what to do when I get here?
A view of the Marina in Albufeira.
There are 3 golf courses very close by and many many more within a short distance of Forte Atlantico.
Visit www.algarve-golf.com for more details.
While your partner is enjoying a spot of golf, you might like to indulge in a spot of retail therapy - shopping in Albufeira Town.
beaches...
Praia da Oura beach has a wide choice of water sports available including par-ascending, yellow banana rides, jet skiing and boat trips. There is of course a lot of beautiful coastline and other beaches to explore. The Praia De S. Rafael is bounded by striking rock cliffs or there is Praia Do Evaristo which is more secluded and Praia Da Gale which has sand as far as the eye can see.
golf lovers...
The Algarve is well known it's fine golf courses with many people taking holidays in the area just to play golf.
the strip...
Approximately three and a half kilometers to the east of the old town is the most famous area which is known as “the strip” an Avenida of shops, bars, restaurants and clubs which runs from Montechoro to the north to the beach at Praia da Oura in the south. Most facilities are about halfway down/up at the crossroads near the Marrachinho Supermarket (marvelous for those who want to cook for themselves).
The strip finishes to the south at a newly upgraded roundabout with 3 palm trees on it. There's also a Fab bar called Miss Liberto's halfway up the strip. For many visitors the golden sandy beach and the vibrant nightlife offered here provide the perfect holiday ingredients.
Should you wish to venture away from the beautiful beaches you can search for a bargain at Loule market, the largest on the Algarve, or explore the countryside on a day safari showing you the real Algarve.
Albufeira shopping...
A new Shopping Center is located directly on the N125 - the main road which runs right along the Algarve -just a few minutes drive from Albufeira near the village of Guia. It is well sign posted, but the entrance from the main road can be confusing. More than a hundred shops and a supermarket occupy two levels. Upstairs there are several restaurants and sufficient parking slots are available, even at busy times. There is also a cinema complex and a bowling alley. Next to Algarve Shopping is a large Nike Outlet Store.
Directly behind the shopping complex is one of the vineyards forming part of Cliff Richard's wine consortium. You can book to visit all three or just one of the vineyards. This is a really enjoyable day out and you get to taste the wines .......lovely!!!
markets...
A market vendor selling.
Above haggling over the price and below cheeses on display .
For those of you who like a bargain, there are loads of markets to visit, just don't forget to haggle!!!
Albufeira
Market days - 1st and 3rd Tuesday every month
Almancil
Market days - 1st and 4th Sunday every month
Lagoa
Market days - 2nd Sunday every month except July and August
Loulé
Market days - every Saturday
Very popular and busy market within and around the market hall in the center
Monchique
Market days - 2nd Friday every month
Portimão
Market days - 1st Monday every month
Quarteira (also known as the Gypsy Market)
Market days - every Wednesday
One of the busiest weekly markets of the Algarve
Sagres
Market days - 1st Friday every month
