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Weather Averages for Algarve in March
Averages for Algarve in March
Weather lowdown
Temperatures begin to climb during March at the Algarve, and at Faro, the long-term average maximum temperature is 19°C, while the temperature falls, on average, to 10.5°C overnight. Places near the Mediterranean coast, including Faro, do not experience frosts during March although they are possible in the north of the region.
Rain becomes less frequent into March but still crops up from time to time, mainly when the jet stream tracks further south than usual. The average March rainfall at Faro is 39mm, and this is spread over an average of 9 days out of a possible 31, implying that during a typical stay at the Algarve, more than two days in three will have no measurable rainfall.
Sunshine totals begin to increase markedly at this time of year, particularly near the Mediterranean coast. Faro’s average sunshine total in March is 232 hours, an average of over seven hours per day, and higher than most parts of north-western Europe experience during the summer months.
The sea temperature off the coastline averages 15°C at this time of year, so it is not a good time of year for holidaymakers who would like to swim in the water off the resort’s many beaches.
Things to do
Fans of horses and horse riding are quite well catered for in the Algarve. The Holistic Riding Centre in Monte Velho, near the Bordeira and Armado beaches, is particularly well-rated by customers, and offers horse-riding lessons and trail rides, courses and workshops, as well as courses to help with treating horses responsibly. The Albufeira Riding Centre at Vale Navio is also worth considering, which offers a pony club, riding lessons, and also all-inclusive holiday packages, for the benefit of those who would like a horse riding-themed holiday to the Algarve. The Monte Da Ribeira at Aldeia de Tor is also good, and offers guided horse-riding trips through the Algarve countryside.
There are also numerous good historic sites in the Algarve, and scenic hotspots. For example, the Cerro da Villa ruins are located in Villamoura, and date as far back as the 1st century. There is a museum with some Roman mosaics in an adjacent outdoor area, alongside other attractions.
The Fortress of Sagres at Sagres on the coast of the Algarve is impressively mainly for its views over the nearby bay and ocean. If the weather is favourable for outdoor activities, you may also catch some local fishermen fishing around the nearby coastline.
The Camera Obscura at the Tower of Tavira gives a very good view of the town of Tamira. Guides demonstrate the laws of optics, as explored in the famous paintings of Leonardo da Vinci, and show panoramic views of the area.
Dates for the diary
March features the Festival of Hot Bread and Fresh Cheese (Feira do Pão Quente e Queijo Fresco). It takes place in Vaqueiros on the 10th March each year, and celebrates breads and chesses, in association with local entertainment, making it a good occasion for a day-trip to Vaqueiros.
The EXPOMAR Fair (Fair of the Sea and Nautical Activities) takes place in Olhao, and features sea-related exhibitions, seminars from scientists, and competitions.
Where to eat & drink
There are many good restaurants to choose from in the Algarve. Johnny Hooper’s Saxophone Bistro at Rua Almeida Garrett, Areias de S. Joao, Albufeira offers grills and traditional European cuisine, and the owner of the restaurant frequently plays the saxophone, offering musical entertainment.
The Aventura Wine and Cocktail Bar at Rua Dos Pescadores, No 80, Salema offers good views from within the premises, and the international cuisine options are many and varied and of high quality, and it is also a good restaurant for trying out a variety of wines and cocktails.
The Lounge Bar at Rua do Castelo 23, Alvor, Portimao, offers a range of high-quality and reasonably-priced pub food and broadcasts sporting events on TV screens around the bar, making it a useful outlet for those who would rather not miss significant matches while away on holiday. For musical entertainment on evenings and overnight, Michael’s Bar, situated at Rossio Grande, Alvor, Portimao, has frequent live music nights as well as karaoke sessions.
Hit the beach
As the weather warms up during the spring months, March is a more attractive time of year to hit the beach than the winter months, and it is prior to when the main crowds arrive in the summer, though the weather is still not always reliable enough to enable a relaxing beach stay. It is worth paying a visit to Tavira Island, which is part of the Ria Formosa Natural Reserve and also has plenty of facilities including numerous restaurants. Meia Praia at Lagos is a large and popular Blue Flag beach which also houses numerous restaurants, and offers water sports opportunities.
Where to stay
There are numerous good accommodation options in the Algarve. The Martinhal Beach Resort & Hotel at Urbanizacao Quinta do Martinhal, Sagres, is the ideal outlet for a special occasion or romantic retreat, offering high-quality five-star accommodation, a spa and also offering easy access to the nearest beach.
Quinta Bonita Luxury Boutique Hotel is a luxurious 4-star boutique located at Quatro Estrados, Lagos, offering good bed and breakfast and also a special weekly evening meal for those who fancy special occasion dining at a bed and breakfast outlet. A good value 4-star option is Estrela da Luz at Praia da Luz, which contains a restaurant, a jacuzzi, and a gym, among other facilities.
Those on a tight budget can consider the Hotel Zodiaco, at Fonte Nova, Quarteira, which offers good bed and breakfast deals. Self-catering options in the Algarve are numerous, such as the Verandas de Carteia at Quarteira.
