If you want to see more than the, admittedly magnificent, beaches and sea of the Algarve, we suggest some places you really should not miss:
LAGOS
23 km from the Tivoli Almansor, Lagos was formerly the capital of the southern part of the Iberian Peninsula, and was the last port before the Portuguese caravelas set off for their long sea journeys, during the great Discoveries of the 16th century. The Governor's Palace and the Portas de Portugal e do Postigo are attractions not to be missed. Other places of interest are: the Museu Regional, the Pau da Bandeira Fort and the old Slaves' Market. The Lagos Marina is the first stopover for boats coming in from Western Europe to the Algarve, and is thus much sought after on the way in and out of the Algarve by sea.
MONCHIQUE
Wander amongst the charming townhouses, clustered on the hillside, discover the wealth of little churches and stop for a refreshing break at the nearby Monchique Spa.
PORTIMÃO
In this fishermen's town, a visit to the main church (Igreja Mãe) and the Town Hall is a must. Just outside the town, you cannot miss the bustling Praia da Rocha, but do not forgo the lesser-known Roman ruins of Abicada.
SAGRES
Five centuries ago here in Sagres, Prince Henry the Navigator founded the Navigation College, essential to the Portuguese Discoveries and seafaring future. The famous Sagres fortress with its wind rose - a giant rose-shaped compass, of 43 metres in diameter, is well worth a visit. At continental Europe's south westernmost tip, the imposing St Vincent Cape stands guard, a vast horizon in which sea and sky are one.
Other places of interest
Albufeira, Alcoutim, Aljezur, Almancil (the magnificent church of São Lourenço, a true Baroque masterpiece), Alte, Cacela, Carvoeiro, Castro Marim, Estombar, Lagoa, Loulé, Moncarrapacho, Ponta da Piedade, Porches, São Bartolomeu de Messines, Tavira, Vila do Bispo, Vilamoura and Vila Real de Santo António.
Aquatic and Leisure Parks
ZOOMARINE – LIFE IN THE OCEANS
A spectacular OCEANOGRAPHIC PARK PACKED WITH EDUCATIONAL ENTERTAINMENT located in Guia, near Albufeira. On show are dolphins, seals, sharks, turtles, exotic and aquatic birds, alligators and tropical fish. Zoomarine is recognized for the exceptional quality of its shows and exhibitions and for its recent DOLPHIN INTERACTION PROGRAMME. A unique opportunity to get to know and interact with bottlenose dolphins under specialized professional supervision. 90-minute programme including lecture on dolphins, the extraordinary ambassadors from the oceans. Also includes preparation, equipment and contact with the dolphins in the water for approximately 30 minutes.
LAGOS ZOO
Wild life from around the world together with many local species have found a natural and extensive habitat in the village of Barão de S. João, in the Algarve mountains.
KRAZY WORLD
Entertainment park in Algoz with mini-golf (Krazy Golf & Jungle Golf), petting-farm, pony rides, fun fair, swimming pool, restaurant and “Amazonian” park with crocodiles, snakes, turtles, lizards, mammals and birds. When weather permits, live shows are given with the reptiles.
SLIDE & SPLASH
Considered one of Europe's best waterparks, it is located a few minutes away from Lagoa, Praia do Carvoeiro, Portimão and Praia da Rocha and has fun and games for all the family.
AQUALAND - THE BIG ONE!
The Water Park is normally open from May to September. Our doors are open to the public daily from 10.00 a.m. Entrance prices are minimal and available on request from your Rep or hotel reception.
May we suggest some tours?
JEEP SAFARI (with lunch)
Experience the thrill of true 4 by 4, across rivers and streams, or relax and swim in the crystal clear mountain lakes and streams.
DAY CRUISES
Departing from the Marina de Lagos, discover the marvellous beaches and rock formations of the Algarve coast, on board a catamaran, with the utmost comfort and safety. Do not miss a trip to the Ponta da Piedade caves. From the Marina de Lagos to the Forte Ponta da Bandeira, you will come across any number of fishermen who will be glad to take you on an unforgettable boat trip.
SEVILLE (1 day)
Spend a day discovering this fascinating historical city, founded by the Romans, with its unique people and culture.
HISTORICAL ALGARVE - (1 day)
Visit Silves's Moorish Castle, the Cork Museum, Monchique with its handicrafts, Lagos, so closely linked to the Portuguese Discoveries and Sagres.
TRIP UP THE GUADIANA RIVER
An unforgettable 2 in 1 trip combining cruise and safari, along the Guadiana River.
For information and bookings, contact the Tivoli Lagos's Concierge, who can also provide you with more information on other activities such as:
Golf - Tivoli Lagos is located close to some of the Algarve's best golf courses and we our clients have access to special conditions and prices. Visit our Golf Page.
Scuba Diving
Deep sea fishing
Sailing
For more information on the Algarve, visit these websites:
Algarve Tourist Board
Lagos