Alvor is a popular resort with families because of its quiet tranquility and wide sandy beach. The old village faces a natural lagoon opening onto the sea and has narrow cobbled streets and meandering alleys. The fishing boats of the harbour provide freshly caught fish for the town’s many good restaurants and provide a colourful backdrop to the setting sun.

The original village, said to have been founded by Hannibal in 182 BC, was originally known as Portus Hannibalis and is also the death-place of the famous Portugese King Jao II. Much of the village and its castle were destroyed in the devastating earthquake in 1755, but the original 16th century Parish Church largely survived and has a magnificent doorway.

The resort has bloomed in recent years and become a popular place for a villa holiday in the sun. The lively streets now have a collection of bars and restaurants which will cater to most tastes, but the traditional fish restaurants of the harbour area still remind us of the town’s heritage. Whitewashed cubic houses reside in sleepy narrow lanes, but there are plenty of bars and restaurants to spend your time in.

Nearby resort of Lagos and Ferragudo have further attractions. The unspoilt fishing villages of Praia da Luz, Salema and Burgau are all within a 20 minute drive. The commercial town of Portimao is close by, and the famous beaches of Praia da Rocha and Praia da Vau are a popular visit for families seeking good beaches to visit on their villa holiday.