When we were setting up the trip, Diane was adamant we would spend one month in one town in the Algarve Region on the southern coast of Portugal. However, as we got deeper in the research we found that each area has different advantages. So we settled on three stays of ten days each. This actually worked out really well as we got an interesting variety of experiences. Our three stays were:
- Tavira – Eastern side not directly on a beach, less touristy
- Carvoeiro – Central small town along the rugged coastline
- Lagos – Western side and main town of the region, more lively
Each town had its own surprises, and we also took some time to relax on the beach at each location.
Tavira
Our first day we wandered around town and got the lay of the land
The market is lively but we declined buying the swordfish head.
Mediterranean Diet Festival
The Mediterranean Diet Festival took place while we were in Tavira and we had a blast enjoying the music, art, food, and culture on display. Our favorite band was Kalascima from Italy. They were in a small venue and everyone was dancing. Who knew that bagpipers and accordion players can rock!
Camera Obscura
We saw our first camera obscura (giant pinhole camera) in action, and have since learned these 1890’s era attractions have a cult following.
Beach Time!
What set this area apart were the quiet beaches. The main beach nearest town was a 10 minute ferry ride away through an estuary. Our favorite beach could be reached by foot or mini-train. As we walked west from the access points, there were miles of beach with nobody on them. We were happy to put up an umbrella and spend the days relaxing, reading, swimming, playing paddle ball, and taking long walks. The anchors (lower right picture) were used as part of a system of nets to trap tuna. When the tuna disappeared they were set aside on the dunes awaiting their return. Spoiler alert: the tuna never returned. Now it is called the anchor graveyard.
The Journey Continues
Taviera was a great start to our slow travels. We were lucky we were there for the festival and enjoyed the slow and quiet pace of life. Our next stop was Carvoeiro.