Guests of Conrad Algarve are invited to rise with the sun, just as local fishermen do, accompany the head chef, and arrive early at the clam picking marshes set in the depths of the stunning Ria Formosa National Park. On the drive to Olhão or Faro Marina, the fishing towns from where the marshes are reached, guests will enjoy the views of the colourful local fishing houses and traditional Algarve living while enjoying a gourmet breakfast of freshly baked pastries.

Upon arrival to Olhão or Faro Marina, an eco-friendly, cork insulated catamaran takes guests to the fishermen who are already busy at work. The fishermen then educate guests on the skills it takes to coax the wily clam out of the sand, a remarkably satisfying skill once it has been mastered. 

Having worked up an appetite, Chef McGie will escort guests back to the hotel where he will demonstrate how to create a lunch masterpiece with the freshly caught clams. The Chef will guide them through the process of how to cook the famous Conrad Algarve Rio Formosa Spaghetti Clams recipe, a delectable dish that will surely be devoured with relish. The dish is accompanied very well with a crisp glass of the Algarve’s local white wine, exclusively picked for Conrad Algarve’s wine cellar. 

This area of the Algarve is renowned for its amazing selection of seafood, freshly caught each day and brought to the shores for locals and visitors to enjoy, serving up famous Algarvian dishes such as Amêijoas à Bulhão Pato (a regional favourite clam dish) and Cataplana, a simple yet delicious shellfish dish that dates back to Moorish times. The Clam Picking Experience is an extremely enjoyable and rewarding activity that allows guests to experience the Bespoke Luxury of Conrad Algarve and to get in touch with the rustic nature of the traditional side of the Algarve. Once the experience has finished, guests can continue to enjoy the incredible facilities and flawless service at this award-winning hotel. 

Designed for today’s savvy and sophisticated traveller, Conrad Algarve allows guests an opportunity to enjoy an exceptional and bespoke experience within a contemporary Portuguese retreat. Built in the style of an 18th Century Portuguese palace, the striking property features 154 exquisite guestrooms spread over six floors. In addition to Louro, Conrad Algarve’s gastronomy is world class and features five other dining experiences, including Michelin-starred chef Heinz Beck’s restaurant, Gusto. The award-winning luxury Spa offers guests tailor-made treatments using products by Aromatherapy Associates and Intraceuticals. 

The Clam Picking Experience costs from €115 per person and includes return transfer from Conrad Algarve to Faro or Olhão Marina, wellington boots, the boat trip, an experienced guide to explain the Ria Formosa unique Ecosystem and clam picking techniques, a culinary masterclass with the Chef and a glass of wine. 

Nightly rates at Conrad Algarve start from €164 based on two adults sharing a grand deluxe room on a B&B basis.

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