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The Algarve has been recognised as one of Europe’s most beautiful regions ever since the Moors claimed it and named it Al-Gharb, the West.

This sun-soaked part of Portugal has something for everyone, from unspoilt coastal towns to fantastic surf beaches, bustling holiday resorts to the cultural highlights of the Algarve capital Faro.

You can pick and mix the elements that suit your preferences with today’s Big Deal, courtesy of My Holidays Now. A five night beach and city break offers the chance to enjoy those fabulous Atlantic strands and explore the restaurants, galleries and facilities of Faro.

Sea and sand

The Big Deal, exclusive to 5pm customers, flies you to the southern city of Faro. The comfortable and stylish 4 star central hotel provides a great base for a superb beach and city break, with easy transport connections in either direction along the Algarve coast.

The Big Deal offers return flights with Ryanair from Glasgow Prestwick, with generous luggage allowance, and five nights B&B accommodation, based on two sharing a twin or double room, in the 4 star Hotel Faro.

Flight dates

The city breaks are for five nights, flying out from Glasgow Prestwick. Departure and return dates available for this offer are:

Depart 12th August, return 17th August 2016 ;
Depart 19th August, return 24th August 2016;
Depart 26th August, return 31st August 2016;
Depart 4th September, return 9th September 2016;
Depart 11th September, return 16th September 2016.

Central accommodation

The luxurious 4 star Hotel Faro is handily situated close to the waterfront, a 5-minute walk from the historic Cathedral of Faro and from Faro train station. It’s an ideal base for exploring the city and region.

 Bright, contemporary décor rooms feature free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs and coffeemakers. Guests can enjoy a complimentary breakfast buffet.

Reviews regularly mention the fantastic panoramic vistas from the stylish Ria Formosa rooftop restaurant and bar with terrace, the perfect place to enjoy an evening cocktail while soaking in the views along the coast.

Facilities include a modern fitness centre and a spa with a sauna, a hammam and treatment rooms.

Water taxis from the adjacent marina whisk guests over to the elegant island beaches of the Ria Formosa Nature Park.

Algarve highlights

Faro itself is a vibrant modern city, with cultural attractions that include the Museu Regional do Algarve, with exhibitions on the traditional life of the region, and the ornate and intimate 19th-century Teatro Lethes, which stages drama, dance and music.

Gourmets will enjoy exploring the restaurants of the old town, where menus range from elegant French-Portugese creations to unpretentious old-school seafood joints.

For day trips, consider visits to the pretty old town of Tavira, east of Faro towards the Spanish border, or, by contrast, the buzzing party resort of Albufeira, to the west. Hotel staff may also be able to offer some tips on idyllic beaches if you are looking for a spot of tranquil sun worship.

Guest reviews

The Hotel Faro has picked up plenty of positive reviews on TripAdvisor. Recent comments from guests include the following, edited for length:

‘Amazing views from the rooftop bar, friendly & attentive staff. Superb food and comfy bed, we would definitely stay again.’

‘This was a wonderful find. The icing on the cake was the rooftop restaurant. The food was special and the views were amazing.’

‘The beds were very comfortable, rooms have small fridges, fabulous breakfast buffet, roof top pool, bar, and restaurant. Staff were professional and so kind and helpful.’

Sunshine break

When it comes to weather, let’s face it, the Algarve is a more reliable bet than Largs. The region also features a wealth of superb beaches, from vibrant strips full of beach bars and sardine barbecues to quiet and secluded coves.
Faro makes the perfect base for your break. With direct flights and a relaxing hotel, today’s Big Deal offers an enticing summer holiday option.