Places to Visit - Faro
Monday, 16th November 2009
Many visitors to the Algarve simply pass through Faro airport, without a thought of looking at the town. This is a pity, as Faro is certainly a place worth visiting, and as a base for an Algarve holiday. The town has a medieval wall, many interesting buildings, and a lovely harbour. The town has a history which goes back to Roman times. Faro was then occupied by the Moors for hundreds of years. The crusaders sacked the town in 1596.
There is a beach about 5 miles from the town centre called Praia de Faro on the Ilha de Faro. This is easily accessible by ferry, and is very popular with local people.
A major event in Faro is the annual Motor Bike rally held in July, when tens of thousands of bikers from all over the world descend on the town for a get together. In August Faro holds a Folk Festival, which attracts folk groups from Portugal and Europe. The most important event of the year is the Fiera de Santa Iria, held in October. There is a large funfair, parties and entertainments.
There is a Naval Museum near Faro harbour which is well worth a visit
For visitors wanting to explore the Algarve, Faro is a very convenient base. Faro is also close to the fishing port of Olhao and the Ria Formosa Nature Park
