Take an Algarve holiday with a dog with your best friend by your side

Why should you take your dog to the Algarve?

The Algarve is one of the most beautiful parts of Portugal, known for its sunshine, superb beaches and world-class surfing. It's also an ideal place for a holiday with your dog. Travel in the off-season and you'll find dozens of beaches that will welcome your pooch. Even in the summer, there are some dog beaches and dog parks where you can go for a great walk - or you can just relax in the garden of your pet-friendly holiday lettings in the Algarve. Portugal is an extremely dog-friendly country, where around one-third of households have a canine companion. People are very welcoming to well-behaved mutts, and your dog is sure to make friends wherever he goes.

Where are the best places to go for a walk around the Algarve?

If your dog is a bit of social butterfly, then head straight for a dog park in the Algarve. The Parque Canino in Faro is a square kilometre of doggy paradise, open every day from 8 am until 11 pm. It has some agility equipment for sporty dogs, as well as plenty of wide open spaces where your pup can sniff and play with new friends. If you'd rather get out in nature, you'll find lots of great trails around the Algarve. One of the best is the route around Fonte Benémola, a gorgeous reservoir. You'll need to keep your pet under control, as many wild birds call this area home. The route here is 4 km long, and it's particularly well-suited to dogs as it's very shady. Plus, there's lots of water for thirsty dogs to lap up during the walk! Another hotspot for dog walking is the Rota Vicentina, a historic pilgrimage. It stretches for over 230 km, but you can do it a section at a time. Try the stage that runs from Vila do Bispo to Sagres for gorgeous views. This route has less shade, so don't risk it in summer.