Eastern Algarve

The area east of Faro contrasts sharply with most of the Algarve. Here development has spread more slowly. The coastline, almost to the Spanish border, is largely lined by stretches of tidal marshlands which are an integral part of the Rio Formosa National Park, a conservation area of raw beauty and great ecological importance. These marshlands are protected by long and magnificent sand flats (ilhas).

The Eastern Algarve is very different compared to the rugged beauty found west of Faro. Those tidal marshlands have a tranquil beauty and the small resorts along the coast have retained much of their character, looking today as they must have looked long ago. Here tourism blends in perfectly with local activities creating a relaxed way of life. There is a tinge of excitement, even romance, about those ferry or tiny boat trips to the ilhas, trips rewarded by superb, less crowded bathing beaches and warm waters. The houses are different too, in the main more modest and discreet although more opulent properties are appearing on the skyline. There are more charming cottages, farmhouses and the local architecture is quite distinct.

Faro

Faro – Algarve’s capital city. In Moorish times the inhabitants lived within fortified walls and could only be accessed through gates. Many of these gates have been retained. The main entrance to the old town is through the arched entrance "Arcos da Villa" which is Faro’s best known landmark. Savour some magnificent arquitecture at the Largo de Sé, with a famous church and impressive buildings.

There is a pleasant harbour near the centre and the pedestrian area of "Rua Santo António" is a haven for shoppers wit the shops occupying the ground fl oors of some beautiful 18th century buildings. Faro has a cosmopolitan feel about it and is popular with students at the weekend looking for some good nightlife.

The Algarve Forum shopping centre is situated outside Faro centre. It has a Jumbo hypermarket and selection of retail outlets with multi screen cinema and food halls.

Praia de Faro beach near airport also hosts annual motorbike convention each year on the 3rd weekend in July where around 30,000 motorcyclists meet with open air concerts, barbeque and all motor bike related extravaganza.

Tavira

Tavira – renown for its many churches (over 20) and bears the remains of a Moorish castle. The beach is called Ilha da Tavira (Tavira island). It is an offshore tiny island making for 11kms of fine white sandy beach. It was formed because the river Gilão which divides Tavira in two caused the harbour to silt up thus separating it from the sea by this long sand bar. It can be accessed by foot from Pedras del Rei from long causeway or ride on miniature railway (in high season). It is also short boat ride from the quay to the island.

The riverside is the ideal place to stroll with many bars and restaurants to choose from.

Quinta do Lago & Vale do Lobo

The playgrounds of the rich and famous. Both are self contained resorts centred around golf courses (6 of them in the immediate area).

Lots of sports including dinghy sailing, fishing, riding, variety of water sports, snooker squash. Both resorts served by shopping centres with exclusive, upmarket shops. There are many restaurants in the surrounding area, but a car is recommended.

The Ria Formosa nature reserve borders these resorts. It is a natural paradise that stretches 60kms from Vila Real Santo António to Anção area and shelters many rare bird species

Almancil

Almancil – further inland than the coastal resorts of Quinta do Lago & Vale do Lobo, it could be said that this is the nearest functional town with the best amenities and services for those staying within the Golden Triangle (the name given to the area between Almancil, Quinta do Lago and Vale do Lobo).

A good choice of shops, restaurants and bars Almancil has a distinctive English feel to it. This is highlighted by the large supermarket which stocks many English products.