all others in the Algarve, and you can see why.” I had to agree while I feasted my eyes on views of the ocean that framed the jaw-dropping coast, the Moorish Silves Castle, forests of cork, ancient vineyards and emerald groves I had just traversed. The locals’ pride in their glorious isolation did not hinder their hospitality, as demonstrated by the warm welcome I received upon stumbling into the castanhas assadas (communal chestnut roasting) festival, complete with music and wine-drinking. The experience offered a delightful glimpse into the Algarve’s rich cultural heritage and the enduring traditions that bind its communities together.

On my final night, as I sat under the stars on my balcony, my driver’s words from the first day echoed in my mind: “They come and come again and many eventually live here to become part of us. Trust me you will see why.” And I’m thrilled to say, I absolutely do. The Algarve had captured my heart, just as it has for countless British travellers before me, and I knew that this enchanting corner of Portugal would forever hold a special place in my memories.

Book the holiday

Find out more about the Barão do São João Walk & Art Fest at walkartfest.pt. 

Rates at the Westin Salgados Beach Resort start from £128 a night based on two adults sharing a Deluxe King Room. marriott.com 

Rates at the Monchique Resort and Spa start from £163 a night based on two adults sharing aBalcony Patio Suite with breakfast included. monchiqueresort.com

Tours were booked through ProActiveTur (proactivetur.pt), Algarvian Roots (algarvianroots.com). 

Find out more about the Algarve at visitalgarve.pt/en and algarvewalkingseason.com.