The Algarve has plenty to offer sightseers. There are Moorish castles, Gothic cathedrals, dramatic clifftop views, mountain treks, museums, monasteries and of course shops.
Although car hire is the obvious form of transport when getting out and about, there are alternatives. A boat trip perhaps, the perfect way to combine sunbathing with sightseeing, or even a fishing trip. A jeep safari is the ideal solution for a knowledgeable guide to the Algarvian countryside and places off the beaten track. Coach trips are available for a rest from driving and also for evening tours so the driver can have a drink. Your Eurosun representative can give you further details of places to visit and what to see whether travelling by car, boat, jeep or coach. Listed below are some places of interest:
ALTE:
This is one of the prettiest villages in the Algarve, with brightly adorned white washed houses where two are never alike. Legend says that a local noblewoman on her way to the nearest church called the procession to “halt” and ordered a church built as it was a more convenient location. The nearby village of Fonte Grande is an ideal place to picnic with its springs and waterfalls.
LAGOA:
This pleasant inland town, not to be confused with Lagos, about 12 miles to the west, is the wine capital of the Algarve. A walk through its ancient streets will soon confirm this with the heady aroma of ageing wine drifting from the underground cellars. The local wine is served in all the bars and restaurants and a winery tour is possible.
LAGOS:
Lagos is a major fishing port yet steeped in history and interest. It was the home of the first slave market which can still be seen standing on the riverbank. The statue of Henry the Navigator overlooks the promenade displaying the towns close association with the sea. Also of interest are the lively bars and good shops.
LISBON:
Lisbon is the capital of Portugal, lies on 20 low hills (not 7 as popular tradition has it). The principal attraction of the city lies in the magnificent views from its many belvederes, shady tree lined avenues and flower filled balconies. Lisbon also has a generous share of historical monuments, churches and museums. An ideal location for shopping, markets and restaurants, a visit to Lisbon should not be missed.
LOULE:
Loule is rich in architecture and is famous for its market. Also a center for local handicrafts.
MONCHIQUE:
A small village full of character, Monchique is located 24km north of Portimao. It is the center of handicrafts and you can usually buy home-made nougat, the local fire water made from the fruit of the arbutus tree ‘medronho’, hand carved wooden utensils or a large straw bag. From the nearby ruins of a Franciscan convent, marvellous views of the Algarve can be enjoyed.
The small village ‘Caldas de Monchique’ nearby has the only spa in the Algarve, it is charming, peaceful and once a popular resort to restore health and vigor. An excellent opportunity to sample the local water fresh from the ground which is said to prolong your life by ten years provided you can stomach the sulfurous aroma!
PORTIMAO:
Approximately 37 miles from Faro is Portimao, the Algarve newest city, of great importance as a fishing port. An earthquake in 1755 destroyed a large part of the city and much of its past.
Probably the greatest attraction of Portimao is the shopping and the fresh sardines sold by the quayside.
SAGRES:
Known locally as the “end of the world”, Sagres is located on the westerly tip of the Algarve. Home to Henry the Navigator for 40 years the fortress in which he lived still stands. It is here he is claimed to have founded his famous school of navigation where Cristopher Columbus learnt his skills. From the battlements there is a superb view of Cape St. Vincent across a blue crescent bay.
SEVILLE:
Being so close to Spain, it’s an excellent opportunity to visit the city of Flamenco.
SILVES:
Once the capital of the Arab kingdom, Silves lies 17km north-east of Portimao. A once flourishing city of palaces, gardens and bazaars, Silves may have lost its influence but not its interest. The surrounding area is comprised of mile after mile of orchards - peach, almond and orange trees. The red sandstone fortress is open daily (09:00-19:00). A 13th century cathedral built of red and white sandstone has fine emblazoned tombs and should not be missed.
VILAMOURA:
Vilamoura is the Algarve’s most luxurious and ambitious holiday development. With excellent sporting facilities and the major attraction - its marina, Vilamoura is certainly worth a visit.
