Albufeira has it all!
Located in the centre of the Algarve, on a beautiful coastline, at only about 40km from the nearest airport of Faro. Albufeira has become the hub of tourism from where you can easily explore the rest of the Algarve. Albufeira offers all you could wish for: from the most amazing beaches, to an endless choice of activities in and around Albufeira. Going through a wide range of restaurants in the charismatic old town Albufeira, and the possibility to shop till you drop.
History
The history of Albufeira, dates back to the time of the Romans, who called it Baltum. They brought with them commercial activities and agricultural knowledge. Some remnants of this period can still be seen, like sections of its aquaducts and bridges in Albufeira.
The Moors conquered Albufeira in the 8th century and renamed it Al-Buhera, meaning the Castle on the sea. With them, a thriving trade was developed with North Africa, giving the small town a boost and leaving visible Arabic influences.
In 1250, the Christians took over the Albufeira town, and led it to a slow decline as trade significantly decreased. Albufeira became a small fishing village, until in 1504, King Manuel gave it the status of a town.
The earthquake of 1755 unfortunately destroyed big part Albufeira.
It is only in the 1960´s that Albufeira got a new boost from growing tourism, turning the small fishing village into the thriving holiday resort town that it is today.
Beaches Albufeira
Albufeira boasts a mere 25 beaches with a blue flag. A certification awarded by the Foundation for Environmental Education to a beach, marina, or sustainable boating tourism operator that meets its stringent standards. Considering quality, safety, environmental education and information, the provision of services and general environmental management.
So there is quite a wide range of choice of beaches in Albufeira area. And it is not surprising that many people chose to spend their holidays in Albufeira.
Here are some of the best beaches not to miss:
-Praia da Falesia: 8 km of white sand, cliffs, azure water that form shallow pools for kids to play in when the tide is low…what more to wish for?
-Praia de São Rafael: stunning beach closer to Albufeira town with rock formations and raised walkways over the rugged foreshore.
-Praia Galé: beach with a western part that is sandy, wide and open, great for walks and quietness; and an eastern part home to many rocky outcrops, caves and grottoes wildly popular with kids.
Activities
There is plenty on offer for all kinds of souls. You could spend a day at Zoo Marine, a must for families. Get entertained by shows with marine animals, a 4D cinema, a waterpark…
For the active ones, you can explore the beautiful coast of Albufeira, with its caves by stand-up paddle-board, canoe or kayak. Or try some windsurfing or kitesurfing.
On the shore, there is the Parque Aventura, near Santa Eulália, where you can pretend to be a monkey high up in the trees and overcome your own fears.
There are many boat excursions on offer at Albufeira marina, be it dolphin watching trips or a cave and coast-line cruise from Albufeira to Benagil.
For some horse riding Albufeira, there are two equestrian centers near Albufeira. You can get lessons or do treks or pony rides.
For the petrol-heads, there are quad-biking or motor trips into the dusty and rugged countryside.
If you prefer to indulge in some culture, you can head to the 12th century Moorish castle of Paderne with a fantastic view over the Quarteira River. Or hop into the Museu Arqueologico displaying tools and fragments of the Stone Age, the Roman, Islamic and Visigoth periods.
Night life Albufeira
If you’re a party-lover, you are at the right spot in Albufeira. East of the town, Avenida DrFrancisco Sá is a long strip of neon bars that gets wilder the closer you get to the beach and the further into the night. But in the old town Albufeira, you find plenty of bars with or without life music and karaoke.
Those who prefer to sip a glass of wine or enjoy some late dinner can head to the squares of the old town where there is a wide range of restaurants and cafés with terraces.
Shopping
For the latest fashion trends, either spend the day at shopping mall Guia, or walk through the streets of downtown Albufeira, where you can also find your local souvenirs, while at the same time enjoying a drink and a bite in one of the many, many restaurants and bars in Albufeira.
You will definitely not get bored in Albufeira!
Stay in Albufeira
Algarve Housing rent 2 very nice properties in Albufeira.
Beach House Albufeira, sleeps up to 8 guests, and is walking distance to the beach and the old town. This beach villa Albufeira has 4 bedrooms, kitchen and dining area downstairs. Upstairs is a nice private pool looking over the Atlantic Ocean! How nice is that!
A little west of Albufeira we rent Casa Ramos, also for 8 lucky guests.
4 bedrooms, all at one level, with nice, large colonial terrace, private pool and garden.
Enjoy Albufeira!