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THERE’S MUCH ON OFFER DOWN HERE IN THE SUNNY (WILL IT BE?) SOUTH TO CELEBRATE ON THE 14TH.

LAURA SHEA CHECKS

OUT A FEW OF THE POSSIBILITIES

Olh O Real Marina Hotel

This five-star hotel is perfectly situated to revel in all of the joys of the town with ease. Ask for a sea view room and you will not be disappointed with the stunning vista that can be enjoyed on your spacious balcony. The hotel has a great outdoor pool and sun deck if the weather allows, or you can head to the spa for a bit of pampering. To really spoil your loved one, book the relaxation massage for two and let the stresses melt away. After your spa treatment you will need some refreshments, so head to the bar to soak up the elegant atmosphere and sample some beautiful cocktails to get the evening started in style.

realmarina.realhotelsgroup.com

FOOD FOR THOUGHT Mare Shrimp & Stuff

During your stay in Olhão, savour the walk along the beautiful promenade and take in the perfect view of the Ria Formosa, fishing boats and sea birds. Pop into the historic municipal market on the way for a coffee and then head to the ferry terminal where you can catch the boat to the islands. My personal favourite is Ilha do Farol, for the quaint houses and stunning flora. Jump on a water taxi back for a quick journey and get yourself dolled up ready for your night out. facebook.com/MareShrimpStuff

Begin at the newly-constructed Marina of Olhão, located almost directly opposite the Real Marina Hotel, for a selection of stylish bars. Each offers something different and has a unique atmosphere, but one thing that brings all of the establishments together is the dazzling view over the water, and the sunsets.

When it is time for dinner, go to Mare Shrimp & Stuff. You will find the warmest welcome from your hosts and an eclectic menu offering only the best in seafood. The scallop starter is a thing of beauty so have your phone ready to film the breath-taking moment as the food arrives!

Almancil

Two local restaurants, just outside of Almancil, offering a winning combination of beautiful surroundings and sumptuous menus are Parrilla Natural and Tribulum.

Parrilla Natural boasts a stunning terrace area which is simply magical in the evening, so if the weather is warm then sip a cocktail on the deck and enjoy the lush views. The famous pine tree wrapped in fairy lights is a truly stunning backdrop for a loved up selfie, so don’t miss out on that opportunity! Head inside for dinner and sit in comfort in the stylish restaurant while you choose from a superb menu featuring delicious South American inspired dishes. Great quality ingredients really shine through in the flavours you will experience here. The Natural Group prides itself on top quality beef, and offer the promise of grass-fed and hormone-free cuts.

parrillanatural.com

Tribulum is located atop a small hill which gives beautiful vistas in the evenings of twinkling town lights and tree tops. The entranceway is a photographer’s dream, which sets you up for a taste of the magic to come, and the cocktail terrace, The Green Zebra, is a must.

Inside, the décor is rustic and inviting, and amazing artworks adorn the walls. Glass panels give a sense of airiness as you sit at heavy wood tables and prepare for your special Valentine’s feast. tribulumalgarve.com/

Jonnie Pratt’s passion for using homegrown ingredients bursts through the menu. The breads and burnt butter are mouthwatering, and the herbs are picked from the garden just below the restaurant. True pride is taken in every dish leaving the kitchen and this makes Tribulum a great choice for your romantic evening.

Wine Tasting

For a fun daytime activity where you can enjoy each other, verdant surroundings and delicious wines, then look into doing a tasting tour. At Quinta Da Tor, just outside of Loulé, you can sample the wines, nibble on tapas and learn a bit about the process on a guided tour. Make sure to pick up a couple of bottles of your favourite to take home to prolong the pleasure.

Quinta Dos Vales in Estombar offers relaxed tastings and perfectly manicured gardens featuring pieces of artwork. A walk through the grounds to admire the sculptures will definitely get you in the mood to indulge in a few sips of the vineyards crop!

For those history buffs, a visit to Quinta de Mata Mouros in Silves should not be missed. Set in the grounds of the Convento

Do Paraíso this winery presents a fascinating blend of old and new. They are open Monday to Friday, but booking in advance is wise to avoid disappointment. quintadator.com/en/ quintadosvales.pt/en/ conventodoparaiso.com/

Lagos Zoo

For those of you looking for something a bit different, Lagos Zoo is the ideal place for romance to blossom! Excellent for a sunny afternoon date, the zoo is gorgeous and charming, and your sweetheart will melt at the incredible array of cute, cuddly animals.

Daily feeding schedules mean that you will have plenty to fill your time, and for something to really impress, get in touch with the team and book the lemur meet and greet. This experience will wow your other half and would make an unforgettable setting for a proposal, if that is on the cards.

There is a great little café on site where you can sit next to a tranquil pool and watch the flamingos go about their business whilst enjoying a tasty snack. On the way home, stop at the peaceful town of Carvoeiro for a seafood dinner, or try Silves for glimpses of the historic castle and chilled out cobbled streets. Either one makes for an idyllic end to a romantic day well spent. zoolagos.com/en/