Algarve
The Algarve coast line stretches about 100 miles from the western-most tip to the Spanish border.
The western ends juts out into the Atlantic, a rugged, undeveloped area, which has retained its natural charm - traditional arts and crafts, which have all but disappeared from the eastern coast - form part of the way of life here.
The western coastline is extremely dramatic, with cliffs of black rock from which Algarvian fishermen cling precariously hundreds of feet above the sea, for hours on end. Beaches vary from tiny, intimate coves to long lengths of open soft sand, where the Atlantic waves crash and retreat. Nothing appears to have changed over the centuries, and the entire area is virtually untouched by tourism. A "spaghetti western" or two must surely have been made here!. The high spot to visiting the western coast is Cape St. Vincent - the most southwesterly point in Europe - Europe's equivalent of Cornwall's Land's End - but without the souvenir shops - although you may be able to buy some of the local handicrafts from tiny market stalls along the road. Cape St. Vincent as a stop off point en route from Northern Europe to Africa. Spectacular views from the cliffs straight out across the Atlantic Ocean, with nothing but water between you and America - the very same view that surely inspired Henry the Navigator all those centuries ago! Eating in Algarve Eating out holds a prominent position in Portuguese life. Food in restaurants is of good quality, based on fresh local products. You will find the best - value - for money dining is in the simplest restaurants away from the main tourist centres. Sardines and salad is a very popular dish in the Algarve but don't miss out on ordering some more interesting sea food dishes from the excellent variety that the Atlantic Ocean offers - bass, bream, swordfish, lobsters, prawns, -to name but a few. Pork and chicken are the main meat dishes. The Portuguese eat pork in all its different forms, from whole roast suckling pig to trotters with coriander. Chicken piri-piri is a famous dish; the sauce is made from chili peppers and can be mild and tangy or very hot and spicy. Most meals are accompanied by country bread, black olives and small tins of sardine pate. And don't forget, Portugal is famous for its Vinho Verde and Mateus Rose. |
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