Brief itinerary
- Day 1: Arrival in Olhão - Stay in an authentic guesthouse or 5-star hotel and spa
- Day 2: Algarvian food tasting and cultural tour
- Day 3: Olive oil secrets and Traditional Sweets Workshop
- Day 4: Ria Formosa Island Wonders
- Day 5: Algarvian cooking classes from Market-to-Table in Faro
- Day 6: Free day in Olhão
- Day 7: Departure
Cooking and Food Holiday in Algarve Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Olhão and wandering the Old Town
As you touch down at Faro airport, you will see the fascinating view of the Ria Formosa lagoons, one of the 7 Natural Wonders of Portugal. Meet your private chauffeur at the airport and drive 20 minutes to the traditional fishing village of Olhão, where you can sense the daily life of one of the most genuine towns of the Algarve.
Enjoy a leisurely day in a charming cozy guesthouse located in the historic heart of the city. Wander in the old town or simply relax on the beautiful sundeck, overlooking the town.
Or you can enjoy a leisurely day in a 5-star hotel and spa relaxing from your journey. Wander in the old town or simply relax at the spa or the pool overlooking the beautiful Ria Formosa.
Day 2: Algarvian food tasting and cultural tour
Today, you will visit the cubist fishermen village of Olhão on a private guided tour, and learn about its culture and legends. Take a stroll around the iconic fish and fruits markets and enjoy the rich seasonal produce they offer, meeting with local charismatic vendors. At lunchtime, walk around the town and eat in typical “tascas”, typical Portuguese tapas restaurants, where you will taste Algarvian delicacies and regional wines. You will also discover through your journey a traditional female garment, “Bioco,” and visit a thousand-years-old cannery.
- Included: 9 food tastings, 4 beverages, and visits to 3 historic sites.
- Meals included: Breakfast and lunch
Day 3: Olive oil secrets and regional sweets workshop
Visit a local olive oil farm and learn about the history and techniques used to produce their award-winning olive oil. You'll visit the beautiful olive grove and taste different varieties adapted to the Mediterranean climate of the Algarve, along with Portuguese tapas. Head to the historic town of Loulé, and enjoy a typical lunch before starting your Traditional Sweet Workshop, where you will discover the secrets of Algarvian sweets by becoming a pastry chef for the day! You will enjoy the sweet delicacies that you made.
- Meals included: Breakfast, afternoon sweets
Day 4: Wonders of the Ria Formosa Islands
Embark on a private taxi boat and cruise among the fascinating islands of the Ria Formosa lagoons, the hidden gem of the Algarve. You'll be led by an experienced skipper, who can teach you more about the local fauna and flora. You can observe shellfish farms and have the opportunity to see several species of birds. At lunchtime, taste the best fresh seafood and grilled fish straight from the sea. Your meal will be served in one of the best restaurants of all the islands. Explore wild sandy beaches and feel the soul of the local fishermen villages as you immerse yourself into the wild natural surroundings. You'll find it hard not to fall in love more and more with the Algarve.
- This day includes visits to three main islands: Armona, Farol, and Culatra
- Meals included: Breakfast and lunch
Day 5: Algarvian cooking class from Market-to-Table in Faro
After a few days tasting Portuguese’s delicacies and learning how the most traditional products are harvested and produced, you will finally be able to cook a 3-course meal from scratch including one of the most traditional Algarvian dishes - Cataplana with meat and shellfish. (Optional: Upgrade for a Fish and Shellfish Cataplana as an extra charge). A private chef will accompany you through this gastronomic experience and you will have the chance to savor your delicious meals.
- Meals included: Breakfast and Lunch
Day 6: Free Day in Olhão
Wake up to the sound of birds and serene views. Enjoy the soft morning glow, having breakfast prepared with local produce. Today, you are free to do anything you like, either relaxing by the pool or booking other activities such as wine tasting and blending workshop, wild dolphin observation, birdwatching or even be more adventurous trying the Catamaran cruise to visit hidden caves!
- Meals included: Breakfast
Day 7: Departure
It is time to say goodbye to the beautiful Algarve and get ready for your private airport transfer. You are now richer in experiences, in emotions and have made unforgettable memories for the rest of your life. Get comfortable in-flight and watch over the lagoons feeling grateful for what you have discovered. Promise yourself “I’ll be back”.
- Meals included: Breakfast
Note
Please note if Algarve Lifestyle doesn't have other bookings on your departure date, you will be experiencing this tour independently, but still mixed with other people in some activities.
