Hello. My spouse and I finally decided on going to Portugal. Just bought the tickets today. So excited!!! We've been to Portugal before in 2012, absolutely loved it. Will most likely spend the first four or five days in Lisbon. We'll have five days left. Have thought about going to the Algarve region or Madeira or the after a friend visited the Island for her anniversary, saw the photos and thought it was beautiful. We're in our mid 50's, relatively in good shape/healthy. Are looking for a location to stay that is walkable but still has access to outdoor activities such as hiking but also can just hang out at a cafe for a few drinks and relax. Any ideas? Thanks.
Posted by
Rotterdam, the Netherlands
26 posts
I haven't been to the Algarve region but Madeira is wonderful!
If you decide to go to Madeira, stay in Funchal. Without a rental car, it's best to pick a hotel close to the historical city centre. From there you can make day trips to access the outdoors, either by bus or on guided tours or walks.
Posted by
Tunbridge Wells
6113 posts
The Algarve is mainly about beaches and golf. I would prefer walking in the Alentejo, the area between Lisbon and the Algarve in preference to the touristy Algarve. However, Madeira would be my choice and there are cheap Easyjet tickets available from Lisbon.
Posted by
OP
NYC, NY, usa
148 posts
Thank you. I heard that Madeira can be rather touristy as well. Would like to stay away from crowds, partying, etc. Looking for something within walking distance but that still feels remote.
Posted by
Rotterdam, the Netherlands
26 posts
Yes, it is touristy. And there's a lot of urban sprawl around Funchal, so I'm not sure what to advise for a remote place within walking distance. In the suburbs there are also many beautiful gardens and small banana plantations, but I wouldn't call that remote. However, many hotels have wonderful ocean views and are great for relaxing.
The most beautiful scenery and the best hikes are out of walking distance from hotels. You'll have to take a bus, taxi or hire a car to get to the start of those trails and back to the hotel.
Posted by
Porto, Portugal
80 posts
Hello candi,
I believe that with just five days left after Lisbon, the best choice would be Algarve or Alentejo for that matter. If you pick Madeira, you'll spend time on airports/flights that you can enjoy on trips or hikes.
If you like hiking, then I'd recommend Costa Vicentina (between Alentejo and the Algarve). It's close to the coastline and there are many circular hiking trails and longer ones... this part of the country is not as touristy as the major cities/towns in the Algarve nor in Madeira (Funchal).
Enjoy Portugal ;)