2025 Alcoutim Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in November)

Cacela Velha, nestled in Algarve, Portugal, is a charming village that embodies the spirit of coastal tradition and history. Situated atop a hill with a stunning view of the Ria Formosa Natural Park, it boasts mesmerizing vistas of turquoise waters, dynamic sandbanks, and pristine beaches. Though small, the village enchants visitors with its whitewashed houses, cobblestone streets, and the historic Igreja de Nossa Senhora da Assunção at its center. The 18th-century fortress further enriches its heritage, showcasing a legacy of maritime defense. Travelers can indulge in fresh seafood at local restaurants while soaking in the serene and authentic ambiance. Cacela Velha’s unique combination of natural splendor, historical charm, and tranquil surroundings makes it a hidden treasure in Algarve, ideal for those seeking a peaceful and scenic retreat.

#mytraveldiary Alcoutim, located in the Algarve region of southern Portugal, is a quiet riverside town that charms visitors with its slow pace and authentic atmosphere. Sitting along the Guadiana River, directly across from the Spanish village of Sanlúcar, it offers stunning views and a sense of timeless simplicity. The whitewashed houses, narrow streets, and small squares give Alcoutim a traditional feel, while the medieval castle overlooking the town adds a touch of history. Visitors can stroll by the river, enjoy a relaxed meal at a local café, or take a boat ride across to Spain. The surrounding hills are perfect for walks and exploring nature. Unlike the busier coastal towns of the Algarve, Alcoutim feels undiscovered and peaceful. It is the kind of place where you can truly slow down, soak in the scenery, and enjoy genuine Portuguese hospitality.

⛺ Praia da Arrifana Praia da Arrifana in Algarve is a Blue Flag beach, as rated by the Foundation for Environmental Education, and is a must-visit for surfing enthusiasts. The beach is located in a bay, with a sandy stretch of about 1 km, surrounded by towering cliffs, and the local houses are almost built to the sea, blending in with the environment. Here, you can experience a wonderful balance between human civilization and the beauty of nature. Praia da Arrifana in Algarve is a Blue Flag beach, as rated by the Foundation for Environmental Education, and is a must-visit for surfing enthusiasts. 🛬 Praia da Ilha da Culatra Culatra Island is located in the Ria Formosa Natural Park. There is only one way to get here, and that is by boat from Olhão, so you won't see any motor vehicles here, only a peaceful and tranquil atmosphere.

Algarve, Faro District Algarve is the southernmost region of mainland Portugal, stretching along the country's coastline and facing the Atlantic Ocean. With a mild climate, over 3,000 hours of sunshine per year, and low average rainfall, it is a renowned holiday destination in Europe. This is a must-visit holiday destination, highly praised and sought after. Named one of the "World's Best Travel Destinations in 2012" by The New York Times; named one of the "Best Cities in the World for Retirement and Living" by Forbes Magazine. Visit ancient historical sites and admire exquisite architecture; stroll through picturesque towns and capture postcard-worthy moments; encounter stunning cliff coasts, with a 200-kilometer coastline perfect for surfing, windsurfing, kayaking, and other water sports! 1. Faro, Faro District Faro is the capital of Algarve, a picturesque town full of historical charm. Take a boat tour of the Ria Formosa Natural Park, one of Portugal's seven natural wonders, and explore Ilha Deserta, known for its white sandy beaches. 2. Lagos, Faro District This place is closely connected to the sea, about an hour's drive from Faro. The colorful buildings in the old town, paired with white walls, make for great photos, and there are creative shops, museums, restaurants, and bars... Visit the Church of St. Anthony, whose Baroque gilded carvings are considered one of Portugal's most beautiful works of art. Outside Lagos, there is a stunning rock formation - Ponta da Piedade, with cliffs up to 20 meters high. The natural wonders along the stairs are breathtaking. 3. Silves, Faro District If you're interested in history, visit Silves Castle. It is the best-preserved castle in Algarve, with striking red walls, and offers panoramic views of the town and surrounding areas from its highest point.

Algarve, as a dream vacation 🏖 destination in the hearts of Europeans, is known for its unique golden limestone cliff coast 🌊. After long-term effects of seawater and wind, it has formed dozens of kilometers of golden limestone coast, natural wonders such as sea caves, arches, and rock pillars. · ▪️Praia de Benagil Benagil Beach Sea Cave is a stunning natural beauty on the beach🏖️. The circular crack on the cave roof allows the sunlight☀️ to enter, illuminating the soft sand inside the cave and making it shine. This is the legendary "Eye of God👀". · Benagi lBeach Cave gives people an infinite sense of comfort, and the calm and warm sea water 🌊 is very suitable for swimming 🏊. · The ticket price for the cave coast tour is divided into two types. The regular one is 20 euros per hour, which only allows you to see the beach inside the cave. The other one is 30 euros for one and a half hours, which allows you to take photos and swim inside the cave. 💰Please pay attention to the difference when buying tickets. · ▪️Praia da Marinha Beach This is one of the most iconic and beautiful beaches in Portugal, with turquoise clear seawater 🌊, weathered and varied cliffs, soft and warm sand, winding coastline, natural and secluded, where you can enjoy stunning coastal scenery. · Carved by the constant erosion of waves and sea breeze, it has become a natural sculpture garden 🌸. At the western end of the beach, there is a unique double-sea arched rock that seems to be the coastline making a heart shape towards us ♥️. You can also see the sightseeing boat 🚢 shuttling between the sea arches, as if building a magical structure on the sea. · There is a parking lot at the entrance of the scenic area, and you need to walk a distance and go downstairs to reach the beach~