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The Western Algarve is under one hour’s drive by motorway
from Faro International Airport, but it could be a world apart.
From the gentle and secluded coves around Salema to the remote
wild shores of the west coast pounded by the full force of the
Atlantic and a surfer’s paradise, this is like no other
part of Portugal.
To the east are the historic ports of Portimao and Lagos, and
to the north the cork forests and mountains of Monchique. To
the south
is the ocean, with Africa beyond. To the west is the wild western
coast and Cape St Vincent, the most southwesterly point in
continental Europe.
Once off the beaten track, the Western Algarve
is tranquil and un- commercialised, where time genuinely seems
to have
stood still.
The coastline varies from remote beaches and picturesque
fishing villages to historic ports steeped in maritime tradition.
Inland,
the rolling countryside is speckled with quaint hamlets where
the highlight of the week is the traditional open-air market,
at which
local folk gather to buy and sell their fresh produce and
wares.
The Western Algarve is particularly famous
for its fresh fish, seafood and grilled meats. Eating out is
generally
not only
a pleasurable experience, but also relatively inexpensive.
Portuguese food is
simple, yet fresh and wholesome. There are many
regional specialities that are derived from local traditions
and ingredients.
Faro is easily accessible with scheduled, budget and charter
airlines from most airports across the UK and Ireland.
Flights take around
2 hours 30 minutes and the journey time to Salema is
just an hour via a brand new motorway.
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