Tavira is a beautiful little town that has had a long and ancient history, having first been settled over four thousand years ago. The devastating earthquake of 1755 destroyed much of the Algarve and Tavira was no exception. The town was rebuilt and there are many fine examples of eighteenth century architecture including many churches. The Roman Bridge which spans the River Gileo survived the quake and is still in use today. Tavira has so much to offer visitors from sandy beaches and water sports to golf and sightseeing, that for many, one Tavira holiday is not enough.
A Tavira holiday promises relaxation with a guarantee of sunshine in a very attractive town. It appears to have something for everyone with wonderful sandy beaches, water sports, golf courses as well as a wealth of sightseeing opportunities.
Tavira is popular with a wide range of ages and interests as it seems to possess most of the essential ingredients needed for a memorable holiday. Families and sun-seeking beach lovers are attracted by the long swathes of soft sand and the temptingly blue waters. Couples enjoy the town and its historic buildings while golfers have o choice of excellent courses.
Tavira has hot dry summers and pleasant winters making it a year-round holiday destination. The summer is the most popular time with sun seekers and beach lovers flocking to its shores in their thousands, while golfers can enjoy a game at any time of year.
Tavira has a transfer time from the airport of forty-five minutes. It is a very attractive town with many fine buildings and churches. On the hill above the town are the ruins of the medieval castle. It is worthwhile making the effort to get to the top as the views from there are stunning. The old town, largely rebuilt after the devastating earthquake of 1755, is a maze of narrow streets and small squares. Churches abound with almost forty of them in this small area. The river runs through the town and is spanned by the original Roman Bridge.
There is a wide choice of hotels, villas, apartments and studios accommodating all budgets, and restaurants catering for most tastes. There are many small shops of the kind so loved by tourists where you can purchase your gifts and souvenirs. There is a fruit and vegetable market down by the river and once a month there is a much larger market with a wide range of goods.
The beaches are vast swathes of sand where, even in high season, it is possible to find an empty spot. Care must be taken with children and weak swimmers as the seas can at times be heavy with strong currents. Water sports are available from the beach.
There is a choice of golf courses in the area, the nearest being ‘Benamor’, designed by Sir Henry Cotton. The course undulates and has views over the sea and the mountains. Remember to take your handicap certificate with you as it may be a requirement on some courses.
A Tavira holiday offers equal measures of sun, sand and sea with a great number of leisure activities and sightseeing opportunities.
Although there are some lively bars in Tavira, it is not a place that parties through the night. Evenings are spent wandering through the narrow streets of the town or along the river side, enjoying a drink or a meal in the many friendly bars and restaurants.
Tavira has a good number of shops where you can buy your essential provisions. There are also many gift shops for the obligatory souvenirs. Those who enjoy markets may be lucky enough for their holiday to coincide with the market on the third Monday of every month. Popular purchases include leather goods, pottery and jewellery. Filigree jewellery renowned for its delicacy is extremely popular..
There are many restaurants in Tavira providing a wide range of cuisine that caters for most tastes. Fresh fish and shellfish are high on the menu and there are some excellent fish restaurants along by the river. Don’t forget to try the spicy chicken piri piri. 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.
