Top 10 Attractions in the Algarve
We have selected the top 10 tourist attractions in the Algarve
The Algarve is one of the Portuguese regions that attracts more foreign visitors. This is a trend that keeps growing. This year, the Algarve was considered the best sun destination in the Irish Travel Industry Awards 2017, it was the region of the country that grew the most in 2015 and even in the New Year, far away from the bathing season, continues to attract tourists.
10 Tourist Attractions of Algarve:
Fortress of Sagres
Sagres Fortress is a national monument located in the southwest of Algarve. From here, the visitor enjoys a breathtaking panoramic view along the coast, highlighting the coves of Sagres, Cape São Vicente and the Atlantic Ocean.
Monchique Thermal Baths
The spa village Caldas de Monchique has been famous since the Roman occupation for the properties of its thermal waters, which flow from the subsoil at a constant temperature of 32ºC. These spas were much appreciated by the aristocracy in the nineteenth century.
FIESA – International Festival of Sculpture in Sand
FIESA is an exhibition of large sand sculptures that has been happening since 2003 in Pêra and each new edition is dedicated to a different theme. This is a unique festival throughout the Iberian Peninsula.
Tavira Beach
Tavira Beach is one of the most popular beaches in the Algarve and it is located on the eastern edge of the Island of Tavira. It is an island that extends for 12 kilometres along the Ria Formosa Natural Park. It has a large sandy area and clean, calm waters, as well as excellent tourist facilities such as cafés, restaurants and camping sites.
Church of São Lourenço de Almancil
Built in the 18th century, the Church of São Lourenço de Almancil is considered one of the greatest artistic treasures of the south of the country due to its dome lined with blue and white tiles. This is the best testimony of the baroque Algarve tiles. In addition to the tiles, there is also the altarpiece in national gilded carving and the image of St. Lawrence that are in the main chapel.
Cape São Vicente
Cape São Vicente is the most southwestern point on the European continent. This has a cliff of approximately 69 meters and was considered a sacred place in the Neolithic era. You can visit the lighthouse that guides the ships that pass by the cape.
Castle of Silves
Castle of Silves is the largest castle in the Algarve region and it is considered the most beautiful example of Islamic military architecture in the country. This was built by Arabs in the 11th century and has been considered a national monument since 1910.
Vilamoura Marina
The Vilamoura Marina started its activity in 1974 and for many years it was the only marina in the country. It continues to be the largest and best known Portuguese marina to date and has already received a quality certification and environmental management awards.
Rocha Beach
This beach is located in Portimão and has a large stretch of sand. Next to Rocha Beach stands the Fortress of Santa Catarina, built in the 17th century. It is one of the most famous beaches of the Algarve, and even of Portugal, its name is due to the rocks that lie between the sand and the sea.
Aquashow Family Park
The Algarve theme parks are one of the most famous tourist attractions. These include the Aquashow. This water park has a wide variety of attractions, from Aqualandia, where the younger ones can interact with sea lions, to a big roller coaster.