Birdwatching in the Algarve

Common Buzzard. SPIN: Birdwatching in the Algarve

Saga Hosted Hotels

Birdwatching

Discover the birds of the Algarve on this exciting birdwatching holiday, designed to introduce you to some of the area's important birding sites including wetlands and steppe. The Algarve lies at Portugal's southernmost tip, overlooking the Atlantic and has been described as one of Europe's 'best kept secrets' in terms of the bird species that can be found here. You'll be accompanied by your expert host who will be there to guide you on four full-day, and one half-day included birdwatching visits. Watch for the glossy ibis at the lagoon of dos Selgados, scan the sky for raptors in Sagres, and pass grasslands and oak woods amidst the steppe of Alentejo as you keep your eye out for the elusive bustard.

Return to your comfortable hotel in time for dinner and some relaxation, perhaps discussing sightings with your fellow guests. The vibrant town of Albufiera is accessible via the Saga shuttle bus or local bus. Alternatively just enjoy relaxing around the swimming pools or take a stroll along the beaches for which the Algarve is justly famous. The Algarve has the highest incidence of rare birds (from northern Europe, North America and Africa) in Portugal, some 40% of the region is protected and is home to ten 'important bird areas'. With so much on offer, it's a 'spot' not to be missed!

Five included excursions and visits
Lagoa dos Salgados (half day)
Ria Formosa (full day)
Sagres (full day)
Eastern Algarve (full day)
Baixo Alentejo (full day)

Sprawling across a clifftop, 2km from Armação de Pêra, this grand hotel is wrapped up in beautifully landscaped gardens. They surround the property on three sides – on the fourth, the palm-lined lawns lead you down the cliffs to the glorious golden sands of Praia da Senhora da Rocha. A pool sits within the gardens, and there’s another inside which is lovely in the cooler winter months (as is the spa, sauna and Turkish baths). Buffet meals are served in the main restaurant. Classically styled rooms overlook the gardens or sea, and have handy kitchenettes.

Including

Saga Host

Expert Host

Welcome drink reception

Five included excursions and visits

Half board: All breakfasts and dinners

International flights. Prices are based on return flights with British Airways from London Gatwick. Supplements may apply from other airports

Return transfers direct to your hotel

Minimum 20kg checked luggage, per person

Five excursions and visits

Overview

  • 7 nights

  • Praia Senhora da Rocha, The Algarve

  • Multiple

  • All Inclusive

From £999 per person

Including optional travel insurance or a price reduction if not required

Common Buzzard. SPIN: Birdwatching in the Algarve
Greater flamingos in the salt marsh of Castro Marim. SPIN: Birdwatching in the Algarve

Holiday details

Food and drink

Meals are served buffet-style in the main restaurant with international cuisine on offer. 

Entertainment

During your stay, enjoy the following programme of activities and entertainment. Some activities may be at an extra charge and activities may change from time to time.  Table tennis Tennis 

Accommodation

All rooms are designed with freshness, space and light in mind with balconies for beautiful views of the Algarve. 

Amenities

  • Restaurant
  • Gallery Bar
  • Pool Bistro
  • Outdoor swimming pool 
  • Indoor heated pool
  • Sauna, Jacuzzi, Turkish Bath
  • Direct beach access
  • Games and reading room
  • Gardens

Holiday location

Pestana Viking Bay map

Local Area

You’re a couple of kilometres from Armação de Pêra, an upbeat resort town with a mix of shops, cafes and restaurants. A regular local bus can take you in, or it’s a 5-minute taxi ride. Buses can also take you further along the coast – explore historic Portimão or the bustling old town and marina of Albufeira. It’s easy to head inland, too, where you’ll find the Moorish city of Silves set amid a sea of orange groves – a visit to the fruit markets is a must.

Optional excursions

How to book excursions:

You can book online excursions through our call centre on 0808 189 8899 or in resort.

Baixo Alentejo

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The steppe landscape of the lower part of Alentejo province includes the Special Protection Area of Castro Verde. with its grasslands and oak woods. Look out here for great and little bustards, the hen harrier and black-bellied sandgrouse. Raptors, including kites and even eagles, may be seen in this diverse and enigmatic area.

Portugal

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