Quarteira
Although often overshadowed by the nearby Vilamoura, the quaint town of
Quarteira in the Algarve region of Portugal is a beautiful and affordable
tourist destination that has many loyal visitors coming back time after time.
Located in the municipality of Loule, where Vilamoura and the golf haven of
Quinta do Lago can also be found, Quarteira is a coastal town and is most famous
for its two kilometres of golden beach, which is at Blue Flag status, which
means it has been screened for environmental excellence.
Quarteira was once a small fishing village, evolving into a tourist spot over
the years. The older part of the town can still be found around the newly
developed apartment complexes, especially built for holiday makers that seek
warmer climates in the winter months. Algarve is found in the south of Portugal,
which is known for its vacation resorts, and although Quarteira is not as
upscale as the other Algarve resorts, it has proven to hold its own. The aqua
show is a major crowd drawer, as well as Fonte Santa, found to the east of
Quarteira, where a spring is known to have healing qualities.
Among its main attractions is the beautiful sandy beach and the promenade by
which the beach can best be accessed. Dotting the promenade is a row of
restaurants which feature the best of both English and Portuguese cuisines.
Shopping is mildly exciting in Quarteira, but the most gorgeous traditional
Portuguese embroideries and linens can be found in most shops. Avid shoppers
must visit the gypsy market every Wednesday, where they'll find rare traditional
Portuguese trinkets and treats.
Fresh fish from the local fishermen are a daily treat in Quarteira; what the
cuisine may lack in international diversity is made up with the freshest meals
in Europe. If you are hoping for a more cosmopolitan marina, next door Vilamoura
will definitely oblige, with a lavishly diverse pick of upscale restaurants and
shops on the harbour, and its own casino. There is a day cruise that can be
booked from either Quarteira and Vilamoura, costing only 15 euros per guest.
If you are planning a budget vacation, staying in Quarteira yields big savings
because you'll find highly affordable lodgings and accommodations in Quarteira
while being able to enjoy what Vilamoura has to offer as well. Taking a taxi to
Vilamoura will only cost 4 or 5 euros, or you may hire a car rental to shuttle
you and your family back and forth for the duration of your stay. Both Vilamoura
and Quarteira are only a twenty minute drive from Faro international airport.
The tall blocks of holiday apartment that can be found in Quarteira are not the
only accommodations in Quarteira, there are a number of two to four star hotels
in the town, all overlooking the beach. Hotel Dom Jose is highly recommended, as
is Hotel Quarteirasol, which is in the very heart of the town. If you would like
a more cozy vacation, Hotel Praia Sol provides more intimate accommodations with
its small number of rooms set in a private garden. It is also easily accessible
to both the Quarteira city center and walking distance from Vilamoura.
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