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an unusual museum, which focuses on early harvesting methods for figs, carob and almond fruit. Indulge yourself afterwards at one of the enticing petisseries (pastelaria) along the main thoroughfare.

is famous for its Roman ruins at Milreu dating from the 2nd Century. They are about a 10 minute walk out of the village. The 19th Century Estoi Palace and Gardens, now a smart five star hotel are also well known and attract visitors to see the ornamental fountains and the blue and white Portuguese tiled terraces.

on the banks of the river Guadiana, which forms the border with Spain. Explore the twin castles of Castro Marim which were strategically placed to protect the settlement for many centuries.

one of the most important fishing ports along this coast.The town once had close trade links with North Africa which is reflected in shape of the town’s cube-shaped houses with flat roofs and external staircases. Reward yourself with a fantastic lunch of the day’s catch at one of the many waterfront fish restaurants.

Karting Algarve at Almancil offers karts for adults and children along with other activities such as mini boats, trampolines and radio controlled cars. An exciting day out for all of the family. Located on the EN125 at Almancil. www.kartingalgarve.com. Open from 10am daily.

is renowned for the number of restaurants famous for serving the typical Algarvean dish of chicken piri piri. Naturally, they all claim to be the best but you can be assured that they are all very good and represent excellent value for money.

Horse and Pony rides are available from Club Santa Maria in Santa Caterina Fonte do Bispo. www.clubsantamaria.com

This international sand sculpture festival is usually held between May and October. Reportedly the biggest sand city in the world, this fascinating and spectacle will amaze all members of the family! There are sand sculpture activities for children and it is illuminated by night. Located on EN125 between Porches and Lagoa, opposite the Noel International School.

which has lovely views of the lagoon. There are some very good seafood restaurants to try. The regular ferry departs here for the Ilha de Tavira, the sand dune island stretching 11 kms, popular in the summer months for its excellent swimming

Yes, it is possible to do – the fast train from Faro will take you to the centre of the city within 3 hours, giving you time to use one of the City sightseeing bus tours, which have guided commentaries. You can jump on and off wherever you like, thus enabling you to explore the sights and attractions of this captivatin capital city.

There are several along the Algarve coast, including Aquashow Algarve at Quarteira. It is also a bird park with birds of prey and tropical birds such as parrots and macaws. www.aquashowpark.com

where it is possible to buy some great bargains in leather and textiles. It is also well known for its crafts and you can watch artisans wood carving, making lace and painting pottery and tiles.

Brush up your tennis skills at one of the many tennis centres and academies in Vilamoura and Vale do Lobo. If you are lucky you might be there when some big names are in town to participate in a tournament.

freshly caught and simply served with salad and local wine. Explore the narrow streets of the old quarter with their fascinating shops, some specialising in leather goods.

which stretches along 37 miles of coastline east of Faro from Olhao to Tavira. It was created to protect the ecosystem of the area and is an important breeding area for wetland birds.

visit the 'Museu do Traje' museum in Sao Bras de Alportel which houses a collection of traditional Algarve clothing throughout history, showcases local traditions and also provides an exhibition on the local cork producing industry.

Alte is a popular village with white washed houses and narrow cobbled streets. Explore the charming little shops and then relax in the shade with a picnic by the Fontes and have a refreshing swim in the freshwater pool.

The Algarve is a stop off point for migrating birds and as such is a haven for birdwatchers. One of the most important sites is the Parque Natural da Ria Formosa, stretching east from Faro these wetlands and lagoons are considered to be amongst the most important in Europe in terms of birdlife. Amongst the species that have been spotted are white stork, flamingo, hoopoe, stone curlew, Caspian Tern, Iberian Chiffchaff..

You can catch a boat from Olhao to one of the small islands just offshore where the uncrowded white sandy beaches are reportedly some of the best in Portugal. There are beach bars and restaurants available.