- Porto : From London’s winter chill to Porto’s warm, tiled charm
- Porto : Pure Wilderness in Peneda-Gerês National Park
- Porto : A misty birthday drive through the Douro Valley
- Lisbon: Nazaré’s waves, Sintra’s fairytale palaces, and our first sunset near Cascais
- Lisbon: Train from Cascais, Alfama walks, and a sunset by the sea
- Algarve : The Seven Hanging Valleys Trail and Benagil in real life
- Algrave: Lagos, cliffside walkways, and a beach day done right
- Algarve :Waterpark fun, sunset strolls in Quarteira, and a calm goodbye in Faro
The gladdest moment in human life is a departure into unknown lands.Sir Richard Burton
Our last two days in the Algarve were all about slowing down and soaking up the final moments of Portugal.
Day 1: Indoor waterpark + an evening in Quarteira
We kept this day purely for relaxation and fun, starting with an indoor waterpark (the outdoor sections were closed in December). It turned into the perfect family day—hours in the water, splashing around, and switching into “holiday mode” completely. There was even a spa inside, so it felt like a mix of playtime for Addy and recharge-time for us.
By evening, we drove to Quarteira and had a meal near the beach. The town has a lively, buzzing feel—easy to imagine how packed and energetic it must be in summer—but in December it was calmer while still pleasantly warm. We walked along the shore, wandered the streets, caught one more sunset, and even found Christmas markets adding a festive touch before heading back to the hotel.
Day 2: Faro’s old walls + Christmas vibes + one last beach
The final day was gentle and unhurried. We drove to Faro, a quiet little city with a historic feel—stone walls and an old-town atmosphere that reminded us of a small medieval settlement. We strolled near the walls and watched the waterfront area, where boats head out to explore the lagoon and bay (we skipped the boat trip this time and kept it simple).
We then stopped by one of Faro’s main shopping malls, which was beautifully decorated for Christmas. It was warm, festive, and a nice contrast to the coastal walks—perfect for a relaxed meal and a final wander around.
And of course, we couldn’t leave without one last beach stop. Li wasn’t yet ready to say goodbye to the sand and sea, so we drove to a nearby beach and spent a little more time taking it all in—our quiet farewell to the Algarve’s cliffs, turquoise water, and golden coastline.
With that, our Portugal journey came to an end—full of city charm, dramatic coastal hikes, and the kind of family memories that stay with you long after the suitcase is unpacked.
This is Aldrin and my partner Amoli. We bring you "Earths Pilgrim" - a unique insight into our travel escapades while leaving life in a cubicle. If you are looking for some inspiration to break the shackles of a regular life, then you are the right place. Read more about us- Click here.