Cobbled streets

Taste Tavira > Annick shows you around

Tag: Cobbled streets

Day Trip to Alcoutim and Mértola: Border Views and the World’s Only Cross-Border Zipline

Family Friendly,  VillagesPosted on

For those staying in Tavira and looking to escape the coast for a day, a drive inland to the historic villages of Alcoutim and Mértola offers a completely different side of the Algarve – one shaped by river valleys, whitewashed hill towns, and a quiet echo of frontier history.

Start your journey heading east from Tavira along the N125 or A22 towards Castro Marim and then north along the N122, passing rolling hills and cork oak forests until you reach Alcoutim, a tranquil village on the banks of the Guadiana River. Directly across the water lies Sanlúcar de Guadiana, its Spanish twin, and the two towns have shared centuries of peaceful coexistence – even exchanging festivals and customs. From the waterfront promenade in Alcoutim, you’ll enjoy beautiful views across to Spain, while the castle ruins above the village offer panoramic vistas and a small archaeological museum worth visiting.

But perhaps the most thrilling way to experience the border is not by boat or bridge – but by zipline. From Sanlúcar, adrenaline-seekers can launch themselves across the Limite Zero zipline, the only cross-border zipline in the world. In just under a minute, you’ll fly 720 meters across the river at speeds of up to 80 km/h – landing back in Portugal… and in a different time zone. (Yes, Spain is an hour ahead!)

After your ride (and the small boat ride back to Alcoutim), consider continuing north to Mértola, a hilltop village nestled in the Guadiana Valley Natural Park. Its layered history includes Roman ruins, a former mosque now serving as the main church, and winding cobbled streets with traditional houses. This is one of the most atmospheric towns in inland Portugal — and a photographer’s dream.

Don’t forget to enjoy lunch at a riverside taverna, where dishes like pork with clams, grilled black pork, or wild boar stew reflect the hearty Alentejan cuisine of the region.

From Mértola, you can return to Tavira (via Martinlongo and Cachapo), the scenic N122, N124 and N397 routes — a leisurely drive through the hills, with the occasional stork nest or shepherd crossing your path.

Olhão: A Day of Discovery by the Sea

VillagesPosted on

Pronounced “ol-yow” (with a soft ‘L’ and nasal ‘ão’), Olhão may be one of the Algarve’s most authentic coastal towns. Just a short drive or train ride west of Tavira, it’s an ideal day trip for those seeking a blend of maritime culture, Moorish architecture, fresh seafood, and vibrant street life. This working town has charm, no polished charm, but in personality — it feels real, lived-in, and full of stories.

Start your visit at the legendary waterfront market, where locals shop for just-caught fish and colourful produce each morning (especially lively on Saturdays). The twin red-brick buildings — designed by Gustave Eiffel’s studio — are architectural icons in their own right. Sit at one of the cafés outside with a bica and pastel de nata, and enjoy the view of fishing boats gently rocking in the Ria Formosa lagoon.

From there, stroll through the historic bairro dos pescadores — the old fishermen’s quarter — where narrow cobbled streets twist past flat-roofed whitewashed houses with North African influences. It’s an Instagrammer’s dream, but also a living neighbourhood full of character. Keep an eye out for street art, tiled facades, and local craft shops tucked away in quiet alleys.

No trip to Olhão is complete without stepping onto the water. Ferries and water taxis run frequently to the nearby barrier islands of Armona and Culatra, where time seems to slow down. These islands offer some of the best beaches in the Algarve — wild, unspoiled, and perfect for a relaxed afternoon swim or seafood lunch by the sea. If you have time, hop across to both and compare their laid-back vibes.

Back in town, stop at one of the many seafood restaurants lining the promenade or hidden in side streets. From grilled sardines and clams à Bulhão Pato to octopus and razor clams, Olhão’s cuisine is deeply rooted in the sea. Pair it with a chilled white from the Algarve and you’ve got the perfect end to your visit.

Whether you’re wandering the market, sipping coffee by the docks, or catching a ferry to paradise, Olhão offers an experience that’s honest, sensory, and unmistakably southern Portuguese. It’s not just a place to visit — it’s a place to feel.

History and Heritage: Tavira’s Churches and Museums

Local PleasuresPosted on

Tavira may be a beach lover’s paradise, but for those who seek history, architecture, and cultural depth, it’s equally rewarding. This charming town is home to more than 20 churches, several small but fascinating museums, and centuries of well-preserved history waiting to be explored.

Igreja de Santa Maria do Castelo – Echoes of the Knights

Located next to the castle ruins, this imposing white church stands on the former site of a mosque and is one of Tavira’s most important religious buildings. It houses the tombs of seven knights of the Order of Santiago, linking it to the Reconquista and Christian conquest of the Algarve. The large clock tower and peaceful cloister garden offer a tranquil break in the heart of town.

Igreja de Santiago – Pilgrimage Begins Here

Also near the castle, the Igreja de Santiago is more than just a beautiful church — it is the starting point of the Caminho Nascente, one of the lesser-known Portuguese pilgrim routes to Santiago de Compostela. Dedicated to St. James (Santiago), the patron saint of pilgrims, the church holds special significance for those embarking on this spiritual journey. The route stretches northward through Alentejo and beyond, connecting Tavira with one of Europe’s most important religious destinations.

Igreja da Misericórdia – Blue and White Glory

Perhaps Tavira’s most beautiful church interior, the Igreja da Misericórdia near the Praça da República showcases 18th-century blue-and-white azulejo tiles depicting scenes of charity and compassion. The carved stone portal is a fine example of Renaissance architecture, and the small fee to enter is well worth it.

Núcleo Museológico Islâmico – Islamic Roots

To understand Tavira’s layered history, stop by the Islamic Museum, located inside the Palácio da Galeria. It offers insight into the town’s Moorish past and includes archaeological finds like the famous Tavira Vase. This museum is part of the broader Museu Municipal de Tavira, which includes several small exhibits across the city.

Palácio da Galeria – Art and Archaeology

Housed in an elegant 16th-century palace, the Palácio da Galeria hosts rotating contemporary art exhibitions as well as permanent displays on Tavira’s Roman and Islamic past. The building itself is worth the visit — don’t miss the underground cistern and mosaic fragments.

A City of Quiet Corners

Walking through Tavira’s cobbled streets, you’ll find smaller chapels, bell towers, and convent ruins, each with its own story. Whether you’re a devout traveler, a culture seeker, or a lover of beautiful architecture, Tavira offers a quietly rich experience away from the typical tourist paths.

Discover Tavira’s surroundings by Bike or E-Bike

Local PleasuresPosted on

From cobbled lanes to coastal trails – cycling freedom in and around Tavira

Tavira’s historic centre is best explored on foot, but beyond the city’s cobbled streets lies a world of stunning bike trails and scenic detours. With a mild climate, gentle terrain, and the Ria Formosa as your backdrop, cycling here can be as leisurely or as adventurous as you like. E-bikes and scooters make longer distances or steeper routes a breeze — perfect for discovering hidden corners without breaking a sweat.

🚲 Where to Rent in Tavira (check availability)

Abilio Bikes

  • 📍 Rua João Vaz Corte Real 96, Tavira
  • 🔗 abiliobikes.com
  • One of the most trusted rental shops, offering bikes, e-bikes, gravel bikes, and guided tours. Their team can tailor routes to your fitness level and interests.

Go Bike Tavira

  • 📍 R. Alm. Cândido dos Reis 169, Tavira
  • 🔗 gobiketavira.com
  • Well-maintained bikes and a welcoming local team.

Tavira Scooters

  • 📍 Rua Dr. Marcelino Franco 25, Tavira
  • 🔗 tavirascooters.com
  • For those who prefer a bit more speed (and breeze), they rent scooters (50cc & 125cc), along with regular bikes.

🗺️ Scenic Rides from Tavira

1. Ecovia Litoral – from Tavira to Fuseta (via Santa Luzia)
Starting just behind the Aldi supermarket, this picturesque route meanders through salt flats, quiet lanes, and waterfront villages. Though parts of the trail are gravel, the reward is worth it: flamingos in the Ria Formosa, cafés in Santa Luzia, and seaside charm in Fuseta.

2. Coastal breeze and seafood stops – from Tavira to Cacela Velha:
Start your ride at the roundabout by Tavira Gran Plaza and head east on the Ecovia Litoral. This scenic coastal path takes you through the saltpans and along gravel stretches toward Cabanas, a great spot to stop for a seaside lunch. If you’re feeling adventurous, continue through the trails past Fábrica and end your journey in the stunning clifftop village of Cacela Velha.

3. Tavira to Moncarapacho and back via Santo Estêvão
This scenic inland loop starts near Pingo Doce and takes you through peaceful countryside on quiet asphalt roads. Moncarapacho is a charming destination for a coffee stop or lunch. Return via Santo Estêvão for a change of scenery.

4. To Parque Mata da Conceição
Start your route just north of the fire station (Bombeiros) in Tavira, and cycle inland via Fonte Salgada. This peaceful tour takes you through rural backroads, gentle climbs, and pine-scented trails – perfect for trekking or gravel bikes. Once at Parque Mata da Conceição, a 40-hectare fenced pine forest park, you’ll find shaded picnic areas, marked walking paths (1–2.4 km), and even a small herd of fallow deer in semi-wild surroundings. It’s a tranquil green escape, ideal for a mid-ride break. Return to Tavira via the loop through Nossa Senhora da Saúde chapel for scenic countryside views.

🚴 For Every Style, Every Mood

Whether you’re pedalling gently along the coast or powering up the hills on an e-bike, the Eastern Algarve offers unforgettable rides for all levels. With reliable rental shops, scenic trails, and plenty of pit stops for seafood or a glass of vinho verde, cycling here isn’t just transport — it’s pleasure with every turn of the wheel.