Tavira:
Tavira is said to be the most beautiful & elegant town on the Algarve, sited on both sides of the broad River Gilão & overlooked by ancient balcony houses. It has avoided the excesses of development and lost none of its grace. There are numerous pavement cafés & restaurants, many along the banks of the palm-lined river. The massive Ria Formosa nature reserve is rich in bird and plant life, and the hills and villages of the Serra do Caldeirão are just a few km north, with peaceful lanes ideal for walking or cycling. You may wish to relax on one of the massive clean and uncrowded sandy beaches stretching along this part of the coast (warmest sea in Portugal!) some accessed by a short boat trip from Tavira town. The Spanish border is approx 30km east, where the border castles and ancient towns are well worth exploring. 4 top quality golf courses are within easy reach; the nearest, Benamor, was designed by Sir Henry Cotton and is just 4km from Tavira.
Things to do:
We recommend hiring a car because there are so many wonderful places to visit in the Eastern Algarve and across the border in Spain. In addition to the golfing opportunities described below, you can go cycling or mountain biking, fishing, water skiing, wind surfing, boating, and swimming in both the sea and the calmer lagoon waters. For nature lovers, the Algarve is a treasure trove: birdwatching is excellent at all times of year, but particularly fruitful in the Spring and the Autumn when the migratory species are on the move between Africa and Europe. Wild flower and garden enthusiasts will appreciate the wonderful plants to be seen here. For the history minded, excursions to the castles at Castro Marim and Alcoutim will also give you a look at life in the Algarve hills away from the seaside resorts. The picturesque border town of Vila Real Sto. Antonio contains a wonderful town centre built to the plans of the Marques de Pombal following the famous earthquake in 1755.
Families and children:
There are many activities for families and children beyond, of course, the pool and the beaches. A boat ride on the Guadiana River or the Ria Formosa lagoon can be fascinating, or just a boat ride to the beaches on the offshore islands is a treat. Most restaurants are very family friendly. The Ria Formosa Nature Reserve has a lovely educational walking trail explaining the ecosystem of the Reserve. If you wish to travel further west towards Albufeira you can experience the Zoomarine Park. A breathtaking fun-filled sea-world park, with dolphins, seals, sharks, turtles, exotic birds and fish, crocodiles and tropical fish. A great day out for all the family.
