One of the main problems of Algarve is that the most of the restaurants and bars are to tourists. I like to visit small places, visited by the local too. You can try to drink a beer or a coffee in the afternoon in one of the small coffee shops near the road that connect Almancil to Quarteira. They are frequented just by locals, and could be funny to experience the local culture. For example, try "Café Palma" in Escanxinas, at left in the road when you go from Almancil to Quarteira. After a Indian restaurant and before a Brazilian. They don’t speak English, but will understand you
Written Jul 28, 2008
Address: Escanchinas
This is a man made lake that irrigates the golf courses nearby and gardens I suppose. Two by-products - wildlife have become more abundant nearby thanks to a supply of fresh water and a venue for pedal boats, sailing and wind surfing. Plenty of space, get out and hire one of these things. Restaurant at the edge very expensive, that exclusivity again. The photo shows the small man made beach which you can sit on whilst watching others in or on the lake. Plenty of parking if needed. No charge for parasol.
Updated Aug 31, 2006
Address: Quinta do Lago
A couple of signposted nature trails through the salt marshes. Popoular with bird watchers and joggers early morning, makes a welcome change from beach or pool. passes a few ancient salt pans.
Updated Aug 31, 2006
Self catering appartments need provisions. The Quinta do LAgo shopping experience has a number of restaurants and a few clothing shops and touristy shops of tat. Supermarket opens 8am to 7pm. Note it gets very busy of an evening. Nest nearest shops in Almancil.
Written Aug 31, 2006
This was really breathtaking inside. The church of St Lawrence is decorated with painted tiles. Each scene depicts different parts of St Lawrence's life who gave away the money of the church to the poor and was tortured and burnt alive as a punishment - nice. Thanks Larry, as the artwork is quite magnificent. Reports I have read differ as to whether the tiles were painted once fixed or painted elsewhere and brought to the church. That would be some jigsaw puzzle. The altar is guilded in spectacular and intricate detail. Go and see it. It is only small and worth a detour if you are in the area. Will take a maximum of 30 minutes inside. Entrance 2 Euros, extra euro for a guide leaflet. No food or drink nor photos allowed inside.
Written Aug 31, 2006
Address: Almancil
Worth checking out even if you are not staying at Quinta do Lago is the beach. Park up and and walk across the bridge to a beautiful beach of golden sand and far from busy at any time of day. Water sports, beach cafes and ice creams/water are available.
The parasols are expensive here - the exclusivity of the place and all that - 22 Euros per day for one parasol and two sun beds.
Written Aug 31, 2006
Address: Close to the exclusive Quinta do Lago Hotel
Many, many restaurants on the roads between Quinta do Lago, Vale de Lobo and Almancil. Stopped at this one - food was excellent and you can have low priced set menu 12 Euros for three courses serving bolognaise, chilli etc. Offered a children's menu.
Favorite Dish: Duck cooked in redcurrant sauce
Updated Aug 31, 2006
I thought it was a bit strange to have Indian food in Portugal, and I was a bit wary, but it makes sense really, considering the amount of British tourists who travel to the Algarve. Of course they'd want a good curry while on holiday. And the food we had at India was the best I had during my whole week in Portugal, and one of the best Indian meals I've had. The curries were all excellent, the naan bread was lovely, even the raita with the pappadams was memorable. The Indian host was a sweet, quiet guy who checked that each table enjoyed their meal. Definitely worth going to.
Written Sep 30, 2005
Address: Restaurant India
Escanchinos
Phone: +351 289 395756
It is such a touristy thing to buy ceramic pottery in Portugal to take home with you, and many shops don't have a very good selection, but SeSil is an exception. Everything is handmade and/or painted and there is a style of pottery for everyone (modern, traditional, flowery, simple...) Most of the pieces are not very expensive, so it is easy to pick a few things and not even spend 50 euros. Also, the owner of the shop is very kind and patient, such as when he had to pack up piece after piece of pottery for our group.
What to pay: Depending on what you choose and how much you get, anywhere from a couple of euros to hundreds.
Written Sep 30, 2005
Address: Rua do Comercio 90A
Phone: (351) 289 393726
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