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Algarve
At the Southernmost of Portugal is a brightly colored region called Algarve. It is a rustic countryside with its orange groves, fig trees and almond trees showcasing what is known to be the most verdant and fertile region of Portugal.
In the northern part of Algarve, the ranges of Espinhaço de Cão, Monchique and Caldeirão shelter the coast from strong winds.
The landscape features a breadth of sights. One can look forward to seeing the rich history influenced by various cultures that is typical of Portugal. Cathedrals, churches, fortresses, museums and ruins built as early as the 16th century top the list. In the towns, one will find medieval houses with Gothic windows and portals, Roman architecture, Arab decor and Moorish designs. Traversing the countryside, one finds the Roman ruins of Milreu in Faro. Going further, there is also the Regional Museum, Pau da Bandeira Fortress and the old slave market in Lagos. Monchique and Fóia boasts of its famous thermal spa situated some 2959 feet high, overlooking the hills and the Atlantic ocean. The town of Silves boasts of the 16th century religious sculpture of the Cross of Portugal. Of course, lining this Southern region are the inviting long beaches of the coastline highlighted by rugged red cliffs and grottoes.
There is a wealth of available water sports facilities at the marinas of Vilamoura and Lagos, among the various ports and harbours. Resorts in the region also have other facilities such as tennis courts, golf courses, luxury hotels or quaint holiday accomodations and an exciting nightlife for visitors and locals alike. It is recommended that visitors come in July and August when the weather is ideal for playing golf and other sports.
Being at the tip of Portugal, the Algarve region has its own highway and coastal road and Faro International Airport.