Introduction

This cliff-side town, formerly a fishing village, is the St. Tropez of the Algarve. The lazy life, sunshine, and beaches make it a haven for young people and artists, although the old-timers still regard the invasion that began in the late 1960s with some ambivalence. That development turned Albufeira into the largest resort in the region. Some residents open the doors of their cottages to those seeking a place to stay.

A minute of History

The Moors, who occupied the town in the 8th century, renamed it Al-Buhera, which means 'The Castle on the Sea'. During five centuries of Arabian rule, Al-Buhera built up a busy trade with North Africa, and together with Faro it was one of the last Moorish strongholds to be conquered by the Portuguese in 125

General Information

If any one place could claim to be the home of tourism on the Algarve it is Albufeira. When Faro airport was just a shed beside a runway Albufeira had already become famous for the Rolling Stones who frequented this slightly scruffy fishing village. Today the musicians and their followers no longer sing and play guitars in the cafes around the square and Albufeira has grown to be both stylish and popular.

Where to go

The Church of São Sebastião on Praça Miguel Bombarda has an impressive Manueline doorway. From here, Rua 5 de Outubro leads through a tunnel to the beach. At Praia dos Barcos you can see Albufeira's colourful fishing boats and the fishermen unloading fish or mending their nets.

Beaches

A fine selection of good beaches extend east and west from the town. Praia de Balaia, Praia de Castelo, Praia de Falésia, Praia de Galé, de Olhos d’Agua, Praia de Maria Luisa, and Praia de São Rafael, being the main ones

Attractions

The small sandy coves around Albufeira are surrounded by high sandstone cliffs, providing shade in summer and protection against the wind in winter. The most important satellite developments are situated to the east of Albufeira, including Montechoro, Areias de São João and Oura, where there is a density of hotels, bars, restaurants and discotheques

Activities

There is a small museum of 15th and 17th century Ming ceramics and a Municipal art gallery that holds regular exhibitions during the season. A further addition to the town is a new Virtual Archaeological Museum. A new Marina is nearing completion on the west side of the town and will offer a different and attractive aspect.