Portugal, October 2022

In early October, as autumn crept into the rest of Europe, we found ourselves basking in the sun-soaked south of Portugal — where summer still lingered. Our destination? The stunning Algarve coast, with stops in Albufeira and Faro.

From the moment we arrived, we were struck by the warm weather — the kind that kisses your skin and makes you want to live in swimsuits and sandals. It was the perfect time to go: fewer crowds, golden sunsets, and still hot enough to dip into the ocean. Albufeira felt like a dream carved out of cliffs. The beaches were pristine, hugged by dramatic rocky terrain that looked like something straight out of a movie. Every turn revealed a new cove, a new viewpoint, a new photo begging to be taken.

One of the absolute highlights of the trip was our boat ride through the caves along the coast. We glided under natural rock arches and into hidden grottoes, the sunlight pouring through openings in the stone. Just when we thought it couldn’t get any better — it did. Out in the open water, a pod of dolphins appeared, playfully dancing through the waves beside our boat. It was nothing short of magical. 

And when it came to food — we were genuinely surprised and impressed. Despite Portugal’s reputation for seafood, vegan options were everywhere, and not just the token salad. From plant-based pastel de nata to hearty mains, we were spoiled for choice. Whether dining seaside or in the heart of Faro’s old town, we never felt like we were missing out.

Faro brought a slower pace, rich with charm. Cobblestone streets, tiled buildings, and the kind of laid-back energy that makes you want to wander aimlessly with no plan at all. It was the perfect end to a perfect trip — warm days, unforgettable views, and little moments that made us fall in love with Portugal just a bit more.