Sightseeing

Natural Landscapes

Ria Formosa Nature Reserve

Almost 2000 acres of pine forest and 18,400 hectares of reserve — over 200 bird species, two nature trails, and a lagoon that turns postcard-pretty at sunset. Reach remote beaches by boat from Faro, Olhão or Fuseta, or the tourist train to Praia do Barril.

The Monchique Mountains

The Algarve’s highest point at Foia (900m) — pine and cork foothills, eucalyptus higher up, and the old spa town of Caldas de Monchique on the way. A good spot for Chicken Piri Piri or Presunto.

Historic Towns

Vilamoura

Roman ruins including a mausoleum and baths, plus the small Cerro da Vila museum of Gothic, Moorish and Roman artefacts.

Loulé

One of the Algarve’s oldest districts, with an Arabian castle, a 13th-century parish church, and a strong craft heritage in leather, pottery and copper.

Silves

The Moorish-era capital of the Algarve — a walled city with a four-arched bridge, castle and cathedral, and home to the July Silves Beer Festival.

Tavira

The ‘town of churches’ — 22 in total — built across two hills linked by a seven-arched Roman bridge.