Fiesa 2010

If you haven't been or don't know about this festival, then make sure you don't miss it this year. Basically a yearly festival of themed sand sculpturing. This year the theme of inspiration is the Living World. The fauna and flora of the five continents, since prehistory to the present day.. Consisting of over 35,000 tonnes of sand and 60 sculptors. Throughout the summer there are also concerts and other events.
Tickets : Up to 5 years: Free, From 6 to 12 years: € 4.50, Adults: € 8. More than 65 years: 15% discount. Special Prices for groups, kindergartens and schools (contact us).
As the FIESA is an outdoor enclosure. In case of adverse weather conditions the organization is not responsible for any lack of technical conditions or, for the same reasons, there is change in opening times.
Open :22 May, 10.00 - 20.00, daily throughout the Summer.
Closes :22nd October 2010.
Where :From the EN125 at the Pera crossroads follow the signs for Algoz. From the A22 ( motorway ) take the Junction 8 exit signed Algoz / Pera. follow the signs for Pera
Office :From Monday to Friday - from 10.00 to 20.00.
Tel / Fax :(+351) 282 317 084.
Mobile :(+351) 969 459 259.
Email :fiesa@prosandart.com
Web :Fiesa

Activity Algarve

A good, varied mixture of outdoor activities on offer. Walking and Cycling tours ( supervised or not ). Buggy and Quad bike tours. Worth noting is that they will cater for single travellers, providing a complete package with transfers, accommodation and selection of activities or single walking or cycling tours ( excludes flights ).
Mobile :(+351) 913 226 954.
Address - U.K. :Activity Algarve, 87a High Street, Newmarket. Suffolk. England. CB8 8UG.
E-Mail :paul.beesley
Web :Activityalgarve

Tour Raid

Moto X, Paintball, Jet Skiing, Water skiing. Multi sports. Moto Cross / Scrambling in the Monchique mountains. Surfing and Body boarding, Paintballing.
Where :Sitio da Alcaria - Alvor. 8500 Portimão
Tel :(+351) 282 457 263.
Fax :(+351) 282 457 263.
E-mail :ip275804@ip.pt
Web :Touraid

Beach Hut
Watersports Centre

The beach hut has most every water sport possible. Dolphin tours, boat trips to Sagres and the grottos, parasailing. Fun rides: flyfish, banana and ringos, waterski, wakeboard, sailing, windsurf, surf and kayaks. RYA Training Center, courses and lessons on all sports. They have Junior Water sports Days, fun & learning water sports ( 8-16yrs ) from 10.00 - 17.00, twice weekly, ( booking essential ).
Open :April to the end of October.
Where :Praia da Luz ( beach bar end ), look for flags.
Mobile :(+351) 919 760 773.
Mobile :(+351) 919 553 476.
Email :info@beachhutwatersports.com
Web :Beachhutwatersports.com

Parque da Floresta
Golf & Leisure resort.

Quite a collection of other sports and recreation available at this golfing complex.
Where :Budens 8650-060
Tel :(+351) 282 690 000.
Web :Parquedafloresta.com

CloudHopper Ballooning.

3 - 3.5 hour flights. Early mornings and late afternoons. Various launch sites along the Algarve.
Where :Portimao.
Tel :(+351) 965 112 557.

AlternativTour Monchique

This company features several times on these pages as it seems to be the only (established) one that caters for the slightly diverse sports and past times in the (western) Algarve. See also Mountain Biking and Climbing categories.
Cost :Adults: €35 Children (to 15): €20, including equipment, transport, picnic, water and insurance. (2006)
Where :Sitio das Relvinhas, Apartado 122, 8550-909 - Monchique
Tel :(+351) 282 913 204.
Mobile :(+351) 965 004 337.
Fax :(+351) 282 911 405.
Web :Algarve Portal

Hotel Algarve Casino

This is the nearest to Luz, about 45 minutes drive. Open in the afternoon, the Casino has modern slot machines and table games - Roulette (American and French) and Blackjack. In the evening, there is also the Aladino Restaurant with its international shows and live musical entertainment. Casinos will charge an entrance fee. Foreign visitors must produce their passport. Men are usually required to wear jackets and ties. I've seen discount vouchers for here being given out in the street (Alvor) and in hotel / resort receptions.
Where :Located at Praia da Rocha just by Portimao.
Web :Portugalvirtual.pt

Solverde Group

There are three casinos belonging to the Solverde group in the Algarve:
Vilamoura, Espinho and Monte Gordo.
They offer staged entertainment as well as gaming rooms. The nearest (of this group) to Luz is the casino at Vilamoura, which is about an hour+ drive from Luz. Nightly show, Dancing, The Restaurant has full and tourist menus.
Open:from 17:00 - 03:00.
Where :Vilamoura, 8125-410 Quarteira.
Tel :(+351) 289 310 000.
Fax :(+351) 289 310 099.
E-mail :casinovilamoura@solverde.pt
Web :Solverde.pt

AlternativTour Monchique

Fully qualified instructors, professionally organised climbs at various locations in the beautiful Monchique mountains.
Address :Sitio das Relvinhas, Apartado 122, 8550-909 Monchique.
Tel :(+351) 282 913 204.
Fax :(+351) 282 911 405.
Mobile :(+351) 965 004 337.
Web :Alternativtour

Barringtons Leisure Centre

Club for cricketers. All players welcome.
Where :Barringtons Leisure Centre, Vale de Lobo
Tel :(+351) 289 396 622

Browns Sports & Leisure Club

Sports training centre for professional athletes and players including athletics, rugby, football, hockey and cricket.
Where :Caminhos dos Golfes, Vilamoura, 8125-426 Quarteira
Tel :(+351) 289 322 740
Email :browns-club
Web :Browns-club

Passeios do Sodueste

( Not on the Map )
Guided bicycle rides.
Tel :(+351) 282 761 720.

Pedal in Portugal

( Not on the Map )
Guided or independent bicycle rides. From day trips to extended trips with accommodation, luggage transfers etc., Quality cycles and breakdown service available.
Address :Apartado 149, 8651-909, Vila do Bispo, ( Portugal )
Tel :(351) 965 753 033
U.K. :225 Fakenham Road, Taverham, Norwich NR8 6RQ, ( England )
Tel - UK :(0871) 711 3315
Email :portugalwalks.com
Web :pedalinportugal

Megasport Portugal

( Not on the Map )
Various guided or independent bicycle rides ( Vilamoura, Quinta do Lago, Faro ). Bicycle and breakdown service available, free delivery in the Algarve.
Address :Estrada Nacional 125, km 89 Quatro Estradas. 8100-321 Loulé - Algarve - Portugal
Tel :(+351) 289 393 044
 (+351) 962 010 661
 (+351) 918 577 519
Email :Rentabike
Web :megasport.pt

Algarve-Dolphins

Guaranteed to see Dolphins ( or a free trip next time ). Using semi rigid inflatables (can be quite bone shaking), you travel out for a 90 minute run with the dolphins.
When :Departures every hour.
Where :Algarve Dolphins operate out of Lagos Marina (by the train station). Tickets from the Bom Dia ticket office. Marina de Lagos, 10.8600 Lagos. (next to the Pizza Hut)
Tel :(+351) 282 087 587.
Fax :(+351) 282 764 672.
E-mail :Algarve-dolphins
09/2007Web :Algarve Dolphins

Algarve Stadium ( Faro ) - Estádio Algarve

The really smart 30,000 seater ( built Oct 2003 ) is home to both first division club SC Farense and Loulé's Louletano. Built for Euro 2004, it is now no longer overly used.
Where :The new stadium is located in São João da Venda, midway between Faro and Loulé, and is part of the new Parque das Cidades development, which includes a botanical garden, landscaped spaces, a lake and a nine-hole golf course. Ask in any bar in Luz for the weeks matches (if any). You'll see it on the way out from Faro Airport.
Then nearest 'decent' team is Portimonense in Portimao who play in the Liga da Honra (roughly the equivalent to the Championship in England i.e. the level below the Superliga / Premiership.) The nearest Superliga teams are way up in Lisbon i.e. Benfica, Sporting etc but as all their games are live on TV they are always in the evenings so you can easily watch them at most 'local' bars.
Directions for Faro ground: The stadium is located 8km north-west of Faro on the road to Loulé. Using the railway from Faro (to Lisbon),  there is a stop at Parque das Cidades.
Directions for the Portimao ground: Much nearer Luz is the ground at Portimao, which is a local pitch located in the middle of the town. Matches are more regularly played here. Ask in any bar in Luz for the weeks fixtures.
Web :Parquecidades-eim.pt

More than 200 varieties of fish are to be found in Portuguese waters. Even from the beach there is a good chance of landing sole, plaice, bream or bass. There is good fishing from the extensive rocks or cliffs adjoining the beach at Praia da Luz. At greater depths skate, mackerel and tuna can be caught.
Lagos, Vilamoura and Portimao are the centres of big game fishing, where you can join regular organized trips. The nearest proper' tackle shop I've found (so far) is in the old town part of Lagos, cheaper 'holiday' kit can be purchased at Intermarche superstore, Lagos.

The Portuguese seem to have little or no interest in coarse fishing, which is amazing given the number of places, and fish to be caught in Portugal. Some serious thought needs to be given before you start out ( rod & tackle wise ) as you are quite likely to catch something big. In the rivers you can find a wide variety of Carp, Barbel, Pike, Nase, Tench, Lamprey and Eels. The reservoirs hold Tench (9.2kg), Carp (32.65Kg) and wide-mouth Bass. Wherever you choose to setup, it will never get crowded / over fished so its a great place to experiment with your baits ( but bread / luncheon meat can do just as well ). Most of the fishing is between the region of Lisbon and the Algarve. In the south is the huge, pretty much empty region of Alentejo where there are several reservoirs. The nearest reservoir to the Algarve coast is the one near Bensafrim ( X ) or the river that runs through Silves( H ) to Portimao.
When :Generally the freshwater fishing season runs between April and November.
• Night fishing is not allowed ( currently ) in Portugal, e.g. fishing is not allowed between sunset and sunrise.
• 'Wild camping' is also not allowed ( Use authorised camping sites only ).
• A permit is required to fish on inland lakes, reservoirs and waterways. A passport or identity document is needed for the application.
• Two rods maximum allowed.
A couple of useful links to freshwater fishing in Portugal.
Web :Flap-holidays.com - probably the most comprehensive site. They do various packages. The basic being the 'Fish it yourself' for €45, this includes licenses and maps and latest info for the area you are fishing.
Web :Algarve.angloinfo.com - General Information, addresses, seasonal variations and locations.
Web :Tightlines-portugal.com - This site covers fishing at Silves amongst other locations

Pescamar

Catch and Release Big Game fishing out of Lagos marina. Marlin, Shark & bottom fishing. 33ft sport fishing boat. If you are an experienced fisherman you would be advised to let them them know at the time of booking otherwise they will 'take control' as they will naturally assume you are an amateur ( like me ). This is fine for me but perhaps a bit aggravating for the 'pro'. As of September 2008 it was €75 p.p. for about six hours shark fishing.
Where :Full details and pricing at Marina de Lagos.
Mobile :(+351) 966 193 431.
Fax :(+351) 282 789 272.
09/2008Web :Pescamar.info

Espadarte do Sul

Complete fishing trips from Lagos harbour, including coastal trips, snorkelling and big game fishing.
Information provided daily from 8am to 7pm at the number below.
Where :Doca Pesca - Armazém 4. 8600 - 000 - Lagos.
Tel :(+351) 282 761 820.

Surpesca

Complete fishing trips from Portimao
Where :Rua de Santa Isabel, nº 35 - 8500 - 000 - Portimão.
Mobile : (+351) 966 003 147.
Fax :(+351) 282 415 136.

Vampira

Complete fishing trips.
Where :Apartado 1308, 8125 - 000 - Quarteira - Loulé.
Tel :(+351) 289 313 939.
Fax :(+351) 289 313 160.

Estemar

Complete fishing trips.
Where :Praia da Arrifana - Snack Bar "A Tasquinha" - Apartado 903-A, 8670 - 111 - Aljezur
Tel :(+351) 282 997 300.

Gerry Breen / Algarve Airsports Centre

Lagos Aerodrome offers plane and microlight flights, aviation courses and lessons.
Where :Aeródromo de Lagos, E.N. 125 - apartado 254, Lagos.
Tel :(+351) 282 762 906.
Fax :(+351) 282 762 906.
E-Mail :fly@gerrybreen.com
Web :Gerry Breen

Aero Algarve

Has been established for 30 years. Sightseeing flights from £90.00 for up to three people. Plane rental, Workshops.
Open :7 days. 10.00 until 18.00 ( flying ).
Where :Based at Portimao Aerodrome which is in fact on the outskirts of Alvor
Tel :(0351) 282 495 828 (Office)
Fax :(0351) 282 416 784
Mobile :(0351) 964 954 279 direct line to Ken Tomsett (Owner)
E-mail :info@AeroAlgarve.com
Web : Aeroalgarve.com

Aerovip

Transport, Cargo, Rental, Tourist, Film / Photography, Workshops. The largest company to operate out of the airport.
Where : The Aerodromo Municipal de Portimao which is actually located at Alvor. From the A22 Alvor exit ( 4 ). Follow the signs to Alvor by crossing over two traffic roundabouts. The airfield is about 2 km on the right side. The car park entrance is just before the sharp left hand bend.
Address : Aeródromo Municipal de Portimão, Hangar 3 Montes de Alvor 8500-059 Alvor
Tel :(+351) 282 496 593
Fax :(+351) 282 496 594
E-mail :aerovip@aerovip.pt
Web :Aerovip.pt

See the separate Golf page for details.

Karting Algarve

the 760m race circuit is a replica of the Jacarepagua Formula 1 circuit in Brazil. 160cc / 200cc / 400cc models available. There are also various other rides and attractions at the track including a mechanical bull, trampolines and electric boats.
Open :10.00 - 22.00. ( Winter 20.00 )
Prices :Adults: €15 - €25.00, Kids:Children: €5 - €11 ( depending on the type of kart you rent and duration of hire ).
Address :Kartodromo de Almancil, Sitio das Pereiras
Where :Almancil - Situated 8 kilometres from Vilamoura and open all year round,
Tel :(+351) 289 399 899.
Web :Kartingalgarve.com

Autodromo Algarve Motor Park

 05/2009  The Motor Race track is up and running, the Karting facilities are currently under construction.
Where :Sign posted from the N125 & A22 - just outside Portimao.
Tel :(+351) 289 414 330.
Fax :(+351) 289 414 545.
Web :Autodromodoalgarve.

Ocean Club (Luz Bay)

A self-contained holiday centre with gym, 5 tennis courts and 3 swimming pools.
Where :Ocean Club (Luz Bay) Praia da Luz.
Tel :(+351) 282 789 764.

New Forest Lodge

The newly formed Algarve carriage driving club provides an opportunity for members to enjoy life on horse back. To attract more interest in their sport they are offering a very different Sunday. Join them for the Wild west rides every Sunday. Sit back and enjoy the view from one of the well-sprung carriages or ride one of the horses or ponies. Setting out every Sunday morning from the stables and ride out into the national park. Leaving late morning, with a light refreshment break, returning to the Lodge late afternoon for a mouth-watering feast, served either in the log fired dining hall or al fresco on the terrace ( subject to the weather ). Guests who do not wish to ride or drive may dine only. There are plenty of sheltered shady corners to sit and admire the view and watch the horses and you're welcome to wander amongst our forests where you'll see a great variety of bird life and small animals.
Free membership to local residents.
* Horse or Carriage ride included
* Homecoming Dinner with drinks included
More... :Brochure (.pdf)
Cost : 45€ p.p.
Cost :( Dinner only ) 25€ p.p.
When :Sundays, about 11.30 - 16.00. Dining 17.00 approx.
Where :( 10km north of Lagos ). From Bensafrim roundabout follow N120 direction Aljezur for 6km Look out for the sign opposite. Turn left onto a dirt road and continue for 2km.
Address : Corte Pero Jaques
Tel :(+351) 917 934 864.
Tel :(+351) 914 225 892.
Email :david@horsesinthesun.com
Web :HorsesInTheSun.com

Tiffany's Riding Center

Established 15 years. All rides are led by a fully qualified guide who knows the horses and has excellent knowledge of the local area and the flora, birds and other wildlife.
Where :Centro Hípico Tiffany's, 1677-E Almádena, 8600-102 Luz de Lagos.
Tel :(+351) 282 697 395.
Fax :(+351) 282 697 395.
Email :tiffanys@mail.telepac.pt
Web : Valegrifo.com
Web :TeamTiffanys

Quinta do Paraíso Alto

Special West Coast Rides, Beginners courses, Packages.
Where :Bensafrim, 8600 - Lagos.
Tel :(+351) 282 687 263.
Tel :(+351) 282 687 596.
Tel :(+351) 282 789 801.
Fax :(+351) 282 687 507.
Fax :(+351) 282 788 307.
Web :Gpahorseriding.com

Horse Shoe Ranch

A comprehensive range of packages.
Where :Apartado 43, 8501-903 - Mexilhoeira Grande.
Tel :(+351) 282 471 304.
Fax :(+351) 282 471 304.
Web :Horseshoeranch.de

Quinta da Bica

A friendly riding centre offering activities for the whole family with quadbike tours, kyaking, mountain biking and jeep safaris as well as horse riding. Catering for all ages and abilities.
Who :Hugo Oliveira & Katharine Cook.
Where :Quinta da Bica, caixa postal 380 p, Pedreiras São Bartolomeu de Messines 8375 – 052 - Silves.
Tel :(+351) 282 332 746.
Mobile :(+351) 914 795 301.
E-mail :info@algarveadventures.com
Web :Algarveadventures

Quinta da Gil

Catering for Novices, Intermediate and Advanced.
Where :Estrada Nacional 125, Lombos 8400-411 - Lagoa
Mobile :(+351) 966 619 136.
E-mail :jill@quinta-da-gill.com
Web :Quinta da Gill ( 01/09/09 Site under redevelopment )

Herdade do Castanheiro

Courses for Novices, Intermediate and Advanced riders. Also caters for handicapped children.
Where :P- 8600-080 - Bensafrim, Lagos.
Tel :(+351) 282 687 502.
Fax :(+351) 282 687 502.
E-mail :herdade.do.castanheiro@netc.pt
Web :Herdadade do Castenheiro

Centro Hípico Vale de Ferro

30 horses on 10 hectares.
Where :Mexilhoeira Grande - 8500 - Portimão
Tel :(+351) 282 968 444.
Fax :(+351) 282 968 443.
E-mail :valedeferro@iol.pt
Web :Algarvehorseholidays.com

Quinta Martins Riding Centre

Where :Areeiro, 8100 - Loulé
Tel :(+351) 289 395 529.
E-mail :mdickinson@sapo.pt
Web :Algarveriding.com ( website expired )

Country Riding Center

Where :Quinta da Palmeira - Norinha. 8300 - Silves
Mobile :(+351) 917 976 995.
E-mail :info@countryridingcenter.com
Web :Countryridingcenter.com ( website expired )
Web (2) :Countryridingcenter

Herdade Beiçudo Riding

Contact: Deborah or Henrique Ferra
Where :Vilharinha - Carrapateira. 8670 238 - Aljezur
Tel :(+351) 282 973 184.
Tel :(+351) 282 973 184.
Mobile :(+351) 967 059 551.
Mobile :(+351) 967 095 937.

Ice Skating

A winter only special. A 10m high ice ramp as well as an ice rink for children. Complete with an artificial snow fall, ( daily, 11.00 and 17.00 ).
When :December 1st to January 1st.
Where :Almeda Square, Portimao.

Zebra Safari

Explore the Algarve interior from the back of an open topped 4WD. Full day Jeep Safaris including a traditional lunch. Super Combi Safaris - combined boat trip and jeep safari. Aquafun Safari to include a visit to Aquashow. Water Park and jeep safari. Surf Tour - a day surfing on the Sagres coast with all equipment, transport and professional trainers. Pick ups from any resort between Quinta do Lago and Praia da Rocha, but telephone for other places.
Address :Zebra Safaris, Edifício Arcadas S.João - Loja X, Albufeira, Algarve 8200
Prices :(.pdf) - Price List 2009
Tel :(+351) 289 583 300.
Fax :(+351) 289 583 309.
Web :Zebraincentives-portugal.com
Email : joao.zebrasafari@armail.pt

Riosul

A selection of different Safaris are on offer including four wheel drive vehicles, boats and jeeps. The different trips on offer can include lunches and drives through the large Nature Reserves.
Where :Rua Tristão Vaz Teixeira, 15c. 8900-470 Monte Gordo.
Tel :(+351) 281 510 200.
Mobile :(+351) 962 012 112.
Fax :(+351) 281 510 209.
Web :Riosultravel.com

Blo-Karting

Where :On the right hand side on the N125 going toward Sagres. 30 minutes blokarting costs €20 and an hour’s blokarting costs €30 ( 2008 ).
Mobile :(+351) 913 372 332
Mobile :(+251) 967 460 989 to find out whether Blokart Sagres is open before you travel.

Parque da Floresta Golf and Leisure Club

Two all-weather Greengauge greens offering up to 14 Rinks.
Where :Parque da Floresta, Budens 8650-060
Tel :(+351) 282 690 000.

Marina de Lagos

Where :R. Marina Lt. 20, 8600-780 - Lagos.
Tel :(+351) 282 770 210.

Marina de Albufeira

Where :Orada, 8200-371 - Albufeira.
Tel :(+351) 289 510 180.

Marina de Portimão

Where :Pcta. Fortaleza Praia Rocha, 8500-000 - Portimao.
Tel :(+351) 282 770 210.

Sidecar Experience

A truly unique way of sightseeing. A couple of smart, comfortable Honda Gold Wing motorbikes with sidecars operate out of Lagos, by the Marina ( just over the foot bridge ). Professional drivers. 1, 2 and 3 hour tours to Bravura, Sagres or Monchique.
Tel :(+351) 914 307 907.

Algarve Motor Park

The new ( Oct 2008 ) racing circuit is now open and building a good fixture list for 2009. See the Events page for more details. The circuit also hosts national and international motor cycling events. The go-kart course is also about complete. See the web site for fixtures.
Where : Sign posted from the N125 - just outside Portimao.
Tel :(+351) 289 414 330.
Fax :(+351) 289 414 545.
Email :geral@clubeautomovelalgarve.pt
Main Web :Autodromodoalgarve.
Web :Clubeautomovelalgarve.pt

Gerry Breen / Algarve Airsports Centre

Lagos Aerodrome offers plane and microlight flights, aviation courses and lessons.
Where :Aeródromo de Lagos, E.N. 125 - apartado 254, Lagos.
Tel :(+351) 282 762 906.
Fax :(+351) 282 762 906.
E-Mail :fly@gerrybreen.com
Web :Gerry Breen

Roma Golf Park

Two 18 hole courses in a 'roman' setting. Miniature golf for children. Fountains, lakes and gardens for walking. Roman styled club house.
Where :Located right in the centre of Vilamoura and only five minutes walk from the Marina.
Caixa Postal 927, 8125 - Vilamoura.
Tel :(+351) 289 300 800.
Fax :(+351) 289 380 716.
E-mail :romagolfe@mail.telepac.pt
Web : Romagolf

AlternativTour Monchique

Distance: 21 km,  Terrain: tarmac / dirt track,   Duration: 3-4 hours,  Difficulty: average.  Adults: €40.  Children (to 15): €27, including equipment, transport, picnic, water and insurance.
Where :Sitio das Relvinhas, Apartado 122, 8550-909 - Monchique
Tel :(+351) 282 913 204.
Fax :(+351) 282 911 405.
Mobile :(+351) 965 004 337.
Web :Algarve Portal

Municipal Museum Dr José Formosinho

Exhibits include Neolithic artefacts, Roman mosaics found at Boca do Rio near Budens, fragments of statuary and columns, and other remains from excavations along the Algarve.
Replicas of the fret-cut chimneys of the Algarve, three-dimensional cork carvings, 16th-century vestments, ceramics, 17th-century embroidery, ecclesiastical sculpture. An art  gallery, weapons, minerals, and a coin collection.
Hours :Tues - Sun 09.30 - 12.00 and 14.00 - 17.00.  Closed holidays.
Cost :Adults: €2 , Children (11-14): €1.
Where :Rua General Alberto Carlos Silveira - Lagos.
Tel :(+351) 282 762 301.

Municipal Museum Do Portimao

Newly opened in 2008. PORTIMAO’S new municipal museum was inaugurated in  May  by the Minister of Culture, Pinto Ribeiro. The Museum is housed in an old sardine canning factory and it hosts regular, as well as temporary exhibitions that cover art, history and general culture, all of a local and national content. On permanent show are a large selection of donated artefacts from the region, such as industrial equipment, photographs, documents and archaeological and naval pieces, among others. A local fishing boat, built in Galiza, in 1911 and restored by Portimao Town Council is being exhibited outside the museum.
Hours :Tues - Sun 09.30 - 12.00 and 14.00 - 17.00.  Closed holidays.
Cost :Adults: €2 , Children (11-14): €1.
Where :Rua Dom Carlos I. PORTIMÃO, 8500-607 - Portimao.
Tel :(+351) 282 412 238.

Ria Formosa Nature Reserve

Designated as a protected nature reserve, Ria Formosa Nature Reserve covers 60km of coastline from Tavira in the east to Ancao in the west, encompassing almost the entire Formosa Estuary. A bird watchers paradise.

Para-Gliding and Adventure Activities

Sulaventuras
Where :Monte Lemos - Apt 138, Praia da Luz, 8600 Lagos.
Tel :Miguel Mobile : (+351) 919 498 280.
Tel :Paulo Mobile : (+351) 919 760 773.
Web :Sulaventuras.com not available 04/08

O Cavalo Marinho.

Sailing trips.
Where :Vila Susana - Caliços, 8365 - 000 - Armação de Pêra, Silves.
Mobile :(+351) 262 577 464.
Fax :(+351) 282 357 847.

Bom Dia

Various trips out of Lagos marina.
Open : 1st March to 30 November. Prices below are for 2006 / 7. There are bound to be some increase for 2007 / 8.
● Grotto trips - Duration: 2 hours - 10:00, 12:00, 15.00, 17.00.
Cost :Adults: €17 Children: €8.50
● BBQ trips - Duration: 5 hours - 10:00, 14:00.
Cost :Adults: €37.00. Children: €18.50
Address :Marina de Lagos Loja 10. 8600 Lagos - Algarve - Portugal
Where :Shop No. 10, next to the Pizza Hut. Lagos Marina.
Tel :(+351) 282 764 670.
Fax :(+351) 917 810 761.
E-mail :info@bomdia.info
Web :Bomdia.info
Web :Algarve Retreats
Note:Another Captain / Boat contact in Lagos.

Champagne Cruises

Various trips out of Villamoura marina. Champagne cruises. Charter hire.
● Dolphin Cruise - daily 10am - €55 per person
● Champagne Lunch Cruise: 12.30pm to 2.30pm - €75 per person
● Afternoon Coastal Cruise: 3pm to 5pm - €75 per person
● 2 hour Sunset Cruise: (times vary) - €75 per person
All above cruises based on a minimum of 4 passengers
● Private Charter: (2-8 hours) - €275 per hour. All Inclusive.
Where :Q5, Marina de Vilamoura, 8125-409 - Quarteira.
Mobile :(+351) 965 656 675.
Web :Champagne Cruises

Extreme Algarve

All year round Skydiving courses. Duration from 1 day ( for a tandem jump ) upward. From 195 euros p/p. 
Where :The Aerodrome at Alvor.
Mobile :(+351) 912 849 723.
Web :Extreme Algarve

Skydive Algarve

Jump out of a plane at 12,000 ft with an experienced Tandem Mater ( after just 20 minutes instruction ). All year round Skydiving courses. Duration from 1 day ( for a tandem jump ) upward. From 195 euros p/p. German owned and run.
Where :The Aerodromo Municipal de Portimao which is actually located at Alvor. From the A22 Alvor exit ( 4 ). Follow the signs to Alvor by crossing over two traffic roundabouts. The airfield is about 2 km on the right side. The car park entrance is just before the sharp left hand bend.
Mobile :(+351) 914 266 832.
Tel :(+351) 282 496 581
Web :Skydive Algarve

Dive-time.net

The Algarve offers snorkelers and scuba divers excellent opportunities along the coast, especially in areas where the cliffs are high and the beaches rocky: Armacao de Pera and also from Praia da Luz to Sagres. Equipment and instructions are available at Alvor, Luz Bay Club ( Praia da Luz ) and Lagos. Also web search for Lagos-Sub, the local diving school. Lagos has a good diving school and gear rental information here.
Web : Pt.dive-time.net

Escola de Mergulho Scubado

Courses and Equipment hire.
Where :Apartado 28 - Porto da Baleeira, 8650 - 889 Sagres, Vila do Bispo.
Tel :(+351) 282 624 594.
Fax :(+351) 282 624 594.
Web :Diverscape.com

Blue Ocean Divers

Courses and Equipment hire.
Where :Estrada de Porto de Mós, Motel Ancora - Apartado 789, 8600 - 909 , Lagos.
Mobile :(+351) 964 665 667.
Fax :(+351) 282 767 244.

Burgau Sports Centre

Offers 3 tennis courts, swimming pool, well-equipped gym, two squash courts, table tennis, bar and restaurant. There are children's football and tennis coaching sessions. There is also 18 piece circuit training Monday to Friday. Chalet-style accommodation available.
Where :Burgau
Tel :(+351) 282 697 350.

Luz Bay Club

Praia da Luz - The club offers tennis, squash, sauna and a Turkish bath at reasonable rates (£7 for an adult for use of most facilities in peak season and £4 for a child).
Where :Rua do Jardim, 8600-565 Praia da Luz.
Tel :(+351) 282 789 640.

The Surf Experience

Beginners, Intermediate and Advanced courses. Guided courses. Surf Camp or Self-Catering Accommodation.
Where :P.O. Box 612 - 8600. Lagos
Tel :(+351) 282 760964.
Fax :(+351) 282 767 288.
Email:thesurfexperience@hotmail.com.
Web :Thesurfexperience.de

Windsurf Point

Surfing school.
Where :Estrada da Meia Praia, Bairro 1º de Maio, 48600-315. Lagos
Tel :(+351) 282 792 315

Torpedo Diving

Surfing school.
Where :Aldeia do Mar - Apartado 931, 8125 - 000 - Vilamoura, Loulé.
Tel :(+351) 289 314 098.

'Pescine'

Vila Luz

Smart, self contained Apartments in an hotel ( Aparthotel ) with a large adult's pool, children's pool landscaped gardens and a good sea views. The good news is that they are happy to let you use the pool(s) at no charge ( but they do expect you to have a drink / snack whilst you are there, which is only fair ). Perhaps it would be a good idea if you checked first before swimming just in case they have had a change of heart ( it was still o.k. at the end of August 2008 ).
Where :Past the Fortaleza heading west, spot the building with the large blue H on the roof. About 10 / 15 minutes walk from the town square on the road that goes past Kellys.
Address :Ponta da Gaivota Lote nº 66 8600-119 Praia da Luz - Lagos.
Tel :(+351) 282 771 110
Fax :(+351) 282 771 119
Web :vila-luz

Mark Warner

A Mark Warner Leisure Centre at the Ocean Club complex. There are five tennis courts and operate a full coaching programme for adults and children and also the specialist Academy Course.
Where :Praia da Luz.
Tel :0871 703 3887 (U.K.).
Web :Markwarner.co.uk

American Ten Pin

American style ten pin bowling alley.
Where :A bit of a drive to Praia da Rocha. Located just off the sea front near the Hotel Jupiter.
Tel :(+351) 282 483 812.

There is a cliff top walk from Luz to Burgau. The return walk takes about 3 hours. Until I have more information ( by actually doing it myself! ) try this link for more details.

Julie Statham

Julie Statham organises popular walking tours covering many areas in the western Algarve. They are always at a gentle pace and suitable for all levels of fitness. There is a programme of 2 - 3 hour guided walks which changes monthly, everyone is very welcome to come along and there is no need to book. There is a charge of 5 euro for each walk which includes a donation to charity. See the website for the many scheduled walks coming up. Exclusive, private walks can be arranged. 
Where :Portugal Walks, 37 Quinta do Montinho, Budens. 8650 - 060 - Vila Do Bispo
Tel :(+351) 282 698 676.
Mobile :(+351) 965 753 033.
Web :Portugalwalks

Wildaway

Another Julie Statham creation with the emphasis on Birds, Fauna and Flora. Day trips, personal packages and group outings available.
Guided by Simon Wates, an active conservationist who has lived in southern Iberia for 23 years where his activities span from professional employment for numerous studies and surveys of an environmental character to full participation in the new definitive 'Atlas of Breeding Birds of Portugal'.
Email :info@portugalwalks.com
Web :Wildaway

AlternativTour Monchique

Trail A - Semedeiro – Picota - Caldas de Monchique
Trail B - Monchique - Fóia – Monchique
Trail C - Bica Boa – Fonte Santa
Sitio das Relvinhas. Apartado 122. 8550-909 - Monchique
Tel :(+351) 282 913 204.
Fax :(+351) 282 911 405.
Mobile :(+351) 965 004 337.
Web :Algarve Portal

Slide & Splash

Opened in 1986. One of the biggest and the best in Europe (6.5 hectares).It has two self-service-restaurants,  pizzerias, an ice cream-parlour and several kiosks. 25,000 square meters of lawn, a 1,500 square meter pool for children, a 1,600 square meter main swimming pool. Coach collection from Lagos and Praia da Luz (must be pre-booked, the booking agency on the promenade can do this for you).
Season:March to October. Open 10.00 to 17.00 (low season) 18.00 (high season).
Cost :€16 Adults, €13 Children / OAPs (2006)
Where :Access from the N125 or junction 6 on the A22. 7km east of Portimao. Lagoa.
Web :Slidesplash

Aqualand Algarve

The biggest Water Park in Portugal. A Family day out. Wave Pool, Flying Carpets, Raging Rapids, Kamikaze etc.
Open:from 2nd May to 23rd September 2006. Open daily from 10.00 to 18.00.
Where :On the N125 just past Portimao. Signed and visible from the main road. About 45 minutes from Luz. 10km west of Albufeira.
Apartado 11, 8365-908 - Alcantarilha.
Tel :(+351) 282 320 230
Fax :(+351) 282 322 828
E-mail :comercial@aspro-ocio.es
Web :Aqualand.pt

Wild Waters

Where :Montechoro Park, near Albufeira.

Atlantico

Where :near Vilamoura.

Aqualine

Where :near Monte Gordo.

Water Skiing

Usually only available in peak season water-skiing can be found at the beaches of Vale do Lobo, Vilamoura, Praia d'Oura, Albufeira, Armacao de Pera, Alvor, Praia da Rocha and (Ocean Club) Praia da Luz.

Windsurfing

Windsurfing is very popular along the coast. Experienced windsurfers can rent a rig and newcomers can sign up for tuition at most of the beaches along the Algarve including Quinta do Lago, Vale do Lobo, Vilamoura, Albufeira and (Ocean Club) Praia da Luz.

Adega Cooperativa de Lagoa

Wine Tasting Tour of the Lagoa co-operative.
Open :09:00 – 12:00 and 14:00 – 18:00.
Where :E.N. 125, Lagoa. 8400-901.
Tel :(+351) 282 342 181.
Fax :(+351) 282 342 369.

Wine Tasting Tours Algarve

An established but small scale company run by a South African couple that knows Algarve Wines. Based in Lagos, it offers collection and tours to the various vineyards and co-operatives by luxury mini bus.
Tel : (+351) 918 357 549.
Email :info@winetastingtours-algarve
Web :Winetastingtours-algarve.com

Adega do Cantor

Experience an exclusive tour of the vineyards and winery at Quinta do Miradouro and enjoy a tasting of Sir Cliff Richard’s Vida Nova, which is vinified ( The conversion of the juice of grapes into wine by the process of fermentation ), matured and bottled on the estate. There is a charge of €7.50 for the tour and wine tasting.
Open :Monday to Friday: 10.00 to 17.00 ( closed for lunch from 13.00 - 14.00 )
Closed :Weekends and Public Holidays. Closed December 24th to January 2nd
Where :Guia
Tel :(+351) 968 776 971.
Email :adegadocantor
Web :Winesvidanova.com

Southwest Charters

Charter, Days out, Exploration, Tuition. Irish owned.
Where :Offices above Do Cais restaurant ( at the centre of the marina ).
Address :Centro Comercial, Loja 34 - Marina de Lagos. 8600 - 780
Tel :(+351) 282 792 681.
Fax :(+351) 282 792 682.
Mobile :(+351) 919 231 962.
Web :Southwestcharters

Krazy World

A great little zoo. Bars / Restaurants. Mini Golf. Petting zoo. Approx Euros 17 (adult),  Euros 10 (5 to 12 years), Free (under 5).
Where :Located at Algoz about 10km from Lagos. Road signed from the marina roundabout at Lagos
Tel :(+351) 282 574 134.
Fax :(+351) 282 574 898.
Email :info@krazyworld.com.
Web :Krazy World -  08/2008  website under re-development.

Zoo Lagos

With more than 250 animals from 50 species ( as of 2004 ) such as wallabies, monkeys, lemurs and exotic birds, all kept in good conditions. A natural and extensive habitat in the village of Barão de S. João, in the Algarve mountains. (which is not actually Lagos so check the location on the map above by clicking on the map marker at the top left of this box. Open daily from 10am. Approx €8.
Open :1st April - 30th September: 10.00 - 19.00. ( Winter: 17.00 ).
Prices :Over 65s: €8, Adults: €10, Children ( 4-11 ): €6, Under 3s: Free.
Where :Quinta das Figueiras, Sítio do Medronhal - Barão de S. João. 8600 - 013 - Lagos.
Tel :(+351) 282 680 100.
Fax :(+351) 282 680 109.
Web :Zoolagos.com ( in Portuguese )

Zoomarine

Amusement Park. Swimming pools for both adults and children and a few shops and restaurants. All activities are free. Its worth while going early as a lot of the 'displays' run at the same time, so you may only manage one or two if you are late arriving. Has a fascinating interactive Dolphin program ( albeit at a pricey €145 / €126 on-line ). Park entrance prices as follows:-
Adults: ( 11 to 64 ) - €24.00 or €21.60 on-line.
Children ( 0 to 4 years ) - Free.
Children ( 5 to 10 years ) - €15.00 or €13.50 on-line.
Seniors ( over 65 years ) - €15.00 or €13.50 on-line.
Prices valid from 01 April 2009 to 31 October 2009.
Transport:From Lagos - Adult: €8.20. Children / O.A.P: €4.70 - On Tuesdays and Thursdays, between May and October, a bus leaves Espiche at 08.40 hours calling at 3 stops in Praia da Luz and many places in Lagos arriving at Zoomarine at 10.30 hours, and returning at 17.30 hours. Please check these times when you buy a ticket at an agency.
Open :All year round, except Mondays off season. 10.00 - 17.00.
Where : 40 kilometres ( 25 miles ) from Luz.
Address :Zoomarine, EN 125. Km 65. Guia. Albufeira, 8200-864.
Tel :(+351) 289 560 300.
Fax :(+351) 289 560 308.
 2008  New website. New Prices as of 04/2009.
09/2008Web :Zoomarine