Winter is officially over – hurrah! Spring 2016 Brings Happy Events to the Algarve! Or at least that’s our greatest hope, as the sun has returned to the shores of the Atlantic Ocean.

The first month of spring is not only a time of warm weather, but also one of exciting events to enjoy. The Portuguese, like the Spanish and in fact like most Europeans, are known for their preference of street markets, fair and parties. With the return of spring, tourists also come back to the shores of theAlgarve, though the high season only starts around late June.

Water sports events and motorsport races are also popular in the Algarve, particularly in cities like Portimao, Lagos or Faro.

Let’s look into some of the greatest March 2016 events to look forward to:

In Albufeira, the 39th edition of the International Almond Blossom Cross Country held on the 13th of March from 10 o’clock at the Acoteias International Cross Country Course, is one of the highlights of the annual calendar. A celebration of health and sports, the cross is organized by the Algarve Athletics Association.

Portuguese women are more fierce, especially when it comes to sports. That is precisely why the best international women’s football teams will compete for the Algarve Cup in an explosive event scheduled to take place around the Algarve, in Lagoa, Lagos, Vila Real and Albufeira between the 2nd and 9th of March 2016.

The Municipality of Monchique organizes a campy and fun free event: the Traditional Sausage Fair of Serra de Monchique. The Monchique sausage is a recognized brand which the town council seeks to promote.

So how do we travel around the Algarve? The best option, especially if you are a seasoned driver, is to book online with Lagos car hire. The prices are very affordable and the service is excellent value for money!