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A day for the family in Tavira

Written on : 25 September 2019
By : Melchior Burin des Roziers
A day for the family in Tavira

Tavira is perhaps the most beautiful city in the Algarve because it’s typical regional character has been wonderfully preserved. The city was built by the Phoenicians in the 8th-century BC before passing into the hands of the Romans, then the Moors and then conquered by the Christians of the Order of Santiago in 1242. Tavira became the most prosperous city in the Algarve (15th-16th centuries). Near the border with Spain (30 km), framed by the Gilão River, between land and sea. It is only 40 km from Faro airport and 50 km from Vilamoura, there are no reasons to not discover this charming city.

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The old town of Tavira

The old town of Tavira

Stroll through the cobbled streets of the historic centre and explore some picturesque buildings. The houses around are the little rustic with a romantic charm that emerges from the colourful houses. Many are covered with ‘azulejos’ (Portuguese ceramic tiles), especially at street level at Antonio Viegas and das Olarias. You may pass in front of the former convent of Tavira (now a hotel), enjoy the dazzle of the bright yellow colour of its exterior façade. This superb building faces a beautiful garden and the church of Santa Maria do Castelo, which was built in the 13th-century on the foundations of an old mosque. Behind you can enjoy a superb view of the city.

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The castle of Tavira

By continuing your ascent a little further, you will reach the castle of Tavira. There you will find the remains of the former Moorish fortress: a walkway and turrets that offer a breathtaking view of the surrounding landscape. These ruins are completely free to visit and contain a shaded garden in which you can rest for a while before going down to the river via Largo da Misericordia lane by its church, the inside of which is covered with historically dated 18th-century azulejos panels. 

The Roman bridge

The Roman bridge

This pretty 7-arch bridge connects the two parts of Tavira separated by the Gilão River. The symbol of the city, the "Roman bridge" has only a Roman name because recent studies have revealed that it actually dates back to the Moorish period, more precisely to the 12th-century. It is located on the edge of a large pedestrian square (Praça da Republica), on the south side, which has a mini amphitheatre on the steps - the perfect spot for a rest before resuming your walk. If you want to regain your strength, there are many restaurants and cafés from which you can enjoy the view. 

After crossing the bridge, you will arrive on the north side to beautifully coloured houses. The walk continues pleasantly along the Gilão River. It really paints a picture, with the presence of small boats on the water from the Tavira fishing port.

The Island of Tavira and the beautiful beaches

The Island of Tavira and the beautiful beaches

Tavira also has some very beautiful beaches in store for you: Praia do Homem Nu, Praia do Barril, Praia das Cabanas, Praia da Terra Estreita and Ilha de Tavira - all in the east of the island. A small boat allows you to reach this wide stretch of sand off the coast of Tavira, nestled between the Gilão River and the Atlantic Ocean. Choose the beach that suits you best and enjoy the sun, golden sand and clear water.

Since the 1960s, Praia do Barril has curiously exhibited dozens of rusty anchors, planted in the sand. Called the "Cemitério das ncoras" (Cemetery of Marine Anchors), it is an amazing sight that recalls the ancient and dangerous era of tuna fishing, before the local economy was based on tourism. Not far from there, the old fishermen's huts have been converted into cafés, restaurants and shops. There is a quaint little train that connects Barril Beach to the mainland along a small railway. This route was once used to transport goods and fresh fish from the fishing community. Today, making many little ones very happy!

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A day for the family in Tavira

We wish you a pleasant visit to Tavira!

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