Villas in Almancil

Rio Formosa Nature Reserve

The 170 square kilometres of saltwater lagoons, islands and marshes of the Ria Formosa estuary is a breathtakingly beautiful area, teeming with migrating birds, dozens of species of fish and unique flora and fauna. Less than half an hour’s drive from Almancil and encompassing the Quinta do Lago resort within its boundaries, the reserve’s easily accessible pathways and boardwalks make this a fabulous place for walking, cycling and birdwatching and there are numerous guided boat trips on offer. You can even hire a kayak and paddle your way around the canals and lagoons. Viewing points and bird hides are strategically placed to make the most of the views and to spot rare birds in their natural habitat. You could spend several days here but be sure to include at least one visit during your stay.

Situated in Guia, around a 30 minute drive from Almancil, Zoomarine Park, the Algarve’s marine theme park offers a brilliant day out for all ages. Meet sea creatures, enjoy animal shows, attractions, and even a 4D cinema. Zoo marine is open from March until September and opening hours from 10:00am too 19:30pm in high season.

Tavira

With more churches than hotels, the unspoilt riverside town of Tavira is one of the Algarve’s best kept secrets, exuding authentic Portuguese charm. History abounds in its colourful architectural details, with decorative features from Renaissance to Baroque, Moorish to Gothic. The fishing port is a hive of activity and it’s a wonderful place to wander around at leisure. Pop into the former water tower that’s been turned into a camara obscura, reflecting a fascinating 360° tour of the town on a horizontal screen.

Faro

It may be best known for its international airport but the nearby city of Faro is well worth a visit. Its charming old town is located to the east of Faro marina. The city’s Se Cathedral, quite unassuming on the outside, is surprisingly ornate inside, with gilded carving, traditional azulejos (tiles) and impressive works of art, and you can get a wonderful view of the city by climbing the steps up the cathedral tower. A mainly pedestrianised shopping area consists of dozens of cobbled streets and squares with plenty of cafés and restaurants. For a little retail therapy head to the Forum Algarve shopping mall on the main EN125 road from the Faro airport area; it has a wonderful choice of stores built around an open air square.

Loulé

Now a cosmopolitan market town, nearby Loulé retains plenty of its historical roots. The ancient walls of its medieval castle still dominate, with the winding cobbled streets of the old town now bursting with cafés, bars, restaurants and shops. There are some beautiful old churches here and the daily market is particularly worth a visit for its array of fresh produce, crafts, basket weaving and copper goods.

Church of Sao Lourenço de Matos

This magnificent early 18th Century church is a must-see for anyone staying in the area. Often referred to as one of the Algarve’s most important art treasures, the church’s exceptional wall-to-wall blue and white tiled tableaux run the length of the nave and depict the life of Saint Lawrence in wonderful detail. The gilded wood-carved altar and tiled dome are equally stunning. The church is located on the hillside just a few minutes south of Almancil off the main N125 road towards Faro.

Church of Santa Bárbara de Nexe

A truly historic nearby village, Santa Barbara de Nexe is built on the site of a bronze-age hill fort subsequently used by the Phoenicians and the Romans. The local landmark nowadays is the charming 400-year-old whitewashed church, understandably the focus of many artists’ paintings with its strikingly tall bell tower dominating the countryside. It’s well worth a peek inside to admire the various architectural and decorative styles used through the centuries, including examples of the area’s famous azulejos (tiles) depicting historical and religious scenes. You’ll find 16th century renaissance art alongside 17th century statues and 18th century carvings and a beautiful triumphal arch with a panel above depicting Saint Barbara being crowned by angels.

Milreu Roman Ruins

A short drive south from the nearby village of Estoi on the Faro road you’ll find one of Portugal’s most important archaological sites, the ruins of a grand Roman villa dating from the 1st century AD. Beautifully excavated, the villa’s luxurious origins are clear, with a central courtyard surrounded by columns, a series of rooms dedicated to bathing and even underground heating. Large sections of intricate fish mosaics are still intact and there is evidence of the villa’s later use as a church and then a Muslim burial site. The ruins are well worth a visit for anyone with a fascination for Roman history.