These areas are beautiful, and in the south of Portugal's Algarve, there is a gem called Alcoutim. It is the perfect destination because it is rich in history, surrounded by lush green hills, and borders the tranquil banks of the Guadiana River. However, if you want to go to a quieter, less touristic location, it is a must-visit, at least in spring when everything is green and blooming. By the end of this guide, you will have a wealth of local knowledge and be prepared to explore Alcoutim.
What to See in Alcoutim
A Glimpse into Traditional Algarvian Life
Alcoutim is an untouched place that retains the original Algarve's flavor. This town is truly one of the most beautiful ones I have ever seen; its imprint of cobbled streets seems to have been taken out of the Middle Ages. The tiny whitewashed houses and narrow lanes remind us of the situation a hundred years ago and give a relatively peaceful impression. That is why this quiet town depicts the people's actual way of life, without the influence of modern advancement.
It is a small, friendly town with friendly and straightforward people; major activities include farming and carpentry. For lovers of handicrafts, it is possible to find wooden or clay ornaments and traditional clothes—blankets made from wool or towels from linen—in the neighboring villages. For instance, Martim Longo is famous for its blacksmith works and homemade puppets. Santa Justa town is well-known for its beautiful linens. A simple walk through these regions can give you an idea of what the artisanal industry in Portugal looked like.
The Still and Beautiful Nature of Alcoutim
Those who prefer to avoid the clichés of the overpopulated beach sights in the Southern Algarve would enjoy the nature around Alcoutim. Its hilly nature and vegetation department provide the best environment for a calm and serene walk. Several trails for hiking are present, running through the hills and featuring beautiful sights with plants, especially in spring with the beautiful flowers of the region.
It also accommodates bird watchers and tourists who like taking natural photos of the region due to its natural scenery. Do not rush around the area; lie down in the grass in different parts of it and watch the beauty of the landscape. Regardless of whether you choose to go walking, cycling, or have a leisurely walk around the village, the relaxed atmosphere of it guarantees a comfortable rest.
The Guadiana River: A Natural Border
A Natural Border Alcoutim is located on the Portuguese side of the Guadiana River, which serves as a border with Spain. On the other side of the bridge, you have a magnificent view of the Spanish village of Sanlúcar de Guadiana. The river is the central, most apparent aspect emphasized in Alcoutim. However, because of its currents, wading through water in the Guadiana is not advisable. But for a safer and leisurely swim, there is the Praia Fluvial do Pego Fundo—a river beach that is a little northwest of the town.
Praia Fluvial do Pego Fundo: A Unique River Beach
The Praia Fluvial do Pego Fundo is a unique river beach.Praia Fluvial do Pego Fundo differs from other famous beaches in the south of the Algarve region. It is located on the Guadiana River's shores. Although frequented by many Portuguese, it is still little known among foreign visitors. This is a great place for sunbathing and swimming. The water is clean and clear, and the surrounding area is densely wooded.
Those who are eager to get some commodities, food and beverages, and showers and parasols, as well as the beach bar "Tá-se Bem Beach Club" for_dataset. Firstly, the visually appealing "Tá-se Bem Beach bar" offers visitors food and drinks, along with the necessary showers and parasols.
Exploring Alcoutim's Historical Landmarks
The Castle of Alcoutim
The Castle of Alcoutim is an excellent tourist attraction because it stands on a hill just above the town of Alcoutims. The Moors, who ruled over the border between Portugal and Spain in the 14th century, constructed this castle, which boasts a beautiful view over the countryside and the Guadiana River. A stroll through the castle transports one to the medieval era, bringing to mind the confrontation between Portugal and Spain.
In the castle, there is also a tiny archeological exhibition and museum of Alcoutim's history during the war. Recovered products from the castle and surrounding regions provide insights into possible events. The structures that once formed the castle of Sanlúcar de Guadiana, located on the opposite bank of the river, were firing shots at the castle with cannonballs during the medieval period, which renders historical value.
The Church of Nossa Senhora da Conceição
The Church of Nossa Senhora da Conceicao is another point of interest. This church was constructed during the 16th century and received later additions during the 17th century. This church is still stunning because it has an old, arched doorway to it. The church is related to Nossa Senhora da Conceição, Portugal’s patroness. The altar has pieces of carved giltwood dating from the 18th century. The church is a beautiful example of stability and a shelter with antique religious and cultural traditions and customs of local people.
Cross the River to Sanlúcar de Guadiana
For an international experience outside the Algarve Region, cross the Guadiana River with a short ferry ride to Sanlúcar de Guadiana in Spain. The Castillo de San Marcos, a medieval castle standing on a hilltop overlooking the village, is the focus here. Compared to Alcoutim, Sanlcar offers breathtaking scenery and a friendlier, less intrusive atmosphere, enhancing the tranquility inherent in Portugal.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Alcoutim is during the spring, which spans from March to May, as previously mentioned. It is at tDuring this time, the countryside surrounding the town is verdant, wild flowers are in their peak reproductive season, and the weather is relatively cool, making it ideal for hiking and other physical activities on the nature trails and historical and archaeology sites.
In addition, the annual Festival do Contrabando takes place in the last week of March, featuring various performances, craft markets, and a floating pontoon connecting Portugal and Spain. If you're seeking a less crowded season, the early autumn months of September to October offer an ideal climate.
Where to Stay:
Where to Stay Alcoutim
Hotel D'Alcoutim: It’s a three-star hotel with a swimming pool, a beautiful garden, a river view, and cozy rooms. The most popular location for many people is this hotel in there, which is famous for its hospitality, especially in preparing mouth-watering breakfasts for its patrons.
HI Alcoutim – Pousada de Juventude: An affordable youth hostel with single and double rooms and shared dormitories. Travelers searching for a company and an inexpensive way to tour the area will find it ideal.
Don't Miss: Festival do Contrabando
Suppose you're planning a trip in March. In that case, you should not miss the Festival do Contrabando (Smuggler’s Festival), a three-day event in both towns, Alcoutim and Sanlucar de Guadiana. With its street performances, crafts, and music, this festival marks the region’s smuggling past. One of the most attractive sights of the festival are the pontoons that bridge the Guadiana River between Spain and Portugal, which thousands of tourists cross every year.
Getting to Alcoutim
It is an approximate hour's drive from Faro airport and a mere 30 minutes from the Algarve coast, and it can make the perfect day’s excursion or a sleepy vacation. The town has no train station, but the roads are passable, and it is perhaps the best country to drive in.
Alcoutim is an underrated destination in the Algarve, capturing the essence of the real Algarve away from the beach crowd. Whether it’s the historic areas, the delicious food, or the riverbanks, you want to explore. In that case, it is a place that has just the right combination of province nature, province culture, and province history.
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