Quarteira
Quarteira
Located between Vilamoura and Faro , Quarteira was once a small fishing village that has now become a resort town. Because of the big amount of apartment blocks and hotels built over the last few years, it is not the most scenic town in the Algarve . However, it is perfect if you're looking for a laid-back holiday destination. Quarteira not only features a beautiful beach with golden sand that stretches for more than 2 km and a calm sea suitable for children but also offers excellent tourist facilities. All these qualities make it a popular choice amongst families and retirees.
How To Get Here
With an amazing location in the middle of the Algarve coastline , it should be easy to get to Quarteira. The nearest airport is located 22 km away, in Faro. From there, you can book a transfer, use public transportation - there are direct buses from Faro, but not from the airport - or rent a car and drive along the IC4 to Quarteira. A car is a perfect choice if you want to explore other towns in the region. Another tip is to avoid taxis parked at the airport as the journey tends to be a bit pricey.
What To Do
One of the best things to do in Quarteira is to go to the beach. Praia da Quarteira stretches for more than 2 km of golden sand and calm sea waters. That said, it is perfect if you're traveling with kids. Located right in front of the apartment blocks, it also offers amazing tourist facilities, so you won't have to walk far to reach a restaurant or the supermarket. O n the Eastern side of Quarteira, you will find Praia do Forte Novo, a calmer beach away from the high-rise buildings. If you ever get tired of laying at the beach, there is a variety of water sports to practice and an amazing waterpark nearby named Aquashow.
Lined by palm trees and parallel to the beach, Avenida Infante de Sagres - also known as the "Marginal" - is one of the landmarks of the town where people usually walk at night. There, you will find all sorts of shops, restaurants, and bars. If you're a party-goer, Quarteira might not be the ideal location for you as its nightlife is much calmer than other towns in the Algarve, such as Albufeira or Vilamoura . However, Vilamoura is only a 15-minute walk away and there you will find a bunch of bars and nightclubs where you can have some fun. Even if you're not into partying, Vilamoura deserves a visit as it is very different from Quarteira and will give you another perspective of the region. In this resort town, you can find a posh marina and seven highly-rated golf courses worth visiting if you're a fan of golf.
What To See
Because it is a modern resort town, you won't find many historical monuments to visit. However, Quarteira has a very central location in the Algarve so if you want to learn more about the region's past, you might want to consider renting a car to explore nearby towns. In Vilamoura, you can find the Roman ruins named Cerro da Vila and in Almancil you will be able to witness the beauty of the São Lourenço Church, covered with hand-paited tiles (azulejos) depicting the life of Christ.
Where To Eat
As any other town in the Algarve, Quarteira offers a variety of tasty food with the emphasis on the fresh fish and seafood. Because it is one of the most affordable towns in the region, you won't have trouble finding a restaurant that is both delicious and affordable. La Cabane is a popular choice amongst tourists and locals. But if you're looking for a fine dining experience, then head to Vilamoura.
Smart Tips
If you're staying in Quarteira, WarmRental recommends that you don't miss the opportunity of taking a few day trips to discover other towns in the Algarve. Rent a car and go discover Faro, the center of the region where you will be able to discover an Old Town surrounded by ancient Moorish walls, or Albufeira , where you can discover some of the most beautiful beaches in Europe. Both cities will give you a different perspective of the Algarve and show you what Portugal’s southernmost region is all about.