Top Things to do in Faro District
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What to do and see in Faro District, Algarve: The Best Lookouts
Discover the best top things to do in Faro District, Portugal including Torre da Aspa, Miradoura Rossio, Pau da Bandeira Viewpoint, Miradouro do Alto da Arroteia, Castelo de Tavira, Sagres, Marina de Albufeira West Beacon.
Restaurants in Faro District
1. Torre da Aspa
2. Miradoura Rossio
3. Pau da Bandeira Viewpoint
4. Miradouro do Alto da Arroteia
5. Castelo de Tavira
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 485 reviews
Reviewed By Mairwen1
Don’t expect an actual castle. These are only the ruins of a medieval fortress castle and there’s not a lot left other than the walls. Being a fortress, it was of course built at the highest point in Tavira where they could guard against attacks from North African raiders and pirates. Today this means that if you climb the walls, you get excellent views across Tavira as far as the Rio Formosa. History is a bit fuzzy around the dates but it possibly dates from the 8th century. What you see here now is more likely from the 11th century and it we know that it was re-modelled and reinforced after the Christian crusaders arrived in 1242. 500 years later, it was very badly damaged in the devastating 1755 earthquake, leaving it in its current state of disrepair. Inside the walls is a very pretty garden with vibrant purple bougainvillea, lavender hedges and showy orange flame vine with its long trumpet flowers. The steps up to the castle walls are a little dodgy and walking around the battlements is not for the faint hearted. If you’re not good with heights, the old metal railings might not feel entirely safe. The views are definitely worth it though. The castle is right next door to the Church Santa Maria do Castelo which has a great bell tower (for those not already tired of climbing stairs) and an excellent small museum. TIP: we kept seeing a chap who stood out the front as if to collect an entry fee. You can safely ignore him as entry is free and he is just chancing his luck that some people will pay him.
6. Sagres
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 1 reviews
