Extending a trip before staying in Tavira - 2nd destination?
So booked to go 5 days to Tavira last weekend of May with a small group of couples in a resort. By some fortune, me and my partner can extend our holiday for 6 days beforehand joining up with the group. We've just changed the flights to land Sat 23/5 PM. But thinking of changing location entirely so we don't do 10 days in Tavira.
Looking for ideas of where to stay - ideally a pool, but will take charming old town with plenty of walks, beaches, cycling, mall little authentic Portugese restaurants and taverns. Walking 20 mins to the next busier/livelier town is also completely fine if we are in a quiet area or nice quiet resort. We are in desperate need of some downtime and switch off our brains. Bonus if any cycling routes and hire places available to go off the beaten track. Ideally don't want to rent a car but certainly not against one if it allows to get away and widen our choices.
It's been years since I have been to Algarve (probably went 10 times between the ages of
5-25), so things will obviously have changed a lot but I feel I know/knew the areas relatively well. I've done Carviero/Benagil many times, Alvor and Portamao on day trips, never been as far as Lagos. Also never done Vilamoura, but heard some places are Albufiera 2.0? I remember Albufiera Old Town being quiet nice but this is a long time ago. Definitely don't want loud, brash and ex-patty. Just quiet and quaint but with larger amenities that is walkable if needed.
Have just noticed Olhao but this might be very similar to Tavira? It looks beautiful but it might be more of the same?
Would love to take in your recommendations. Looking to book accommodation this weekend Thanks!