1. Silves
Silves is a charming and historic town on the banks of the Arade River, littered with beautiful lemon and orange trees. It has a laid back atmosphere and makes a great day trip away from the hustle and bustle of the busy beaches. A visit to the Castelo de Silves is a must. Dating as far back as the 8th century, the castle offers some fantastic panoramic views over the town.
3. Sagres
Sagres is a truly tranquil town with beautiful beaches, a picturesque harbour at Baleeira, a pretty town square and impressive views of the rugged landscape. If you are a fan of ocean-fresh fish, there are plenty of great restaurants where you can sample many tasty local dishes. Nearby is Cape St. Vincent, the most south-westerly point of Europe’s mainland and where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean from this jagged cliff top setting. Henry the Navigator, Portugal’s most famous explorer set off from here on his voyages of discovery.
4. Faro
On any trip to the Algarve, it’s likely that you will at least pass through Faro, as it is the region’s capital and home to the international airport. Faro is a city full of history, great shops, restaurants and cafes aplenty, theatres, galleries and, of course, great beaches. The central area is quite compact and easy to explore with everything located within walking distance. For those interested in nature and wildlife, the Ria Formosa lagoon and Natural Park is also right on the doorstep.
