|
When Monte Gordo in Portugal is mentioned, the whole region of the south of Portugal called Algarve should come to mind because of the stretch of beautiful beaches that line this coast. It is found between the town of Castro Marim, right on the Spanish border where the Guadiana River empties into the Atlantic Ocean and the town of Tavira. Monte Gordo is geared towards the tourist who wish to relax on its beaches, savour the delicacies of the sea by having fishing villages so near by. And for those who also have time for some history, as this place was occupied by the Phoenicians, Greeks, Romans and lastly by the Arabs; all having left visual evidence of their culture. And do not miss the Natural Reserve Park where storks and flamencos swerve in and out of sight among the varied flora of Monte Gordo.
How Algarve seduces you
Tavira, to the west of Monte Gordo, is a fine place to do a quick review of Portuguese history. Tavira has been referred to as the Venice of the Algarve because it elegantly sits atop the banks of the Sequa River which turns into the Gilao River as it swishes under an eight arch Roman bridge. It was once well known as a prosperous fishing village but above all for the proliferation of its religious monuments. Just in Tavira alone, there are fifteen churches and six monasteries; the most outstanding one being the Church of Saint Mary of Castelo. It was built on the remains of a Moslem temple right after the Christian overtook the city in 1242. There are many famous people buried there, such as Dom Paio Peres Correia, conquerer of the Algarve, local knights and martyrs.
Even though one of the principal attractions of this south area is the long soft sandy beaches, a little sport would not be a bad idea. To the west of Albufeira, on the rolling hillsides, you will find some precious golf courses included or grouped into what seem to be towns. One of these is called Villamoura tucked in between a pine forest and the beach. While the golf fans get into the swing, the others can enjoy any of the many other sports activities, be it on land or in the water.
And do as not to lose out on seeing all of the rest of Algarve, you can make a quick road travel by rented to car to the west side to visit Lagos, another magnificent holiday spot which is similar to Monte Gordo in Portugal.
|
|
