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What not to miss in Alvor
24 April, 2024 | Reading Time – 5 min
Are you thinking of visiting the picturesque beach of Alvor on your next vacation?
If so, you’re in the right place! We’ve prepared a short itinerary for what not to miss in Alvor!
This former fishing village in the municipality of Portimão still goes unnoticed by many tourists. Yet, it attracts travelers looking for the charm of a picturesque village with a homely atmosphere. Its backdrop is the Ria de Alvor, from where the best delicacies of this village are tasted, such as clams.
For those looking for something with a taste of the sea, you can always try the famous grilled fish or seafood, which you’ll find in any of the town’s restaurants.
Even though it’s a quieter destination compared to other parts of the Algarve, Alvor offers different sports activities such as kitesurfing and skydiving.
It’s a magical place with a tranquil aura, ideal for a fun vacation with family and friends.
What not to miss in Alvor
Alvor is a village in an area of the Algarve that has had little impact from tourism, and is a rare gem that few travelers know about.
But don’t be fooled if you think there’s nothing to see here. Join us and discover what not to miss in Alvor!
Alvor Beach
We begin this itinerary with the treasure of this town, its beaches. There are several options around Alvor, but there is a beach just a few kilometers from the town center. The imposing cliffs and rocks surround the vast sandy beach, which is bathed by calm, translucent waters, creating a cinematic setting.
Due to its geological layout, it is considered one of the best beaches in the Algarve for practicing beach sports such as soccer and volleyball. If you’re a lover of extreme water sports, you can rent windsurfing equipment to safely enjoy your day at the beach. With its privileged location, stretching from the mouth of the River Alvor to Três Irmãos beach, this particular beach attracts hundreds of wildlife enthusiasts. In addition to the various species of fish and shellfish, Alvor beach hides a variety of plants and birds that you can observe from its dunes.
Finally, we can’t finish without talking about the sunset. It is without a doubt one of the most beautiful moments of the day and one that we are sure you will never forget. So here’s our advice: sit back and enjoy!
Alvor Castle
Alvor Castle, also known as Alvor Fort, was built by the Moors after conquering this town. The decision to build it was based on improving this region defense. The castle has a quadrangular structure, like traditional Islamic walls, built with irregular horizontally arranged stone blocks.
Although the current state of the monument does not allow us to see its original structure, it is still possible to see the main access door and the ruins of a tower. Considered a Property of Public Interest, this space is one of the places not to miss in Alvor.
Alvor Parish Church
Next up is one of Alvor’s main attractions. The Parish Church, also known as the Church of the Divine Savior. It was built in the 16th century by order of King Manuel and is considered one of the architectural symbols of the Algarve.
This religious monument is centered on its entrance door, which is imposing in Manueline style and decorated with war scenes, religious symbols and patterns alluding to the fauna and flora of the Algarve region. Inside, it presents visitors with wonderful 18th-century tiles and art scattered around six gilded altars, including an image of the Virgin Mary which, according to an urban myth, was found adrift at sea and later placed on one of the altars.
Alvor River
This is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful and emblematic places in the Algarve. The Alvor River has a million reasons to be one of the places not to miss in Alvor. You can visit it either by kayak or by group boat.
Take advantage of this wonderful tour to enjoy and discover all the landscapes surrounding the river, such as the fantastic vineyards, plains, dunes and, of course, the beaches. We invite you to observe goldfinches, linnets and greenfinches, some of the most popular bird species in this region.
This riverside area is the choice of many locals for fishing and shellfish farming, so you can find these gastronomic wonders in any of the town’s restaurants
Alvor Walkway
Finally, visit the Alvor Walkways, the largest walkways in the Algarve and a jewel of the Portimão municipality. This six-kilometer structure crosses dunes and vegetation, linking Praia dos Três Irmãos to the Alvor River. If you’re a hiker, this is an activity you’re sure to appreciate.
Enjoy the panoramic views of the estuary or stop for a few minutes to watch the migratory birds, ending your walk with a relaxing dip in the sea. Whichever route you choose, don’t be alarmed by its length: this route has no significant gradients and there are several rest areas where you can stretch your legs, while enjoying the views.
Paradisiacal landscapes of the sea and river of Alvor.
This is the perfect activity to do with family or friends.
Golf courses
Don’t be fooled if you think that activities in Alvor are only reserved for nature. This area has several golf courses with excellent conditions, where you can spend lively afternoons.
The mild climate, fairways and well-kept greens make this area the recipe for a perfect game. There is a wide range of courses to choose from, so we advise you to do a little research and find out which one best suits your taste and personality.
Have you identified what not to miss in Alvor?
Then, pack your bags and fly to Portugal!
Let yourself be enchanted by this town full of beauty and history, its tranquillity and the characteristic friendliness of its locals. Lose yourself in its gastronomy and culture while falling in love with its paradisiacal landscapes.
Once you’ve visited Alvor, we guarantee you’ll just want to come back!
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