The Spanish newspaper 20minutos once again highlighted the Algarve as one of the best beach destinations in the world, choosing five places that, in its view, demonstrate the diversity and authenticity of the region. The publication emphasizes that the region brings together beaches among cliffs, barrier islands, caves, small fishing towns and inland landscapes.
The selection begins with the Odeleite Reservoir, in the municipality of Castro Marim, which surprises because it is an inland bathing area, far from the sea. The newspaper also highlights that the Algarve achieved 96 Blue Flag distinctions in 2026, including this bathing area. The second highlight goes to Benagil and Marinha Beach, on the coastal stretch between Lagos and Albufeira, pointed out as examples of the iconic golden cliffs, with Benagil Cave and the transparent waters of Marinha as reference points.
Ferragudo appears as the third choice, presented as a quieter old fishing village, with whitewashed houses, narrow streets and views over the Arade estuary. The fourth selection is the Desert Island, in Ria Formosa, described by the newspaper as the "Portuguese Caribbean," known for its extensive sandy areas, dunes and the sense of isolation provided by the absence of cars and large buildings.
The final choice moves completely away from the traditional concept of a beach: the Algarvensis Geopark, which covers the municipalities of Loulé, Silves and Albufeira and was recognized by UNESCO as a World Geopark in 2026. This recognition is due to a geological history of approximately 330 million years. The choice of these five places is supported by the fact that the Algarve won, in 2025, the award for Best Beach Destination in the World at the World Travel Awards, repeating victories obtained in 2020, 2021 and 2024.