Altura Things To Do

Beaches
With over 100 miles of beach to choose from the Algarve has somewhere for everyone and is perfect for families. Beaches here, on the Sotavento (leeward side) of the Algarve, tend to be long, sandy and washed by warmer water than those in the more rugged west. There are no fewer than five Blue Flag beaches nearby including the Praia Verde and Manta Rota which stretch out for miles in either direction with perfect, clean sand and, although the beaches are known for their tranquillity, there are plenty of watersports available.

Golf
The Algarve is golf heaven with courses everywhere and perfect weather for year-round play. Dotted around Altura are top quality courses designed Sir Henry Cotton, Jack Nicklaus, Sevy Ballesteros and Rocky Roquemore offering all kinds of challenges. Although they do insist you have a handicap, even non-golfers would appreciate the views: Quinta da Ria is set in a Nature Reserve and Castro Marim overlooks the River Guadiana and across to Spain. All courses have pro shops and hire facilities and most have restaurants.

Nightlife
Altura has some excellent bars and restaurants but anyone wanting more has only to wander into nearby Monte Gordo. Without being big or brash, this old fishing town has everything from nightclubs to folk evenings, as well as a casino, which offers the chance to gamble the night away or enjoy an international floorshow. 

Parque natural da Ria Formosa
The coastline around Altura falls within this thirty-seven miles of coastline which is protected from overdevelopment. Sand extraction has been prevented and the authorities ensure that this lagoon area remains a haven for the numerous birds and wildfowl, including rare species, that either make it home, a winter shelter or a migration stopover. 

Tavira
The two sides of this charming historic town on the River Gilão are linked by two bridges, one of Roman origin. The town remains a fishing port and the fish restaurants are excellent. Hit by the Great Earthquake of 1755, it was rebuilt with elegant townhouses and mansions, with filigree balconies, and fine churches. 

Faro
There is much more to Faro than just the airport and it’s well worth visiting for the charming cobbled streets and squares of the walled Old Town, the many cafes and restaurants and the Se Cathedral, which dates back to the C13th and offers plenty of architectural interest and views over the town.

The Rio Guadiana and Spain
Following the river north to Alcoutim will take you through some beautiful countryside that is excellent for horse riding, cycling or walking. The town itself nestles high above the river and offers picture postcard views of the countryside and across to Spain. A little further on is the splendid Parque Natural do Vale do Guadiana. By way of contrast, the colourful and historic Spanish city of Seville is only around an hour and a half east of Altura by car.