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Taste Tavira

Family Adventure to Pego do Inferno Waterfall

Family FriendlyPosted on

If you’re looking for a small adventure with your family while staying near Tavira, the hidden waterfall of Pego do Inferno is a perfect half-day trip. Just a 10-minute drive from Taste Tavira takes you to the informal parking area—but that’s where the real fun begins!

There are no official signs, so reaching the waterfall becomes a bit of a scavenger hunt. With a good pair of shoes and a sense of direction, you’ll wind your way down small paths through the trees and bushes. It’s not always straightforward—some trails may lead to dead ends—but that only adds to the adventure. It’s an ideal challenge for curious kids (aged 7 and up, under guidance) who enjoy exploring nature.

A helpful tip: take the lower trail that begins just under the large tree near the parking area. As you descend, listen carefully—if the water is flowing, the sound of the waterfall will help guide you. Keep in mind that during dry summer months, the waterfall may disappear entirely, leaving behind a serene green pool.

The pond at Pego do Inferno is small but beautifully vibrant in color—a striking apple-green that makes a refreshing reward after your hike. While it may not be suitable for very young children, older kids will love the thrill of finding the waterfall and taking a dip. Don’t forget to bring water, snacks, and maybe a towel!

This spot is ideal for families who like a bit of off-the-beaten-path exploration. It’s not a polished tourist attraction, but that’s exactly what makes it special.

adventurous trail
Adventurous trail | Image Taste Tavira
nice reward
Nice reward |Image Taste Tavira

A Taste of Tradition: Visiting Tavira’s Olive Factory

Local PleasuresPosted on

Tucked between Tavira’s saltpans and just opposite the Gran Plaza lies a quiet but flavorful experience for those who enjoy authentic, local discoveries. Hélder Madeira’s Olive Company has been producing high-quality olives here since 1986, using little more than sea salt and fresh water—straight from the traditions of the region.

While the factory has grown in size and efficiency over the years, the heart of the process remains the same. No chemicals, no shortcuts—just slow, careful curing that brings out the full flavor of the olives. It’s a method that respects both nature and heritage, and it results in an honest, intensely local product.

A guided visit with Andreia Emídio reveals the fascinating transformation from bitter raw olives to savory delicacies. Whether they’re cracked, smashed, seasoned with garlic or infused with chili, the process is both scientific and artisanal. You’ll leave with a deeper appreciation for something you’ve probably eaten a hundred times without much thought.

The tour concludes with a tasting of the various olive preparations. Be sure to stop by the charming on-site shop, where other regional treats are also available.

📍 Opening Hours: Monday–Friday, 10:00–18:00, €10 tour and tasting
📞 Phone: +351 281 326 175

olives tasting at Helder Madeira | Image Taste Tavira
light and healthy olives |Image Helder Madeira

Biological Farm Shop

ShoppingPosted on

Organic Farm

Located just behind Tavira´s Municipal Cemetry, the Aldi and the N125, is Maria Flaminga´s Organic Farmshop. Started in 2016, Isabel Pedras Ribeiro (nickname: Maria Flaminga), graduated in Agricultural Engineering, has build a beautiful spot where she manages a garden nursery, blooming fields of vegetables, herbs and fruits. And a lovely little shop. The Loja Biológica is housed in the former, state owned, agricultural research station, surrounded by land and chickens (fresh eggs!). Attractively displayed in small baskets, you can choose any amount you want, all products are weighed by hand. It makes it even more tempting to try a little of everthing. Together with a small team of dedicated volunteers Isabel makes sure all her veggies and fruits live up to the high biological standards to get certified. Try and taste yourself. Maria Flamenga´s Organic Farmshop is open Thursday till Saturday from 9-15 h. (2025)

Beautiful fresh peppers | Image Taste Tavira
Isabel ´Maria Flaminga´ | Image Taste Tavira

Cacela Velha – Tiny Village, View, and the Ria Formosa

VillagesPosted on

Tucked away just 12 km east of Tavira, Cacela Velha is a peaceful, picturesque village that seems almost untouched by time. Perched atop a low cliff, this ancient settlement is centered around a 13th-century fortress and offers sweeping views over the Ria Formosa lagoon. The village itself is little more than a cluster of whitewashed houses, a small church, a café, and an intriguing cemetery built into the fortified wall—where some tombs are sealed into the masonry.

Despite its size, Cacela Velha is home to two well-loved restaurants that come alive during the summer months, when visitors arrive to take in the unforgettable vistas and sample fresh seafood. The village exudes a quiet charm and is best enjoyed on foot, whether you’re exploring its historic lanes or simply soaking in the calm, coastal atmosphere.

One of the main attractions here is the beach—though reaching it adds a sense of adventure. The shoreline lies across a tidal lagoon, which can be crossed on foot at low tide using natural sandbanks. However, timing is crucial; the water can rise quickly, so many opt to hire a small fisherman’s boat to make the return trip.

A short drive or stroll brings you to nearby Fábrica, a tiny hamlet with its own beach access via boat and a fantastic fish restaurant right by the waterfront. It’s an ideal spot to enjoy a laid-back meal after a day of exploring the natural beauty of this unique part of the Algarve.