Algarve travel guide

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Algarve is the westernmost tip of Europe. It lies in the south of Portugal. It has striking sandy beaches washed by the Atlantic Ocean. It is the most clean and unpolluted region of Europe. The thick flora and fauna makes it a perfect holiday destination. The beautiful and enchanting landscape is sure to win your heart. Its geographical location makes it an important province which had been invaded and by the Phoenicians, Romans and Moors. The past of Algarve is closely associated with the sea. It was the base of the famous Henry the Navigator who helped established a school for training young minds to undertake difficult voyages.

Fast Facts

The major tourists attraction in Algarve are given below : -

a) Zoomarine : - The Life of the Sea: A mesmerizing and enlightening oceanographic facility is the main attraction here. Its theme links Algarve with its marine history. It ensures that you have a wonderful day watching dolphins, seals, sharks, turtles, exotic birds, seabirds, alligators and tropical fish.

b) Vilamoura : - lies at the heart of Portugal. It has pleasant beaches and dramatic cliff tops. It is an ideal place for all sorts of water sports.

c) The Land's End : - Cape St Vincent: Europe's most south westerly point also known as the "Land's End" of Portugal. It is magnificent experience to see the sunset here where the land ends and vast ocean starts. This place is an important shipping landmark and has a lighthouse which is approximately 50 miles away.

d) The stunning view of the Serra de Monchique : - Monchique village has a class of its own. It is located in the mountains and so is little cooler. The village is said to have retained the old Algarvian charm.

e) Sagres : - The fortress of Henry the Navigator: If you head towards the western tip of Algarve then surely don’t miss going to sagres. It is a remarkable landmark also known as Ponta de Sagres, the fortress of Henry the Navigator. You can relax and spend some intimate times with your dear ones.

f) Silves - the Old Moorish Capital : - Silves is an eye-catching castle which dates back to the time of Romans.

g) Tavira : - The Town of Churches: Tavira has an amazing architecture that gives your eyes a pleasant surprise. It is the most elegant of place in Algarve.

h) Lagos : - Lagos is a chief port and important from history point of viewas well. It is the most interesting city.

• You must indulge yourself in the Zoomarine Dolphin Interaction programme when you visit Algarve.
• Autodromo do Algarve - visit the Algarve's International racing.
• Bom Dia – experience the traditional Portuguese sailing.
• Deep Sea fishing on the Pescamar from Lagos scores high on the list of travellers.
• Enjoy an Algarve Dolphin Sea safari from Lagos – shouldn’t miss the chance to meet the dolphins.

Algarve has loads of things for entertaining the visitors. You must go on adventure on a jeep safari. It scores full on excitement and stimulation. You can also spend a day at zoo in Lagos. Some of the rarest of the species of animals and birds can be found there.

Fish is the staple food here. The freshness and exotic taste of the fish available is sure to delight your senses. The most traditional dishes available are Açorda à Algarvia, Sardinhas Assadas (Grilled Sardines), Cataplana de Peixe (Fish Cataplana), Polvo no Forno com Entrecosto (Baked Octopus with Entrecosto), Massada de Peixe (Massada of Fish)Arroz de Tamboril (Rice Monkfish) etc.

Basically, there are two main large shopping complexes in Algarve that are: - the Guia Shopping Center near Albufeira and the Forum Algarve in Faro City. You can find the best brands over here. They have excellent selection of souvenirs, great parking facilities and a multiplex cinema.

Activities that must be included in your holiday are :

• Walking
• Mountain Biking
• Beach Cycling
• Sailing
• Fishing
• Water Surfing

Buses here are clean, cheap and reasonably comfortable way to travel round. All buses display their destination at the front. Avoid long, boring journeys within the Algarve by booking express regional services. Even Portuguese trains are also sanitized, efficient, comfortable and inexpensive way to travel. They run right on-time and are worth exploring. You can even hire cars from reputable company to travel around.