With Christmas and New Year already starting to feel like a distant memory, we are all yearning for something else to look forward to. If you’re already starting to plan your family summer holiday in Portugal, check out some of these family-friendly attractions that will keep everyone entertained during your time in the sun-blessed Algarve.
Zoomarine Theme Park
Zoomarine is one the best-known attractions in Portugal and that’s because it makes a great day out for all ages. There are various different shows and presentations including the dolphin show, the Wonderful World presentation which highlights the sea lions and seals along with the Enchanted Forest presentation featuring a myriad of tropical birds. There’s even the opportunity to swim with dolphins in the dolphin interactive area! Enjoy the 4D cinema, as well as a selection of theme park rides, and an aquarium. Pack a towel and swimming gear so you can enjoy the swimming pools and water rides; a great way to cool off on a blistering day. Located in Guia, just a few kilometres from the ever popular town of Albufeira, it is open from March through to October.
Algarve Buggy Tour
If you want an exhilarating and action-packed way to spend a few hours then check out The Algarve Buggy Tour. You’ll be shown the ropes before you set off with an experienced guide. Take in the incredible scenery and wildlife as you zip over challenging terrain and enjoy the ride. Many regard it as an unforgettable experience allowing you to get off the beaten track and explore the natural, rugged side of the Algarve. The company is based in Lagos and provide 400cc automatic buggies and all safety equipment such as goggles. Passengers must be aged 7 or over and drivers must be at least 18 years old and present a valid driving licence. Wear clothes that you don’t mind getting dusty and prepare for the ride of your life!
Dream Wave
Dream Wave offer a range of boating tours with a twist and depart daily during the busy seasons from Albufeira Marina. Take the little ones on an adventure for buried treasure and travel on an authentic looking pirate ship, or choose a caving and dolphin spotting for those who love wildlife. For slightly older families, why not choose the BBQ tour which allows you plenty of time for swimming, followed by a delicious barbecue on the beach. There are several other options to choose from, it just depends on what you fancy but each option will be sure to deliver some great memories that will last with you long after you get home!
Aquashow Park
Family holidays are often best when they combine a little bit of sun, sea and sand! Sometimes though, it can be a case of “once you’ve seen one beach, you’ve seen them all”. This is where the Aquashow Park will add a different spark of water based excitement to your holiday. Located near Quarteira, Aquashow is the ultimate day out. Plummet down the 23.5 metre high water rollercoaster, splash about ‘til your heart’s content in the many swimming pools, slip down the water slides and splash about in the waves. Once you’ve had your fun getting wet, dry off on some of the exciting rides and other attractions such as the museum and reptile or birds of prey shows.
Parque Aventura
Parque Aventura is the ultimate tree top activity that will get you active. Zip lines, rope bridges and trails lead you from tree to tree and there are different courses of varying difficulty to choose from. It’s completely different from anything else on offer in the Algarve and will ensure everyone has lots of fun without compromising on safety. The great news is that it really is suitable for the whole family; children as young as 4 can participate, as long as they are at least 1 metre tall. Choose from either the park in Alubfeira or the park in Figueira da Foz.
The attractions on offer for families of all ages are near on limitless in the Algarve; this is just a pick to whet your appetite! Have you been on a family holiday to the Algarve before? What would you recommend to other readers?
