Algarve Resorts - Portimao
Monday, 16th November 2009
Just down the road from Praia de Rocha and Alvor is the town of Portimao, 40 miles from Faro. The town has a population of over 40,000, and at one stage was the centre of the Portuguese fish canning industry.
Portimao is a busy commercial town, with the second largest port in The Algarve, but with some lovely beaches, and is right next door to the resorts of Praia de Rocha and Alvor. Given the location, connections to the other resorts are available by bus, with a daily service to Lisbon which takes less than four hours.
The main beach is a long, sandy beach very popular with tourists and locals, and almost reaches Praia de Rocha. The fantastic beach at Alvor is just minutes away. There are many smaller beaches and coves to be explored. There is also a new Marina, where expensive boats and yauchts can be seen. There are lots of boat trips and excursions on offer.
The town has a terrific number of shops to keep shoppers happy for hours, and a very wide range of restaurants and bars. Nightlife is extensive, and revellers are spoiled for choice with the range of entertainment on offer at Portimao and Praia de Rocha.
Portimao has its own festivals during the year, the main ones include:
- May International film festival
- August Portimao Fiesta, a 2 day celebration
- August The Watermelon Festival
- August Sardine festival. Sardines, music and dancing
- November Portimao Town festival
