Praia da Luz holidays

Celebrated for its comfort-food dishes such as stew, piri piri chicken and salted codfish – you can’t come to Portugal without sampling a few. The Dolphin Restaurant boasts 605 excellent reviews on TripAdvisor and is a top choice for local cuisine. Over at Look Steak Cafe the black angus goes down a treat and the Ice Cream Factory is your go-to for dessert. Catch the sunset from Habana Bar, a cosy cocktail spot with Mojitos and Cosmopolitans on the menu. Kellys Bar and Clive’s Cocktails are highly recommended, here it is suggested that you try some of the island’s delicacies including Ginja de Obidos, a liquor which comes in orange, strawberry and pineapple flavours.

Dressed with exotic palm trees and awarded a Blue Flag, the long sheltered bay of Praia da Luz and its calm waters are ideal for families. The beach gently slopes into the Atlantic leaving paddle-friendly ripples suitable for mini swimmers. The surrounding promenade has its fair share of shops, restaurants and bars ensuring a bite to eat and a bucket and spade are easy to come by. Head a little further afield, just west of Praia da Luz fortress for a secluded stretch. This hidden gem takes you away from the town’s hustle and bustle with just a sunlounger and the Portuguese rays.

Get lost among the resort’s chic boutiques, nearby markets and delectable restaurants. Hop from one bar to the next with plenty of cocktail spots and rooftop terraces to choose from. And don’t be afraid to explore the Algarve further, where plenty more major attractions await.

Day trip to Lagos: Known for its walled Old Town, this fortified resort invites you to explore its 18th century church, ancient watchtowers and Baroque architecture. Not only known for its ruins, Lagos also boasts picturesque views of Ponta de Piedade, an idyllic cove situated in the Atlantic. The ultra-modern marina takes you away from its town’s old-world charm, allowing you to enjoy the best of its old and new charms.

Slide & Splash: Open since 1986, this is one of the best and largest waterparks in Portugal. Made up of corkscrew slides, black holes and tornados, thrill-seekers will be in their element. The park’s crazy river is the main draw, float along the wild rapids with music and dancing lights guiding your way. There are also hot tubs and wave pools for those seeking relaxation. Kids can revel in the mini slides, tipping buckets and shooting water cannons at the Tropical Paradise. Then head to one of the animal shows and grab a bite to eat in one of the many snack shacks – it’s the ultimate family day out.