Even in the sunniest place in Europe, it rains... So if the rain clouds seem to be lowering, you can still have fun in the Algarve! From traditional potteries and shopping, road tripping, and having a spa day to (yes!!) rainy outdoor adventures, this blog will have you feeling like it’s a sunny day.
1 Have a spa day
The Algarve has many luxury spa's. Most of the resorts and hotels have their own spa that you can book to enjoy facilities and treatments. An even better idea, get the spa to you! Have a look at jeanettetromp.com for the best (Aryvedic) massage you have ever had! So treat yourself and enjoy some you-time on this rainy day in the Algarve.
2 Visit potteries
Who doesn't love them? The typical traditional tiles called azulejos and colorful ceramics. They're not just to be found in Porto and Lissabon but also in the Algarve.
My favorite pottery is the Porches pottery. It's a traditional Portuguese pottery close to Carvoeiro and Benagil. Here you enter an oasis of Portuguese ceramics. Tiles, plates, wall decoration, tea pots and more is all to be found right here in this beautiful place. There is also a really cute little cafe next to the pottery where they have the best carrot cake I've ever had in my life! Perfect to sit inside and outside on the covered terrace and enjoy your espresso and bolo (cake).
My favorite potteries:
Porches pottery in Porches, central Algarve
Casa Algarve in Porches, central Algarve (no Google location or website, use this pin)
Olaria Pequena in Porches, central Algarve
Ceramica Paraiso in Raposeira, wester Algarve
Casa Nunes on the way to Monchique
3 Try surfing
You don't need sun to surf, you need waves! So thinking about maybe taking a lesson? Do it! Enjoy the ocean and the waves and hey, you're going to get wet anyway! If you're taking a lesson, don't worry - the surf schools won't cancel their lessons because of a little rain.
4
Visit Monchique
Another nice thing to do when it rains is to visit the beautiful town of Monique. Monchique is a breathtakingly beautiful town in the mountains of the Algarve. I'm always taken aback by its charm and beauty. There are many things about Monchique that make it such a beautiful place to visit but I'm most in love with its natural springs and lush green forest.
Wander around the beautiful old town and enjoy the combination of beautiful nature, unique craftsmanship and well-being facilities.
Make sure to visit Parque Fonte dos Amores. You'll be blown away by it's beauty.
The natural thermal springs and jungle-like forest are absolutely stunning!
5
Go shopping
Now I know I just recommended two outdoor activities to do when it rains... so here is another indoor one. 😉 The Algarve has some great shopping malls where you'll find everything you need. Towns like Portimão, Guia (near Albufeira) and Loule (near Faro) (with outlet) have some really nice ones! So treat yourself to something new!
If you're not so much into shopping malls, the old town of Lagos also offers a wide range of shops!
6
Take an ocean swim
Okay, outdoor rain activity again. But if temperatures allow, and it's not stormy (very important) go for a swim in the ocean in the rain. It's magical!
7
Do a wine tasting
There are some great wineries in the Algarve. So enjoy a day of tasting local wine and good food at one of many wineries like Quinta dos Santos and (my favorite winery) Quinta do Canhoto.
8
Take a yoga class
You don't always have to go out for activities. Let the activities come to you, like yoga! Jeanette (masseuse 👆) is also an amazing yoga teacher who can come to your house when it's rainy (or not) and teach in the comfort of your home. You'll also find many yoga schools in the Algarve where you can book a class! A perfect activity when it rains in the Algarve.
9
Visit the old town of Silves
Silves is the oldest town in the Algarve. The town is best known for its beautiful red castle (Castelo dos Mouros) built on the hill. But there is more to discover in this charming town. In the picturesque streets of the historic center you'll find stylish mansions located next to small colorful homes covered with the Azulejos.
10
Go on a road trip!
Portugal has so much incredible nature to explore. So hop in your car and drive the empty roads trough the mountains or along the Algarve's stunning west coast. This rainy day calls for some serious exploring.
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