The Algarve region in the south of Portugal is a well-known destination for organisers of bachelor and bachelorette parties. Rightly so, considering it enjoys over 300 sunny days per year and more than a fair share of beautiful beaches. The extensive coastline, offering plenty of outdoor sea activities, along with numerous restaurants, bars and clubs, create the perfect combination for the dream hen or stag do. Especially since there is something to do for any interest and budget, from renting an entire boat for the party, to beer bikes or simple Segway tours.
The most frequented cities for the special occasion are Albufeira, Vilamoura and Lagos. Albufeira is known for its two areas, almost completely different from each other: the Strip and the Old Town. The Strip, known as “Rua da Oura” in Portuguese, is a street packed with clubs, pubs, sports bars, each one trying to get the attention of passers-by and convince them to enter. The street roars with the sound of music and it is always happy hour somewhere, it is the best place to be for a fun night out. Whereas the Old Town is just a little quieter. Vilamoura is sometimes considered more a resort, it stands out for its 6 golf courses and the Aquashow park. Laos is a little further away from the previous two and is probably the quietest. While still very lively, it is just not an extremely crowded city.
Regardless of the chosen city, fun is guaranteed. Below are just some ideas of what activities can liven up the party.
1. Beer bike
There are various beer bike tours available in Albufeira, including along the strip, the old town, the new town and the surrounding areas. All the celebrating group has to do is pedal and, well, drink. The steering is taken care of by the guide.
2. Reef fishing
Reef fishing is available for small groups, with departure from various ports along the Algarve coast, such as Albufeira and Portimão. Experienced instructors accompany the holiday makers and all the equipment, including bait, is provided. One can expect to catch a variety of species including red snapper, bicas, seabass, silverbream, goldenbream, grouper, safia, mackerel and beetle, but also enjoy the beauty of the reef ecosystem.
3. Beach BBQ
4. Cocktail workshop
5. Karting
Karting is available at a few spots in the region, but the most famous tracks are the Kartódromo Internacional do Algarve (KIA) and Karting Almancil. KIA is one of Europe’s largest go-kart tracks and besides the different types of karts available for rent, it also offers lessons. Furthermore, it frequently hosts official competitions for which tickets are available and it is also adjoint by en entire resort, with hotel, restaurants and spa.
6. Golf
There are over 30 golf courses in the Algarve, but, according to ratings on Algarve Golf, the best one is Monte Rei Golf Course, near the town of Tavira. It features 18 holes, each combining a variety of testing factors to ensure golfers of most standards can play the course with enjoyment and challenge.
7. Segway tour
8. Luxury spa
9. Boat party
Party boats are available to hire in Lagos. Departing from Lagos Marina, the 3h cruise along the coast includes a DJ, with two sound systems, snacks, open bar for beer, sangria, shots (in the form of body shots) and water. The boat has a capacity of 50 people and enough room for dancing.
10. Clubbing
The Strip of Albufeira, known as “Rua da Oura” in Portuguese, is a street packed with clubs, pubs, sports bars, each one trying to get the attention of passers-by and convince them to enter. The street roars with the sound of music and it is always happy hour somewhere, it is the best place to be for a fun night out.
11. Jet ski
12. Parasailing
13. Shark fishing
The Vilamoura Watersports Centre offers shark fishing trips from the Vilamoura Marina. Since the Algarve coastline holds an array of shark species, you never know what kind of shark you might catch, but usual suspects are Mako Sharks, Blue Sharks or Hammerhead Sharks.
14. Mini golf
According to Tripadvisor, Golfland, in Alvor, is the best place for a game of mini golf. It offers an 18-hole mini golf course in a tropical garden, named Magic Family Fun, two TrackMan indoor golf simulators, several bars, a restaurant, terraces overlooking the garden and Ria Alvor, a courtyard, a playground for kids, games room, BBQ and daily entertainment.
15. Whiskey tasting
16. Sunset cruise
17. Water park
The Aquashow Park in Vilamoura has no less than 20 installations for all ages, from the Mammothblast to the Aquakids pool. The park also has a hotel, numerous restaurants, leisure areas and spas.
18. Benagil cave cruise
Benagil is a small fishing village on the southern coast of the Algarve, most famous for the sea cave located just around the corner from the beach. It might be tempting to swim to the cave from the beach, as it does not seem very far, but this is not advised since the currents in the area are very strong and tides change quickly. There are many boats taking tourists to the cave, some coming right on the beach to pick up passengers. Alternatively, a paddle board is a nice way to exercise at the same time as getting to the cave.
19. Tuk Tuk tour
20. Gin workshop
