Historical
There are a string of resorts - Olhao,Tavira and Vila Real de Santo Antonio to the east, for example, preserve quite a lot of character and the area is very popular with ornithologists. The western Algarve, stretching 100km to Sagres, has the major resorts, while inland a visit to the Roman ruins at Estoi are worthwhile.
The Algarve boasts a hundred miles of golden sandy beaches and enjoys over 3000 hours of glorious sunshine every year. Situated on the southwestern extremity of Europe and offering the crystal clear Atlantic Ocean along its rugged coastline. This beautiful part of Portugal is ideal for holidaymakers of all ages. The Algarve is well known for its beaches, sports and fortified wines and is a haven of history and culture, which makes it a delight to visit all year round.
LAGOS is a charming town set within one of the largest bays on the Algarve. Attractive for tourists, but it still able to maintain its authenticity. In the centre there are many small paved streets full of life and bustle, with an abundance of cafes and restaurants, shops and bars, attractive for tourists. There are also many small restaurants aimed at the locals, and worth a visit. They are pretty simple, but they always have fresh fish for very reasonable prices and it is always nice to be among the lively Portuguese families. Lagos was primarily a fishing port that has become a popular tourist location. The cosmopolitan Marina de Lagos offers a touch of elegance with it restaurants, shops, bars and cafes and is also an important yachting centre. Lagos combines both a local and tourist feel better than any other resort on the Algarve, there's always a good local presence when you visit this typical Portuguese town.
Praia da Luz can be found just a few kilometres west of Lagos, originally a fishing village Luz now is popular family holiday destination – especially for those who do not wish to hire a vehicle. With its cobbled streets and white washed villas this is the perfect resort for a relaxing holiday. There are plenty of cafes; bars and restaurants on offer and a selection of water sports are available on the beach.
FARO The best-known city on Portugal's Algarve coast, historic Faro has seen many settlers including the Romans, Arabians and Christians. It lost many of its historic buildings in the Great Earthquake of 1755. The area developed strongly as a trading port from the 16th century and historic ruins can be seen at the Milreu Ruins in the city's suburbs. Over recent years Faro has changed from a sleepy town into a major tourism destination and is the gateway to one of Europe's most popular holiday destinations. Many visitors' head straight off for other resorts. Faro does boast an attractive harbour, a vibrant nightlife, pedestrianised shopping and easy access by boat and bus to neighbouring beaches.
PORTIMAO The town with some 35,000 inhabitants is essentially commercially orientated and was the main shopping town of the whole Algarve during the 1970s and 1980s. The town's church is the last attractive building surviving in the town dates from 1476 but it under went many alterations from 1717 onwards. Happily, it also has a very active cultural department and often there are different forms of events throughout the year. The Municipal Museum is housed in an old sardine canning factory and here regular exhibitions are held that cover art, history, and general culture, all of a local and national interest. A Marina was opened adjoining Praia da Rocha and adds the fascinating sight of the many boats at anchor and a further choice of bars and restaurants in which to relax and watch the world go around. On the river front near the square are more cosmopolitan cafés along with a selection of boat tours and deep sea-fishing for you to book. Portimao and its surrounding area have lots to offer. A rich heritage of historical monuments. The eternal natural beauty of the Ria de Alvor. The charm of cultivated fields, of slopes covered with pine trees and wild flowers. The allure of walking up into the hills and looking down on the Algarve. Old fashioned Portugese shops, and a variety of restaurants makes this an interesting day out. 20 mins by car from Lagos or jump on the train from Lagos to Portimao - 2 stops, 10 mins!
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