Quarteira is a very fascinating seaside resort of Portugal, a great place
to enjoy a perfect Algarve stay with a mild climate all year, a very inviting detail which
delights a multitude of people thanks also to that very pleasant and eternally sunny
atmosphere surrounding one of the best coastlines of Southern Europe which is
since a long time ago a favourite destination for many tourists who can find along that littoral a special Eden boasting an incomparable natural frame highlighted by those
scenic high cliffs representing a local indisputable landmark.
Located on the western side of that
magnificent Portuguese region borderered to the west by the renowned Albufeira, east of the beautiful Almancil and north of a
picturesque countryside with the small centres of Boliqueime and São Sebastião, part of the municipality of Loulé, Quarteira grew from a sleepy fishing village flanked by 2,5
kilometres of beautiful golden sandy beach in a very strategic and
privileged geographic position on a splendid coastal hallway on the shore of
the Atlantic next to the younger but very popular Vilamoura. (I wrote a post about it if you are interested)
The first signals of development of
that site which was officially founded as a "Freguesia",a Civil
Parish with a determined autonomy in 1916 started some decades ago between
the 60's and the 70's but much more in the early 80's when the Algarve was
elevated among the best destinations in the European Continent to enjoy unforgerttable summer holidays becoming later also a Mecca for many golf and water sports lovers with in addition the chance to practise a wide fan of many other outdoor activities too.
Its notable increasing incoming flows
in terms of tourism in the last years were thanks to the construction of an excellent and complete network of comfortable Hotels
and different kinds of accommodations next to many excellent catering establishments which consolidated
that resort in a considerable position in
the national ranking.
Quarteira is a place which still preserves its former aspect of idyllic fishing village conserving with pride a marked, true seafaring spirit, a very special profile which for that captures the attention of every visitor at first sight.
The proximity of a very lively centre
as the previously mentioned nearest Vilamoura
which is just some minutes away played an important role and it is certainly a further incentive for every visitor to
reach easily that bustling site well known to be highlighted by a very vibrant
nightlife thanks to the presence of a prestigious Casino, trendy clubs and a renowned Marina among the
best of Europe for facilities and services. (I wrote a post about it if you are interested)
Quarteira is a place which still preserves its former aspect of idyllic fishing village conserving with pride a marked, true seafaring spirit, a very special profile which for that captures the attention of every visitor at first sight.
That seaside centre furthermore
boasts a secular historic patrimony of notable relevance in its immediate
proximity and it is characterised for an exquisite and delicious gastronomic offer boasting in its boundaries one of the iconic and most
traditional fishing market of the entire region providing every day the
best sea products which delight the most exigent palates and tastes.
A great additional highlight which worth a mention is
certainly linked to the stunning mild climate you will find there with
approximately 290/300 days of sunshine a year next to a divine cool sea breeze delighting evenings and nights very ventilate, a territory never too hot or humid, excellent features to plan a trip anytime without hesitations, a decision which will be always a magnificent idea spending very enjoyable holidays in that resort.
Although in summer Quarteira is
pretty busy worth a mention that due to its inferior size it never had the same index of incoming of its famed neighbours such
as Portimão or Albufeira ( I wrote a post about it) and also for that it is a place
particularly loved by families and all those who want to find a relaxing oasis of peace to
recharge the batteries spending days highlighted by a pleasant tranquillity but
at the same time enjoying different kinds of activities with many things to do.
Naturally those
almost 2500,0 metres of golden sandy stretch lining the clean emerald waters of
the Ocean is a superb attraction and next to that marvel you will will find something more which will impress you as a great preservation of pine
forests in all its boundaries, a very appreciate scenic presence enchanting the view of many tourist during a stay.
The history of Quarteira and its surroundings started several
centuries ago since the Paleolithic and
Neolithic eras according to archaeological excavations all around the local with discovered artifacts which attested the presence of human life in those distant times.
Explored by the Phoenicians circa 1000 BC afterwards it was settled by the Carthaginians who landing in the current boundaries
developed a former town which according to some historic suppositions was called
Carteia.
That ancient denomination is probably linked the present name often confused with a centre with the same name situated in Spain which was a Phoenician and Roman town at the head of the Bay of Gibraltar not far from the city of Algeciras.
That ancient denomination is probably linked the present name often confused with a centre with the same name situated in Spain which was a Phoenician and Roman town at the head of the Bay of Gibraltar not far from the city of Algeciras.
Carthage, that legendary North African city created in the Algarve an important cross point of
trade establishing furthermore in the current boundaries a small fortified harbour which permitted the
docking of its naval fleet connected to Portus
Hanibalis the current Portimão founded by colonists coming from that ancient power in 550 BC.
Since then the former Carteia was a target of a famous enemy consisting in the Imperial Rome and it was in 504 BC when that Carthaginian stronghold started to be defended by the first attempts of that eternal rival falling under Roman influence in a notorious period corresponding to the times of the Punic Wars in the 2nd century BC.
After endless duels all around the Southern European Continent, Carthage capitulated losing all its territories in the Iberian Peninsula and including those in the current Tunisia, land in which that former city was founded.
Since then the former Carteia was a target of a famous enemy consisting in the Imperial Rome and it was in 504 BC when that Carthaginian stronghold started to be defended by the first attempts of that eternal rival falling under Roman influence in a notorious period corresponding to the times of the Punic Wars in the 2nd century BC.
After endless duels all around the Southern European Continent, Carthage capitulated losing all its territories in the Iberian Peninsula and including those in the current Tunisia, land in which that former city was founded.
The Romans after the conquest linked that settlement to a very active network of trade harbours, including in that time in all the local area arose a very lively cultural and artistic life and the nearest Ruins of Cerro da Vila confirm all that.
Rome before to lose all its domains
in Lusitania, denomination of the current Portugal faced a long fight against the
locals led by Viriatus a belligerent leader who
strongly weakened the Imperial army before several incursions by the Vandals which determined the fall of that Italic Empire.
In that period Quarteira was for a
long period victim and prey of numerous raids by those invaders and in
addition assaulted in different occasions by Berber pirates living many years
of devastation and desolation.
The former settlement was not in that time a very
safe place to live and the result was that all the locals tried to find refuge
in the nearest inland on the hilly plateaus leaving the coast extremely vulnerable and constantly attacked.
Due to that other civilisations did not organise campaigns of colonisation considering the attempts of occupation were very dangerous, all that endured until the 5th century when the entire Algarve was conquered by the Visigoths who left to rule that land in 711.
Due to that other civilisations did not organise campaigns of colonisation considering the attempts of occupation were very dangerous, all that endured until the 5th century when the entire Algarve was conquered by the Visigoths who left to rule that land in 711.
That year corresponds to the
successful Moorish invasion led by the
General Tariq Ibn Ziyad linked to the influential Umayyad Dynasty which had in that
time as leader the Caliphe Al Walid I
well known for the construction of Al Djami
Bani Umaya the Great Mosque of
Damascus the Capital of Syria, one of the largest and
oldest Muslim Religious sites of the history and the 4th holiest site in the
Islamic world.
In that period the region
took the name Al-Gharb from which
derives the present denomination which means The West, a name assigned to identify
the western side of Al-Andalus, the
Muslim Iberia.
The 8th century and a large part of the entire
Medieval era were periods of a relevant renaissance with the Arab-Berber rulers who started to develop important productive
activities related to trade, agriculture and fishing.
The commerce by sea was managed
with operations which included departures of several boats with goods towards Tavira situated in the easternmost point of the
Algarve (I wrote a post about that place if you are interested) until reaching
the nearest Spanish coast of Andalusia and the city of Welba, the current Huelva.
The agricultural activity was also
particularly flourishing and prosperous with the establishment of new systems
of irrigation with notable productions in the immediate interior of olives and
citrus fruits of excellent quality.
In addition also fishing in those times had a notable boom due to the governors replaced the rudimentary boats based on small, light and often unsafe vessels with larger and more resistant, pioneers of the notorious barcos pesqueiros which made the fortune of the country.
Those relevant changes were protagonists in the creation of a very organised fleet mainly linked to sardines catch, a product that in the course of the local history became a pride, highlight and vaunt of the Portuguese fishing industry.
In occasion of the Catholic Reconquest the land was conquered by King
Alfonso III of Spain in the 13th century who granted
Quarteira in 1266 the title of Counsel Floral, a privileged award in recognition of
its important fisheries already very well known in that time consisting in
the most relevant source with numerous vessels which covered a large stretch of the Algarvean coast from the Cabo de São Vicente to the current city of Faro.
It was since then that Quarteira
reached a considerable prestige and fame with a strong and marked identity
as a renowned seafaring centre admired and highly regarded all around the country.
The local economy next to that
notable business continued to have a very positive escalation with the development of a new emergent activity consisting in the cultivation of cane of sugar started in the 15th century which was the first operation in
that time in the Portuguese mainland during the times of King João I, a Monarch who was well known for several nicknames among them The Good and of Happy Memory.
The Independence of Portugal from Spain dated 1640 corresponded to the time in which the
country acquired a notable relevance linked to navigation, trade and a considerable artistic life bringing wealth and prosperity until the infamous and
tragic even which took place in 1755, year related to a terrible earthquake which
destroyed a big part of the Nation and also the current resort suffered
severe damages.
Unfortunately the recovery was very slow and lasted until the 19th century when the fishing industry returned to be at the same level or almost in comparison to the past golden ages with the establishment of companies of fishermen who planned solid partnerships with results pretty fruitful.
It was also a time in which the
commerce by land had a very good rebirth thanks to the construction of new roads with a notable
improvement of the old communications along the coast and further established arteries leading to the many centres of the
interior.
The 20th century was undoubtedly
another positive stage, protagonist of a new challenge with the development of a
new industry the Tourism which became the main economic resource replacing in large part
those previously mentioned activities placing itself in the highest local ranking.
Quarteira started to be popular as
destination since the 60's when it received a good answer by tourists
coming especially from The Netherlands and Scandinavia, with several visitors highly attracted by those splendid
golden sandy beaches, many hours of light during a day, fantastic
temperatures and delightful breezes.
What impressed furthermore those tourists once landed there was the stunning surprise that all the
local territory was a little paradise more than suitable for other outdoor
activities such as trekking, cycling and
with several options about cultural tourism consisting in a varied number of historic and gastronomic routes.
All that was a winning key to open
several doors for a successful future especially after the end of the cycle of the Dictatorship with the famous Revolucão dos Cravos, the notorious
Carnation Revolution dated 25th April 1974 which was the epilogue of
the fall of the Regime of the Estado Novo with the opening of new horizons in the tourism area.
In that period thanks to an intense
promotion led by clever enterpreneurs which called new flows of tourism year by year due to very affordable prices with rates absolutely competitive in the European market panorama, a delectable cuisine and the
opportunity to enjoy an active tourism
mainly linked to water sports but not only created the base for a very pink and successful future.
The Algarve and all the area around Quarteira also started to become a stunning Golf destination and in
addition worth a mention which in a very short time that region became a perfect hub to host international events of
considerable prestige especially in Albufeira and Vilamoura and closely related to that Faro airport began to be pretty busy.
The resort has had a superb tourist development in the last
two decades and half and it currently provides an excellent offer of comfortable and well equipped Hotels ready
to respond to the most demanding requests.
In addition the presence of a vast range of apartments, villas, chalets and houses to rent form all together an important network devoted to hospitality with a great incoming capacity.
In addition the presence of a vast range of apartments, villas, chalets and houses to rent form all together an important network devoted to hospitality with a great incoming capacity.
Very interesting is to enjoy a walk in the central core of Quarteira which is mainly concentrated
in the immediate vicinity of the captivating harbour and the long beach bordered by Avenida
Infante de Sagres also known as Avenida
Marginal, a very long avenue connecting the heart of the resort to the
nearest Vilamoura to west and the extreme easternmost point of the boundaries.
Next to some narrow streets and alleys
immediately behind the promenade lies Avenida Sá Carneiro which
is the main axis crossing the centre while two other important streets running from south to north are Avenida de Ceuta and Rua Da
Cabine, all those arteries compose the heart of the seaside resort and in their immediate proximity are located the
major parts of the Hotels and hospitality structures.
The beach is certainly one of
the most shining local highlights and its name is Praia da Quarteira consisting in a
wonderful sandy stretch lining the Atlantic, a paradise for swimming,
water sports, certainly a major attraction also for its length of approximately 2,500 metres
and width.
That soft golden sandy Eden bordering the clean and crystalline Oceanic waters boasts since a long time ago with
pride a deserved Blue Flag thanks to many positive and excellent
features.
It is well equipped with a very good surveillance, maintenance, and cleanliness services along 1700,0 metres, furthermore it is easily accessible without natural barriers because it is enough to cross the long boulevard flanking it and also for that is highly appreciated.
It is well equipped with a very good surveillance, maintenance, and cleanliness services along 1700,0 metres, furthermore it is easily accessible without natural barriers because it is enough to cross the long boulevard flanking it and also for that is highly appreciated.
A further notable facility is the presence of many fine restaurants and bars which
are immediately reachable on the other side of the promenade in just two
minutes walking and in addition on it you will find several shops.
All that permits that the visitor has not to use car and those who want to stay hours and hours enjoying sunbathing or other activities can decide in a while where to have lunch or dinner, enjoying shopping and much more.
All that permits that the visitor has not to use car and those who want to stay hours and hours enjoying sunbathing or other activities can decide in a while where to have lunch or dinner, enjoying shopping and much more.
Praia da Quarteira is flanked by a splendid seaside passage lined by palm trees, a fantastic hallway to have very relaxing and pleasant walks highlighted
by a stupendous fan of colours and lights all around formed by the green tonality of a lush vegetation
combined with that fascinating gold of the beach and the emerald of the Atlantic waters next to stunning reflections of the always shimmering sun rays
falling on them delighting the view of every visitor.
The resort also has its monuments and
historic sites and you can start from the well preserved Igreia de
Nossa Senhora da Conceicão, the Church dedicated to the Virgin Mary of the
Conception erected in the 17th century.
That Religious building shows in all its
pure and traditional architectural style perfect lines executed by masters who
in that period researched to establish in many Religious building of the Algarve a defined aesthetic image mainly concentrated to embellish the facades
with sinuous curves and artistic elements placed with criteria in concrete
spaces of the layout but never too pompous or adding sumptuous decorations.
Very interesting details are
represented by the charming gable front side topped by a Christian cross with marked outlines completed by a
rectangular doorway developed beneath a large window.
The adjacent bell tower elevated on a pretty large square plan is in perfect
harmony with the main body of the Ecclesiastic complex, very attractive is the execution of some special decorations as the presence of
vertical light blue lines bordering the construction and over a circular clock
you can admire a splendid belfry.
Curiously over it
since a long time ago that religious building hosts a peculiar presence consisting in a stork´s
nest which is pretty unusual but it is in its kind a scenic highlight and it became a sort of local landmark.
The interior consists in a nave pretty
sober with light walls, it hosts a painted statue of Jesus Christ on the left side and the
brown timber ceiling is perfectly in harmony with the rest of the environment, of notable artistic value is the apse which
was developed beneath a large niche highlighted by a big crucifix placed on the wall behind the
altar.
The appeal of the small historic
centre is furthermore characterised by a good number of houses built according to the
typical architecture in vogue in the region, a
style inherited by the Moors mainly using the white as predominant colour with
painted shutters, doors and walls often embellished by decorated, painted handmade
tiles.
Quarteira hosts every Tuesday and Saturday a lively gypsy market with stalls placed on the
streets, an event in which the visitors can barter different kinds of items
such as shoes, linen, leather, clothes, kitchen accessories and several other articles. It is in its kind a good place to find something interesting of good
quality including pretty cheap so if you are interested you can take a look.
One of the special features of that market is also
its animated atmosphere full of colours with very talkative vendors, a
multitude of curious people, many locals and other people coming from the nearest
towns and villages of the interior filling that very lively site.
Another one which worth a special mention is the famed daily fish market which is
definitely a local icon for its
history, traditions and culture linked to an activity which has always represented a relevant source since a long time ago.
It is considered for fame and prestige
one of the best places in the entire Algarve, perfect to buy fresh fish and seafood of highest
quality thanks to families of fishermen and sellers who started all that centuries ago and
since its inception it never lost its relevance and importance.
Many people knowing the prestige of that site take the occasion to visit that lively
and bustling place purchasing excellent Bacalhau, exquisite cod, superb Sardinhas, sardines, a superb product to cook in different styles, including perfect to prepare
sauces or the famed Pâté eternally present as starter in the local restaurants and furthermore you
will also find delectable prawns,
mussels, shrimp, lobsters and squid among other delights.
Apart a visit to that very attractive market which in
its kind represents the secular history of Quarteira always offering the best, many are the tourists
who spending holidays there take the chance to buy something cooking those delicious sea products in
apartments equipped by kitchen.
It is certainly a great chance I suggest everybody in the case you want to prepare very quickly something as frying an outstanding squid, a mussel salad, a prawns cocktail to eat with family or friends.
A further suggestion is to buy the emblematic iconic sardines, absolutely fantastic if grilled with a bit of olive oil and salt, a good idea to take in consideration also due to the very good prices and the high quality with obviously a total satisfaction of your palate.
It is certainly a great chance I suggest everybody in the case you want to prepare very quickly something as frying an outstanding squid, a mussel salad, a prawns cocktail to eat with family or friends.
A further suggestion is to buy the emblematic iconic sardines, absolutely fantastic if grilled with a bit of olive oil and salt, a good idea to take in consideration also due to the very good prices and the high quality with obviously a total satisfaction of your palate.
Fonte Santa da Quarteira is another historic local monument considered by locals a sort of
emblem and it lies approximately at 2, 0 kilometres from the
beach. It consists in a small pool which is used since a long time ago for curative
therapies linked to problems of digestion and also rheumatism diseases
because it said that natural spring hasvery healing properties extremely rich of
benign minerals and special compounds able to cure those kinds of
illnesses.
Among other attractions enjoying
something of alternative I recommend you Aquashow waterpark situated at approximately 1,7 kilometres
from the resort immediately off the A22 Motorway and part
of the complex Aquashow Park Hotel.
That site is practically located at the entrance of Quarteira easily
reachable and ideal to have fun spending a different day of alternative tourism, a very suggested destination for families with children but great for everybody too.
One of the most loved attractions is undoubtedly the Wild Snake with a ride reaching over 16, 0 metres of altitude, another landmark is the beautiful White Fall and a further highlight is the striking waves pool, considered for size the biggest of Portugal.
One of the most loved attractions is undoubtedly the Wild Snake with a ride reaching over 16, 0 metres of altitude, another landmark is the beautiful White Fall and a further highlight is the striking waves pool, considered for size the biggest of Portugal.
The complex provides some restaurants
offering delicious local and international cuisine, bars, some kiosks
providing cool drinks, snacks, changing rooms and a gift shop so if you want to fill your stay with something different it could be a lovely idea.
For a great cultural visit admiring something of extremely relevant do not miss for its immense historic value the Roman ruins of Cerro da Vila
situated at just 10 minutes driving from Quarteira.
That ancient archaeological complex is part of the superb historic patrimony heritage of the Algarve but also of the entire Portugal consisting in a vast area well known for the presence of the rests of several magnificent Roman baths with in addition the opportunity to admire stupendous mosaics made over 2000 years ago.
That ancient archaeological complex is part of the superb historic patrimony heritage of the Algarve but also of the entire Portugal consisting in a vast area well known for the presence of the rests of several magnificent Roman baths with in addition the opportunity to admire stupendous mosaics made over 2000 years ago.
Cerro da Vila was certainly one of the great discoveries in that Portuguese region
certifying all what of extremely important the Romans established in that land
not far from the ancient Ossonoba corresponding to the current city of Faro
belonging to the territory of the early occupation of that settlement
dated the first half of the 1st century AD. (I wrote a post
regarding Faro in the case you are interested)
That was one of the main centres inhabited by
numerous Roman Patrician families linked to the highest rankings of the gens Fabia, one of the most ancient noble families
established during the times of the Republic of Rome, a family which had several consuls, pro-consuls and senators.
In addition it also represented a sort of headquarter in which took place the planning and development of the activities related to the trade by sea of goods attested by the existence of a port.
In addition it also represented a sort of headquarter in which took place the planning and development of the activities related to the trade by sea of goods attested by the existence of a port.
In the 2nd century and particularly much more since the 3rd century that ample area was
transformed in a vast residential space which acquired a significant
dimension well known all around the Empire.
That historic complex is absolutely great with fountains and statues highlighting a huge extension confirming the
notable active artistic life in those times, all the sculptures are arranged
in an attractive garden which gives that environment a very captivating and
scenic image apart naturally the historic value of those works.
In a central section were developed a large reception room, a kind of dining
lounge, while in other areas were established structures hosting social meetings with also a kitchen environment with an additional corner occupied by the
residence of the servants and including was built a crypto porticum.
The walls were covered by frescoes painted in fresh and bright
colours using floral motifs and geometric figures and the floors were
decorated with coloured mosaics, outstanding masterpieces
considered among the most important found in Portugal.
Apart that more than significant and
fabulous rich patrimony you can also admire other sculptures depicting Gods and
human figures and what is extremely captivating is that also the interiors are a fantastic
setting of harmonious colours and cut stones.
Not so much is known about the
productive economy of that Roman base, apart the political and economical
issues with protagonist that operative base leading several operations of commerce, navigation and fishing but the
presence of several workshops with tanks indicates the preparation of
fish or more likely the dyeing of fabrics from the purple confirming
in those cases also the existence of manufacture activities directly managed in that complex.
The finding of large quantities of
imported elements, such as amphorae, tableware and glasses also confirms
the integration of Cerro da Vila in the main commercial network of the Roman
Empire developed in that southern Portuguese region reaching an extreme
relevance for all what you can admire in that place, something absolutely
impressive in its kind and simply unforgettable.
In addition worth a mention that the ancient lords of Cerro da
Vila made up buried in tombs, a vault
with small lateral niches for the placement of urns containing ashes.
After archaeological excavations with the discovery of other artifacts was detected that the site was enlarged and during further researches was also discovered a vast necropolis with burial graves only partially uncovered.
After archaeological excavations with the discovery of other artifacts was detected that the site was enlarged and during further researches was also discovered a vast necropolis with burial graves only partially uncovered.
A set of tanks corresponding to the Islamic
period also certifies that the Moors reused that former Imperial stronghold for their activities opened within the Roman houses attesting that those buildings were occupied as residences by those new
Muslim rulers probably since the 8th century.
Finally there is the valuation and
presentation of that wonderful place and for the public was inaugurated a Museum
in which the main highlight is a mono graphic exhibition very
interesting to end a visit absolutely great.
A few kilometres from the resort, I
suggest you to visit other very interesting places such as Almancil and
Loulé, both boast some beautiful attractions, they are very close, destinations you will appreciate very much.
In the case of the first you can
admire the Igreja de São Lourenço, a beautiful Church erected in
the 18th century dedicated to the Martyr St. Lawrence.
That Religious building is a splendid representation of the finest, pure Portuguese Baroque style consisting in a white construction elevated on a rectangular base with a pretty high facade highlighted by sinuous lines and defined outlines especially in its upper section and a notable attraction is a magnificent large manufactured tile effigy placed on the front side.
That Religious building is a splendid representation of the finest, pure Portuguese Baroque style consisting in a white construction elevated on a rectangular base with a pretty high facade highlighted by sinuous lines and defined outlines especially in its upper section and a notable attraction is a magnificent large manufactured tile effigy placed on the front side.
In addition as special mention, that Sacred seat was
declared Historic Monument of Portugal
since 1946 for the beautiful works you can admire inside with walls and a cupola decorated with
magnificent handmade tiles, masterpieces by a talented artist called Policarpo Oliveira Bernardes who apart to have been a superb decorator was also a
very keen painter.
In Almancil if you love sport and in
particular football you can see an important Stadium, the famous Estádio
Algarve which boasts a capacity of approximately 30,000 spectators consisting in one of
the great works made in occasion of the Euro Cup celebrated in
Portugal in 2004.
Loulé is also a very interesting
historic centre and I recommend you to visit the Igreja Matriz, the Mother Church, a splendid
Medieval Church dated the 13th
century, something you can not miss.
That superb construction is a great artistic execution of the Middle Ages in the region characterised by a big white facade and an ample wooden portal, at distance it appears a bit sober but once facing it you can admire in its layout well defined lines and a very balanced image in terms of height and width, architectural features which make it very attractive.
That superb construction is a great artistic execution of the Middle Ages in the region characterised by a big white facade and an ample wooden portal, at distance it appears a bit sober but once facing it you can admire in its layout well defined lines and a very balanced image in terms of height and width, architectural features which make it very attractive.
In its kind it is a classical example of medieval
art of Portugal which since then started to use also in the Christian buildings
that immaculate light tonality inherited by the Arab-Berbers, a style which in addition privileged much more the functionality to the decorations depicting austere and simple
aesthetic images but with a special attention to geometry and defined lines executed all around its perimeter.
Another highlight is the
majestic Castelo, a former fortress elevated in 715 by the Moorish Caliphs over
the rests of a Roman castrum dated the
2nd century. The history of that castle changed when it was conquered by the Catholic King Ferdinand I in the 11thcentury and it said it was occupied in 1268 by Don Paio Peres Correia, the
Grand-Master of the military Order of Santiago.
Some years later the King of Portugal Afonso III enlarged that fort
with new walls and two towers but that former Moorish Alcazaba was totally redeveloped in the 14th century.
That impressive structure is highlighted by an imposing high crenellated tower reminiscent those you can see in Spain, especially in Castile in the areas of Avila, Segovia, Salamanca, characterised by high strong walls and arcades with passages connecting a space to another.
That impressive structure is highlighted by an imposing high crenellated tower reminiscent those you can see in Spain, especially in Castile in the areas of Avila, Segovia, Salamanca, characterised by high strong walls and arcades with passages connecting a space to another.
That town also has a charming centre highlighted
by several traditional white houses surrounding the central Praça
da Republica, a large square in which you can admire a magnificent
decorated building hosting the Mercado, the local market of the
municipality and all around that municipal hub you will notice a very lively atmosphere with busy bars and restaurants.
Loulé is also famous for its coloured Carnival and well
known for another event called Noite Branca,
the White Night, celebrating the end of summer with people wearing white
clothes performing princes, princesses and demons, a very lively appointment highlighted by dances and music.
Around those two places there are
also many chances for those who are lovers of cycling and mountain bikers with
several routes and itineraries of immense charm or for the visitors who love
rural tourism.
I suggest you for that to reach Alfarrobeira and Vale Formoso, in that area you can enjoy the true Algarvean countryside with spectacular undulated, mixed trails and it is a place which also offers different kinds of accommodations such as villas, and houses to rent in the middle of an uncontaminated nature, scenic hills and with the chance to enjoy fabulous landscapes with magnificent views, perfect for all those who love photography and a brilliant option for all those who love rural tourism.
I suggest you for that to reach Alfarrobeira and Vale Formoso, in that area you can enjoy the true Algarvean countryside with spectacular undulated, mixed trails and it is a place which also offers different kinds of accommodations such as villas, and houses to rent in the middle of an uncontaminated nature, scenic hills and with the chance to enjoy fabulous landscapes with magnificent views, perfect for all those who love photography and a brilliant option for all those who love rural tourism.
Ria Formosa Nature Park is another very
interesting place you can not miss discovering the best in terms of nature of that fantastic territory, it is very suggested to have a complete idea of the
beautiful nature that land offers in all its splendour.
That parkland will introduce you to all
the major attractions about flora, fauna, marine life and interior in a
very instructive and educational visit learning much more about all the local natural marvels with the chance to explore corners boasting a superb fascination.
You will have the opportunity to see different kinds of plants and varied changes of scenery moving in a very short time from sandy stretches to humid areas and others with dunes very close to scattered forests, something simply surprising for that impressive diversity is just in few kilometres.
You will have the opportunity to see different kinds of plants and varied changes of scenery moving in a very short time from sandy stretches to humid areas and others with dunes very close to scattered forests, something simply surprising for that impressive diversity is just in few kilometres.
Quarteira is conveniently located at
just 2, 0 kilometres from
the famed and lively Vilamoura so famous for its vibrant nightlife, its
notorious Casino and renowned Marina which can accommodate over
1,000 boats and its notorious Nautical Club offers many options for all the fervent lovers of different kinds of water sports such as diving, sailing, surfing, wind and kite surfing and much more.
It is also a brilliant to have a so famous trendy destination very close, a very interesting incentive for those who want to spend evenings and nights in a very lively place well known for a wide variety of trendy clubs, bars, restaurants offering in addition a notable calendar in terms of events.
It is also a brilliant to have a so famous trendy destination very close, a very interesting incentive for those who want to spend evenings and nights in a very lively place well known for a wide variety of trendy clubs, bars, restaurants offering in addition a notable calendar in terms of events.
The location of the resort is also a
very attractive destination for golfers thanks to the presence of
several renowned golf courses all them easily accessible from the resort. Worth a mention the Royal Golf
Course at Vale de Lobo and Vilamoura Old Course which boast a
notable reputation offering in sublime natural environments the opportunity to practise that trendy sport
at the highest level.
Apart the previously mentioned Praia
da Quarteira, there are other splendid
beaches in the vicinity, among many I can suggest you some of them such as Trafal, Garrâo,
Almargem, Vale do Lobo and Ancão.
In that case you are a sea and sun lover, that ample choice is great to see them day by day those spectacular golden stretches spending days with the opportunity to know those other marvellous sandy wonders.
In that case you are a sea and sun lover, that ample choice is great to see them day by day those spectacular golden stretches spending days with the opportunity to know those other marvellous sandy wonders.
All them are pretty well equipped and
certainly a good choice if you want to to change site to enjoy different
water sports,Trafal is great for wind surfing, while Almargem is an Eden for swimming or simply for the desire to move on them to discover the
fascinating charm of magnificent and different coastal panoramic views.
That is also a personal suggestion for who is also a passionate photographer because on each of them you will find a different formation of cliffs which seem as sculpted, a great occasion if you want to make an unforgettable album of your trip.
That is also a personal suggestion for who is also a passionate photographer because on each of them you will find a different formation of cliffs which seem as sculpted, a great occasion if you want to make an unforgettable album of your trip.
Quarteira apart those two markets previously mentioned
also hosts important cultural events as a famous and vibrant Carnival
which takes place a few weeks before Easter and also Holy Thursday
processions are part of an old and rooted historic tradition with
penitents carrying torches and parading barefoot with an intense
participation of locals and many people coming from several municipalities of
the Region.
A further appointment is A Festa do Pescador, the festival of the fisherman which took place between the end of May and the beginning of June, where you can taste exquisite specialities and to know the local seafaring culture learning much more the fishing methods used in the Algarve,
A further appointment is A Festa do Pescador, the festival of the fisherman which took place between the end of May and the beginning of June, where you can taste exquisite specialities and to know the local seafaring culture learning much more the fishing methods used in the Algarve,
About gastronomy the resort is well
known for the freshest fish and seafood of the Algarve and that seaside resort offers several excellent restaurants providing the best cuisine loyal to
the most typical oldest culinary art.
A superb delight and traditional
plate you can not miss is the famous Cataplana, a superb fish but also seafood stew very
appreciated, authentic symbol of the most appreciated Southern Portuguese gastronomy.
Do not miss to try
the famous and delicious Bacalhau Grelhado consisting in grilled
cod flavoured with spices, rosemary, parsley and basil, considered a
gastronomic icon loved by many people for its supreme quality.
The Baixo, local sea bass is
certainly another delight with a very high reputation prepared in
different styles while another culinary emblem is represented by the Sardinhas assadas, grilled
sardines of a notable quality, pride and vaunt for
their exquisite taste but also for the emblematic history which links
Quarteira to that kind of fish with a secular tradition born since medieval
times.
That
emblem of the local cuisine is often present in other forms including
in the delicious Paté de Sardinhas often served as appetiser with slices
of bread, used in sauces, combined in mixed fish plate, minced to add to some salads, it is mandatory to try that delight and your palate will be totally satisfied tasting something extremely unique and delicious.
Other dishes absolutely suggested
are the classical and popular Sopa de Peixe, a complete fish soup cooked
very slow adding spices and herbs or also the notorious Estufado de Lulas
consisting in stuffed fresh calamari, excellent is furthermore the popular Choco
Frito consisting in fried squid combined with mixed salads or potatoes.
For who is a rice lover there is the
brilliant opportunity to taste the sublime Arroz de Marisco, a
special seafood rice able to conquer all the most refined palates.
An exquisite variant is the Arroz de Peixe, a fish rice which reflects in its preparation the oldest Algarvean traditions with the selection of the best catch combined with fresh aromatic herbs with naturally the artistic talent of a chef to choose the best products and for that you will find different variants.
An exquisite variant is the Arroz de Peixe, a fish rice which reflects in its preparation the oldest Algarvean traditions with the selection of the best catch combined with fresh aromatic herbs with naturally the artistic talent of a chef to choose the best products and for that you will find different variants.
Also meat is present despite the local
gastronomy is mainly focused on sea delights but it has its notable part and one of
the most famous plates is the Feijoada, a meat stew prepared
with beans and other boiled vegetables.
Another speciality very tastefully which worth to be mentioned is the Frango com Cerejas, delectable roast chicken the sweet addition of cherries.
Another speciality very tastefully which worth to be mentioned is the Frango com Cerejas, delectable roast chicken the sweet addition of cherries.
About desserts, try without hesitations the stuffed
figs and almonds in particular the second ingredient is often present
in several local recipes left as inheritance by the Arabs and
integrated in the Portuguese cuisine to prepare several plates which also uses
fruit without restraint and sometimes mixed with pasta or eggs.
The Algarve also offers the fantastic
chance to taste a wide variety of fine
wines of outstanding quality. The great success of that activity started
since the Roman times when were implanted at the beginning of the colonisation very
robust grapes.
Those ancient operations totally
matched with the qualities of the local soil and the cultivation of the
vineyards continued during Moorish rule, later developed by locals until today
creating a secular process of selection of new plantations which were period by
period experimented with consequent successful results ad today you can find in the region approximately 80 species of different grapes.
The mild weather of the Algarve
offering the best climatic conditions with over 3000 hours of sunshine per year next to a fertile subsoil which provides
the right compounds are a perfect combination to create something simply
special with a fruitful harvest ending with the last operation
of production absolutely notable.
The altitude in which the vines are cultivated is another primary feature, the local Sierras
protect the entrance of strong winds and the presence of a soft and
salubrious Atlantic breeze perfectly matches with those approximately 300 sunny days a
year completing a sum of features creating products of supreme category.
Some of the most appreciated and
selected are Balsa, Vida Nova, Tapada da Torre, Lagos ,Portimão and Tavira
DOC among others. All them are highly smooth, palatable and savoury, you will find there a
very ample choice of red, white or rosé fine wines, all very versatile ideal
to accompany different kinds of meals and a further special mention is that thery are products with body, texture and a perfect colour.
In Quinta do
Miradouro at Guia just a few kilometres from Albufeira so pretty close to
Quarteira is located Adega do Cantor,
the vineyard of the singer and that
name because Cliff Richard the notorious
British pop singer and musician has his winery in that site.
In that place are produced superb Vida Nova wines which won several awards such as Gold Medal at Berlin Wine Trophy in 2010, MUNDUSvini
2010 and many others. The vineyards of that famed star produces rosé, whites, reds and
also an Espumante, a sparkling
wine made by a traditional method from
100% Syrah grapes.
Thanks to many special qualities
Quarteira boasts, it could also be great as destination for Travel Agents for a brilliant Educational, Product Managers and Tour Operator Specialists, ideal for the chances offered to discover how in Algarve
it is possible to create a large range of proposals adding them to the classical and standard operations
mainly related to summer holidays.
Incentive Travel, historic routes
visiting stupendous centres in the interior, wine and gastronomic tours are
certainly other niches of a complete tourism which can be a relevant fan to launch also in low
season with very advantageous rates in terms of accommodations and totally
satisfying a multitude of potential clients, appreciating that ample variety of options.
That Portuguese territory is a great
mine of resources to create also from a place as Quarteira an endless list of
itineraries on request for individuals and groups with brilliant combinations so great to satisfy the most demanding requests.
Naturally if you need some information more, it will be a great pleasure to help you, that Portuguese region was for long time one of my special outgoing products, a land which is for me a very beloved place, so do not hesitate to contact me for eveything you need.
Naturally if you need some information more, it will be a great pleasure to help you, that Portuguese region was for long time one of my special outgoing products, a land which is for me a very beloved place, so do not hesitate to contact me for eveything you need.
The nearest airport is International Faro Airport situated at just 22, 0 kilometres away is a fantastic opportunity linked to low costs and the resort can be reached in a very easy way driving along the National Roads N125 or N396 or taking as alternative avoiding local traffic the motorway A22.
If you are thinking in the Algarve as future destination and especially Quarteira, I added some links pretty interesting to take ideas or for your stay plans filling your holidays with different things to do and including I inserted some recommended accommodations.
Quarteira is a great place attracting
visitors for its splendid atmosphere next to its marvellous beach, a mild
climate all year with many chances to enjoy a multitude of outdoor activities,
a mine of wonderful surprises and pleasant realities, a perfect Algarve stay
fascinated by a charming coast but also by its nearest captivating interior
which together offer an endless list of things to do.
That resort is a destination more
than recommended to choose without hesitations 365 days a year from January to
December because it always has something to delight and transmit, eternally able to
conquer you in a while.
Francesco Mari
Recommended Hotels in Quarteira
Hotel Aquashow Park
Hotel Quarteira Sol
Hotel Dom Jose Beach
Hotel Praia Sol
Clube Hotel Apartamento Do Algarve
Useful links
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Thanks a lot to read and note.