The beaches of the East Algarve are rich in flora and fauna: here, on a walk along the shore you can discover an activity that has been practised for centuries: the gathering of “conquilha” clams. Why not have a go yourself? On a warm summer’s day, bury your feet in the sand, move it around a bit and you will see small bivalves coming to the surface that are light in colour and have a triangular shell.

Enjoying a unique location overlooking the Ria, Quinta da Ria can be found, the first of two 18-holes courses in this complex. Located in the middle of the Ria Formosa Natural Park, it is regarded by experienced players as one of the most amazing courses in the region. Here it is just you and nature, with no houses or other buildings which could distract you from your game.

Leave home first thing in the morning and take a wander through the streets to visit the traditional shops in the historical cities and towns. While you’re there, buy a cane basket, typical of so many East Algarve counties.

Setting sail in a boat at the mercy of the wind, with water splashing gently on your skin, the smell of the sea and the sunlight glowing on the white sails, this is surely something you would like to experience. And there's no need to wait any longer! Accompanied by a teacher from the Tavira Nautical Club, you can learn how to manoeuvre one of the many picturesque sailing boats that can often be seen sailing in the Ria Formosa and close to the shore.

Life in the countryside, a peaceful setting where you can hide away, the pure air and the unending green of the surrounding fields that are covered with brightly coloured flowers in spring, the fruit trees speckled with white and pink – the colour of the almond blossom – and also the welcoming, family atmosphere: these are all good reasons for getting to know this type of holiday setting.

The Reserva Natural Sapal de Castro Marim e Vila Real de Santo António, a natural paradise that stretches between two beautiful villages, is the perfect scenery for a unique picture and fabulous moments to late remember…