OUTDOOR
SIX OF THE BEST
OUTDOOR
SIX OF THE BEST
Laura Shea checks out the Algarve’s best picnic spots and picks her favourites
1. Parque de Merendas da Praia da Marinha, Lagoa
There are few things in life more soothing for the soul than being able to look out to crystal blue waters and listen to the waves rolling in. Luckily for anyone in the Algarve, this is an easy thing to find year-round.
The Marinha Beach picnic area gives everything that could be desired from a late afternoon snack spot, and you won’t even get sand in your sandwiches!
Perched on the cliff top, this lookout is easy to get to, has plenty of parking and will give breathtaking views any time of the day, 365 days of the year.
Either begin or end your day out here, but do not miss the chance to walk part of the famous Seven Hanging Valleys trail from this area.
2. Fonte Grande Parque de Merendas, Alte
A stunning little find, Fonte Grande is a beautifully laid out, stone terraced area that is loved by local families when the sun is shining.
Popular with so many due to the spring-fed water in which you can swim, there is a café (open seasonally), toilets and picnic tables dotted around.
You can bring your own food and drink, and even make use of the barbecues that are there – you only need to bring your provisions!
Shaded areas are available as well, and there is plenty of space to enjoy a walk or some games with the kids.
Get there early to nab a table and grill!
3. Parque Municipal do Sítio das Fontes, Estombar
If you fancy having your picnic with a watery view, then this is definitely the spot for you.
Located on the left bank of the Arade River, the park gets its name from the many natural springs that are here, and these springs have created an incredible variety of habitats for flora and fauna.
Bird watchers love this area due to the kingfisher sightings, but the entire view from the trail is stunning and it is all topped off by enjoying your lunch on one of the many comfy tables laid out.
A visit to the watermill and Algarve house is not to be missed.
4. Caldas de Monchique, Monchique
Nestled in the Serra de Monchique mountains, this area is well worth an explore, especially for the history buffs out there.
The thermal springs here make this a favoured spa retreat just as much today as it was in Roman times, and the beautiful architecture all around tells the stories of times gone by.
The Fonte dos Amores is a stunning little park which provides a perfect afternoon stroll and you will be spoilt for choice on where to stop to enjoy your picnic and soak up the sun.
The town itself offers an almost tropical vibe and is a truly special spot in the Algarve.
5. Jardim das Comunidades, Almancil
With a central location and easy parking, this is the ideal place to go to meet friends and hang out on the soft grass with a basket full of tasty goodies.
There are clean public toilets, Wi-Fi throughout the park, and a café a short walk across the road if you need a coffee or tea to go with your picnic.
The small lake is home to a host of wildlife such as turtles and fish, and an ingenious design of floating cork islands allows plants to grow, improving the water quality and attracting nesting birds.
This is one of the nicest picnic spots available if you want convenience, nature and amenities.
6. Jardim da Alameda João de Deus, Faro
This is the ideal spot if you fancy a couple of hours watching the world go by.
The park, in the heart of the Algarve capital, is popular with all ages, and the cafés inside get busy with school children grabbing an ice cream as an end-of-day treat.
Find a picnic bench, get comfy and spend the afternoon with the peacocks and statues for a mindful meal.
On the way out make sure to check out the pond and secret garden for a last shot of fairy tale beauty.
