Quarteira has developed from a small fishing village in the sixties to a thriving seaside resort very popular with British tourists. There are many high-rise hotels supplying good quality accommodation for holidaymakers. Many people make return visits to its long sandy beach and enjoy its many water sports.
A Quarteira holiday offers hot summer sun and pleasant winters. Sun worshippers will enjoy its wide sandy beach and rolling seas. There are good golf courses in the area as well as a range of leisure activities.
Quarteira has something for everyone as it is well placed to access the many tourist attractions in the area. Families enjoy the area as there are many child centred attractions in the area. Parents must be aware that the sea can be rough with strong currents. Golfers can enjoy a round of their favourite game at any time of year. Sun seekers and water sport enthusiasts will enjoy the fine beaches and the clear waters.
Quarteira has hot dry summers and although the weather is pleasant in the winter many of the bars and restaurants close down. The summer season is therefore the time to take a seaside holiday. Golf holidays are popular in the winter.
Quarteira in the central Algarve is west of Faro airport and has a short transfer time.
The original small village is surrounded by high rise holiday accommodation. It is one of the oldest of the Algarve resorts and the provision of family holiday activities and attractions is wide ranging. The long promenade with its shady palms and shrubs is lined with cafes, bars, shops and small restaurants. Atlantic Water Park lies to the north of Quarteira and provides a fun filled day for all the family. The long sandy, sheltered beach is one of Quarteira’s main attractions. The water sports available include skiing, surfing and sailing. There is also deep sea fishing and boating trips to explore the coastline.
There are many restaurants offering a wide choice of menu to suit all tastes and pockets. The souvenir shops provide plenty of opportunities for buying holiday mementoes.
To the east of Quarteira is Fonte Santa with its natural spring which, it is claimed, has healing qualities.
Every Wednesday there is a large market with many stalls selling a variety of goods and local crafts.
Quarteira is a vibrant family resort offering numerous leisure activities and excursions to local attractions such as Aqualand.
Nightlife in Quarteira is fairly lively with pubs, music bars, clubs and discos. There are numerous restaurants where those wishing for a more intimate evening can enjoy a meal in a relaxing friendly atmosphere.
Quarteira has a range of shops including many selling gifts and souvenirs. There is a large market every Wednesday where you can purchase your holiday mementoes. Popular items are pottery, leather goods, wickerwork, embroidered linens and jewellery. In nearby Loule there is another extensive market every Saturday.
There are very many restaurants in Quarteira providing a wide range of cuisine catering for most tastes. Fresh fish and shellfish are high on the menu. Traditional fish restaurants sit along side fast food outlets and there are also many restaurants serving international cuisine. It is common in Portugal to be served appetisers known as ‘covers’ while waiting for your food. Please remember that these are not free samples and will appear on the bill. Wines are an excellent accompaniment to dinner, while the almond liqueur or, for chocolate lovers the Alfarroba liqueur, is a great way to relax at the end of the day.