Tavira, Southern PortugalTavira is considered the gem of the Algarve. This beautifully elegant and unique fishing town dates back to 2000 BC and its character is very representative of the region. Sometimes referred to as the ‘Venice of the Algarve’, the original seven arch Roman Bridge still stands, and the fine Renaissance architecture and numerous churches with tree lined squares almost take you back in time. Like most of the Algarve, its buildings were virtually destroyed by the earthquake of 1755. However the town was rebuilt in the 18th Century and no less than 37 churches were erected earning it the name, the town of churches. The Market Hall on the river front has several shops, cafes and restaurants around the edge with the central space available for exhibitions and special events. There is an abundance of concerts and festivals that take place throughout the year guaranteeing there will always be plenty to entertain you. 
If you wish to stay at a top quality hotel with a difference look no further than the Tavira Pousada, also known as Hotel Convento Da Craca. A former 16th Century convent it has been carefully restored retaining its heritage and ancient architecture. The rooms are extremely comfortable and elegant ranging from standard to superior rooms, some with small balconies, terraces and even a private garden. The restaurant of the Pousada serves a variety of local and regional specialities. The Pousada has a gymnasium and two swimming pools (one for adults and one for children) providing everything you need to enjoy a few days away. It is worth noting there are many discounts to be had when you stay at a Pousada, pousadasofportugal.com has a free, fast, personal service with experienced staff to help you find the best deals. For example if one or more guest in a room is over the age of 55 you are eligible for the ‘Golden Age’ discount (subject to available rooms) of up to 50% off! When booking through an instant booking site many are only allocated a limited number of rooms at discounted rates. If told that there is no availability for a discounted room pousadasofportugal.com may be able to book a room for you since they have access to all unsold rooms. For the keen golfer, the hotel is conveniently located near the Benamor golf course which was designed by Sir Henry Cotton and offers fabulous views of the mountains on one side and the sea on the other. 
Also nearby you can catch a boat that departs regularly for Ilha de Tavira (Island of Tavira) where you will find miles of white sandy beaches that have been awarded the Blue Flag for quality. Combined with water temperatures between 16C to 20C in the summer, it is nothing short of idyllic.If you are a bird watching enthusiast visit the salt pans south of Tavira where salt water is evaporated creating Portugal's purest table salt. The salt pans are also a popular wading site for flamingos in summer and tens of thousands of migrating birds in the autumn. Or head for the Ria Formosa National Park, a magnificent patchwork of blue lagoons, white beaches and green islands covering 60 km along Portugal’s southern border with an abundance of plants and wildlife. Within the National Park is the Hotel Vila Gale Albacora where you can visit a tuna museum explaining the fascinating story of why tuna disappeared from the region. The hotel is unusual in that all the original fisherman’s cottages have been converted into rooms. Like the Pousada it is certainly an interesting alternative when looking for accommodation and at the very least an ideal place to stop for a drink or a meal while you are visiting the Park. You will be delighted to discover the surrounding countryside outside of Tavira is still very rural and unspoiled with its dazzling whitewashed houses painted with traditional borders, and ornate chimneys. Be sure to visit the beach front villages of Santa Luzia or Pedras del Rei, where there is an olive tree that is said to date from the 17th Century. Other villages of note are Luz de Tavira which has the finest examples of Manueline craftsmanship (carved stone) around the southern door of the Parish Church and Torre de Aires which has the remains of a Roman villa. To the east of Tavira and overlooking the sea is the charming and unspoilt traditional village of Cacela Velha with elevated views of the tidal lagoon and the sea, making it a wonderful place to enjoy a cocktail while you watch the sun setting. With such a diverse range of things to take pleasure in, Tavira has to be one of the most delightful destinations you will ever visit in the Algarve and definitely not to be missed. About the Author: This article was written by Susan Bartle who is a well seasoned traveller and freelance travel writer. Born in Canada she has lived in the UK for over 35 years and currently resides in Harrogate, Yorkshire. webpage www.vvww.net/writers/srbartle.html |