Everybody knows – and there is no denying – that the main reasons why Albufeira is such a popular tourist destination are the Sun and the Sea. But these are only two of the many things that this seaside city has to offer visitors.
At this time of year, when the sun is still warm but the resort is quieter, we thought it would be a perfect opportunity to tell you about some of Albufeira’s other interesting attractions.
1. Torre do Relógio
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Situated in the heart of the city centre, the clock tower is one of the hallmarks of Albufeira. On festive days, it is all lit up.
2. Igreja Matriz
This was not always Albufeira’s Main Church. Dating from the eighteenth century (1782), it replaced an earlier one that collapsed during the great earthquake in 1755.
Built in neo-classical style, it houses an image of Our Lady of the Conception, Albufeira’s patron saint.
This is definitely a site worth visiting.
3. Arco da Travessa da Igreja Velha (Arch over the Alleyway of the Old Church)
Albufeira is packed with vestiges of the Arab occupation and one of the high points is the architecture. This street got its name because there used to be an Arab mosque here.
4. Municipal Archaeology Museum
The Municipal Archaeology Museum is located in the former Town Hall, in the old part of the city. The building, which boasts a fabulous view over the Atlantic Ocean, has been divided up into four main sections: Pre-history, the Roman period, the Islamic period and the Modern era.
5. Paderne Castle
Paderne Castle is one of the castles portrayed on the Portuguese flag. Conquered from the Moors in 1248, it boasts a spectacular view over the Ribeira de Quarteira (Quarteira Stream) and all of the natural scenery surrounding it.
6. Ponte do Castelo (Castle Bridge)
This Roman-influenced bridge, located to the south-west of the castle, takes you over the Quarteira Stream.
7. Azenha (Water Mill)
Standing in the Quarteira Stream, next to Paderne Castle, is a water mill.
8. Salgados Lake
9. Miradouro do Pau da Bandeira (Flag Pole Viewpoint)
The Flag Pole Viewpoint is easy to get to.
10. Adega do Cantor (The Singer’s Winery)
The Adega do Cantor in Guia uses traditional and modern techniques to produce – among others – Vida Nova wine and Onda Nova wine.
You can book a visit to the vineyards and wine cellars at Quinta do Miradouro and try some of the award-winning wines made there.
Did you know ?/b>: Sir Cliff Richard, a famous British singer, owns one of the three vineyards that make up the Adega do Cantor.
