About Faro and the Algarve
Faro City
Faro is the administrative centre for the whole of the Algarve region with a population of approximately 67,000 inhabitants spread over 201 km2, of which 30% are integrated in the Ria Formosa Nature Reserve (please see photo below).
The local cuisine, typically Mediterranean, the white sand beaches and balmy waters awarded with the “blue flag”, in some places inhabited only by migratory birds, are aspects to discover on the islands of the Ria Formosa, with a high potential for nature tourism.
The city of Faro has both Arab and Roman ruins but most of the present attractive older buildings were constructed after the disastrous earthquake of 1755. Particularly attractive is the old part of the city surrounded still by the Moors walls, which date back to the 9th century. The city also has an attractive marina, well-maintained parks and plazas and an old town full of outdoor cafés and pedestrian lanes. Besides its museums and beautiful churches and chapels, Faro also boasts a vibrant nightlife.
The Algarve Region
The Algarve is one of the seven regions of Portugal. This region covers an area of 4,997 km2 and it has approximately 467.343 permanent inhabitants (2021 Census). It is located in the South of Portugal stretching from the city of Sagres (the most southwestern point of continental Europe) to the city of Vila Real the Santo António. The Algarve region is boarded by mountains in the North, separating it from the Alentejo region; by the Guadiana river in the east (separating it from Spain) and by the Atlantic Ocean (in the South and West). The highest point in the Algarve is in the Monchique mountains (Fóia with 902 meters of altitude).
The Algarve is one of the most touristic regions of Portugal, well known for its warm climate, beautiful sandy golden beaches, magnificent rock formations, picturesque villages and delicious seafood.
If you would like to find more information about the Algarve region, we suggest that you check these two websites:
Algarve | www.visitportugal.com
Algarve Tips: the #1 Guide to the Algarve in Portugal
