This November, the Algarve proves once again that it’s more than just a summer destination. From record-breaking endurance races to youth football tournaments and soulful jazz evenings, the region’s calendar is bursting with energy and culture.
Whether you’re a sports enthusiast or a lover of music and wine, there’s something for everyone to enjoy as the Algarve welcomes the world to its shores.
The world’s toughest marathon comes to Altura
The Algarve is set to host part of what’s described as “the biggest and toughest marathon in the world” later this month.
On November 19, the quiet town of Altura, in Castro Marim, will become the European stage of The Great World Race — a gruelling event where runners complete seven marathons on seven continents in seven days.
Athletes will race along Avenida 24 de Junho from 8am to 3pm, as around 70 competitors from across the globe take on the European leg of this extreme endurance test. Starting in Antarctica (Wolf’s Fang), the race continues through Oceania (Perth) and Asia (Abu Dhabi) before reaching Portugal.
This marks the first time Portugal has hosted a stage of the event. Each 42-kilometre marathon pushes runners through vastly different terrains and climates.
Between continents, participants rest aboard a specially equipped aircraft that doubles as a “flying hotel.” Entry to this elite challenge costs an astonishing €49,500.
Rising stars shine at the Portimão International Cup
Just days earlier, the Algarve will also welcome the next generation of football talent. From November 14 to 16, the U14 Portimão International Cup will bring together 35 clubs from 20 countries, including world-renowned names like Liverpool FC, Everton FC, Parma Calcio 1913, Crystal Palace FC and Sporting CP.
Matches will take place at the Major David Neto Training Centre and Mexilhoeira Grande Sports Complex, with tickets priced at €5 per day or €12 for a three-day pass. Children under 12 have free entrance.
The tournament aims to promote not only competition but also “cultural and sporting exchange,” giving young players a unique opportunity to test their skills and catch the attention of international scouts.
Jazz meets wine in Silves
The Algarve’s cultural calendar heats up with the 9th edition of Jazz nas Adegas (Jazz in Wine Cellars) in Silves. Running from November 7, 2025, to May 23, 2026, these popular events combine live jazz performances with local wine and tapas across 22 sessions in different wineries.
Early highlights include performances by the João Melro Trio (Nov 21–22, Quinta do Rogel) and the Sofia Moreira Quarteto (Dec 5–6, Quinta do Francês). Tickets cost €25, including tastings, snacks, museum vouchers, and even a bottle of wine.
Available via www.bol.pt and major outlets (FNAC, Worten, CTT), Jazz nas Adegas offers a perfect blend of music, wine, and heritage, enriching the Algarve’s cultural scene well into spring.
For information on wine tasting in the region click here.
Photo courtesy of The Great World Race.