Excursions and local dining
The apartment is a perfect base from which to get out and explore the many towns, villages and areas of special interest that the Costa de la Luz and the Portuguese Algarve have to offer. The roads are uncrowded making driving a relaxing and enjoyable experience. Car hire is recommended.
The nearest town is Ayamonte, a beautiful pedestrianised town , beckoning you to explore with an array of cafes, tapas bars and restaurants. Stroll along the marina with it's beautiful yachts, visist the morning market or climb to the viewpoint at sunset. The town boasts a magnificent cultural heritage which can be seen in it's Baroque churches and whitewashed houses. Other places to visit are listed below.
Vila Real de Sto. Antònio
Should you feel like a change of country then let the ferry from Ayamonte take you on the ten minute trip across the river Guadiana to the charming Portuguese town of Vila Real De Santo Antonio. Spanish people cross the river to buy sheets, towels, Portugese wine (vinho verde, slightly sparkling white wine) and Port (Oporto). There are several good restaurants in Villa Real serving local dishes such as cataplana (a tasty seafood and rice stew) or frango piri piri (spicy chicken). The almond deserts and cakes are also delicious.
Castro Marim 6 km
Looking across the Guadiana to Spain, the sandstone walls of its medieval castle enclose the ruins of an even older castle dating back to the 12C. The parapet walk gives a wonderful view over the small city with the 17C Forte de São Sebastião in the foreground, the salt marshes, the Guadiana, the bridge between Portugal and Spain, and the Spanish town of Ayamonte to the east and Vila Real de Santo António and the coast to the south.
Alcoutim 40km
Take a leisurly drive following the Guadiana river up to this pretty hilltop village and enjoy lunch overlooking the river. You can also take the short ferry hop to Sanlucar de Guadiana on the Spanish side. On the way back why not stop at one of many vista points and just enjoy the sound of silence.
Tavira 30km
Tavira is one of the most architecturally attractive towns in the Algarve and its origin dates back to around 2.000 BC. From Tavira castle you can enjoy beautiful views of the area, with its white houses and red roofs. Stroll across the stunning Roman bridge linking the two sides of Tavira across the river Gilao. Alternatively,take the road train around the town, it's a great way to see the sights. The train Runs once an hour starts from the cobbled footbridge. Cost 10 euros for three people.
The Doñana national park 100km
A mecca for nature lovers and definitely worth a visit. It is situated within the Huelva province, about 100 kms from Ayamonte. Here you will find unique species of birds and animals including the imperial eagle and the Iberian lynx. Take a jeep ride to see the best sights (advance booking may be required). Specialised bird watching tours are also available from guides with in depth knowledge.
Huelva 60km
Discover the story of Christopher Colombus.
On the outskirts of the city of Huelva is La Rabida the monastery where Christopher Columbus stayed before he set off on his epic journey of discovery to America.
Nearby, on the Río Tinto estuary, the Muelle de las Carabelas) is a waterfront exhibition with life-size replicas of Columbus's three ships: the Niña, the Pinta and the Santa María, built for the 500th anniversary celebrations in 1992. The museum next to the boats has details of Columbus's life, regular video screenings and a café.
Seville 130km
A visit to this stunning city is a must if you can drag yourself away from relaxing. There are a number of ways to explore, by foot, by sightseeing bus or you can take a horse and carriage ride.
EATING OUT
There are some lovely restaurants in the Isla Canela marina area giving a variety of choice including Spanish, French, Italian and Australian and you will find authentic chiringuitos at the beach area. Ayamonte town has the largest dining options with plenty of tapas bars and restaurants including a highly recommended Lebanese restaurant.
