Praia de Armação de Pêra
BEACH TOWN
Praia de Armação de Pêra is one of the largest and busiest beaches of the Algarve. Once a small town which served the Algarve’s fishing industry (the name Armação means fishing equipment and nets), it is now bustling with bars, restaurants, holiday homes and tourists, particularly in the summer months. The fishing industry still thrives and the east (and most touristy area) flourishes with fishing boats and huts, as well as a number of charming fish restaurants serving only the freshest catches made that day. Once you head west away from the tourist-end of the beach, you begin to see the real beauty of the Algarve, with jagged limestone cliffs and endless dunes, and the marshlands formed by the mouth of the Ribeira de Alcantarilha that are the home to the countless species of birds that migrate to the Algarve each year.
WATER ACTIVITIES
For those looking for a bit of adventure on the sea, Armação de Pêra has a considerable amount to offer. Tourists can hire fishing and pedal boats and explore the hidden coves and caves along the coastline. There are also areas reserved for snorkelling, windsurfing, scuba diving and fishing.
FOOD AND DRINK
The waterfront houses a number of restaurants to suit every palate. If you want to sample the best of Armação de Pêra, then the restaurants the old town serve the very best of local cuisine. Grilled sardines and mackerel are staple. The locals like a good after dinner liqueur and relax with a glass of Aguardente de Medronho. Aguardente is a liqueur made from the strawberry-like fruit called the medronho (which literally stands for strawberry tree). If you do try some, do note it is quite potent and there are a number of different versions to suit your budget so do check.
WALKING
Take some good walking shoes because the countryside around Armação de Pêra is definitely worth a visit. Venture inland for colourful pomegranate orchards and orange groves along with almond, fig and carob trees. You can also get a feel for the charming Algarve architecture.
HEALTHY BREAKS
Wellness holidays in the Algarve are becoming increasingly popular due to the warm climate and five-star resorts offering a variety of Spa treatments. In fact, 20 new spas are due to be completed in 2012. A range of alternative therapies are available in the Algarve ranging from Tai-Chi, Reiki, Homeopathy, Shiatsu, Anti-stress therapy, Meditation and Reflexology.
British Airways offer flights to Faro from £75 pp (one way). Terms and conditions apply. See ba.com/cityoffer for details.