Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
minimum four people ), two-hour guided cycling tours (€25), and numerous guided walk-
ing tours inland from Faro. Its 2½-hour boat trips take small boats (up to 12 people) in
some of the narrower channels in the lagoon (€25), providing participants with a close-to-
nature experience from Olhão. Two-hour kayaking trips depart from Olhão (€30).
Animaris
( 918 779 155, 917 811 856;
www.ilha-deserta.com
)
Runs trips to Ilha da Barreta (Ilha Deserta).
Boats leave from southeast of the marina, in front of the walls of Cidade Velha (Old
Town).
BOAT TOUR
Festivals & Events
FOOD
Seafood Festival
Held annually at the end of July/beginning of August, this is the place for pescatarians and
seafood-lovers. Fishers and others set up stalls and prepare their wares, from crustaceans
to other ocean delights. Concerts add to the fun atmosphere.
FolkFaro
The city's big folk festival features lots of dance (with local and international folk
groups), live music and street fests. It's held over a week in late August at various venues
around town.
MUSIC
Feira de Santa Iria
In late October Faro's biggest traditional event honours St Irene with fairground rides,
stalls and entertainment. It takes place in a temporary fairground to the northeast, by the
municipal fire station.
RELIGIOUS
FINDING A BED
During July and August thousands of Portuguese and foreign visitors flock to the Algarve. Faro airport - the re-
gion's main transport hub - experiences tens of daily inbound and outbound flights a day. During this time, most
visitors have prebooked package accommodation. For the independent traveller, it can be tricky to front up and
expect to find a bed with no reservations; try and reserve a night or two in advance. Prices, too, are at their
highest. In most places you can expect to pay considerably less in
mais tranquilo
(quieter) times. Check hotel
websites for special deals.
