Great Things to Do Near Villa Gomes
The Big Night Out!
Located right in the heart of Vilamoura, the Casino Vilamoura is an ideal choice for a first-class night out. There´s plenty to choose from and the casino offers something for everybody´s taste.
Explore the town of Olhao
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.
When in Rome..
don’t forget to sample the many different types of port wine! Chilled white port makes an interesting aperitif and can be a serious rival to sherry. Accompanied by some delicious local olives, it’s a great way to preface a supper of freshly grilled sardines!
Loulé is famous for its lively Saturday market
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.
Horse riding and trekking
are available at Cegonha Vilamoura country club with rides and trekking for all abilities. Also nearby is Pine Trees at Vale do Lobo, situated on the road between Vale do Lobo and Quinta do Lago. with rides and trekking for all abilities. Also nearby is Pine Trees at Vale do Lobo, situated on the road between Vale do Lobo and Quinta do Lago.
Visit the most south westerly tip of Europe at the Cabo de Sao Vicente
which has reputedly the most powerful lighthouse in Europe. To watch the sun setting here is a truly memorable experience.
The castle town of Silves is worth spending a day exploring.
The Cathedral, built in red stone, and the Moorish castle both offer beautiful views over the orange and almond groves below.
For a day out with a difference, visit the Parque Natural da Ria Formosa
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 a water park
There are several along the Algarve coast, the nearest to the property being Aquashow Algarve at Quarteira. www.aquashowpark.com. Open daily from 10am. It is also a bird park with birds of prey and tropical birds such as parrots and macaws.
Learn about the traditions of the area
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.
Go to Spain!
It is worth taking a trip to the border with Spain at Vila Real de Santo Antonio, on the banks of the river Guadiana, which forms the border with Spain and nearby explore the twin castles of Castro Marim which were strategically placed to protect the settlement for many centuries.
Explore the very local town of Loulé
and witness craftsmen at work in many traditions such as copper, tin, brass and wrought iron mainly in the streets around where the market is held. Other items manufactured locally are shoes, cane furniture, pottery, wax candles and harnesses. Many a fascinating hour can be spent watching the craftsmen plying their trade.
Capture the atmosphere of Faro
steeped in history, by taking a walk around the old town, which is encircled by medieval walls. Evidence of the rich history of the town can be found in the Museu Arqueologico including a Roman floor mosaic and a collection of Moorish oil lamps. A visit to the Cathedral is a ‘must’.
Birdwatching
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..
A delightful beauty spot to visit is Quatro Aguas
just southeast of Tavira, 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
Explore the Islands of the Ria Formosa
Famous for their pristine beaches and waters, the islands of Culatra, Armona and Farol can be reached via short ferry crossing from Olhao waterfront.
The delightful town of Tavira is well worth exploring
as it is considered by some to be the most charming town in the region. It is sited on two sides of the River Gilão and spanned by an elegant Roman bridge. As you wander around the narrow streets, take note of the portas de reixa, which are Moorish style lattice panelled doors.
Visit the nearby village of Estoi
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 five star hotel are also well known and attract visitors to see the ornamental fountains and the blue and white Portuguese tiled terraces.