The Algarve comprises some 5,411 km2 with over 350,000 permanent inhabitants … a figure which increases to over one million at the height of the summer. People all looking for the same thing … quality of life … and in the Algarve you don’t have to look far!
There are no less than 100 beaches all washed by the Atlantic Ocean, many ideal for families with long stretches of golden sand, little rock pools and hidden coves, as well as bars, restaurants and other facilities close at hand.
Going inland, the scenery varies considerably. In January and February, for example, you’ll be treated to a white wash of almond blossom shading the many varieties of wild orchids, whilst July is the time to enjoy freshly picked cherries, strawberries and melons … each month brings something new and equally delicious.
Away from the immediate coastline are the foothills leading up to the highest point, Foia, above the unspoilt village of Monchique. This mountainous area is well known for the layers of Roman terraces with granite stone walls that provide the stream of local vegetables found on sale in the local market.
The Algarve has a colourful history, having been fought over by the Phoenicians, Romans and Moors, and having suffered a huge earthquake in 1755 destroying many towns and the vast majority of historical buildings. The influences though are still there for all to see.
Take Albufeira, once a thriving seaport with its own castle and now a major holiday resort since the 1960’s. Here you’ll find a small museum of 15th and 17th century Ming ceramics, together with a plentiful collection of bars, restaurants and clubs that tend to spill over into the narrow streets on the warmer evenings. A stroll through the ‘Old Town’ in the evening will lead you back in time to some interesting spots.
Another ancient village is Alvor, fast becoming a popular tourist location, although the one-ended narrow streets have restricted development somewhat. What you will find however is a cluster of bars and restaurants, many with live music, attracting locals and holidaymakers alike.
Originally a small, intimate fishing village, Carvoeiro has lost its resemblance to its modest beginnings. Today it spreads to the east and west with luxurious villas and comfortable apartments. The one street has become three, each lined with bars, restaurants and boutiques and a sprinkling of older, quaint houses.
Portimão, the main shopping town in the Algarve in the 1970’s and 80’s, is essentially commercially orientated. A superb marina has since been added adjoining the Praia da Rocha, bringing with it a further choice of restaurants and bars … a firm favourite with the sailing fraternity.
Close to the most south westerly point of Europe, known as Cape St Vincent, is Sagres. The surrounding cliffs make an impressive sight with their towering height constantly beaten by the strength of the Ocean. The local restaurants are renowned for their fish by the variety and freshness … and it is not unusual to see local fishermen wedged in dramatic positions on the cliff face with the sea thundering beneath … a vision not for the feint hearted!
Once the capital of the Algarve, Silves has strong links to the past. So
much history is attached to it that only a book would do it justice! Although
the earthquake destroyed most of the town, the remains of the castle dating
back to the Moors are still evident. There is also an underground water reservoir
still used by the inhabitants of the city today.
Tavira along with Lagos are two of the most architecturally attractive towns
in the region. Dating back to around 2,000 BC, Tavira has been rebuilt with
many fine 18th century buildings and 37 churches. A Roman bridge links the
two parts of the town across the river Gilão. The surrounding countryside
is currently being developed to meet the demands of the tourist industry and
the new golf courses in the nearby vicinity.
Set at the gateway of the Mediterranean, the coastal town of Lagos is also a former, proud capital of the region, dating back to the 14th and 17th centuries, and has long had strong links with the sea. In fact, it was in this very town that Henry the Navigator’s famous Caravels paved the way for the Portuguese discoveries.
Today reveals a charming and carefully preserved seaside resort with cobbled streets and historic monuments, enriched by a wide variety of leisure and sporting activities and, of course, Portugal’s most modern and world class, full service harbour of 470 berths. Close by Meia Praia is one of the longest and least blemished stretches of sand in the Algarve. Here, as far as water sports go, you are spoilt for choice … sailing, windsurfing, water skiing, parasailing, fishing and scuba diving all on the menu.
A ten-minute drive from Lagos, takes you to another pretty resort … this time Luz. In a sheltered bay, you have a lovely beach supported by a number of bars and restaurants. It’s not unusual to see yachts mooring up in its shallow waters, whilst those onboard come ashore to sample the delicious seafood caught fresh that day.
Arguably the most dynamic location is Vilamoura, a name given to an area rather than just the actual town. It is one of the largest, single tourist complexes in Europe surrounded by pine forests and open, recovered marshland. The company that owns this complex, like most others in the Algarve, is extremely environmentally aware … every effort is made to protect nature within its continued planned development.
Among the many facilities here are four golf courses, a luxurious yacht marina, tennis centre, shooting club, riding school, casino and private airstrip. In contrast with all this modern finery, within the centre is a preserved Roman site and Museum of Cerro da Vila.
Almancil too has grown in size, in order to meet the needs of the nearby holiday and residential areas of ‘the Golden Triangle’, encompassing the world renowned Quinta do Lago and Vale do Lobo resorts. In keeping with the area, there’s a good selection of restaurants offering many different forms of cuisine. The church here is well worth a visit, as is the São Lourenço Cultural Centre.
When one thinks of the Algarve, it’s either the magnificent beaches or resplendent golf courses that spring to mind and in Quinta do Lago, you have the largest golfing resort in Europe boasting a total of 72 holes within four courses rated among the top 25 in Europe (Golf World 1997) and having hosted no less than seven Portuguese Opens to its credit.
The Ria Formosa and Quinta do Lago courses, the outstanding San Lorenzo course and the Pinheiros Altos course all have first class driving ranges, putting greens, pro shops and clubhouses with bar and restaurant. In fact, once in the Algarve, the golf buggy will become almost as regular a sight as the car!
Shopping is another popular pastime … with some of the best furniture stores in the northern hemisphere! That’s to say nothing of the designer outlets, shoe shops, home accessories … the list goes on and on. A visit to the elegant Quinta Shopping Centre is a must, as is lunch or dinner in one of the fine collection of restaurants now located there.
The administrative centre for the Algarve is Faro, now a major city, full of residential and holiday homes, and starting point of the Ria Formosa lagoon … an important nature reserve covering some 17,000 hectares. The ‘old part’ is still surrounded by Roman walls, inside which you can explore the 13th century cathedral and 18th century Episcopal palace. The ‘golden’ church of Nosso Senhora do Carmo is claimed to be the best example of golf leaf woodwork in southern Portugal … it’s also said to contain the bones of over 1,200 monks!
This is also home to the Algarve’s main international airport bringing regular daily flights into region from all over Europe and beyond. Recently subject to a major improvement programme, it’s a large, bustling airport with all modern facilities. Just outside the main terminal is the new hire car facility giving you access to the vast majority of companies operating within the Algarve and making it easier for you to continue with your journey.
Other airports close enough to utilise as an alternative are Lisbon … soon to be a bonus for the western Algarve with the new IP1 motorway easing the journey … and Seville across the border in Spain and yet only approximately two hours drive from Faro.
If you haven’t discovered the Algarve yet, may it’s time you did!
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