Algarve is one of the best regions in Portugal, and the best way to have a wholesome experience of this beautiful region is by trying out the food and camping. Enjoying a scrumptious meal while you’re surrounded by serene natural beauty and intense sunshine is a good reason why camping in the Algarve should be on top of your summer travel list.
Looking forward to enjoying an excellent camping foodie vacation in the Algarve? In this article we discuss the best food in the Algarve you should try out and the top reasons you should choose Yelloh! Village campsites over hotels or Airbnb’s.
5 best foods from the Algarve that are a must-try
Cataplana de Marisco
Cataplana is a famous cooking staple in Portugal. If you are a fan of seafood, you will love Cataplana de Marisco, a dish containing lobster, clams, squid, and whatever catch is available that day. The seafood options are gently fried, and mixed with herbs, white wine, and juicy tomatoes. It is usually served in a spherical pot made from copper and shaped like clamshells, known as the cataplana. Most people enjoy pairing this meal with liquor and salad. If you get to eat this in a high-end restaurant, you will find seafood options like octopus, prawns, and sardines in your meal.
Peri-Peri Chicken
Peri-Peri chicken, popularly called piri piri chicken in Portugal, is a must-eat food in the Algarve. This Portuguese culinary specialty is made by slowly grilling a chicken that has spent enough time in a marinade containing garlic, lemon juice, salt, olive oil, and piri piri chillies. Some restaurants add secret ingredients that make the meal even more delicious. The chicken is usually grilled over a charcoal BBQ which adds to the flavour and distinct crispiness of the meal, but some cook it in an oven. Peri Peri chicken is a cheap meal and can be paired with salad, fries, or rice.
Sardines
Grilled sardines are a common food you will find in the Algarve, especially if you are here in summer. It is the typical summer lunch in this area and is made by grilling it over charcoal. The grilled sardines are best paired with salad, bread, or boiled potatoes. You can also eat it alone without pairing it with anything.
The best time to enjoy sardines is between June to October, and you might even find festivals dedicated to grilled sardines during this period. Also, if you want to take something home from the Algarve, consider the canned sardines!
Dom Rodrigo
Dom Rodigo is regarded as one of the best sweets in the Algarve, especially in the Lagos area. According to history, this sweet has existed since the 18th century and was allegedly named after a wealthy local man, Rodrigo.
Dom Rodrigo is usually served as a dessert prepared from a mixture of egg yolks, ground almonds, sugar, cinnamon, and fios de ovos. The result is a golden candy served in colourful foil, shaped into a pyramid, and tied with a ribbon. You can have it as a snack to reward your stomach or have it after the end of a delicious meal. But don’t leave the Algarve without trying this sweet at least once!
Cataplana de Porco à Algarvia
Also known as Algarve Cataplana, this delicious dish is made by slowly steaming clams, pork, ham, and bacon in an airtight cataplana on low heat. This ensures that the flavour of the meals is retained and properly blended to give an exceptional aroma that fills up the air when you open your dish. This meal is usually seasoned with salt, bay leaf, chili, garlic, paprika, and red wine.
Where to Stay on The Algarve
With beautiful beaches, nature parks, warm weather, and great vibes, the Algarve makes an excellent place for beach camping during the summer months. Here are some reasons you should consider camping in the Algarve:
A fun way to experience Portugal
Staying in a camp ground is a great way to explore and experience the Algarve region of Portugal. A popular option is Yelloh! Village which offers camp grounds less than 2 kilometres from the beach with soft golden sands and crystal clear waters. The campsite is family-friendly with kids clubs for 5-7 year olds and 7-12 year olds. Plus don’t forget they now have a new covered terrace for the snack bar and a bathing area with lagoon, whirlpool baths, paddling pool and covered swimming pool.
Choose to stay in one of their modern holiday rentals or pitch a tent or campervan – the choice is yours.
Great Weather
The Algarve has great weather for camping all year round! Staying at Yelloh! Village on the Algarve means you will experience little to no rain and enjoy warmth throughout your stay.
Safe
The Algarve is very camping-friendly, and you don’t have to worry about extreme weather, natural disasters, or wild animals. The only thing you probably have to worry about is the sun, but you’re good with your sunscreen and hats.
Conclusion
The Algarve is a perfect region to camp in Portugal! This is especially an ideal option for people who want to explore the food scene while enjoying a fun outdoor escape. Enjoy your meals while sitting in the middle of a stylish campground not far from golden cliffs, sandy beaches, and beautiful blue waters.
