Algarve Tour Travel Guide

Associated Press Exclusive Video Scuba Diving in the BP Gulf Oil Spill

noreply@blogger.com (Algarve Tour Guide) — Mon, 14 Jun 2010 21:25:00 +0000

According to British Petroleum all the oil floats to the surface and there are no underwater clouds of oil, but this video shows what its really apening in Gulf of Mexico.

The AP’s Rich Matthews joined a dive team who explored how the oil is impacting the Gulf of Mexico, and shows an exclusive look about whats apening under water.

Every nation on Earth should be concerned. We don't know how huge the Gulf oil field is... We have to think about the worst case scenario may become.

If these companies would stop worrying about shoving thier pockets full of money, and worry more about the safety of thier employees, we wouldnt have this problem. It happens all over the World, Companies defying regulations, for the sake of making a few extra bucks

This disaster needs to be the last straw. It is time for the people of the world to say "enough." Vote out leaders who do not take their commitment to their citizens seriously. Boycott brands that refuse to conduct their business safely and responsibly. Above all, raise your voice! Speak out for your rights, the rights of your community and for the rights of future generations.

Algarve Events Feira Da Serra São Brás Alportel

noreply@blogger.com (Algarve Tour Guide) — Thu, 06 May 2010 12:53:00 +0000

Algarve Tour Travel Guide, information and YouTube Videos and Photos of Historic Towns, National Monuments, Culture, Tradition and Handicraft, Fairs, Festivals and Events Local Históricoss of Portugal, Algarve, near the municipality of Loulé and next Querença

On the bridge between tradition and innovation. Feira da Serra (Mountain Hills Fair Event) of São Brás de Alportel

On the last weekend of July, São Brás de Alportel becomes the scene of a festival of food, crafts and entertainment, with the completion of the Feira da Serra, the event is already a reference in the country and a must see mandatory for those who live or visit the Algarve.
For three days, colors, skills and flavors of the mountain blend back in time, to our own roots, the stories made of traditions, legends and customs, which carve the stone with mastery, which are weaved in looms, which are painted on the screen, which bring in the corner and danced with soul.

The Feira da Serra (Mountain Fair Event) of São Brás de Alportel was born of a joint organization of the Association SPOT with the City in the summer of 1993. Sierra Cauldron (A Serra do Caldeirão) down to São Brás de Alportel, in its wealth, human and cultural heritage, visible for 3 days that are filled with food, folklore, crafts and live entertainment. This takes in approximately one hundred craftsmen from all over the Algarve and Baixo Alentejo.

Come breathe the tradition in São Brás de Alportel

The Serra do Caldeirão hills traditional skills

In the village, you can purchase parts of the most genuine handicrafts made with materials of the region, with hands that know the mastery of time, and enjoy the great products the Caldeirão such as regional sweets, honey, brandy, liqueurs, homemade ice cream, bread, walnut, onion or seed, an endless world of aromas, flavors and textures.

Come breathe the tradition in São Brás de Alportel

The kingdom of taste

Good food is also present at the Fair, at the Meeting Flavors of Serra do Caldeirão, with 7 dining types restaurant and 1 Portuguese Tavern, where you can enjoy the aromas and tastes of traditional Algarve and Alentejo gastronomy. Accept the invitation and be sure to taste the dishes of pork, the Xarém, chicpea dinner, soups, migas and many other snacks

Come breathe the tradition in São Brás de Alportel

Knowledge and affairs of other times.

The site of the Handycrafts gives us a tour of the past. Live, you can watch the making of other times: the grinding of wheat, flax spinning, the work and the palm, and esparto, repairing footwear ... the traditional occupations which are a valuable cultural treasure that must be preserved passage of voracious journey of the time

Come breathe the tradition in São Brás de Alportel

The Arts corner

In the culture's Square, there are arts and knowledge. The Algarve artists bring their works and live show his talent

Come breathe the tradition in São Brás de Alportel

The world of make-believe

This is the area's favorite of the small. An area of children's entertainment, ready for the younger visitors, with a world of games and activities awaiting them. In this magic place, under the guidance of education professionals, children can play and learn, with many activities

Come breathe the tradition in São Brás de Alportel

Passion for horses

In Riding, horses and riders will delight all lovers of equestrian art. Every day, different times of animation. Visitors can even make their "tipping" rodeo, which is what we call the riding baptism, for those who want to try to ride these wonderful animals

Come breathe the tradition in São Brás de Alportel

Open door to nature

The animals have a very special place in Feira da Serra. The Animals site, our meeting the with nature, we observe and learn about some species of the region.

Come breathe the tradition in São Brás de Alportel

The bridge between the past and the future of the cork

This is the ideal place to meet this precious raw material of nature, inviting a journey through time from the past to the future of the cork industry: from the beginning of the century, when the cork sector played a key role in economic progress of São Brás de Alportel parish who raise county in 1914, to the most innovative projects, the new challenges of Cork, in its many applications.

In this space, you can visit the manual production of cork stoppers and more interesting on the cork industry, discover new trends in cork fashion, and enjoy live, the more curious Cork Arts.

The Cork site also hosts an area dedicated to ROUTE OF CORK, an interesting thematic route that awaits your curiosity

Come breathe the tradition in São Brás de Alportel

Carob Industry, potential and challenges

The 12s area of the Fair came in the 2007 edition, dedicated to this mysterious fruit of the Algarve: carob. Mysterious and numerous applications, the Carob site reveals the nature, tradition, industry, the challenges and potential of one of the most important Algarve industrial sectors.
Over time, the locust had many uses, having started off as a yardstick, then moving on, when using its gum, used as thickener, stabilizer, emulsifier, with multiple uses in the food, pharmaceutical, textile and cosmetics, for the use pulp, where you are sweet and prepare numerous products, and even the use of flour obtained by grinding and subsequent roasting ...
In thesite Locust site we can know why, because of its the dietary characteristics, the carob is the chocolate of the hills

Come breathe the tradition in São Brás de Alportel

Soil management

Between tradition and innovation, this is an area devoted to agriculture, traditional art of land preparation, who lives now in future challenges. Here, you can purchase useful agricultural tools or get to know some innovative projects in the area of organic farming

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WRC World Rally Championship Loulé Algarve Portugal Motorsports

noreply@blogger.com (Algarve Tour Guide) — Sat, 24 Apr 2010 10:50:00 +0000

Algarve Tours Travel Guide: recommended attractions and sport events to visit in the Algarve, on the outskirts of the village of Querença the municipality of Loulé.

Rally de Portugal: On the Roads of the Algarve and Baixo Alentejo 27 to 30 May

Best World Rally

The biggest names in World Championship rallies are present at this year's Vodafone Rally of Portugal, which takes place 27-30 May in roads of Alentejo and Algarve.

The race will count for five championships: The WRC (world of brands and pilots), the SWRC (S2000 cars), JWRC (Junior), and the Portugal Rally Championship and the Ford Fiesta Sporting Trophy International.

The chronic world champion Sebastien Loeb, the Finns Jari-Matti Latvala and Mikko Hirvonen and Armindo Araújo, world champion of production, part of the list of participants.

"The proof will have three stages, a total of 1223.07 km and includes 18 classification tests with 355.32 kilometers," he said yesterday at the presentation in Loulé, Pedro de Almeida, director of the competition.

"At the Algarve Stadium, dispute are two super-special, the May 27 to 20:30 and 30th at 13h55," the leader said.

Tickets on sale at BP, cost 28 euros.
Seruca Emidio, Mayor of Loulé, said that the rally "is already an international flag of the region" and stressed "the fundamental importance of security."

Nuno Aires, president of the Algarve Tourism Region, drew attention to the importance of proof to the hotel and catering.

"These are events that help to anchor mark the Algarve in the foreign market," he said.
The importance of the rally was clearly in a study by the University of Algarve. "The proof is estimated at about four million, and the study realized a turnover of 60 million to the region," he said Pedro de Almeida.

Algarve Typical Villages Villas Architecture Edificio Junta de Freguesia de Querença Parish Board Building

noreply@blogger.com (Algarve Tour Guide) — Fri, 23 Apr 2010 21:10:00 +0000

Edificio da Junta de Freguesia de Querença Parish Board Building

Algarve Tour Travel Guide, information and photos of historical sites, typical villages, architecture and heritage of Portugal, Algarve, near the municipality of Loulé, near Vilamoura, Quarteira, Quinta da Ombria, Querença, Quinta do Lago, Vale do Lobo and Faro

Algarve's Tourist Guide - Historic sites, typical villages, architecture and heritage sites in the Algarve
Loulé Tourist Guide - Historic sites, typical villages, architecture and heritage of Loulé

Edificio da Junta de Freguesia de Querença Parish Board Building

The building of the Parish Council of Querença, is an eighteenth century manor house, where we can observe a typical Algarve chimney, blue bars, regional tile and masonry features.

Location: Querença ZIP CODE - 8100-129 Querença, Loulé, Algarve, Portugal
Telephone: +351 289 422 337
Fax: +351 289 422 337
Email: op5495@mail.telepac.pt

Praia do Forte Novo Beach Quarteira Vale Do Lobo Loulé Algarve Portugal PineWood Resorts Beaches

noreply@blogger.com (Algarve Tour Guide) — Fri, 23 Apr 2010 16:08:00 +0000

The main beach at east Quarteira border (to the west of the Vale do Lobo), called the Forte Novo, is beautiful, very clean and has been awarded the blue flag.
The extensive beach that stretches for miles connecting it to the nearby beaches are excellent for long walks, complemented by a wide range of sports and leisure, which includes water sports, golf, tennis, a well-tended space between pine trees and garden areas. Equipment and Services: restaurant and cafe on the beach, rent umbrellas and chairs, water sports, beach lifeguard for the captaincy, flagged, lifeguards, Blue Flag

Location: Forte Novo, Quarteira parish, municipality of Loulé

Nearby: Faro, Albufeira, Quinta do Lago, Vale do Garrão, Vilamoura, Loule, Querença

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Lagoa City County Algarve Portugal History Heritage Architecture Monuments Culture Traditions Beaches RoadMap

noreply@blogger.com (Algarve Tour Guide) — Sat, 17 Apr 2010 14:48:00 +0000

History

Long before the reported achievements of the knight templar Dom Paio Peres Correia (1242-1246) the land of Lagoa have been conquered from the Arabs and consequently integrated into the kingdom of Portugal, being attached to the end of Silves.
On January 16, 1773 by a charter of the king El Rey Dom Jose was established the Lagoa County, having been elevated to town status after its principal settlement - Lagoa.
According to historical sources the original settlement of Lagoa born around a pond, where swamps have been dried in order to create fertile land and homes where people of the Muslim empire eventually settled.

The natural resources of the region contributed greatly to the current economic structure based on the following activities: agriculture, fishing, small industry and tourism.
The fishing activity (communities of Ferragudo, Benagil, Carvoeiro and Senhora da Rocha), the cultivation of vines and traditional culture were rainfed until a few decades ago, the main sources of revenue of the municipality.

Driven by fishing, canning, early last century, devastated these stops bringing great prosperity and wealth.
However, from the 60s, tourism was the main driver of the county, creating the structures necessary for the growth of the economy, with important consequences in the labor market, particularly in terms of creation of work.

This activity quickly established itself as a motor of the local economy, the great lever of development, becoming a permanent and structural nature of the county's economy.
Along with tourism, has grown a whole range of activities, especially in services, construction, commerce and industry.

Lagoa Today

Lagoa is now as a tourist area of the Algarve.

There are several factors contributing to this recognition, particularly the variety of offerings (the beauty of its beaches - backed by magnificent hotels, golf courses, cultural heritage), the correct land use in terms of planning, the social stability and the friendliness of its people.

With a renewed cultural view, advocated by tourism, lagoon embracing several ancestral techniques, linked to pottery, to desserts, with the aim of maximizing the value and as a component of the tourism product.

As proof of this promotion is a great craft show, held annually at Exhibition Park Pond - FATACIL.

Some heritage buildings have been the target of initiatives to make them living spaces of culture, including the Municipal Library and the Convent of St. Joseph - Cultural Center of the City of Laguna - which carries out performances of various kinds and origin, exhibitions among other activities.

Furthermore, it should be noted also, the many cultural activities take place at Parque Municipal das Fontes, in Estômbar, throughout the year, including theater, dance and traditional singing.

Over the past 15 years, Lake has one of the highest rates of economic development in all municipalities in the Algarve region.
Today is endowed with numerous facilities in health, education and education, sport, leisure and tourism.

Parishes

The 6 villages of Lagoa are:

Praia do Carvoeiro
Estômbar
Ferragudo
Lagoa
Parchal
Porches
All parishes have the status of towns, except Lagoon, which has the status of a city.

Beaches

Lagoa is a region rich in beaches.

It has beaches in visible growth, both infrastructure, both water quality and surrounding environment, now beginning to compete with the attractive beaches of Portimão and Albufeira.

From the beaches of this county, there are the following:

Praia de Albandeira (Albandeira beach)
Praia da Angrinha (Angrinha beach)
Praia do Barranco
Praia do Barranquinho beach
Praia de Benagil beach
Caneiros Beach
Praia do Carvalho
Carvoeiro beach
Praia da Cova Redonda
Praia de Ferragudo
Praia Grande Ferragudo (Ferragudo big beach)
Levante Beach
Praia da Marinha beach
Praia do Mato
Praia do Molhe beach
Praia Nova
Praia da Senhora da Rocha
Paia do Pintadinho
Praia dos Lupines
Praia do Vale de Centeanes (Centeanes Valley Beach)

Heritage

Igreja Matriz de Lagoa (Lagoa Mother Church)
Igreja Matriz de Estômbar (Estômbar Mother Church)
St. Joseph Convent
Convento de Nossa Senhora do Carmo
Fort St. John Arade

Natural Curiosities

Algar Seco Grottos
Sítio das Fontes

Castro Marim Town County Algarve Portugal History Heritage Architecture Monuments Culture Traditions Beaches RoadMap

noreply@blogger.com (Algarve Tour Guide) — Fri, 16 Apr 2010 18:13:00 +0000

Algarve Tour Travel Guide, information and photos of National Monuments, Historical Sites, Architecture of Portugal and Museums to visit in the Algarve, when in Quarteira, Querença, Vilamoura, Quinta do Lago, Vale do Lobo, Faro, Portimão and Loulé
Algarve's Tourist Guide - Architecture, Monuments and History of the Algarve
Castro Marim, Portugal Monumental Roadmap

Castro Marim Town and County

Castro Marim is a Portuguese town belonging to the district of Faro, the Algarve region and subregion, with about 3 000 inhabitants.
It is the seat of a municipality with 299.83 km ² in area and 6 493 people (2006) [1] divided into 4 districts.

The municipality is bordered to the north and west by the Municipality of Alcoutim, east by Spain, south by Vila Real de Santo António (mainland) and the Atlantic Ocean, southwest by the parish of Vila Nova de Cacela (Vila Real de Santo António ) and west by Tavira.
The county charter was granted in 1277.
It was the seat of the Order of Christ between 1319 and 1356, the only period in which this order (created from the Portuguese Templars) was not based in Tomar.

The castle of Castro Marim was founded by the Templars, after the extinction of the Order, became one of the headquarters of the Order of Christ in Portugal.

Heritage in the county

Castelo de Castro Marim
St. Anthony's Church - with an altar evoking the saint's miracles Forte de São Sebastião - an important seventeenth-century fortress Church of St. Sebastian - with seventeenth-century altarpieces and tempera paintings of the eighteenth century
Church of Our Lady of Martyrs - Although dating of the eighteenth century has a picture of the Archangel Gabriel of the fifteenth century.
Has an interesting dome.

The parishes of Castro Marim are:
Altura
Azinhal
Castro Marim
Odeleite

The beaches in Castro Marim are:
Praia Verde (Castro Marim
Beach Head - Retur
Beach Alagoa

Portimão City County Algarve Portugal History Heritage Architecture Monuments Culture Traditions Beaches Sports RoadMap

noreply@blogger.com (Algarve Tour Guide) — Fri, 16 Apr 2010 14:03:00 +0000

It is the seat of a municipality with 182 08 km ² and 49 881 inhabitants (2008), divided into 3 parishes. The municipality is bordered to the north by the Municipality of Monchique, Silves and the east by Lake, west of Lagos and the south coast is the Atlantic ocean.

Parishes of the municipality

Alvor Parish

Mexilhoeira Grande Parish

Portimão Parish

Portimão History

Archaeological remains show the human presence in the area since the Neolithic.
Alcalar zone is an important Neolithic burial ground, which remains the "monument No. 7" composed of a chamber of circular plates of shale that is accessed by a corridor, like similar monuments scattered all over West Europe, especially the monuments found in Ireland.

The floor is of limestone shale and sandstone.
The vault, with two lateral niches rituals, was topped by two slabs, and protected by a mound.
Near Alcalar there is another cemetery in Monte Canelas.

Roman Times

The most striking vestige still exists, is located near the village of Figueira in the area of Abicada at the confluence of two rivers, where you can find a Roman archaeological site with several rooms.
Also in the area of Coca Wonderland was discovered a cistern that period, which is presented in excellent condition.
Arade were found in various archaeological finds, including gold coins.
Belinho Castle

Fifteenth century

The height of King Dom Afonso III is a charter that says the site of Portimão. Under King Afonso V at the request of 40 residents, born St Lourenço da Barrosa that result in the Vila Nova de Portimão.

Twentieth Century

Portimão at the beginning of the century due to its industrial development has become one of the great bastions of working-class struggle, and Joseph Buísel (anarcho-syndicalist) one of its top leaders.
In 1924, two events of special importance, namely 11 December, when the "new town" is a city by the then President of Manuel Teixeira Gomes and founding the first Christian Community Assembly of God in Portugal, through missionary José de Matos, also responsible for the founding of other churches of the same name in the Algarve, in Santarém and Alcanhões.

After the peak and decline of the canning industry in the 50 to 70, chose a development model, similar to the Algarve, the tourist center, featuring a wide selection of hotels, restaurants and local shops.

Became popular holiday destination mainly due to the famous Praia da Rocha and is also considered a city with great potential for lovers of big game fishing (eg, swordfish) and other water sports like jet skiing, sailing, windsurfing, scuba diving or deep sea fishing.

Current Times

In recent years, the river mouth Arad has been the scene of major events. It is also the place of proof Portuguese League international Formula 1 powerboat racing. Portimão is today a municipality in the Algarve. Pole anchor the western Algarve is distinguished for its tourism, its pulse and dynamism, very own, and a variety of activities that make your day-to-day life is lived, at various levels, so intense and marked by a rhythm that is maintained throughout the year.

Portimão because of its large tourism development, is today a city, like others in this region (eg, Quarteira, Armação de Pêra) characterized by its chaotic urban landscape.

Today you can access Portimão from anywhere in the country.

The city is served by modern, well equipped accessibility, whether by car, plane, train and boat.
Faro International Airport 63 km
Municipal Aerodrome Portimão Buses with National and International
Railway Station (Line Algarve)
Cruise Port
Marina de Portimão
Key Distances
Alvor: 4 km
Airfield Hall: 6 km
Mexilhoeira Grande: 9 km
Praia da Rocha: 2 km
Faro International Airport: 63 km
Algarve Stadium: 57 km
Lisbon: 297 km
Querença Typical Village 63 km

Places of Interest in Portimão

Inside Portimão Parish

Bivar palace - built in the last decade of the eighteenth century.Neoclassical style with baroque.
Current City Hall. Sárrea Garfias - Palace of the neoclassical style, with baroque, built in the late eighteenth century. On December 11, 2008 was opened in space formerly occupied by the palace, the TEMPO (Teatro Municipal de Portimão), a modern building with respect to a large extent the facade of the old building.

Largo December 1 - Garden with fountain and benches in tile panels depicting scenes from the history of Portugal.

Casa Manuel Teixeira Gomes - Where was Manuel Teixeira Gomes, President of the Republic who signed in 1924, the ordinance that raised the Portimão city.

Praça Manuel Teixeira Gomes - As in the early twentieth century, this square continues to be the meeting point of the people of Portimão.

Santa Isabel Street, Father Philip, Júdice Fialho, Serpa Pinto - nineteenth century buildings with architectural elements sixteenth century.

Jardim Visconde Bivar - 1905.
One of the oldest gardens in Portimao.

Former fish market in Portimão

Bridge Road (Old Bridge) - Opened in April 1876.

Railway Bridge - 1922

Largo da Barca - Site of the connection was made by boat, the two banks of the River Arade before construction of the bridge.
Chapel San Jose - Century XVII. Longitudinal nave and chancel rectangular.

Church of the Immaculate Conception - the fifteenth century.
Has one of the most beautiful late Gothic porticoes of the Algarve and an altarpiece in the chancel walnut wood thoroughly worked.

Jesuit College - an imposing building from the seventeenth century, with a facade with high walls and geometric trim at the main doors and pediment of undulating lines.

Ismat Building (former Industrial School) which was placed uncovered a cistern, probably from the seventeenth century.

Building Railway Station - Top 20s (century).
Red Cross building.
Marion Crane - 1947. Single copy in the Algarve engineering iron post World War II.

Museu de Portimão - Old Factory Feu, 1902
Convento São Francisco - XVI Century

Viewpoint and Fortaleza de Santa Catarina - seventeenth century. Afforded protection from Vila Nova de Portimão from pirate attacks. Inside is the Chapel of Santa Catarina.
Overlooking the beach at Praia da Rocha, bar, marina and village of Ferragudo.
Miradouro dos Três Castelos - View of the beach at Praia da Rocha and the clipping of the cliffs on the beaches of the Three Castles and Vau

Town of Alvor

Sculpture tribute to fisherman - Designed by the master John Cutileiro, inaugurated in 2000.
Antiga Lota (Old Fish Market)
Marabout of St John Morabito and St. Peter's - Architectural remains of Arab civilization.
Quadrangular architecure buildings, with four pinnacles at each corner and a cupola crowning the dome.
At present there are chapels dedicated to Christian worship.

Viewpoint of Alvor - View of the Ria de Alvor, the most important wetland in the western Algarve.
Alvor Castle - the castle rebuilt in the twelfth century, there are only four sections of wall.
Inside is a playground.
Abreu Palace - Restored in the early nineteenth century.
Inside, the walls are plaster with frescoes.
Chapel of Mercy of Alvor - Building of simple construction, with a door and a window with stone smooth and straight lines.
Ethnographic Museum - Playback aspects of the lives of people of Alvor over time.
Alvor Mother Church - the sixteenth century Composed of a body with three aisles and five altars in addition to the chancel.
The main portal is a magnificent example of the Manueline in the Algarve.

Town of Mexilhoeira Grande

Church - Fifteenth Century
Church of Mercy - XVII Century
Pre-historic Alcalar - End of fourth and third millennia BC Visitors will be received at the interpretation center can visit the Monument No. 7. Roman Villa of Abicada - Century II to V AD One of its outstanding features are the polychrome mosaics of geometric motifs.
Autodromo Internacional do Algarve

Portimão beaches

Praia da Rocha - Located in the city of Portimão, Praia da Rocha is one of the most popular beaches in the Algarve, with international fame.

Described as a series of sandy rocks accompanied with whimsical forms.
The bars that are on the beach have recently been refurbished giving a greater attraction for tourist visits.
Recently it is also a favorite place to perform many commemorative celebrations.
Three Castles - Beach sand with thinner, but with excellent water surrounded by rocks with great potential for underwater fishing

Praia do Vau - After the coast of the Three Castles closer, there is the Vau.

It is a smaller beach but quite cozy and family-oriented, surrounded by clay cliffs that are attributed medicinal qualities.

Praia João Arens beach- A small stretch of sand between cliffs of difficult access, very quiet and less crowded, surrounded by islets.
It is often sought after by lovers of naturism.

Praia do Alemão (German Beach) - Beach which is located next to John Arens.
It is a secluded beach, and is one of those chosen by Mário Soares for leisure, one of the reasons for his choice, the fact of owning a villa in the same place.

Prainha beach and Praia Três Irmãos beach - Situated in Alvor parish, these beaches are following the coastline, separated by rocks with tunnels dug by the sea.
Alvor - A long sandy beach out of sight to the estuary of the Ria de Alvor.

The presence of large hotel complexes and various equipment make this beach an important and popular international tourist center.

Sports

Portimão is also a city much marked by sport.
It is here that take place in summer, the Beach Football Cup and Step Portuguese League European Beach Soccer.

Sometimes Cycling Tour of Portugal and was the scene of the Lisbon-Dakar Rally, which also tend to practice water sports like surfing and kite surfing and other action sports like BMX and Skate.

Portimão also has several sports clubs such as the Portimonense, Portinado or Bicross Club of Portimão.

Sport in Portimão was marked by the date November 2, 2008, because that day was inaugurated, officially, the Algarve International Circuit

Praia da Falésia Beach Marina de Vilamoura Touristic Golfe Resort Quarteira Loulé Algarve PineWood Cliffs Beaches

noreply@blogger.com (Algarve Tour Guide) — Thu, 15 Apr 2010 14:21:00 +0000

Algarve Tour Travel Guide, information and photos of Wonders of Nature, beaches and parks, Portugal, Algarve, near the municipality of Loulé, near Vilamoura, Quarteira, Quinta da Ombria, Querença, Quinta do Lago, Vale do Lobo and Faro
Algarve Destination Guide - Nature, Environment and Wonders of the Algarve: Parks, Viewpoints, Beaches and unknown heritage of the Algarve
Tourist Guide Loule - Nature, Environment and Natural Wonders of Loulé Parks, Viewpoints, Beaches, Heritage of Loulé

Marina de Vilamoura Touristic Complex Golfe Resort Praia da Falésia Beach

Surrounded by red cliffs, at near of which lies one of the most famous golf courses in the Algarve, and one of the best marinas in the world, Praia da Falésia Vilamoura Marina beach, situated close the tourist village of Vilamoura, is one of the best known internationally.

The main beach at Vilamoura (to the west of the marina), called the Falesia, is beautiful, very clean and has been awarded the blue flag.
The extensive beach that stretches for miles connecting it to the nearby beaches are excellent for long walks, complemented by a wide range of sports and leisure, which includes water sports, golf, tennis, a well-tended space between pine trees and garden areas. Equipment and Services: restaurant and cafe on the beach, rent umbrellas and chairs, water sports, beach lifeguard for the captaincy, flagged, lifeguards, Blue Flag

Location: Falésia Vilamoura, Quarteira parish, municipality of Loulé

Nearby: Faro, Albufeira, Quinta do Lago, Vale do Garrão, Vilamoura, Loule, Querença

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Loulé Retaurant Week Festival Algarve Portugal Gastronomy Events Festivals

noreply@blogger.com (Algarve Tour Guide) — Thu, 15 Apr 2010 11:34:00 +0000

Algarve Tour Travel Guide, information on Holidays, Festivals and events in Portugal, Algarve, near the municipality of Loulé, near Vilamoura, Quarteira, Quinta da Ombria, Quinta do Lago, Vale do Lobo and Faro
Algarve Destination Guide - Festivals and Events in the Algarve

Loulé RestaurantWeek

Loulé prepares to receive a week of haute cuisine - the RestaurantWeek
Cappucino of green soup with crispy chouriço (traditional tipycal saussage), black pork cheeks with vegetables and sweet potatoes, ice cream with coriander and chili-pepper.
The Chef Martijn Carte, and more 28 other Carte to prove in the best restaurants in the municipality of Loulé.

RestaurantWeek is the name of the initiative that was born in the U.S. in 1992.
Today, all American cities have RestaurantWeek annually. In Portugal, the RestaurantWeek already exists in Lisbon and Oporto.
Now comes to Loulé, begins on April 22 and ends on May 2. The RestaurantWeek with 29 restaurants to choose from.
The idea is to give everyone the chance to enjoy fine dining by a unit value of 20 euros (drinks not included), being sure that each meal, one euro goes to the Diocese of Madeira.
The event was officially presented on Tuesday in one of the participating restaurants, L'Olive, with the Chef Martijn Carte, in the Vila Sol Algarve, Quarteira, in the presence of Jose Borralho responsible for undertaking proactive event, the Tryp Network, and the alderman of the House of Loulé, Joaquim Guerreiro.
After the success achieved in Lisbon and Porto, the Municipality of Loulé has contacted the Tryp Network to carry out the initiative in this county. Agreement signed. Joaquim Guerreiro argues that Loulé "has some of the best restaurants in the Algarve and Portugal, and it is very important to recognize this food."

It will be a week of haute cuisine based on typical products of the Algarve, as well as agricultural products produced by the region, and the fish caught around here.

José Borralho did point out that this initiative is not a form of balances in the restoration of high quality, as you say have seen so construed
"These restaurants have no such need. Join because they like the project and supportive of your hand, "he said.

In this first edition, the expectations are not very high, but still advanced the second councilman from the City Council, "there are already good signs, because there are already reservations to be made, despite the RestaurantWeek does not have great promotion."

Lunch or dinner at one of 29 participating restaurants require reservations to develop, which can only be made through the site (www.loule-restaurantweek.com) website where information is made available on the restaurants and your letters

Praia Do Vale do Lobo Touristic Village Golfe Resort Central Beach Almancil Loulé Algarve Portugal Beaches

noreply@blogger.com (Algarve Tour Guide) — Sat, 10 Apr 2010 11:08:00 +0000

Location: Vale do Lobo, Almancil parish, municipality of Loulé, near the beach Trafal, Almargem and Quarteira

Nearby: Faro, Albufeira, Quinta do Lago, Vale do Garrão, Vilamoura, Loule, Querença

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Algarve Wins Best European Touristic Golfe Resorts Destination Award Awarded by GOLFmagazin The Best German Language Golf Journal

noreply@blogger.com (Algarve Tour Guide) — Sat, 10 Apr 2010 04:25:00 +0000

Algarve Wins Award for Best European Touristic Golf Destination
The Algarve has won for the third consecutive time, the prize of "Best Golf Destination of Europe" awarded by the prestigious German magazine GOLFmagazin. The award was presented on March 26 in Cologne.

The jury, composed of experts of the sport and by readers of the magazine, said the variety of fields, the excellent infrastructure of hotels in the luxury segment, appreciate the gastronomy and the high professional level as a golfing destination Algarve deserved the prestigious award of the premium destination, in competition with each other with Bavaria and Belek, Turkey.
The GOLFmagazin is considered the best journal in the specialty markets in the German language.

Quinta da Ombria Castle Tôr Querença Loulé Algarve Golfe Corses Resorts SPA Hotels

noreply@blogger.com (Algarve Tour Guide) — Thu, 08 Apr 2010 14:13:00 +0000

This is the view up the valley of Quinta da Ombria old castle

Algarve Tour Travel Guide, information and photos of Wonders of Nature, beaches and parks, Portugal, Algarve, near the municipality of Loulé, near Vilamoura, Quarteira, Quinta da Ombria, Querença, Quinta do Lago, Vale do Lobo and Faro

Algarve Destination Guide - Nature, Environment and Wonders of the Algarve: Parks, Viewpoints, Beaches and unknown heritage of the Algarve
Loulé Tourist Guide - Nature, Environment and Natural Wonders of Lakes Parks, Viewpoints, Beaches, Lakes and unknown heritage

The Project Quinta da Ombria Castle Tôr Querença Loulé Golfe Corses Resorts SPA Hotels

A project of 200 million to develop in the next ten years and is focusing on the health tourism and the environment will be born in the municipality of Loulé. Quinta da Ombria has Finnish capital, but will enhance the economic development of towns where it is. The golf course will be an ex-libris for the show allowed the obstacles created by the water.

The touristic project, Quinta da Ombria estate, located in the parishes of Tôr and Querença, in the municipality of Loulé, Algarve, reflects the vision development and integration with local populations of its sponsor, the Finnish Ilpo Kokkila.
The project of 200 million to develop a total of 180 hectares (you have up to 1785 beds) has undergone changes over the last ten years but it seems that the ultimate licenses and changes will be approved soon and phase of infrastructure will begin later this winter.
Leading the project in Portugal is the former chairman of the Tourist Region of the Algarve, Hélder Martins, who has managed to bring the project to a new segment of foreign tourism, which prefers the interior of the Algarve, staying in touch with nature, have offered of walking trails, bird-watching, ecological gardens, regional products, while enjoying a five-star hotel with spa, club house, restaurants and golf course of average difficulty.

This is the view of what one day will be the Quinta da Ombria golf course. This is the view up the valley ( from the first tee ? ) from the old castle

Grounding and the county is crucial in developing this project. Statements by the chairman of the board Group Points (holding company that owns the property), Ilpo Kokkila, alongside the presentation of environmental studies and public launch of the project, go to harness and enhance the two parishes and Tôr Querença. This rapport is to hire applicants services, help in starting small businesses and lead the future residents and customers of the Fifth Ombria to prefer local services.
In this project, there will be no trade within the property, or conventional services, "forcing" users to move to neighboring parishes.
In addition to this economic function in the long run, the Quinta da Ombria give preference to residents in the county for the hundreds of contracts that have to do.

But the project is in itself an unequivocal value: the natural beauty Algarvian (although ten minutes from the coast and the beach) with great oak tree, oaks, strawberry trees, olive and carob trees, bearing and hybrid species that are new for scholars.

This is the project view of what one day will be the Quinta da Ombria golf course

The property is fully integrated into the Natura 2000.
The hotel project (not chosen to mark contacts and stem) development will be over the next ten years and will leave the club house project, which will be based in an old colonial house that is in ruins and no architectural value. A slightly higher quota will be a five star hotel and spa, which will build on sloping ground to fit in the hills of the property.
The course, which will always be a lower elevation than the homes will have design architect Jorge Santana da Silva, who will tell a story over its 18 holes, par 71, developed in 6090 meters.
The stream of Mercy and the artificial lakes are obstacles favorites, along with indigenous trees classified and would allow a game with some spectacular. The first ten holes develop will land in a relatively short rough and with little modulation by the architect, but the last eight holes require the skill, commitment and strategy. Remember that Jorge Santana da Silva made recently, the field of the Orangery, in Quinta do Lago and is building the "27th hole" of the Estate of the Pine tree, the second "nine-hole" Valley Piso also the field of Évora Resort. Abroad is active in projects of golf courses in Angola, Netherlands, Cyprus and Germany.
Loulé has 14 of the 32 golf courses in the Algarve, this product is a crucial factor for the seasonal break.
Sustainability
The draft of the Fifth Ombria with works expected to start in February and March in terms of infrastructure, while the estate's first phase will include club house, hotel and spa and also the first phase of the batch of houses.
Less than 5% of space will be occupied by construction, while 60 hectares will be allocated to the protection of local species. It will also set aside an area of ecological gardens for enjoyment of owners of dwellings.
Environmental management is one of the biggest bets of the promoter, has been made of hydraulic and hydrological studies, the study of flora, vegetation and habitats, with emphasis on the bat population.
The Association of Forest Producers the Caldeirão had a crucial role in minimizing the negative impacts of infrastructure construction. The sponsor wants to eventually obtain a specific environmental certification.
In the occupation of the future development travel far will be in electric cars and vehicles of residents and customers will be "hidden" in indoor parking lots.
The project involves the use of bridges, canals and ponds that are spread over 180 hectares, contributing to the development of a tourism connection to nature, but also to offer specific products associated with this case and that has strong demand for Nordic English and even Portuguese.
Infrastructure highlights the ability of the fifth to be part of sustainable water, while the sewage treatment plant will be dealt with next.
The energy level, the architects should consider systems optimization and improvement of sun exposure.

European Commission does not approve of Ombria Thursday and may proceed with action against Portugal The European Commission, under Art 226 of the EU Treaty, just send "a supplementary reasoned opinion against the Portuguese in the context of the infringement procedure 2004/4979 on the draft of the Fifth Ombria.
The Almargem recalls that Art 226 of the Treaty gives the Commission to take legal action against Member States that fail to meet their obligations.
In this case, and after the opening of infringement proceedings, the Commission sent a first written warning to the government asking for clarification.

As explanations of the Portuguese authorities presented earlier this year, were not considered sufficient, "the Commission now sent a final written warning (reasoned opinion) which show formally infringements of Community law which the Government is required to act in accordance

If Portugal does not comply with the reasoned opinion, emphasizes the environmental association Algarve, the Commission may decide to the Court of Justice of the European Union.
If the Court finds that the Treaty has been infringed, the offending Member State shall take the necessary measures to stop such infringement.
In article 228 of the Treaty gives the Commission power to act against the United States that do not comply with the Court of Justice.

The article also allows the Commission to ask the Court to impose a financial penalty on the Member State concerned.
The Almargem adds that the decision now taken by the European Commission comes to their concerns, repeatedly expressed "serious about the environmental impacts of the development of Quinta da Ombria (Loulé), where this urban-tourism project will be implemented in full Natura 2000 (Site of Community Importance "Barrocal") and the largest and most important strategic reserve of underground water in the Algarve (the aquifer Querença-Silves) '.

Almargem The Association therefore hopes that "the Portuguese authorities to act now so fast, clear and copy on this subject, to avoid a legal process that will undermine the good name of Portugal and, in particular the good name of the Municipality of Loulé and the Town of Querença '.
The Almargem stresses that 'is not in any way against development within the municipality of Loulé, but against this particular project, it could certainly be different but that has changed little over time, due to poor foresight of those responsible. "
The association states continue to consider the draft of the Fifth Ombria 'damaging natural values and authenticity of the region, in addition to not fit into a model of truly differentiating tourism, responsible and sustainable, it must focus on the valuation of the assets of the interior Algarve and not promote its irreversible destruction This project could in fact be different "but" little has changed over time, due to poor foresight of those responsible, "finalize environmentalists.
The tourism project for the last Ombria provides a five-star hotel - with a maximum of 200 rooms - three resorts and 31 lots for individual houses - offering a total of 1800 tourist beds - a spa and a golf course 18 holes.

Praia do Trafal Beach and Praia do Loulé Velho Beach Vale do Lobo Almancil Quarteira Loulé Algarve Portugal Paradise Beaches

noreply@blogger.com (Algarve Tour Guide) — Mon, 05 Apr 2010 17:14:00 +0000

East - Vale do Lobo Praia do Trafal Beach
West - Quarteira Praia do Loulé Velho Beach

Algarve Tour Travel Guide, information and photos of National Parks, beaches and heritage of Portugal, the Algarve, in the municipality of Loulé, near Vilamoura, Quarteira, Quinta da Ombria, Querença, Quinta do Lago, Vale do Lobo and Faro
Algarve's Tourist Guide - Nature, Environment and Wonders of the Algarve natural parks, beaches, heritage sites and bird watching in the Algarve
Loulé county Tourist Guide - Nature, Environment and Wonders of Loulé, Parks, beaches, heritage, gardens and places of birdwatching in Loulé

Quarteira and Vale do Lobo Tourist Guide - Nature, Environment and Wonders of Quarteira and Vale do Lobo - Parks, beaches, heritage, gardens and birdwatching places of Quarteira and Vale do Lobo

Loulé county Beaches between Quarteira and Vale do Lobo - Praia do Trafal beach and Praia Loulé Velho beach

Praia do Trafal beach and Praia Loulé Velho beach

Vale do Lobo, 8125 Loulé - Algarve - Portugal

The road to Praia do Trafal follows the same path as that to Praia do Loulé Velho, on the way you can see some of the ancient aqueducts.

The path to the beaches goes through a broad valley areas, where old mills are observed as culverts and hydraulic-law, extensive agricultural fields and ancient olive trees, oaks and carob trees, around you can see a lot of birds and other animals in natural environental.

Closer to the sea, the terrain is marshy and the Ribeira de Carcavai forms an extensive wetland with reed beds, tamarisks and rushes.

To the east Praia do Trafal beach dunes move through the wetland, the beach is large and wide and come away again the ocher cliffs and pine forests, here at the lawns of the golf courses of Vale do Lobo.

To the west (beach Loulé Velho), the narrow beach, the cliffs red goes to the sea and the trees show their roots in the face of the cliff that is crumbling.

Vale do Lobo - Praia do Trafal Beach

Here, when the sea take sand out, leaves uncovered an ancient Roman salting tanks of fish and mud of an ancient estuarine system, the vestiges of a time when sea level was very earliest.

Also hidden somewhere in this area are the ruins of an ancient Carthaginian fishing village.

There is parking near the beach, which has restaurants and toilets at its western end and is supervised during the bathing season.

Access: tarmac road exit east of Quarteira, following the direction of Almancil. The beach is signposted Trafal after bypass access entrance is at 300m, then the path continues along strike for 1.5 km. Ample parking and not ordered. Support equipment (restaurant, toilets) in the extreme west of the beach. Supervised during the bathing season. Orientation: Southwest.

Praia do Trafal e Praia Loulé Velho Google Maps Location

Boliqueime Village Loulé Algarve Portugal Architecture Culture History Heritage Traditions Traveler RoadMap

noreply@blogger.com (Algarve Tour Guide) — Sun, 04 Apr 2010 15:18:00 +0000

Algarve Tour Travel Guide, information and photos of historical sites, traditional villages, architecture and heritage of Portugal, Algarve, near the municipality of Loulé, near Vilamoura, Quarteira, Quinta da Ombria, Querença, Quinta do Lago, Vale do Lobo and Faro

Algarve Tourist Guide - Historic sites, typical villages, architecture and heritage of the Algarve unknown
Loule Tourist Guide - Historic sites, typical villages, architecture and heritage of Loulé

Boliqueime is a Portuguese parish in the municipality of Loulé, with 41.46 km ² and a population of 4473 inhabitants (according to INE, Census 2001), with a population density of 107.9 persons per km ².

From the geographical point of view, nature has placed in the Algarve and endowed it with the richness of the landscape and soil. You are served by a good communication network and its own history honors.

Geographical description

Boliqueime is situated on the slopes of a small hill within sight of the sea and playing already, the crags. The headquarters of the parish consists of a cluster housing with some traditional houses, narrow streets with cozy corners. Boliqueime is a large rural parish which covers an area of 4139 ha, with about 5,000 inhabitants, spread over several sites that are dispersed clusters. It lies in the east-west line, on a large and beautiful horizon that has the bottom of the sea, a circumstance that has marked the name of one of their sites, they chose for it the name of Maritenda, which means precisely the which extends over the sea.
Extends inwards towards the south-north, unfolding in fertile plains and hills in graceful, some are already facing the mountains. The excellence of the landscape and more people are hosting their strong attraction for locals and foreigners from afar to visit and choose to residência.Os characterize the values of rural parish of Boliqueime, who lives mainly on rainfed agriculture and irrigation. And live, well, trade which is located near the urban center and the Fonte de Boliqueime, while extending along the E.N 125.

"Neighbor of the Sea," will be gone for the name, the Eyes of Water, according to advocates Ataíde Oliveira, a time when Genoese, Sicilians and Venetians, the centuries XIII, XIV and XV, went hard at work fishing the seas of the Algarve and there were supplied with drinking water. The "Old Boliqueime Village", a short walk from the village and former headquarters of the parish, was destroyed by the earthquake of 1755 that laid the ground the medieval temple of three naves. Already on the hillside and surrounded by the village itself, the current church was built soon in 1759 and dedicated to the martyr St. Sebastian. Relevant is the place they occupy, and there traditional piety of the people of Boliqueime, the altar and the beautiful image of Our Lady of Sorrows.

Boliqueime Traditions

Remain alive, there are some traditions, such as the fairs in August 4 and 17 October, the feast in honor of Our Lady of Sorrows, St. Louis and San Sebastian in September, the feast of San Faustino, on Easter Sunday. Of more recent tradition, there are celebrated in mid-June, the feast of St. John

Boliqueime Economy

Boliqueime begins to be provided with equipment has a significant social and associational life that reveals some momentum, with various local cultural, sporting and recreational activities, such as the Folk House of the People or Sports Group Boliqueime Boliqueime. Among other equipment undoubted public interest are highlighted: the Home for the Elderly with the Day Centre, the Nursery and Kindergarten; modern Integrated Primary School and the new Extension of Health Centre of Loulé, the Sports Pavilion and Recreation Society.

Boliqueime meet effectively the terms to allow harmonious growth.
Apart from agriculture and trade, tourism can also be an asset to the village of Boliqueime, rising against a background of privilege and the sight of the major tourist centers, which pose a challenge to its development. The national and local information, The Southern Courier, could serve to promote one of the most interesting villages of the Municipality.

Boliqueime Personalities

The want, knowing and being of its people will ensure the possibility of a promising growth, integrated. From the human point of view, keeps alive the values, skills and flavors that give expression to community life. Who are children of Boliqueime, among others, stand out in the field of politics, culture, ideas, among others, Anibal Cavaco Silva, Lidia Jorge, Aliete Galhoz, Carminda Cavaco and redheaded Brazão.
• Anibal Cavaco Silva, an economist and politician and, since 2006, the nineteenth President of Portugal • Lidia Jorge, writer

Igreja da Misericordia Church Loulé Algarve Portugal Historical Architecture Heritage Manueline Style Monuments

noreply@blogger.com (Algarve Tour Guide) — Sun, 04 Apr 2010 12:39:00 +0000

Algarve Tour Travel Guide, information and photos of historical sites, typical villages, architecture and heritage of Portugal, Algarve, near the municipality of Loulé, near Vilamoura, Quarteira, Quinta da Ombria, Querença, Quinta do Lago, Vale do Lobo and Faro

Algarve's Tourist Guide - Historic sites, typical villages, architecture and heritage sites in the Algarve
Tourist Guide Loulé - Historic sites, typical villages, architecture and heritage of Loulé

Igreja da Misericórdia de Loulé (Loulé Church of Mercy)

Near the Rua da Mouraria (Moorish Street), the Igreja da Misericórdia (Church of Mercy) does not escape of the eys of the attentive visitor. Original sixteenth century building, has a stunning Manueline style radiated porta. Are the same time the cross in front of the portal and the images of Christ and Our Lady, part of the interior decoration of the church. The chapel has an altarpiece carved in the eighteenth century, which are visible two valuable pictures of the sixteenth century, one made of alabaster, from the former Convent of Grace, that little remains today

Almargem Lagoon Quarteira Loulé Algarve Beautiful Natural Paradise WildLife Beaches BirdWatching PineWood Cliffs

noreply@blogger.com (Algarve Tour Guide) — Mon, 22 Mar 2010 16:32:00 +0000

The Almargem Lagoon is located in the municipality of Loulé approximately half the distance between Quarteira and Vale do Lobo, just south of Fonte Santa, east of Praia do Cavalo Preto (Black Horse beach) pine forest, west of Forte Novo beach and pine forest, and nortth of the Almargem beach.

Situated on the old Almargem Marshes, Lagoa do Almargem plays an important role in terms of landscape, recreational and ecological, and has become one of the local bird watching most visited in the Algarve region. The Almargem Lagoon is part of a series of small lakes on the coast of the Algarve.

The characteristic red cliffs of this stretch of coast stop to give way to the mouth of the Ribeira do Almargem that flooding the surrounding land and form a calm water lagoon, very inviting to waterfowl. It is thus possible to be on the beach and quietly observe the sea birds dives in search of food in the pond water. The wetland vegetation, reeds and rushes, is mixed with the reversal of incipient dunes of sand. The small pond is surrounded by a vast forest of pine and oak trees, home to plants such as thyme and stubborn, exclusive to this region of the Algarve. This is a very quiet place, a small natural paradise next to the nearby beaches of Quarteira

Beach surrounded by pine widely used for picnics. It is a place where tranquility reigns. With good infrastructure support, its calm waters are monitored. Ease of Parking: car parking.

Support services are available: Disabled Access, Restaurant, Beach with lifeguard, toilets, light vessels without engine

Location and access: Road Quarteira, Almancil.
By car from Quarteira: Drive down the road that goes towards Almancil, pass the Camping and take the next road on the right, signposted "Beach Almargem. Follow the road towards the sea, leading through the pine forest.

Quarteira Cosmopolitan City Loulé Algarve Portugal Europe World Vacations Holidays Touristic Travelers Destinations

noreply@blogger.com (Algarve Tour Guide) — Tue, 16 Mar 2010 07:24:00 +0000

Algarve Tour Travel Guide, information and photos of historical sites, typical villages, architecture and heritage of Portugal, Algarve, near the municipality of Loulé, near Vilamoura, Quarteira, Quinta da Ombria, Querença, Quinta do Lago, Vale do Lobo and Faro
Algarve's Tourist Guide - tourist destinations and cosmopolitan cities of Algarve
Tourist Guide Loulé - tourist destinations and cosmopolitan cities of Loulé

The City of Quarteira

Quarteira is a Portuguese city and a parish, located in the municipality of Loulé, situated between the Albufeira Almancil, with a population of 25,000 inhabitants (sourcee: Junta de Freguesia de Quarteira)and a total area of 37.78 km².
Quarteira was elevated to Villa in June 28 of 1984 and to city in May 13 of 1999.

Quarteira is a great place to be visited, by this small sample, it is intended that the visitor stay with an idea of the enormous opportunities and potentials that the city of Quarteira has at its disposal.

It has 2 Km. of beaches with Blue Flag and became a popular holiday destination in the sixties, mainly because of it’s extensive beach and unique climate. With later development comes Vilamoura, considered a tourist destination with great potential for lovers of golf and water sports, such as jet skiing, sailing, windsurfing, diving and fishing.
Vilamoura Marina, is considered one of the best marinas in the world

Regarding the food, there are excellent restaurants in Quarteira, who have the best fresh fish and seafood of Algarve region.

Quarteira is a city characterized by being virtually in the sea where the ocean access is done in minutes. For this reason there has always been surfing, bodyboard and other water Sports in Quarteira and Vilamoura.

Among the attractions is the Aquashow, water park that has existed for more than two decades and which is located at the entrance of Vilamoura, in the road Loulé-Quarteira, the national road N396.

About night life and entertainment, there are a lot of pubs, clubs, bars and Night Clubs for all tastes and styles, and if you like gambling, you have the Vilamoura Casino option

Quarteira Beaches

Quarteira and Quarteira border beaches ordered East to West:

Praia de Faro Island beach 1 hour walk (on the border)

Praia da Quinta do Lago East beach 1 hour walk

Praia da Quinta do Lago Central beach

Praia da Quinta do Lago West beach

Praia do Ancão beach

Praia do Garrão beach

Praia das Dunas Douradas beach

Praia de Vale do Lobo East beach

Praia de Vale do Lobo Central beach

Praia de Vale do Lobo West beach

Praia do Trafal and Praia do Loulé Velho beaches

Praia do Cavalo Preto (black horse beach)

Praia do Almargem beach and Almargem Lagoon

Praia de Quarteira Forte Novo beach

Praia de Quarteira Pé do Coelho beach

Praia de Quarteira Bola Nivea beach

Praia de Quarteira central beach

Praia dos Pescadores beach

Praia da Marina de Vilamoura beach

Praia da Marina de Vilamoura Falésia beach

Praia da Falésia Pine cliffs beach (on the border 30mn walk)

Praia dos Olhos de Água beach (on the border 30mn walk)

Querença Loulé Algarve Typical Villages Architecture HeritageTraditional Villas Chimneys Chaminé Algarvia

noreply@blogger.com (Algarve Tour Guide) — Sun, 14 Mar 2010 02:36:00 +0000

Algarve Tour Travel Guide, information and photos of historical sites, typical villages, architecture and heritage of Portugal, Algarve, near the municipality of Loulé, near Vilamoura, Quarteira, Quinta da Ombria, Querença, Quinta do Lago, Vale do Lobo and Faro

Algarve's Tourist Guide - Historic sites, typical villages, architecture and heritage sites in the Algarve
Loulé Tourist Guide - Historic sites, typical villages, architecture and heritage of Loulé

The Algarve Chimneys of Querença (Chaminés Algarvias de Querença)

Querença is a typical village belonging to the municipality of Loulé in the Algarve region, full of natural beauty, architecture and tradition.
This is a region of human occupancy since remote periods, different people and cultures was here.
At the top of the hill, 270m high, this beautiful village of white houses and beautiful Chimneys, typical architecture of the Algarve traditional Villas, unpretentious homes with color bars and traditional chimneys, where there we find the influences of Arabic architecture, forming a set of great beauty, providing a warm environment and peace of mind.

A architectural and ornamental legacy present in most cities and towns of southern Portugal and visible in the narrow streets, the structure of the houses with stylish minarets pointing to the the sky, the chimneys (as chaminés) adorning the roofs.

Cylindrical or prismatic, square or rectangular, simple or elaborate, the chimneys of the Algarve are a symbol of the region and evidence of the influence of five centuries of Arab occupation.

There was a time, that in the Algarve, you could'nt find two equal chimneys, because more or less elaborated, the decorative motifs always depended on the days of construction, prestige, pride and possessions of the owner. Indeed, it was customary among the master masons, ask the owners, how many construction days for the chimney to make the price of the chimney to be built, which translated in time that it took to build.

The predominant color was the whitewash, but honorable exceptions still show some colorful motifs,

especially in blue and ocher. The chimney, was a symbol of status, and this one of the main reasons why the Algarve chimneys bearing all kinds of forms, from simple grooves, to intricate and beautiful tracery, or miniature representation of clock towers or houses. But always a visible symbol of folk art, a test of skill for each builder and a source of pride for any owner

More than pure utility, the chimneys of the Algarve played a decorative role, as evidenced by the presence of two chimneys in the cottages, in a region where climatic conditions did'nt justify it.

The chimney of use and also the simplest and most functional at home, was situated in the oven house, where it was customary to eat meals, while the smaller and personified chimneys, occupied a prominent place in the kitchen of their home, apartment place, used only to receive visits or organize parties

In practical terms, the chimney was considered a sign of the presence of people in the houses, a good indicator of the weather and the location where was marked the date of construction of the houses.

The interior of the Algarve, especially Querença, is one of the places where they can best address these secular chimneys of the Algarve, the art of geometric shapes and different tracery, topped lime, reflecting the prestige and pride of the owners.

If you go to Querença, you will enjoy, and should also visit the Church of Our Lady of the Assumption (igreja da Nossa Senhora da Assunção), blending architecture, a mixx of Arabic, Gothic and Baroque styles. Its a earth friendly people, where traditional food is free of chemicals and at fair prices.

Zone of much water, streams and fountains, where in August, the tops of the trees show a bright green, unusual in the region. Among the hills, the river Fonte da Benemola streams, and the river of Mercês, through valleys lined with lush vegetation, reeds, poplars and olive trees.

In the midst of the vegetation, the water sources: Benémola Natural Water Source, Fonte da Esparrela, the Fonte Filipe Natural Water Source and other water sources and natural springs that join the streams, a true oasis in the arid hinterland area.

These eyes of water, which served the people of the parish, beautiful and seductive, almost in wild state, are perfect for dating.

Walking, or cycling, or riding an horse, are the best ways to knows better this paradise, where you see some owls, nightingales and bee. Nearer the river frogs newts and turtles also give the air of grace.

You can take advantage and climb to the Cerro dos Negros, 406meters hight, the view is magnificent. You can see mountains and coast, including, Monchique and the FOIA.

As a reminder, you can buy a basket of handmade cane and stay the evening with family or the girlfriend, enjoying a pleasant well spent day.

See Querença location and how to get there on Google Maps

Praia do Barraquinho Beach PineWood Cliffs Beautiful Rocky Bay Caramujeira Lagoa Algarve Beaches

noreply@blogger.com (Algarve Tour Guide) — Fri, 12 Mar 2010 23:23:00 +0000

Algarve Tour Travel Guide, information and photos of National Parks, Mirador and heritage of Portugal,

Algarve, near the municipality of Loulé, near Vilamoura, Quarteira, Quinta da Ombria, Querença, Quinta do Lago, Vale do Lobo and Faro

Algarve's Tourist Guide - Nature, Environment and Wonders of the Algarve: Parks, Viewpoints, beaches and heritage sites in the Algarve

Tourist Guide Lagoa - Nature, Environment, Wonders, Parks, Viewpoints, beaches, heritage sites and lost gardens of Lagoa

Praia do Barraquinho a lost Paradise Bay

The Praia do Barraquinho Beach is located in the site of Caramujeira, in the area of Porches in Lagoa, Algarve, between Armação de Pera and Carvoeiro, just at west side of Praia de Albandeira beach.

It is known to be a small rocky bay, its also known, because its strong waves, who are frequently used for surfing, and its towering rocks, afford a magnificent coastline view to its visitors.
Barraquinho Beach was a lost paradise from the chaos of Armação de Pera and Carvoeiro.
A lost paradise, that wasn't so noticed if it had not begun to be frequented by some football players, such as Luis Figo.

On Barraquinho beach, there are a wide diversity of very curiously shaped rocks, such as: arches, undercutting at the base of the cliffs, potholes and isolated groups of rocks, shapes and forms resulting from the combined action of the mechanical force of the waves on the cliffs and of the rainwater which dissolves the limestone.

In the area around the Barraquinho beach are green patches of pinewoods and enormous mastic trees, hanging over the deeply furrowed and fissured cliff tops. On the sand and exposed to the marine environment is an abundance of sea orachs, a plant that, so to speak, transpires salt, it being possible in the morning or early evening to see salt crystals glittering on its leaves. When the water is sufficiently clear, you can see the mysterious outlines of the submerged rocks, so that a little snorkelling is recommended to discover the abundant marine life in this section of the coast.

The whole Caramujeira area, has many caves, some as large, that ships can fit in there.
One of these caves was the salvation of a fisherman of Armação de Pêra. Fell asleep in the boat, and when he awoke, he was inside one of these caves.

It is a small beach, which to be reached, we descend through rocks and natural tunnels.
On top of the cliffs there are two viewpoints that allow you to enjoy the beautiful landscape.
To reach the Barraquinho beach, leave the EN 125 (National Road) near the International School of the Algarve, drive to South Then, just follow the road signs.

See Praia do Barraquinho beach location on Google Maps

Praia de São Rafael Beach Albufeira Algarve Portugal Heritage Pinewood Cliffs Beautiful Beaches

noreply@blogger.com (Algarve Tour Guide) — Fri, 12 Mar 2010 16:43:00 +0000

Algarve Tourist Travel Guide, information and photos of National Parks, beaches and heritage of Portugal, to visit in Algarve, near the municipality of Loulé, near Vilamoura, Quarteira, Quinta da Ombria, Querença, Quinta do Lago, Vale do Lobo and Faro
Algarve's Traveler Guide - Nature, Environment and Wonders of the Algarve: Parks, Viewpoints, beaches and heritage sites in the Algarve
Tourist Guide Albufeira roadmap - Nature, Environment and Wonders of Lagos Parks, Viewpoints, beaches, heritage sites of Albufeira

Praia de São Rafael beach Albufeira

Praia de São Rafael beach, is situated near Sesmarias, in Albufeira, it's a beautiful large sandy beach set amidst warm coloured limestone cliffs, full of furrows and crevices.

On São Rafael beach, there are a wide diversity of very curiously shaped rocks, for example the Ponte Pequena (small bridge) and Ninho das Andorinhas (swallows’ nest): arches, undercutting at the base of the cliffs, potholes and isolated groups of rocks, shapes and forms resulting from the combined action of the mechanical force of the waves on the cliffs and of the rainwater which dissolves the limestone.

In the area around the beach are green patches of pinewoods and enormous mastic trees, hanging over the deeply furrowed and fissured cliff tops. On the sand and exposed to the marine environment is an abundance of sea orachs, a plant that, so to speak, transpires salt, it being possible in the morning or early evening to see salt crystals glittering on its leaves. When the water is sufficiently clear, you can see the mysterious outlines of the submerged rocks, so that a little snorkelling is recommended to discover the abundant marine life in this section of the coast.

The beach is reached by walking down some wooden steps or down a wooden ramp. Traffic is strictly controlled on the top of the cliff in order to minimise destabilisation of the cliff. When you’re on the beach, particular care is recommended when walking near the cliffs due the possibility of falling stones or rocks. Access: There is a tarmac road signposted to the beach from the road between Guia and Galé. The beach has a fairly large and organised car park and basic support facilities (restaurant and toilets), as well as being supervised during the bathing season. The beach faces south.

Praia Da Batata Beach Lagos Algarve Portugal Urban Centers Famous Historical Beaches

noreply@blogger.com (Algarve Tour Guide) — Fri, 12 Mar 2010 10:19:00 +0000

Algarve Tourist Travel Guide, information and photos of National Parks, beaches and heritage of Portugal, to visit in Algarve, near the municipality of Loulé, near Vilamoura, Quarteira, Quinta da Ombria, Querença, Quinta do Lago, Vale do Lobo and Faro
Algarve's Traveler Guide - Nature, Environment and Wonders of the Algarve: Parks, Viewpoints, beaches and heritage sites in the Algarve
Tourist Guide Lagos roadmap - Nature, Environment and Wonders of Lagos Parks, Viewpoints, beaches, heritage sites of Lagos

Praia da Batata beach

Praa da Batata beach (potatos beach) is located, East of Praia dos Estudantes (students beach), and West of the Ribeira de Bensafrim steam, Cais da Solaria, and Fortress Ponta da Bandeira, a few hundred meters from the historic center of Lagos. This beach is very crowded due to its proximity to the urban center and providing some natural sheltered spots, offering shade and protection to the prevailing winds. This beach is the setting for one of the most genuine expressions of the traditional neighborhood, the "Banho 29", popular festival which takes place on the evening of August 29. The beach have support and surveillance.

Querença Loulé Algarve Natural Wonders Medicinal Water Sources Fonte Férrea da Esparrela

noreply@blogger.com (Algarve Tour Guide) — Thu, 11 Mar 2010 15:30:00 +0000

Algarve Tour Travel Guide, information and photos of National Parks, Sources and medicinal heritage of Portugal, Algarve, near the municipality of Loulé, near Vilamoura, Quarteira, Quinta da Ombria, Querença, Quinta do Lago, Vale do Lobo and Faro
Algarve's Tourist Guide - Nature, Environment and Wonders of the Algarve: Parks, Sources medicinal and unknown heritage of the Algarve
Tourist Guide Loulé - Nature, Environment and Wonders of Loulé Parks, Sources medicinal, heritage sites and gardens of Loulé
Tourist Guide Querença - Nature, Environment and Wonders Querença Parks, Sources medicinal, heritage sites and Gardens Querença

Fonte Férrea Medicinal da Esparrela de Querença

Located near the Parque Natural da Fonte da Benémola Source Benémola amidst lush countryside, inside the nature, a unique natural environment, is the iron water source, Fonte da Esparrela, and worth a visit. Directions: At the bridge over the river of Mercês, 3 km from Querença, Loulé direction, follows the path towards the West, 1 km is the source of the Mercês, near the old bridge. Continuing in the same way walk 20m to the west, you'll meet the source of the Mercês.

Indications
Anemia and liver disease
Treatments / characterization of users
Facilities / built heritage and environmental
Water Supply of Esparrela is collected from the soil in a pit covered by a vault. The Fountain of snare is a Impounding by dabbling or source of diving, with medicinal properties since ancient times.
History
In chronic Arabs, the source is described as the source of remedy for many diseases.
General data
District Faro
Loulé Municipality
Town Querença
Place Ribeira das Mercês, Esparrela site
Location
Esparrela site, Querença
Province hydromineral A / catchment area of the Guadiana River
Geologically
Massif Hesperis - South
Fund geological (factor Geo.) Group Flysch Baixo Alentejo (schists).
Environment cleft average permeability.

Igreja São Lourenço Church Almancil Loulé Algarve Architecture Heritage Monuments History

noreply@blogger.com (Algarve Tour Guide) — Wed, 10 Mar 2010 12:15:00 +0000

Algarve Tour Travel Guide, information and photos of National Monuments of Portugal, local history and architecture of the Algarve, near the municipality of Loulé, near Vilamoura, Quarteira, Quinta da Ombria, Querença, Quinta do Lago, Vale do Lobo and Faro

Algarve's Tourist Guide - Monuments, Historical sites and architecture and heritage of the Algarve

Tourist Guide Loulé - Monuments, Historical sites, architecture and heritage of the Municipality

Tourist Guide Almansil - Monuments, Historical sites, architecture and heritage of Almancil

Church of San Lorenzo de Almancil

In early 18th century there was a small late medieval church on this place. It was basically a ruin though. Its doors were destroyed after centuries of usage and the roof was in awful condition.

On September 1722 the inhabitants were desperated due to a severe shortage of water. They decided to dig the earth, looking for fresh water, and promised to build a new temple if the attempt was sucessfull. They found a strong source of the precious liquid and so was started the church of São Lourenço of Almancil..

Since then the brotherhood of São Lourenço (St. Lawrence Chapel) has grown in importance, and begin to have as Judge Protector one of the leading figures in the Algarve region, Dr. Manuel de Sousa Teixeira, Vicar General of the Bishopric.

With the contribution of local citizens the construction was firmly developed, special attention given to the

decoration and aesthetics of the new church. The best craftsmen were contracted. The inside was covered with blue tile artwork which is still the main attraction.

The two Borges brothers, natural of Lisbon, Antão, master mason, who lived in Faro and Manuel, master tile, residing in Lisbon, should be undertaken to build the church, since then, with the purpose of the tiled.

These two artists were responsible in the Algarve for several works, which stand out in Faro, flooring tiles of the Church Order of 3rd St. Francisco and the construction of the choir of the Cathedral

In November 1729 these builders have committed with Dr Manuel de Sousa Teixeira to arrange the tiles for the new temple and seat them as soon as possible.

The carved altar and the rest must have been designed and implemented, around 1735, by the best artist in the region, the master Manuel Martins.

The gilding contract was only assumed on February 16, 1742 by the Algarve painters, Clement Velho de Sarre and Francisco Correia.
The earthquake of 1755 almost did not damage it, only five tiles fell from the top of the dome.

In 1849 was removed the parish of São Joã Batista (St. John the Baptist) and established the parish of Almancil. The headquarters of the parish was then transferred to the Church of São Lourenço (St Lawrence), with the designation of São João Batista (St. John Baptist) de (of) Almancil.

On the side walls of this temple there are eight figurative panels depicting the life of São Lourenço (St. Lawrence). Both of ousia represent the Saint delivering for the poor the goods that the church trust him for

this purpose and a miracle doned near the Tiber river, restoring sight to two blind men.

The six panels of the nave of the church are presented in chronological order, beginning with the letter side, next to the chapel and elongate the side of the gospel from the door.

1 - São Lourenço talks to Pope Sixtus, when it would be martyred, lamenting not go with him. The Pope encourages him by saying that "three days later it's your turn".

2 - The Saint was arrested and charged of possession of great wealth, but it's the goods that Pope Sixtus sent him to distribute to the poor.

3 - São Lourenço presents to the Roman emperor, Valerian, the treasures of the Church, namely the poor.

4 - The Saint was is intimidated to abandon faith in Christ and accept the Roman gods.

5 - Sâo Lorenço is placed on a grid to be burned over a slow fire to be his greatest punishment, hoping to divest before the pain.

6 - The Saint is comforted in is martyrdom by an angel of God who takes is soul to heaven.

The faithful people, in the middle of the eighteenth century, was much flocked to the chapel of São Lourenço two days before and the day before the feast of the Sain -10 August.

More than two or three thousand people was moving on pilgrimage not only for seeing the devotion to St. Lourenço, as the greatness of their festival and fire blazing in the night of the Holy and besides the many dances and the harp of the people who help thee there.

In a book manuscript with the music and lyrics of the hymns sung in praise to the patron, highlights the illumination of the Saint, ascending to heaven with several angels. It is likely to have been held in the 2nd quarter of the eighteenth century by an artist of Faro, perhaps, Clement Velho de Saarre.
The tiles of the dome of the nave and the chancel, including the dome, were made in 1730 by Policarpo de Oliveira Bernardes.

However, the notarial contract was concluded between the Judge of the Brotherhood and the brothers Manuel and Antonio Borges, committing them to give by his account, all the tiles needed to tile the chapel of São Lourenço, both walls and the half orange and base all the tiles with all the perfection and the best possible paints that could be.

It is noteworthy in the scene of the coronation of St. Lawrence, the subject of the central dome of the nave, a technical feature of Policarpo in the shadows and brands are loaded with blue obtained by crossing noticeable different strokes.

The decoration of the sacristy was also part of the remodeling done in this temple in the 2nd quarter of the eighteenth century. The walls were lined with a great square of tiles with baroque motifs: acanthus leaves, Albarradas, etc...

In the middle was placed the most interesting baroque chest of drawers throughout the Algarve region, highlighting the ornamentation carved doors, drawers and the backs. The latter housed the image of the saint.

As the carving of the church, the great chest and the Processional image of São Lourenço must have been made by the master carver and sculptor of Faro, master Manuel Martins.

Baja Terras DEl Rey Rally Portugal MotorSports National OffRoad Championship Tavira Algarve

noreply@blogger.com (Algarve Tour Guide) — Wed, 10 Mar 2010 01:58:00 +0000

Algarve Tour Travel Guide, information videos and photos of sports events in Portugal, the Algarve and Alentejo, near the municipality of Loulé, near Vilamoura, Quarteira, Quinta da Ombria, Querença, Quinta do Lago, Vale do Lobo Tavira, Albufeira, Faro and Almodovar

Algarve's Tourist Guide - Portugal National OffRoad Championship Startss in the Algarve: Baja Terras d'el Rei

Algarve's Tourist Guide, Baja Terras D'El Rey with new routes in the districts of Tavira, Castro Marim, Loulé, Vila Real de Santo António, Almodouvar, Mértola and Alcoutim and Vila Real de Santo Antonio, where Autos, motorcycles, quads and buggies are together for the first time on home soil this year.

Baja Terras d'el Rei with open enrollment

Missing two weeks for the next round of the Portugal's cross-country vehicle that meets in Tavira the various aspects of this modality.

Cars, motorcycles, quads and buggies are together for the first time on home soil this year.

Tavira becomes, thus meeting the best in the TT national.

The title match in the file begins seriously at 20 and 21 March with Miguel Barbosa, three-time national debut in the richly with the Racing Lancer which promises to fight the reigning champion.

Filipe Campos continues with the same team in a BMW X3 that has given him many joys.

The competition starts on Saturday with a double pass through an unprecedented super special after the Official Race Start, front of Mercado Municipal de Tavira (Tavira City Market).
The next day, new Tracks in the municipalities of Tavira, Castro Marim, Loulé, Vila Real de Santo António, Almodôvar, Mértola and Alcoutim.

Portugues OffRoad National Motorsports Championship starts in Tavira
The Baja Terras d'el Rei opens the OffRoad Portuguese National Championship of the Motorcycling Federation of Portugal, 20 and 21 March with motorcycles, quads and buggies.
A proof renewed 2010 edition brings changes in all aspects, starting, with the host of the event.

Everybody ready in Tavira to receive this inaugural CNTT (CNTT = Campeonato Nacional de Todo o Terreno, means, National OffRoad Championship) step. The Hotel Vila Galé receives the Secretariat and the Press Office of Baja Terras D'El Rey.

New paths in the municipalities of Tavira, Castro Marim, Loulé, Vila Real de Santo António, Moura, Beja and Alcoutim

The Baja Terras d'el Rei will have a more reduced program than in 2009, passing the checks for Saturday morning, a prologue and go without recognition twice in Saturday afternoon. On Sunday early morning, a selective section of 320 kms with three areas of assistance, complete the sports program.
The Baja Terras D'El Rey Motorsports Championchip podium ceremony and consecration of the winners are held in the early afternoon at the Republic square in Tavira.

Please note eligibility for KTM Trophy.
For the firt time, the buggies will leave after the autos and not after the quads as usual.
The Baja Terras d'el Rei has the support of Carmi - Cooperativa Agrícola de Reguengos de Monsaraz with wines Terras d'el Rei and Monsaraz, of Camara Municipal de Tavira, Solverde, Vila Galé Tavira Hotels, Porta Nova and the Radio Gilão, as the Official Radio of the Event and XesEquipa - Xerox.