The Algarve is the perfect destination for a stag do. An amazing weather with more than 300 days of sun per year combines for the perfect location of outdoor activities and a relaxing atmosphere. A beautiful and extensive coastline full of ravishing beaches, warming people and plenty of night clubs and bars make it one of the most sought out destinations for stag do’s.
So if you’re the Best Man, or the Stag himself, with some much choice choosing which town to head for can be a big responsibility. However fear not we’ve reviewed our top 3 choices to help you with the planning so read our guide to the stag do destinations of Albufeira, Vilamoura and Lagos.
Albufeira
Albufeira is split in two different areas which must be taken into account when deciding where to stay: the Strip and the Old Town, with this last one being more family friendly. The Strip, however, is the ideal place for a fun night out, ranging from sports bars to the debauchery of ridiculously cheap happy hour prices at the rhythm of the beat of some of the best DJ’s in the world. Known as “Rua da Oura” in Portuguese, this street is jammed with clubs and pubs that will compete amongst each other to convince you to enter their establishment and not to leave before the early hours of the morning.
During the day you can enjoy a wide range of activities. Groups looking for a fun and relaxed day can enjoy playing golf courses such as Salgados with breath-taking views over the lagoons and Ocean, a day at the Aqualand water park or a stress-free day at the different beaches close to Albufeira such as Praia dos Pescadores, Praia da Oura, Praia da Falésia or Praia da Rocha, where you can also try the very popular stand up paddle (SUP) in the calm and soothing sea. Adrenaline seekers on the other hand might want to start off by testing their driving skills in the creative karting courses of Marina of Albufeira or Karting de Almancil. Even more adventurous spirits might want to test the nerve of their comrades with a few games of paintball; choose the war scenario that most thrills you and have a blast trying to blow your friends’ heads off. Another option for an original stag do is to rent a party boat complete with DJ and bar service for a sunset party or a cruise on a yacht with five star service or to simply go fishing with your best mates with a private charter.
At Marina de Albufeira it is also possible to find restaurants with a variety of cuisine styles, bars and pubs.
Besides the Old Town and the Strip, another good area to stay is Montechoro which is within easy reach of the Strip and has a range of good value accommodation.
Vilamoura
Not far from Albufeira (a 15km drive) there is Vilamoura. Even though Vilamoura is more of a resort itself with a more family friendly vibe to its name, it still has a vibrant atmosphere.
Having indisputably the best Marina in the Algarve, Vilamoura offers plenty of attractions and entertainment suitable for a fun stag do. Blessed with beautiful beaches such as Praia de Vilamoura, Praia da Balaia and sharing Praia da Falésia with its neighbour Albufeira, this luxury resort is a pearl in the dreamy Algarve. Home of 6 golf courses including the Old Course, the golf course where the Portuguese Masters has been held, and with the amazing facilities of Vilamoura Tennis & Padel Academy, this is the ideal place for sporty and active groups. Able to provide stimulating activities as well, it has the advantage of standing close to Aquashow, an exciting water park suitable for an amusing day.
At the end of the day, Marina de Vilamoura is full with bars and restaurants creating a busy nightlife atmosphere. Pubs with live music, sports bars, and sumptuous food manage to capture every traveller’s imagination, which is why it is such a popular destination for people from all over the world. Trendy spots include the Irish Pub, Rui’s Carvery and Bar with live performances and karaoke, Jazz Club, 19th Hole and Figo’s Bar owned by the famous Portuguese football superstar Luís Figo. Groups looking for the wickedness of flashing lights and loud music should try out some of the nearby clubs which host massive parties that are not for the faint-hearted.
On top of all this, Casino de Vilamoura is the best place to try your luck. Filled with more than 500 slot machines and gaming rooms with tables including Blackjack, Roulette and Poker, this dooming facility awaits those ready to beat the odds. In walking distance to Praia de Vilamoura, the Casino treats its guests to stage performances or cabaret shows. The best places to find hotels or apartments are near the Marina. If you would prefer a villas then this requires being located a bit farther away from the centre of Vilamoura in areas such as the Old Village.
Lagos
More to the west there is the city of Lagos, which can also be a good destination for a stag do, away from the busy environment of Albufeira and Vilamoura. A mix of cafes, restaurants and bars together with the striking Marina of Lagos make it a lively spot, but still one not extremely crowded. Stunning beaches such as Praia Dona Ana, Praia de Porto de Mós, Meia Praia or Praia dos Estudantes invite visitors for a walk, kayaking through the coves and to explore the cliffs.
Those fond of outdoor activities will surely enjoy playing golf in the four different golf courses, parasailing, mountain biking, diving into the underground caves or even surfing. In fact, nearby Lagos is Sagres, a town famous for its epic waves and crystal water, making it one of the best surfing locations in Europe.
The legendary parties of Lagos welcome a stag do where you can dance all night. In the morning be sure to appreciate the sun rise together with the rest of the lads while breathing the early sea breeze.
Marvel yourself with the delicious seafood of the local restaurants and check out possible accommodations at the marina or the modern and charming hostels of the city.
Algarve Fun covers the entire Algarve with more than 200 activities to offer and we are more than happy to help you create a stag do to remember (or not).
You might also enjoy our article: Top Things To Do on an Albufeira Stag Do or Party
