Annick shows you around

Taste Tavira

Tavira Camera Obscura – A Giant Eye on the City

by Annick,  Family FriendlyPosted on

For a quirky and surprising indoor activity, visit the Camera Obscura in Tavira’s old water tower. This giant periscope-like device offers a live, 360° panoramic view of the town projected onto a white dish inside a dark room—kids love it because it feels like magic.

Guided presentations explain how it works and point out landmarks like churches, rooftops, stork nests, and the castle. It’s a fascinating mix of science, history, and fun, and the entire experience takes less than 30 minutes—perfect for a short cultural break in the shade.

Older kids and teens will appreciate the clever optical illusion, while younger ones are captivated by the moving “miniature” town. The guides keep it light and engaging for all ages.

Located in the heart of Tavira, the Camera Obscura is also a great excuse to explore the town on foot—combine it with an ice cream stop or a climb up the castle walls.

For the latest updates, booking information, or to plan your visit, please refer to the official website:

Ride Through the Algarve Countryside on Horseback

by Annick,  Family FriendlyPosted on

Looking for a unique way to experience the Algarve’s natural beauty? Horseback riding is a peaceful and scenic option—and a great activity for families, couples, or solo travelers alike. Just 8 km from Taste Tavira, Quinta do Alvisquer Centro Equestre offers guided rides for all levels of experience, from complete beginners to confident riders.

Set just off the N125, the riding school is run by Antonio, a knowledgeable and patient guide who truly understands both horses and people. Whether you’re looking for a gentle introduction to riding or a more adventurous hack through the countryside, you’re in good hands. Children from 7 years old are welcome, making this an ideal family-friendly experience.

The tours take you through quiet rural paths, open fields, and the kind of Algarve landscape you won’t see from the road. It’s an opportunity to slow down, breathe, and connect with both nature and animal in a very grounded way. No rush, no stress—just the rhythmic sound of hooves on dusty tracks.

For appointments or more information, you can contact Antonio directly via WhatsApp or phone:
📞 +34 615 84 05 30

Whether it’s your first time in the saddle or just another ride in paradise, horseback riding near Tavira might just become the highlight of your trip.

Salt Pans of Tavira and Olhão– A Shimmering Landscape

by Annick,  Ria Formosa Natural ParkPosted on

Just outside Tavira lies a surreal landscape of salt pans, where seawater is slowly evaporated in shallow basins to produce high-quality sea salt, including the prized “flor de sal.”

You can visit the Salinas do Grelha (Olhão) to learn about the traditional salt harvesting process that dates back to Roman times. Guided tours explain how the pans work and how salt is manually harvested with wooden rakes.

Kids and adults alike are fascinated by the geometric pools and the changing colors caused by algae, minerals, and bacteria. And yes—there’s usually a small shop on-site where you can buy artisanal salt to take home.

If you’re lucky, you might also spot flamingos feeding in the briny water nearby. Combine your visit with a walk or bike ride along the salt pan trails, and end with a cool drink back in Tavira town.

Fuseta – Oyster Beds, Island Beaches, and Life on the Lagoon

by Annick,  Ria Formosa Natural ParkPosted on

Fuseta is a small fishing town tucked between the Ria Formosa lagoon and the Atlantic Ocean, and it’s one of the best places to experience the quieter, more authentic side of the Algarve. Unlike larger resorts, Fuseta still feels like a working village—where fishermen mend nets in the harbor and tide charts matter more than time.

One of Fuseta’s most fascinating features is its connection to the local oyster industry. The shallow, nutrient-rich waters of the Ria Formosa provide perfect conditions for oyster farming. At low tide, you can spot rows of oyster beds stretching out across the lagoon. Several small producers offer tastings and boat tours, where you can learn how oysters are grown and harvested—often followed by a chance to taste them, freshly opened and with just a squeeze of lemon.

For swimming and relaxing, Fuseta offers two great options. The main beach sits inside the lagoon and is ideal for families with young children—calm, shallow waters and no waves. For a wilder beach experience, take the short ferry or water taxi to Ilha da Fuseta, a barrier island with wide Atlantic beaches and soft sand that stretches as far as the eye can see.

Fuseta is also a great spot for kayaking, birdwatching, or simply enjoying grilled seafood by the water. Life moves at a gentle pace here, shaped by the rhythm of the tides. Whether you’re slurping oysters, paddling through the channels, or walking barefoot on the sand, Fuseta offers a simple but unforgettable slice of Algarve life.

Olhão and the Islands – Gateway to the Wild Side of Ria Formosa

by Annick,  Ria Formosa Natural ParkPosted on

Olhão is the perfect starting point to explore a very interesting side of the Ria Formosa Natural Park, a labyrinth of salt marshes, sandbanks, and islands that stretch along the Algarve coast. While the town itself has a strong fishing identity, it’s the connection to the lagoon and its islands that makes Olhão truly special.

From the marina, you can catch a ferry or water taxi or book a (half) daytrip to the islands of Armona, Culatra, and Farol. These islands have no cars, just sandy paths, modest cottages, and unspoiled beaches. Culatra, home to a small fishing community, offers a rare glimpse of traditional island life—complete with colourful boats and drying octopus racks. Armona is perfect for a relaxed day of swimming and walking, with wide sandy shores on both the lagoon and ocean sides.

The boat journey itself is a highlight. As you glide across the calm waters of the lagoon, you’ll pass oyster beds, fishing nets, and flocks of birds wading in the shallows. The views constantly shift with the tides, making each trip feel slightly different. For a quieter, more ecological experience, you can also book a solar-powered boat tour through the Ria Formosa’s winding channels.

Whether you’re birdwatching, beachcombing, or simply enjoying the salty air, Olhão offers a deeper, wilder connection to nature. The islands here aren’t about beach bars or crowds—they’re about space, silence, and the simple beauty of sand and sea.

Monte Rei – Luxury Golf at Its Finest

by Annick,  GolfPosted on

If you’re looking for one of the most exclusive golf experiences in Portugal, Monte Rei Golf & Country Club delivers in every way. Located in the hills near Vila Nova de Cacela, about 15 minutes from Tavira, Monte Rei is home to a Jack Nicklaus Signature Course that consistently ranks among the best in Europe.

From the moment you arrive, Monte Rei feels different. The service is five-star, the setting is peaceful and expansive, and the course itself is pristine. The par-72 layout winds through rolling terrain with dramatic elevation changes, carefully placed bunkers, and immaculately maintained greens and fairways. Every hole is framed like a painting—with distant mountain views or glimpses of the sea.

Monte Rei isn’t just beautiful—it’s also a serious test of golf. With no two holes alike, players need to think strategically on every shot. But even if your score doesn’t shine, the experience of playing in such a refined and quiet setting is reward enough.

After your round, make time for a meal at Vistas Rui Silvestre, the resort’s Michelin-starred restaurant. With stunning views across the countryside and Atlantic, the menu offers a refined take on Portuguese cuisine, blending local ingredients with international flair. For a more casual bite, the Grill and Veranda restaurants also offer excellent service and quality in a relaxed setting. Whether you’re there for golf or gastronomy, Monte Rei is a destination to remember.

Benamor Golf – Relaxed Rounds near Tavira

by Annick,  GolfPosted on

Just a few minutes from Tavira, Benamor Golf is a welcoming 18-hole course nestled between the sea and the hills. Designed by the legendary Sir Henry Cotton, this par-71 layout offers a charming mix of gentle fairways, olive trees, and distant views of the Atlantic. It’s a course that appeals to all levels—from beginners to seasoned golfers looking for a laid-back round.

Benamor is known for its friendly atmosphere and walkable design. The course isn’t overly long, but it still provides strategic challenges with its doglegs, water hazards, and small, sloping greens. Accuracy is more important than power here, and local breezes can add an extra layer of difficulty.

The clubhouse is warm and relaxed, with a restaurant offering regional dishes and a terrace overlooking the 18th green. There’s also a driving range, short game area, and pro shop—making it easy to warm up or take a lesson.

For golfers based in Tavira or nearby, Benamor is a great local option: well-maintained, scenic, and never too crowded. It’s especially popular with winter visitors and expat residents who return again and again for its charm and playability.

Quinta de Cima – Championship Golf Returns Fall 2025

by Annick,  GolfPosted on

Nestled beside its sister course, Quinta da Ria, Quinta de Cima is renowned as one of the Algarve’s premier championship layouts. Designed by Rocky Roquemore, this par-72 course stretches over 6,586 meters, featuring wide fairways, strategically placed bunkers, and a meandering creek that challenges players across several holes.

In 2025, Quinta de Cima underwent significant maintenance, including the replanting of its fairways with new grass varieties to enhance playability and aesthetics. The course was closed for maintenance from May 26 to September 14, 2025, during which the academy course and short game areas were also closed. The driving range and practice putting greens remained open during this period.

As the course reopens in mid-September 2025, golfers can look forward to improved playing conditions that preserve the course’s natural beauty. The landscape, adorned with centuries-old olive and carob trees, remains untouched by real estate development, offering a pure golfing experience amidst the serene backdrop of the Ria Formosa Natural Park.

Quinta de Cima has previously hosted several prestigious tournaments, including the PGA EuroPro Tour and the European Seniors Tour Qualifying School. With its blend of challenging design and natural charm, the course is set to welcome golfers back for an exceptional playing experience autumn 2025

Quinta da Ria – Golf with a View over the Ria Formosa

by Annick,  GolfPosted on

If you’re looking for a round of golf with unforgettable views, Quinta da Ria Golf Course is hard to beat. Located just a short drive from Tavira, this 18-hole course lies within the Ria Formosa Natural Park and offers a scenic mix of coastal landscapes, freshwater lakes, and orange groves.

Designed by the well-known architect Rocky Roquemore, Quinta da Ria is a par-72 course that combines challenging holes with panoramic backdrops. Several fairways run right alongside the sea, offering sweeping views of the Atlantic and the barrier islands. The greens are fast and well-kept, and there’s a strong breeze on many days to keep even experienced players on their toes.

Facilities include a modern clubhouse, a driving range, putting greens, and a short game area. There’s also a restaurant with a terrace, where you can relax after your game and enjoy fresh Algarvian cuisine while watching the sun set over the course.

Whether you’re a regular golfer or a vacationer looking for a memorable experience, Quinta da Ria delivers both natural beauty and technical enjoyment in equal measure. It’s no wonder it’s consistently ranked among the top courses in the Algarve.

Praia de Monte Gordo – Where Tourism Meets Tradition

Beaches,  by AnnickPosted on

Praia de Monte Gordo is one of the most accessible and vibrant beaches in the Eastern Algarve. Backed by a long line of hotels and holiday apartments, this beach is ideal for travelers who enjoy comfort, convenience, and a lively atmosphere. It’s especially popular with Portuguese and Spanish tourists, and the town buzzes with activity during the summer months.

Despite its tourist appeal, Monte Gordo still holds onto its traditional fishing roots. Along one end of the beach, you’ll find the artisanal fishing fleet, with brightly painted wooden boats resting on the sand and fishermen bringing in their morning catch. It’s a rare glimpse into the Algarve’s coastal heritage—one that continues to thrive even alongside the modern beach scene.

The beach itself is wide, clean, and perfect for long walks, sunbathing, or swimming in the warm, shallow waters. The sea here is among the warmest in Portugal, and the gentle waves make it safe for all ages. Facilities are excellent, with lifeguards, sunbed rentals, and beach cafés lining the promenade.

Monte Gordo also offers plenty off the sand: a pedestrian promenade for evening strolls, traditional seafood restaurants, and even a casino for those looking to try their luck. It’s a beach that offers the best of both worlds—relaxation by the sea and a touch of authentic Algarve culture, all within walking distance.