Tourism in the Algarve

Albufeira, located in the heart of Algarve, is one of the main tourist spots (if not the most tourist-intensive spot) in the whole of Portugal. Albufeira is famed for its pristine beaches, which are situated at the center of the Algarve coastline, and its unusual cliff and rock formations. Flights to the airport in Faro—about 30 km from Albufeira—are cheap, making it accessible for a wide range of budgets.

Albufeira actually consists of two sections: The “old” Albufeira, which is a fishing port with old Algarvian narrow streets and whitewashed structures; and the “new” Albufeira, which is made up of more recent developments growing around the old section.

For accommodations, there are plenty to choose from ranging from hotels to apartelles to campsites. One can rent mobile homes in Albufeira Camping—a value-for-money alternative to hotels.

Albufeira offers a lot of choices for the beach-goer. Within a p of 5 km, you can find the Praia de Baleerira in the new marina, the Praia do Peneco and Praia dos Pescadores (which are two beaches near the fishing town), and other equally charming beaches such as Praia dos Alamães, Praia do Inatel, Praia das Areias de Sao João, Praia dos Aveiros, and Praia da Oura. Other beaches are also easily accessible from the town.

Albufeira is also famous for its nightlife. Bars, discos, and nightclubs abound “The Strip” in Albufeira’s Montechoro section. Local restaurants serve seafood specialties such as cataplana (steamed shellfish) and caldeirada (fish stew).

Restaurants specializing in various chicken dishes are also popular. Other sights of interest include Churches in various stages of disrepair and the Archaeological Museum that contains relics from Albufeira’s colorful past.

Almancil

Almancil, a small market town located northwest of Faro, is famous as a center for two luxury beach resorts and residential developments along the Algarve, namely:

Vale does Lobo, which lies 2 miles south of Almancil, and Quinta do Lago, about 6 miles southeast of the village. The town is a mere 20-minute drive from the Faro airport, which is a transportation hub for Almancil and its surrounding resorts.

Almancil is important in providing goods and services to satisfy the needs of the two up-market developments. Also located here are many real estate offices and interior and furnishing shops. The town is also notable for the distinct pottery produced by locals.

Areas of interest include the Church of Sao Lourenco east of Almancil, which showcases stunning azuleqo glazed tiles by the artist Policarpo de Oliveira Bernardes. These 18th-century ceramic tiles exemplify the best of Algarvian architecture.

Close by is the Sao Lourenço Cultural Centre, an establishment regularly holding events such as art exhibits and music shows. Also located in Almancil is the Estádio Algarve (Algarve Stadium). The home ground of Louletano DC and SC Farense, the stadium is host to the 2004 European Football Championship.

Notable Almancil Beaches include, Praia do Ancão, Praia do Garrão, Praia da Quinta do Lago, Praia do Trafal, and Praia do Vale de Lobo.

The Quinta do Lago complex near town is considered one of the most exclusive luxury developments in Southern Europe. It is popular with English and is a retreat for many celebrities.

The resort boasts a five-star hotel, first-class fine dining restaurants, and various luxury facilities. Rumor has it that Alan Shearer, George Michael, Luis Figo, Madonna, and Elton John own property in these areas.

The tennis center is among the best in Europe and restaurants offering a myriad of cuisines catering to different palates are many. Also located in Almancil is the Almancil Karting, a leisure and competition complex. A replica of the former F1 Brazilian racetrack, it is a must-see for many for motor racing aficionados.

Alvor

Alvor is a relatively small coastal town located between Lagos and Portimao in the Algarve. The town can be reached by taking a taxi from Portimao. Its main attraction as an international tourist center is the Alvor beach with its long, sandy beach that stretches till the Ria de Alvor estuary.