A variety of interesting places in Algarve can be reached within half an hour’s drive from Faro by car or bus. Allow yourself sufficient time to visit the following places:

Estoi
The Estoi Palace reflects the romantic tastes of the first owner, a distinguished family of Algarvean nobility. Whilst it has fallen into a state of neglect, the local municipality together with an hotel company have purchased the site. The palace will be renovated and part of it will become a Pousada (term given to high class hotels housed in restored Portuguese palaces, castles and manor homes). The main church in the town, which was built in the 16th century (rebuilt in the 18th/19th century) on the site of a medieval chapel, also makes a worthwhile visit.

The Roman ruins at Milreu
These ruins are what is left of a large farmhouse in the 1st century and other buildings constructed in the 3rd, 4th and 16th centuries.

Tavira
The streets and houses of this town have been restored carefully to reflect the old traditional style. The town also boasts a Moorish castle with some splendid views from the ramparts.

Other Sites
Santa Bárbara de Nexe (a bronze age hill fort), Conceição (a typical Algarvean village) and Olhão (a typical fishing port with its fish market) are also recommended.