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If you want to see more than the, admittedly magnificent, beaches and sea of the Algarve, we suggest some places you really should not miss:

Loule - is a small town, full of Algarvian charm. It takes great pride in the spectacular fair that is held at the central market on Saturday mornings. The site of the market can easily be found – a red, onion-shaped dome marks the spot.

In the portion of the town closest to the church and castle, visitors will find cobbled streets and quaint houses, shops and workshops, as well as artisans engaged in their work with leather, copper and lace.

Castelo de Loule - The town archives and historical artifacts are housed in this medieval castle. It was built by the Moors for use as a defensive stronghold, nearby the Parish Church of Loule Igreja Matriz is beautifully decorated in local style with tiles, a wrought iron pulpit and woodcarvings that date back to its original construction during the 13th century. The church has since been carefully and lovingly restored.

Faro - The region's capital boasts some splendid monuments - the Cathedral, the Convent of Nossa Senhora da Assunção, and some extremely interesting museums such as the Museu Infante Dom Henrique and the Museu Etnográfico.

Lagos - Lagos was formerly the capital of the southern part of the Iberian Peninsula, and was the last port before the Portuguese caravelas set off for their long sea journeys, during the great Discoveries of the 16th century. The Governor's Palace and the Portas de Portugal e do Postigo are attractions not to be missed. Other places of interest are: the Museu Regional, the Pau da Bandeira Fort and the old Slaves' Market. Lagos Marina is the first stopover for boats coming in from Western Europe to the Algarve, and is thus much sought after on the way in and out of the Algarve by sea.

Monchique - Wander amongst the charming townhouses, clustered on the hillside, discover the wealth of little churches and stop for a refreshing break at the nearby Monchique Spa.

Portimão - In this fishermen's town, a visit to the main church (Igreja Mãe) and the Town Hall is a must. Just outside the town, you cannot miss the bustling Praia da Rocha, but do not forgo the lesser-known Roman ruins of Abicada.

Sagres - Five centuries ago here in Sagres, Prince Henry the Navigator founded the Navigation College, essential to the Portuguese Discoveries and seafaring future. The famous Sagres fortress with its wind rose - a giant rose-shaped compass, of 43 metres in diameter, is well worth a visit. At continental Europe's south westernmost tip, the imposing St Vincent Cape stands guard, a vast horizon in which sea and sky are one.

Tavira - Apart from the irresistible golden beaches nearby, Tavira itself is authentically and vividly picturesque with its views over the River Gilão and its Roman bridge. The typical Algarve rooftops and chimneys are unique - stroll along the Travessa de Dona Brites, where the medieval houses with Gothic doors and windows will enchant you.

Vilamoura - The Algarve's main bustling resort is where it really all happens: beaches, marina, bars, restaurants, shopping arcades, casino, innumerable hotels, several golf course, riding centre, tennis courts and shooting range. Who could wish for more?

Alte - Pass through the magnificent Algarve inland scenery until you reach Alte, one of Algarve's most picturesque villages, and stop over at Querença, a small village, half-hidden on the hillside.

 
Loule - History . . .

Loule is a active market town with some remains of a castle dating back to the 12th Century. The Arab castle has been virtually destroyed leaving some walls still standing that are now surrounded by modern buildings. Like most other towns in the Algarve, most of the older potentially interesting buildings were destroyed in the earthquake of 1755.

Loule - Description . . .

Within the remaining walls is a museum with an explanation of the past grandeur of the castle. The various earthquakes that it has suffered through its history have damaged the 13th Century Church of São Clemente.

However, its Gothic arches and side chapels that are from the 16th Century have survived. Loule is mainly concerned in producing souvenir products made out of copperware, leather, cane and wood, and servicing the tourist industry. The weekly Fair attracts tourists from all along the Algarve. Due to the demands of the tourism this town has blossomed in size.

An important event is the annual Carnival held in February that is considered to be one of the best in Portugal. To the west of the town is a hilltop Church that is built on the site of a 16th Century chapel. This is the destination of an annual religious procession that requires some physical effort on the part of the bearers of the church's religious shrines.

Loule - Nearby Locations . . .

Near to Loule is Almancil a small town that acts also as a supplier of services to the prosperous holiday areas just south on the coast. Further inland is the small village of Alte, a village that is known for its un-spoilt rural architecture and its enthusiasm for folk music. Another inland village is Paderne that has a romantic 13th Century castle in ruins sitting alone on the crest of a deserted hilltop. The coastal town of Quarteira that was once a fishing village is now converted into a multi-apartment tourist location. Not too far away from Loule is the village of Querença with its stalactite caves. Also, the village of Salir with ruins of a castle and a nearby two 800 meters long walls from the Neolithic period.

The towns of São Brás de Alportel and Santa Bárbara de Nexe, are both small and also demonstrate the fast disappearing Portuguese atmosphere reflecting the rural social style of life. In São Bras de Alportel there is an interesting museum that houses a permanent collection of rural artefacts and costumes truly reflecting the past manner of living in the Algarve.

 
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