Reasons to visit Faro, Algarve
History, architecture, legendary beaches and beautiful bird reserves – Reasons to visit Faro, Algarve.
The old Faro saying, “A weekend without sunshine is like a Sunday without church,” epitomizes this beautiful region of the Algarve.
Pristinely kept beaches stretch either side of faro, doused in a daily coating of sunshine, whilst you can never walk very far before stumbling upon a quaint and pretty church, confirmation of the region’s staunch religious beliefs.
Unfortunately many who arrive at the “walkway to the Algarve”, dismiss it as just being the landing destination for their Portuguese holiday, and hurriedly escape the town to reach the larger ‘holiday’ resorts.
When in reality the Algarve’s capital has a lot to offer.
The centre of Faro is surprisingly small and consists of a beautiful marine lined with luxury yachts oozing with affluence and class.
Spending an afternoon sipping ice-cold drinks and tasting the wonderful seafood on offer in the many bars and restaurants which surround the waterfront, whilst watching the hive of marine activity occurring on this this highly delectable harbour, is the perfect way to unwind after a hectic journey and to start your holiday as you mean to go on.
Likewise so is ambling around Faro’s walled Old Town – “Cidade Velha” – where the cobbled streets slowly climb to a charming cathedral on the crest of a hill.
The cobbled streets of the Old Town remain a consistent feature of Faro, with a maze of pebbled-strewn pedestrianized streets leading to the city’s comprehensive shops, selling anything from the latest fashion to traditional embroidery. And it is tradition that is at the heart of the Algarve capital.
The city is home to several museums, which provide their visitors with some fascinating information and facts about this historical town. Magnificent architecture also dominates the vista, intermittently broken by the many vibrant and trendy bars that accompany the city, supported, considerably, by the many student’s studying at Faro’s university.
For those seeking a lively night scene, a trip to the Rua Conselheiro Bivar and Ruo do Prior is essential.
For those seeking serenity, taking a boat trip to explore the breadth of rocky inlets and tidal creeks that make up the Reserva Natural da Ria Formosa, should be a priority. Just remember to take your camera with you to picture the many rare birds and fish life the area has become notorious for.
If you are lucky enough to be starting your holiday in Faro this summer, be sure to take the time to explore this truly inspiring town.