Tavira is situated on the east coast of the Algarve less than half an hours drive from Faro airport.
Tavira is one of the most architecturally attractive towns in the Algarve and its origin dates back to around 1.000 BC. During the occupation of the Algarve by the Moors this town was considered of great importance due to its fishing industry.
Like most of the Algarve, its buildings were virtually all destroyed by the earthquake of 1755. The town has since been rebuilt with many fine 18th century buildings along with 37 churches.
A Roman bridge links the two parts of the town across the River Gilão. You can enjoy a stroll along the river and then relax and enjoy the local cuisine in one of the numerous cafes and restaurants that Tavira has to offer. The area surrounding Tavira is rural and undeveloped, although this too is changing due to the demands of the tourist industry and the opening of golf courses in the area.
The beach can be reached by the ferry boat or by water taxi. This will take you to Ilha de Tavira, an island with beautiful, long sandy beaches. There is a good choice of restaurants, cafes and bars on the island, as well as a campsite.
Close to Tavira you will find the beachfront villages of Santa Luzia and Pedras del Rey. Santa Luzia is a small un-spoilt village and is an excellent place to find good Portuguese restaurants.
In Pedras del Rey there is an olive tree that is said to date back to the 17th century and is probably one of the oldest of its type in Portugal. From here there is a little train that takes you over to Barril beach, which is especially fun for children!
For a selection of dream homes in the Tavira area, click on the link below