Time for a sundowner in the Algarve
Summer is that magical season in the Algarve. Lazy, hazy, sun-filled days of beach fun. Lingering lunches and dinner with friends….and then the fun begins. Here are some of the best places to kick-back and relax when the sun begins to slip below the horizon…..
The Bon Vivant bar is practically an institution in Lagos. Located in the town centre, near to the famous golden chapel and statue of Henry the Navigator, the Bon Vivant has been the stage for many a fun night in the Algarve. Spread over 3 floors we recommend starting your journey here at the top on the roof terrace. From here you have great views along the main pedestrian thoroughfare. When suitably fortified with your favorite tipple head to the lower floors where the music, fun and dancing gets more hectic the lower you go.
On the Rocks is well-named. It’s set right atop the beach side cliffs of Praia da Rocha. On the back terrace you can soak up the last of the suns rays and watch the action on the beach. Out front, you have a ring-side seat to all the comings and goings on the main drag in Rocha. As the night wears on the action is on the dance floor with guest DJs and bands keeping the party going.
At Caniço prepared to be impressed before you even get to the bar……This iconic eatery and bar sits on stilts above a small cove beach between Alvor and Portimão. Acess is either from the neighbouring beaches – at low tide only! – or by elevator from the cliff-top, down through the rocks. With plenty of parties during the summer season, a sundowner here is truly magical.
Silves
The beach at Santa Eulalia just east of Albuferia is gorgeous and Le Club’s bars and dancefloor look out over its golden sands. Add the fact that Le Club is one of the Algarve’s trendiest nightspots into the mix, with mega-parties all year round and this is a place you’ll want to visit. If you have the stamina, you can see the sun go down and come up again…..
Irish bars in their home territory don’t do sun terraces for obvious reasons – too much wet stuff falling from the sky. WithAlgarve weather that isn’t a problem, so you have the best of both worlds – great bars and sunshine! The deck at de Barras in Quinta do Lago was made for leisurely R & R and O’Neills on the marina at Vilamoura gets you great views of the yachts and foot-stomping live music while the roof terrace at the Black Stove bar gives you a birds eye view of Carvoeiro.
For a truly unique, end of day experience though, head to Café Inglés in Silves. This café/bar/restaurant/art gallery nestles at the base of the Moorish castle and sits cheek to jowl with the historic cathedral. The colours of the dying sun as it slips behind the hills and the local redbrick together create a warm red glow and create a magical atmosphere that people have enjoyed is this very spot for centuries. Definitely one to add to your to do list.
