One of the most picturesque towns on the Eastern Algarve coast is Tavira, standing on the mouth of the River Gilao, some 30 kms from Faro International airport. This historic fishing port has an unusual selection of architecture, ranging from the Roman bridge, which still spans the river, to whitewashed houses, and 18th century mansions.
Tavira even has its own Moorish Castle, and an astonishing assortment of 37 different churches. Few of the original buildings in Tavira pre-date the great earthquake of 1755, which devastated this town, and much of the Algarve. Today most of what the visitor will see is the result of the painstaking re-building, which post dates this tragic event.
With a profusion of cafes, and typical Portuguese restaurants lined up along the banks of the river, Tavira holidays are inclined to offer the visitor a more relaxed atmosphere, surround by shady palms in this popular part of the town. This is an excellent place where the traveller can sample the locally caught fish, and other seafood delights available on one of the many restaurant menus. Dishes such as Nora Velha, Marisqueira 4 Aguas, Portas do Mar, and O Patio, are waiting to tempt you along with Alquimia, which has a more North African flavour.
As with most of these Portuguese towns on the Algarve, holidays in Tavira would be incomplete without the characteristic market, where the selection of ceramics, lace, cork, and other handcrafts, are waiting to be haggled over. There is also a nice array of shops, cafes, and galleries here as well, and once a month Tavira hosts a colourful street market. For those who have chosen self-catering holidays in Tavira, there are well-stocked supermarkets for the daily supply of victuals, and barbeque coals naturally.
If it’s a day on the beach that’s on your agenda, then take the ferry from Tavira, and visit the broad sandy beach on the Ilha del Rei. This excellent beach on Tavira Island has a selection of cafes, and for those intent on getting wet, there is also an assortment of water sports available.
