Living in the Algarve is a dream come true for many, myself included. The sun-kissed beaches, the vibrant culture, and the warm hospitality of the Portuguese people make every day feel like a holiday. However, amidst the palm trees and azure seas, there are moments when I find myself yearning for the green hills and misty mornings of my home in Ireland.
There’s something truly special about the Algarve that keeps me rooted here. The weather, for one, is a constant source of joy. Waking up to sunny skies almost every day is a luxury I’ll never take for granted. The outdoor lifestyle that the Algarve affords is also unbeatable. Whether it’s hiking along the rugged cliffs, surfing in the Atlantic waves, or simply enjoying a leisurely meal al fresco, there’s never a shortage of things to do.
But amidst all the beauty and excitement, there are moments when I miss the simplicity of life back in Ireland. The quiet charm of the countryside, the cosy pubs where everyone knows your name, and the sense of community that permeates every corner – these are the things that tug at my heartstrings from time to time.
One aspect of home that I particularly miss is the ease of communication about events and activities. In Ireland, platforms like Discover Ireland serve as a one-stop shop for all things related to tourism and leisure. From upcoming festivals to hidden gems off the beaten path, Discover Ireland has it all. Here in the Algarve, while there are similar resources available, they are not always as comprehensive or easily accessible.
That’s why I’m thrilled to announce an initiative that aims to bridge this gap and showcase the best of Portugal to both locals and tourists alike. Lifestyle Algarve magazine, in collaboration with like-minded individuals, businesses, and tourism bodies, is launching Discover Our Portugal – a platform that will serve as the go-to source for all sporting activities in Portugal.
Our goal is to create a community where people can come together to share their love for adventure and exploration. Whether it’s hiking through the lush forests of Sintra, cycling along the Douro River, or embarking on a thrilling off-road adventure in the Alentejo region, Discover Our Portugal will be the ultimate guide for adrenaline junkies and nature enthusiasts.
In our upcoming June/July issue, Lifestyle Algarve goes National and becomes Lifestyle Portugal and will be dedicating an entire section to the great outdoors of Portugal, with a special focus on all things “Off Road.” We’ll explore the freedom of off-road movement that Portugal has in abundance – something that sadly, Ireland and the UK no longer enjoy to the same extent.
From the sandy dunes of the Algarve to the rocky trails of the Serra da Estrela, Portugal offers endless opportunities for off-road enthusiasts to explore and discover new terrain. Whether you’re a seasoned off-roader or a novice looking for your next adventure, there’s something for everyone in Portugal’s great outdoors.
So, while I may occasionally feel a pang of homesickness for the rolling green hills of Ireland, the Algarve has truly become my home away from home. And with initiatives like Discover Portugal on the horizon, I’m excited to continue exploring all that this beautiful country has to offer – one off-road adventure at a time.
