December is always a magical time in the Algarve, with towns and villages along the coast coming alive with beautiful lights and the scent of roasting chestnuts filling the air. At the region’s iconic Vale do Lobo resort, December heralds the arrival of the hugely popular Christmas market, while the end of the month sees holidaymakers and property owners come together to welcome in the New Year in style.
Now in its 15th year, the Christmas market will be packed with seasonal sparkle. The market takes place on 6th and 7th December, from 10.00 am to 5.30 pm, with free entry for all. A wide range of exhibitors will be offering irresistible gifts and handcrafted creations, providing plenty of inspiration for Christmas shoppers seeking inspired presents for friends and family.
As well as seasonal stalls in the Vale do Lobo Auditorium, the resort’s exterior gardens will host a festive food court, courtesy of Algarve Fine Food. Seasonal flavours will showcase the best of the Algarve’s Christmas cuisine, while live music, entertainment and beautiful Christmas décor will combine to create an enchantingly immersive festive ambience. Perfect for delighting visitors young and old.
Vale do Lobo is also the place to be on New Year’s Eve, with a celebratory atmosphere across the resort. Two restaurants in particular – Tinto and Smash – are attracting keen interest as a result of their réveillon plans.
At Tinto, New Year’s Eve is all about pairing exceptional gastronomy in the very best company. Diners can enjoy a carefully conceived special menu, with delectable dishes and tasting moments, such as octopus carpaccio, lobster açorda, grilled bacalhau and lamb shank in a rich port wine jus. The sophisticated setting will provide guests with a privileged view of the fireworks in the Vale do Lobo Praça come midnight, with sparkling wine and traditional New Year raisins provided to welcome the arrival of 2026.
Over at SMASH, the lively New Year’s Eve celebration also includes a menu specially prepared for the occasion, with diners tucking into wagyu carpaccio, beetroot mille-feuille, ribeye with truffle gratin potatoes, an irresistible Basque cheesecake and more. The convivial atmosphere throughout the evening at SMASH, with sparkling wine served ready for toasting with family and friends at midnight, and guests can enjoy the spectacular fireworks in the Praça.
The sophistication of Tinto and the positivity and good cheer on offer at Smash are already drawing in diners from across the Algarve (and beyond!), so anyone wishing to experience a unique New Year’s Eve full of flavour and good vibes is advised to book soon. Full details are available on their website.
(+ 351) 289 353 000
(chamada para a rede fixa nacional / call to the national landline)
recepcao@vdl.pt | www.valedolobo.com
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