In order to cope with the growing needs of the Tourist industry, Albufeira was obliged to overflow its historical urban boundaries into the surrounding countryside in order to build the necessary quality accommodation and install the accompanying luxury services they require. Montechoro, Areias de São João and the famous Oura now became new centres of attraction for visitors. The recent completion of the Albufeira Marina has extended the town’s urban development from its eastern side over to Galé and Salgados in the west.
The borough of Albufeira receives a considerable percentage of the 5 million tourists who visit the Algarve annually. The frenetic summer season now extends into the rest of the year, for visitors of all ages and from all over the world.
Its extraordinary climate, with more than 3000 hours of sunshine per year, and the friendly charm of its people persuade many foreigners to move residence to the region, either temporarily or permanently. We find more and more people select Albufeira as their favourite destination because of its multiple attractions, i.e. the lively and social nightlife, the beautiful beaches, varied water sports, golf courses, glorious countryside and the local cuisine.