The Portuguese region plays host to many carnivals in the second month of the year, with celebrations often spanning many days. Locals frequently get time off during the carnival season, so you will find entire families in attendance at the events.

Carnivals across the Algarve combine the Christian holiday of Shrove Tuesday with pagan traditional springtime festivities - many towns host their own events and plan the celebration weeks in advance, with floats, paper flowers and themed costumes paying a major role.

Among the biggest events is the three-day carnival celebration held at Loule. This historic festival dates back to the early 1900s and you will find plenty of entertaining sights to see!

Loule is within easy reach of numerous cheap hotels in the Algarve, including the Hotel Auramar Beach Resort. Here, you'll have the chance to see the colourful processions as they parade around the local square, as well as professionally-trained samba dancers and a whole host of local entertainment.

This big and bold carnival is one of Portugal's most exciting street parties - be prepared to dance until the wee hours of the morning as you celebrate with locals and other visitors from around the world.

However, Loule is not the only place to enjoy an exciting carnival in the Algarve this February. Smaller communities including Moncarapacho and Tavira also host their own events and are well worth a visit on these joyous occasions.

Carnivals also offer plenty of opportunities to indulge in the delicious local cuisine. You'll find regional delicacies including battered doughnuts and pancakes at the carnival stalls.

Meanwhile, local restaurants participate in the celebrations by serving up some of the region's finest flavours. You may wish to try some of the stews and casseroles that are often on offer during the winter months. Local favourites include dishes crafted with mutton and wild boar and are well worth sampling!

February is a great month to visit the Algarve thanks to its very mild climate. Not only is it the month of carnival celebrations, it is also the very beginning of the spring season and the region is bursting with beauty.

You may wish to take advantage of the fine spring weather and take a stroll through the hills around Silves, which provide a brilliant place to take a walk. The rural Algarve offers a diverse and exciting landscape - perfect for exploring on foot.

Alternatively, why not get a close-up look at the region's stunning natural beauty on horseback? Popular places to take a ride include the hills surrounding Duas Quintas or the Serra.

You also may wish to head to one of the Algarve's many beaches. While the weather is usually not quite warm enough for swimming, the sunny days are a welcome change from the often-grey climate experienced elsewhere at this time of year. There is nothing like a simple stroll on the sand to put you into the holiday spirit!

Whether you choose to visit the Algarve for the colourful carnival celebrations, the delicious local food or its scenic natural beauty, you are sure to have a brilliant time during your February visit to this spectacular region of Portugal. Start planning your Algarve adventure today!

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