Travel : Algarve, Portugal

"Lunch is served," shouted a deckhand, waving his tongs in the air, as he dished up meals of grilled fish, chicken and vegetables.

As I looked around, I saw clear blue skies and turquoise waters - yet I was nowhere near the exotic climes of the Caribbean.

Armacao de Pera is a stretch of coast near Albufeira on the Algarve in the southern coast of Portugal. We took a day trip to Armacao on a two-masted ship - the epitome of style and a great way to explore the unusual rock formations, overhanging cliffs and caves which climbed above the sandy beaches.

Our full day tour (9am-5pm) on board Condor de Vilamoura, a replica of the American fishing vessels of the 19th century, includes lunch and travel, and costs 38 Euros (33) for adults and 19 Euros (17) for children.

Since it emerged as a holiday destination in the 1960s, the Algarve has been a magnet for families, with a huge choice of hotels and villas.

With a perfect climate (it has consistent Mediterranean weather for most of the year), cheaper cost of living and friendly people, it's heaven in our own backyard, and Faro airport is easily accessible from Scotland.

The Algarve is rich in history, and a strong Arabic influence survives from the occupation by the North African Moors for five centuries until the 1300s.

Their influence lingers still in the colourful ceramic tiles, hill-top castles and ancient ruins sometimes visible on an inland terrain covered by tall pines, mimosa and eucalyptus.

Today, sturdy fortifications in the sleepy town of Silves, reached after a steady drive up from the coast, are the only reminder of a fearful medieval battle between the occupying Muslims and Crusaders from Europe, bound for the Holy Lands.

There's a slower pace of life in the Algarve. English is widely spoken, but a few choice words of Portuguese are welcome.

There is something of a club culture, especially in larger centres like Albufeira. Eminent regulars are said to include the Beckhams and Ronan Keating.

Our base was Hotel Vila Gale Marina, in the heart of Vilamoura. On our first night, we were stunned by a beautiful sunset which provided an amazing sight above the crowded masts of luxury yachts in the marina. Centred around the 1000 berth marina, Vilamoura - known as 'millionaire's paradise' - is a very small purpose-built family friendly town.

Eateries, bars and nightlife are all within walking distance, and it's home to five of the best golf courses in the country.

Bargain hunters were out in force at the bustling Saturday market in the inland town of Loule, seeking traditional items like leather, embroidered linen, lace and hand-painted pottery.

To get further afield you need to hire a car and the obvious journey is to head along the coast to the cliffs of Cabo de Sao Vicente.

When you get there, you realise why it is referred to as 'the end of the world'. Even on the calmest days the Atlantic ocean bashes against the cliffs and the wind whips around the cape.

Originally a busy port, Tavira is probably the most picturesque city in the Algarve, with 37 churches and seven-arched stone Roman bridge. Its Moorish and Renaissance roots are still visible when you look at the stately 16th century mansions with their elegant tiled facades.

Food lovers won't be disappointed with Portuguese cuisine.

With a strong presence from local fishermen, seafood is fresh and delicious, whether it's sushi or one of the fish specialities, such as bacalhau a bras - a traditional dish featuring salted fish, fried with onions and potatoes, then baked with a topping of beaten eggs.

Another local speciality is the cataplana, a fish stew with shellfish, peppers and tomatoes, all served up in a copper pot.

Wanting to explore eateries out of Vilamoura, we headed to the old town of Quarteira, just ten minutes walk away.

There, you'll find traditional Portuguese cafes and bakeries offering a wide selection of cakes and desserts, including my favourite, pastel de nata (egg custard tart).

With gorgeous weather, mouth-watering food and beautiful beaches, what more could you ask for?

Travel facts

l BEST FOR: Sun-worshipping, watersports, golf.

lTIME TO GO: Anytime, but July and August tend to be very hot.

lDON'T MISS: The white sandy beaches.

lNEED TO KNOW: Vilamoura is family friendly, with everything you need for a comfortable holiday within walking distance.

lDON'T FORGET: Suntan lotion and hat - the sun is so strong that even the Portuguese stay out of the midday sun.

lShereen Low travelled as a guest of Co-operative Travel. Seven nights' B&B at the four-star Hotel Vila Gale Marina in Vilamoura costs from 475 per adult, including return flights with Monarch Airlines.

Co-operative Travel enquiries: 0844 335 6439 and www.co-operativetravelholidays.co.uk.

Your guide

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