The
Eastern Algarve, stretching from the central city of Faro to the Spanish border, is much quieter, the wave of tourism that has swept over much of the central Algarve has not touched this region, leaving a unspoiled landscape of cork and olive trees, old towns with their whitewashed village and local markets where, locals daily buy fresh products.
Faro is the capital of the Algarve and is the gateway for those traveling by air, so it is often unfairly overlooked as a destination, but there is much to love about this vibrant old town. Faro has a charming walled old town, and once entered through the decorative Arco do Vila, cobbled streets lead to the gothic Se Cathedral, the Paço Episcopal Palace and the Convent of Nossa Senhora.
Only 10 minutes by car from Faro, we arrive in the town of Olhão with its friendly atmosphere, and a municipal market that is not to be missed. It is a perfect starting point to discover the Ria Formosa Natural Park, or to take a boat to one of several unspoilt and stunning islands.
Further east, we come to other towns like Tavira, considered one of the most charming towns with a mix of traditional Portuguese heritage and deep-rooted Moorish influences. Next, the small town of Castro Marim with its 12th century castle ruins and Vila Real de Santo António on the Guadiana River, with Spain on the other side.
Don't miss:
- The old town of Faro;
- Visit to an Olive Oil Producer;
- Learn about the cork production process and the versatility of this material;
- Explore the Ria Formosa Natural Park, considered one of Portugal's natural wonders;
- Visit the small and picturesque village of Cacela Velha, at the easternmost point of the Ria Formosa;
- Escape to an almost desert island, Armona, Culatra or Farol;
- Boat trip between Portugal and Spain along the Guadiana River.
THE EASTERN ALGARVE TO THE SPANISH BORDER
