What to see and visit in Algarve
It is no secret that the South of Portugal boasts many things. The jewel of the South, situated in the nearest vicinity of the Atlantic Ocean, makes up for a surfers haven. The unique beaches with crystal clear water, mesmerising white sand and rugged coastline, the always-sunny weather, the 300 days of sunshine, the intertwined dubbed streets of old charming towns and stunning vineyards – Algarve is food for the soul and inspiration for the senses.
Quinta dos Vales is an example of the perfect and central location to enjoy all Algarve has to offer.
Out of the many things one can experience, here is a shortlist of the best ones to explore:
Ponta da Piedade
According to many, this is one of the most beautiful beaches in the south. Its beauty matches an artist’s masterpiece, golden oil on a turquoise canvas.
This unparalleled beauty lies above mystic caves, stalactites and stalagmites which heighten into grand, tall pillars, bathing into sea grottos, swaying against the strong currents stirring up in the vast Atlantic.
If visiting the Algarve region, taking a tour of Lagos and Ponta de Piedade is a must!
Faro
Words will always fail to describe the magic that this place breathes within its every corner. The city of Faro is the capital of Algarve and the busiest city in the South of Portugal, with an international airport, connecting the region to all parts of the world. Faro is home to about 50,000 residents.
Its cobbled streets’ meeting point is the landmark cathedral, standing proud and tall in the centre of the city.
The Old Town is also something that every tourist must visit. It dates back from the early 18th and 19th century, surrounded by strong and tall defensive walls.
Tavira
When speaking of Algarve places to visit, Tavira must be mentioned. Small, private and dashing is the lovely town of Tavira, located on the eastern coast of Algarve. It is one of the most astounding attractions. Sitting on the two shores of the banks of the river Gilão it simply embodies mysticism, and old-world charm adorned with castles and cathedrals. This city is famous for its churches, 21 to be precise, embellishing the old part of this amazing town.
Also, if in Tavira, one cannot leave without visiting the romantic bridge over the river Gilão, built by the Romans in the early 17th century. Also, one of the most popular tourist attractions is a sightseeing cruise along the Ria Formosa. This is one of the most stunning waterways which constitutes a part of the natural park.
Vila Real de Santo António
The charm of this great city is so inviting, that’s really a must-stop point when visiting the South of Portugal.
One of the main Algarve attractions is the stunning Praça Marques de Pombal main square, which features a central captivating obelisk, surrounded by tall orange trees. The many enchanting cafes are scattered all over the grand square, attracting visitors from every part of the world.
There are a plethora of activities that one can do in Vila Real de Santo Antonio – one of them being taking a tour on the ferry from the marina Ayamonte, a town situated on the very Spanish border, and stopping for lunch in one of the lively tapas restaurants. It’s only a 20-minute ride across the River Guadiana.
This charming border town is full of markers and shops, offering the very best of the two worlds. The Arquivo Histórico Municipal on Avenida da República boasts having the most delicious and rare sardines and tunas, prepared in such a way that lingers long after one leaves Portugal. Also, the free, interactive exhibition of this city’s marine life is open to visitors, offering a thrilling tourist experience.
Quinta dos Vales
The pupil of the southern eye is this dazzling resort. This alluring wine estate sitting comfortably in the heart of the Western Algarve is beautifully surrounded by luscious green vines, gardens with contemporary flair, wine cellars, and it also offers accommodation to around 3000 guests at all times of the year. The resort offers guests’ villas and tourists’ homes available for short and long term renting. The amenities that this place offers are 2 large outdoor pools, golf, mini-golf, tennis terrains, a tour of the award-winning winery, an enormous landscape garden with modern art statues, and many others.
Among the services this winery offers is the organisation of indoor and outdoor weddings and other types of celebrations, big or intimate. Also, wine tasting is one of the many offers of this Wine Estate, among which is their home-produced wine Marquês dos Vales. The wine estate is positioned in such a way that all the city hotspots are at only a 15-minute drive distance. The vineyard also offers its visitors the chance to buy a piece of the land and produce their own wine – which captivated the attention of many wine lovers.
For more information on accommodation, wine tasting tours and wedding organisations visit the official website of Quinta dos Vales.
