ALBUFEIRA
A large town which has been extensively developed for the tourist trade from what was originally a small fishing village.
ALMANCIL
The nearest town to the resorts of Quinta do Lago and Vale do Lobo. On the N125 road about 15 km west of Faro Airport.
BOLIQUEIME
Boliqueime is a charming country village set in the hills, with views of the Atlantic Ocean and its golden beaches to the south, which are just 10 minutes
away by car.
ESTÓI
North of the IP1 in hills of the central Algarve is a charming collection of villages. A contrast to the highly developed resorts on the coast.
FARO
Best known for its airport, but the winding streets of the old town repay a visit. Its harbour is not directly on the coast. It was destroyed in 1755 by an earthquake, however most of Faro's ancient walls remain.
LAGOS
An attractive port from where the Portuguese sailed south to explore Africa. Lagos in Nigeria is named after the town. The old town is still walled and the local catch can be seen at the fishmarket, and eaten in the little restaurants nearby. The old town retains a peaceful charm; the houses bright-coloured and hot under the sun.
LOULÉ
An ancient market town in the hills north of Faro.
QUINTA DO LAGO
An luxury development adjoining the Ria Formosa nature reserve, best known for its championship golf courses and luxury villas. There are hotels and other sporting facilities on this extensive development.
SAGRES
Lies to the west of LAGOS and was the location of the School of Navigation established by Prince Henry the Navigator. An attractive place with a dramatic coastline.
SILVES
This ancient town, which has Roman remains. The castle looks down on the town from its hill. SILVES was the Moorish capital of the Algarve for five hundred years until the mid-13th century. In the past the town was also a port, but the River Arade is now silted up. The Cathedral, Se de Santa Marie is 13th Century. This is a beautiful town and well worth a visit. If you have time also take the Algarve Silves Walking Guide by Maurice and Esme Clyde with you.
TAVIRA
The town is only 15 miles from the border with Spain and is therefore away from the main tourist centres. Its river front on the Gilao is attractive, it also has a number of interesting churches and the remains of a Moorish castle.
VALE DO LOBO
A popular and upmarket tourist complex with excellent sporting facilities, including golf courses.
VILAMOURA
An extensive tourist centre with excellent golf courses and a large marina.
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