Algarve

Before you go

• Overnight stays in motorhomes are allowed in Portugal only in designated areas and are banned in natural parks. That leaves campsites and approved motorhome sites.
• The GNR and the Maritime Police enforce the rules and have issued many fines in recent years.
• The Southwest Alentejo and Vicentine Coast Natural Park enforces its own overnight bans on the western coast.

Planning

The Algarve covers about 5,000 square kilometres and 16 municipalities. Faro is the main gateway and the airport location. The climate is mild all year, with more than 3,000 hours of sunshine a year according to the national tourist board. The west coast largely belongs to the Southwest Alentejo and Vicentine Coast Natural Park, and the Ria Formosa lagoon lies near Faro. Here it is better to choose a base by campsite than by a spontaneous stop.

Camping

In Portugal, overnight stays in motorhomes are allowed only in designated areas and are banned in the natural parks. That leaves campsites and designated motorhome sites. According to a newspaper report, the GNR recorded 346 offences in 11 operations in 2024 and 171 fines in seven operations in 2025. The GNR and the maritime police are mainly responsible for enforcement. In Vila do Bispo, the report says almost all caravanners are foreigners who often do not know where the protected areas begin. The municipality plans a ban within built-up areas.

Getting around

Faro is the usual arrival point, and the region mixes sandy beaches, sheltered coves and small islands in the Ria Formosa. Cycle and walking routes such as the Rota Vicentina run along the west coast. Rules for service areas, parking and beach access are set locally and can change, so check with the municipality and the park authority before arriving.

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