We know the Algarve fairly well, well we thought we did! Then we read Baedeker’s Algarve. Its 269 pages of text are full of information about this lovely region of Portugal. Before you even get really into the guide there are the useful Best Tips – an interesting and unusual take on an index before the index proper.
There is a very comprehensive Background to Portugal listing information on Nature and the Environment, History, Politics, Art and Culture and Famous People past and present; followed by all sorts of really useful comments and advice on things like festivals, the language, shopping, transport, etc. The book lists three suggested tour itineraries to help visitors make the most of their time; and tucked into the back cover a large fold-out map. And of course there is a huge section on the Sights themselves.
If you are heading for the Algarve, make sure you take this guide with you. ISBN 978-3—8297-6813-9. £12.99. http://www.baedeker.com/en/traveldestinations.htm