The Algarve - Portugal - page 331

São Brás de Alportel
POP 10,600
Seventeen kilometres north of Faro, this quiet country town provides a welcome break
from the coast. São Brás de Alportel has few attractions in the town proper, but it's a
pleasant place to stroll. There are some excellent activities in the surrounding area, includ-
ing walks and a guided cork route. The town was a hot spot in the 19th-century heyday of
cork and has stayed true to its agricultural roots. It lies in a valley in the olive -, carob-,
fig- and almond-wooded Barrocal region, a lush limestone area sandwiched between the
mountains and the sea.

(OVER)EXPOSING THE ALGARVE

Much of the tourism dollar into Portugal comes from the Algarve. Tourist numbers are not made up of interna-
tional travellers alone; local visitors comprise a large part of the industry - numerous Portuguese have homes in
this sun-kissed region - and many expats have moved here permanently. The massive influx of visitors has led to
ongoing heavy development along much of the Algarve's southern coastline. While the Algarve's tourism in-
dustry provides work - albeit seasonal - to thousands of people, especially the young, some argue that the depar-
ture of Portuguese from their villages is causing an irreversible disintegration of traditions and village life. Con-
cerns have also been raised about the impact on the environment caused by the construction of large (mainly con-
crete) hotels, apartments, shops and restaurants, and the building of major roads. Destruction of coastal areas in-
cluding cliffs and beaches and pressure on water resources are among the issues cited. And while construction is
said to be controlled, it is not always sensitive to its surrounds.
In recent years tourism authorities have focused their efforts on promoting special-interest activities beyond
sun, surf and sand. Through this positive initiative the region's spectacular nature, walks and inland villages have
increasingly been highlighted; however, this promotion has also seen thousands of tourists flock to visit some of
the Algarve's 30-plus golf courses, which have a major environmental impact on an already stretched region, al-
though some courses are adopting environmentally friendly main tenance practices.
When visiting the Algarve think carefully about the impact of your visit on this sensitive region: head inland
(responsibly), be selective about the enterprises you select and consider the impact of the activities you undertake.
The Algarve Tourism Board has some excellent publications to help you get off the beaten track. These include
Rotas: Tours around the Algarve (ideal for those with their own wheels) and Trails in the Algarve, which outlines
some nature trails and cross-country day (or shorter) hikes. Both cost €7.

Sights & Activities

For a fine stroll, follow Rua Gago Coutinho south from the Largo to the 16th-century igreja
matriz (parish church), which has breezy views of orange groves and surrounding valleys.
Nearby, below what was once a bishop's palace, is Jardim da Verbena , a pretty garden with
an interesting fountain. Also here is the municipal swimming pool (

Jun-Sep) and 289 841 243;

a playground .