The Details
Away from the busy, all-inclusive seaside resorts, the eastern Algarve is a peaceful region of medieval border towns and quiet fishing villages. Towns like Olhao da Restauracao, Moncarapacho and Estoi have a long history dating back to Roman times (and beyond), whilst the small fishing hamlets of Santa Luzia and Fuseta display their proud maritime history through the flotsam and jetsam which adorns the exterior of their whitewashed, low-rise fishermen’s cottages.
Your stay begins in the historic castle town of Tavira – thanks to its strategically important hilltop location overlooking the mouth of the River Gilao, the Phoenicians, Celts, Romans and North Africans all left their mark here. Modern-day visitors are also drawn to Tavira by it’s quiet, 3km beach – accessed by a regular river ferry, the beach is part of the protected Parque Natural da Ria Formosa. This vast nature reserve extends from Tavira to the regional capital Faro over 60km to the west – it’s a complex collection of lagoons, tidal flats, sandbar islands and wetlands which are home to herons, flamingos, dolphins, turtles and flying fish.
Heading west, you’ll end your stay in the grand Pousada Palacio Estoi – an ornate and architecturally eclectic 18th century palace overlooking the Vale do Mouro. We’ll include a hire car to allow you to explore the Roman ruins at Milreu, the port city of Olhao and the castles of Castro Marim at your leisure. We’ll also include direct flights from your preferred international airport to Faro, the regional capital of the Algarve.
