|
It can’t get better than this. You arrived in Faro late last night and after a deep sleep in a local hostel, you sip an espresso on the terrace. The sun is shining, the sky is blue and you never want this moment to end. That is, of course, until you visit Faro’s often overlooked neighbour later on that day. Making the most of the short, ten-minute train journey to Olhão is an unmissable day excursion for anyone visiting the city of Faro. Mercado de Olhão This attractive fishing port is as ancient as it is beautiful. The oldest industry in the town is hallmarked by the authentic fish market, Mercado de Olhão. If you’re looking to secure the freshest fish, make sure that you get there early, as that’s when the locals will be reeling in their catch. To show just how important this market is to the town, the building itself was designed by none other than Gustave Eiffel. If you’re thinking that last name looks familiar, you’re right – it really is the architect of the infamous Parisian landmark! Nossa Senhora do Rosário To find some peace from the hustle and bustle of the Mercado, take a stroll to the magnificent church of Nossa Senhora do Rosário. If you think that you’ve left the fishing world behind, however, think again! This church, built in 1689, was funded by contributions from the fisherman’s guild of the town. The outstanding Baroque façade is a thing to marvel at whilst sipping a coffee in the square. If that’s not enough to satisfy your intrigue, you’ll find five altars and a fresco masterpiece on the ceiling inside. Nossa Senhora da Soledade If you’re the type of traveller who loves to go “off the beaten track”, a visit to the Nossa Senhora da Soledade is a must. This lesser-known church of the town was actually the predecessor to Do Rosário. Built in the early 1600s, the old focal point of fishermen has now become a beacon for pilgrims. Don’t be deceived by the somewhat plain exterior – inside, this church is adorned with lavish decorations. Rio Formosa When you’ve had your fill of fish (both literally and historically), venture out to the natural park of Rio Formosa. This national park stretches an astonishing 60km along the Algarve coastline. Quinta de Marim is the park’s headquarters and resides just three kilometres east of the town centre. Lose yourself in immense sand dunes, verdant woodlands and freshwater lagoons. You’ll feel as far away from work as ever when twitter is the sound of actual birds frequenting the salt marshes. Olhão is the perfect place for a day trip from Faro. In terms of getting to the Algarve region, two-and-a-half-hour flights are available at a reasonable price from all major UK Airports. Once you’re at the airport, start your holiday as quickly and easily as possible with Shuttle Direct, a service that offers affordable, comfortable and high-quality Faro Airport transfers. Before you know it, you’ll be standing on the doorstep of your accommodation, ready to begin the holiday of a lifetime! Author Plate Lukas Johannes is a driver for Shuttle Direct, the number one provider of shared and private airport transfers all over Europe and northern Africa. If you’re looking for the most convenient and affordable Faro airport transfers, Lukas and his colleagues can make sure that you and your luggage get to and from the airport swiftly and safely.
Related Articles -
Faro, airport, transfers,
|
