Algarve: Where to Stay
 

Three friends doing a car trip in the Algarves in late October. Wondering if we should have a home base somewhere between Tavira and Sagres or just wing it for accommodations? We are thinking a home base would be good, since it will be more relaxing not having to worry about accommodations. Would a home base work for visiting the different areas in the Algarve? Or would a couple of places be better? We will be in this area for about 4 days, 5 nights

Are there any recommended villages that would be good to use as a home base and if so, does anyone have any accommodation suggestions? We are not really wanting a "resort" type of accommodation since we don't expect to be using their facilities much and would really like a more "cultural" experience. We plan to visit sites both along the coast of Algarve and inland Algarve.

We would appreciate your suggestions. Thanks!

Really now, have you done any research at all? Late October the weather is changing, even without taking into account Global Warming, not really beach weather. So, what besides a more 'cultural' experience, are you looking for?

https://www.lonelyplanet.com/portuga...algarve/tavira
I am in the same position, tying to decide where I want to base myself. We will be there early October.

Tavira is right at one end so as a base just about the worst. But as a place to stay perfectly pleasant.

Culture in Algarve apart from golf...

I'd actually stay in the Alentejo or the Algarve north of the motorway. But in a town so you get to meet people.

Of the more normal places to stay I like Portimao for its gritty realism, Sagres for the end of the world experience and Lagos for its holiday vibe combined with real Portugal. I also like Faro but it is a b@@@er to get in and out of.

Robert2016 -lol, I have done lots of research and am fully aware of weather averages for October which are mostly very positive. Our goal is not to spend time bathing on the beach, but enjoying walks and appreciating the coastline and exploring villages whether on the coast or inland - we appreciate adventure holidays over relaxing on the beach holidays. The "cultural" experience we are looking for is being with the "real" people of Portugal which is why we prefer "not" to stay at a resort-type of accommodation and are looking for something more authentic Portuguese.

Macross, thanks for the website - we are hoping to explore Tavira but do not want to be based on the east as we want the convenience of a base where we can visit also central, west and inland Algarve area. I don't know if you will find this helpful:
www.visitalgarve.pt

bilboburgler, I appreciate your advice as always. You have confirmed my thoughts about where I have been looking - the areas of Alentejo or north of motorway or Portimao.
We are looking for a smaller, family run establishment with character, rather than the large resort experience.

sorry raz, no good at the sort of places you are looking for,
this might help https://www.bedandbreakfast.com/portugal.html