|
ClearView looks at the rising star of East Algarve, the ‘new destination’ witnessing a booming interest from tourists, golfers and property buyers alike.
The Algarve’s rise to prominence
The Algarve’s rise to prominence since the 1970s as a major tourist destination and magnet for expatriate residents has focused heavily on its central and western regions. The east, meanwhile, remained largely a quietly scenic backwater. But nowadays the area - from the fishing port of Olhãoto Vila Real de Santa António on the Spanish border - is springing to life, heralded as the Algarve’s ‘new destination’.
Prompting this campaign, the East Algarve Tourist Association (Associação Sotavento Algarvio or ASA) was formed in 2003 to promote the region’s distinct natural virtues and cultural character, with the aim of encouraging tourism with an emphasis on quality.
The ASA is based in Tavira, the jewel of the region - a charming fishing town straddling the lazy Gilão river just before it opens gently to the sea. Tourist visitors have long been captivated by its palm-lined riverside promenade, its cobbled streets and quaint buildings.
With a rich history evident from Moorish castle walls, ancient churches and a Roman bridge, Tavira adroitly maintains its traditional appeal whilst nonetheless managing its starring role at centre-stage of the area’s surrounding development.
Inland, the East Algarve offers an untouched environment for those who enjoy the simplicity of nature and tradition - a timeless backdrop of gently undulating countryside with a scattering of small whitewashed towns and rustic hamlets. This is the perfect scenario for walking, cycling, horse riding or a stimulating jeep tour.
On the coast, the easternmost area after Tavira boasts 20 kilometres of uninterrupted sandy expanses, with many stretches still little frequented.
There are nonetheless several small to-medium seaside resorts, which are witnessing increasing popularity - Cabanas, Manta Rota, Alagoas, Praia Verde and the largest, Monte Gordo, which even boasts its own casino.
Bordering with Spain, the East Algarve has always held an attraction for discerning Spanish holidaymakers, who will tell you that they don’t only come for the beaches, but for the food. Portuguese gastronomy is excellent in the region, particularly with its tradition for fishing and shellfish-gathering. With a plethora of typical local restaurants offering fresh, hearty fare, there are nowadays also numerous quality venues appearing on the scene, catering for a more varied and discerning demand.
Nowadays, visitors from the UK, Ireland and elsewhere in Europe, devotees of the Algarve’s delights but seeking something new, are also beginning to look east. Caroline Kinsella, Brand Manager for the quality tour operator, Simply Travel, observed: “The Algarve has long been a solid performer in the overseas holiday market; and whilst this still leans towards the mainstay central and western areas, the east – particularly around Tavira - is nowadays generating increasing interest.” From Tavira to the west, the coast flaunts a natural beauty all of its own.
Extending for 60 kilometres, the Ria Formosa Natural Park is a protected labyrinth of tidal lagoon waters sheltered behind a barrier of narrow sandbar islands running parallel to the coast. The seaward edges of these fishing-hamlet isles offer long stretches of stunning sandy beaches for the independent minded visitors who make their way across via shuttle-ferries and little private boats; whilst the landward sides cradle shallow emerald waters which
provide a paradise haven for teeming bird life - and a natural pleasure-park for enthusiasts of gentle boating. |