Lagoa is a very pretty hill town of whitewashed houses that used to rise above a lagoon. Now only the name remains as well as the delicious local wine! The town is very traditional. The cultural centre of Lagoa was originally built in 1710 as the Convent of Saint Joseph, but it fell into disrepair and opened as the cultural centre after a major renovation. You will see exhibitions of paintings, photography and sculpture. The Igreja de Nossa Senhora da Luz, which means Church of Our Lady of Light, is beautiful and worth a visit. The Lady in Red art gallery is located in an unused industrial space of a big wine producer. It is a stunning display of modern art.
Near the town Estombar you will find a park called the Municipal Park of the Springs. It surrounds a spring of the Arade River and is wonderful for picnics. It is also a great place to swim and makes a change from the beach.
Quinta dos Vales Wine Estate offers wine tours. You will see some colourful sculptures in the garden which give it a unique character. The tours are informative and the wine delicious.
Ferragudo is a typical fishing village on the banks of the Arade river. In the village, you will see traditional white houses with typical chimneys. It is so charming with its church on the top of the hill. On the other side of the river, you can see the picturesque Portimao.
Silves is peaceful and unhurried and is a joy to explore. The wonderful red brick castle, Gothic cathedral, town walls and the daily market are lovely. The atmosphere is so warm and cheerful when wandering around the open-air cafes and restaurants, cobbled streets and charming shops.