Olhao :
The largest and most important fishing port of the Algarve. A larger, rougher village than Santa Luzia and Fuseta. The old center has many Moorish influences. That is why it is also called a piece of Africa in Europe. The residents themselves call it the capital of the Ria Formosa.
History of Olhão:
The village of Olhão is located approximately 15 kilometers from Faro airport towards the Spanish border. It is the first fishing village after Faro city. Only 15 minutes by car or the coastal train from Faro center. On the harbor side is the old center of Olhão, which is mainly characterized by the Moorish architectural style with narrow alleys, cube-shaped and whitewashed houses, stacked terraces and traditional chimneys. While walking through the winding streets you will come across many nice shops and squares with terraces.
The history and tradition of fishing is clearly reflected in the beautiful murals at Largo da Fábrica Velha. This street art in Olhão is based on old photos and many locals recognize themselves or their relatives in them.
Fishing is very important for Olhão, hence the largest port in the Algarve. You see and notice this everywhere. At the special red market halls with the traditional market on the quay. The core and pride of the village. A true experience to go to. Every morning, except on Sundays, you can go here for fresh vegetables and fruit from the Algarve and of course fresh fish. On Saturdays there is a gypsy market with local products. Soak up the atmosphere in the neighborhood and visit the many restaurants to taste the local fish dishes. Wonderfully fresh! For example O Franguinho, Pizza na Pedra or Le Panorama. Squids, crabs, shrimps, shells and other fish from the Ria Formosa. The annual 'Festival do Marisco' in August is also recommended.
Sights:
Explore the town on foot? Then start at the tower of Our Lady of the Rosary: the baroque church in the center at the beginning of the avenida. From here you can see hundreds of roof terraces on the roofs of the white-painted cubes. Typically North African and unique to this city. Also take a walk through a labyrinth of streets and white houses in the picturesque fishing village district. Did you know that Olhão has the largest number of supermarkets and Chinese shops of all cities in the Algarve?
The beaches of Olhão:
For beach lovers, Olhão is not really 'the place to be' as there is no beach (update December 2023: although a little bird has whispered that a beach is under construction). On the other hand, there is a long boulevard of about 1.3 kilometers long with two moorings for ferries to the islands of Armona, Culatra and Farol. On these islands you have wonderful, long sandy beaches with nice beach bars and sunbed rental. The boat trip takes approximately 15 minutes, depending on the island chosen. The first dock is just past the market halls at the harbor and another spot is opposite the Real Marine Hotel & Spa. You can buy tickets at the port.
Olhão radiates authentic Portugal! With its history and culture, beautiful islands and beaches, nature reserve and beautiful hinterland. Charming, small and cozy Portuguese village. More than worth a visit.
Fuseta:
We already knew that the Algarve has many fishing villages. Fuseta, another fishing village named after its location: Fozeta. Located on an island in the estuary (Foz) of the Rio Tronoco that flows to the sea. It once started with a number of fishermen's houses and eventually grew into a small, sweet fishing village. Just half an hour's drive from Faro airport. There is also a coastal train that runs along the entire coast, so you can immediately enjoy all the beauty that the Algarve has to offer.
History of Fuseta:
This cozy and small village right on the Ria Formosa has the most beautiful views of the canals, lagoons, islands and the beautiful transition to the sea. For nature lovers, hikers, cyclists, sun worshipers, water sports enthusiasts and those seeking peace and quiet.
Narrow streets, traditional cube-shaped houses with decorative moldings (platibandas) and chimneys can be found in this charming fishing village. Grab a terrace on the cozy village square or enjoy a delicious dinner in one of the many restaurants. Fuseta is known for its BBQ restaurants, such as Casa do Mestres or Fuzeta Tapas do Nik for a modern twist on a local and traditional meal. Everywhere in the village you will see a barbecue with very fresh fish. The tents around the market hall are also recommended. You won't get it fresher than if you choose the fish yourself. There is a nice mix of locals, tourists and fishermen who sit comfortably next to each other.
The beaches of Fuseta:
Fuseta itself has two beaches: Fuseta inner beach and Ilha da Fuseta. The inner beach is located in the lagoon at the end of the boulevard. Beautiful bay with a beach tent, sunbeds and the characteristic old building of the rescue brigade. It is a nice beach for families with small children, because it is always quiet and shallow for a long time in the bay. You can also enjoy a snack, drink or lounger all year round. Ilha da Fuseta is another world, an idyllic beach island. You can get there by boat from the fishing port. This is a crossing of approximately 5 minutes. A beautiful long sandy beach and during the summer season you will also find a few nice beach bars here. Out of season you can enjoy nice walks here. From Ilha da Fuseta you walk about 5 kilometers to the next island Ilha da Armona. Have lunch along the way at Restaurante Santo António or Armona 4. Then walk back or take the ferry to Olhão and take the train back to Fuseta. You can also go to the islands of Armona, Culatra or Farol by taxi boat.
It is simply too much to list all the beautiful places for you, but at the bottom of this page we have placed a number of links that you can start with yourself. Discover the Algarve and make your holiday an unforgettable stay.
Links :
The most important thing is of course the weather, view the weather forecasts here.
One of the best tourism planners you can find, clear and applicable to the entire Algarve region. click here