Chasing Winter Sun: A Weekend Escape to Faro - GATEWAY TO THE ALGARVE

November 2024

Well hello there...

It’s that time of year again—when the dark winter days beg for a sunny escape. This time, my trusty travel crew of study friends and I set our sights on a destination that promised warmth, charm, and something a little off the beaten path. After scanning flights for our chosen weekend, the contenders were intriguing: Catania, Malta, Bari, Malaga, Sofia, or Faro. Each was tempting in its own way, but Faro won out—thanks to its enticing flight schedule and the fact that it was new territory for most of us.

Faro is often treated as just a gateway to the Algarve, with most visitors rushing past on their way to the region’s iconic cliffs and beaches. Would it surprise me, or live up to its understated reputation? I kept my expectations in check, knowing this trip wouldn’t bring me to the dramatic rock formations I still dream of visiting.

Instead, Faro offered something entirely different—and exactly what we needed. Sunlit strolls, unspoiled nature, a charming old town, delicious food, and great company all came together to create a relaxing weekend getaway. It’s not a bustling city trip destination, but that’s precisely its magic. Especially in November, when the low season gives you space to breathe and explore at your own pace.

Practical Wisdom

• Flight Time from Brussels: Approximately 2 hours and 50 minutes. Faro is a direct and convenient hop from Belgium, making it ideal for a quick getaway.

• Airport Proximity: Faro’s airport is just 15 minutes from the city center, making transfers easy and efficient.

• Faro enjoys a mild Mediterranean climate, even in the winter months.

• Faro operates on Western European Time (WET), 1 hour behind Belgium.

Faro is compact and easy to navigate, but there are plenty of transport options to suit your travel style:

• Taxis: Readily available, with metered fares. A trip from the airport to the city center costs about €10–€15.

• Uber: Reliable and often cheaper than taxis. You can conveniently hail a ride via their app.

• Buses: The Proximo buses run regular routes within Faro and surrounding towns. A bus from the airport to the city center costs approximately €2.50.

• Trains: Faro’s train station connects you to other Algarve hotspots, like Albufeira, Lagos, and Tavira. Tickets are affordable, with scenic coastal views along the way.

• Boats: Faro is a great jumping-off point for exploring the stunning Ria Formosa Natural Park by boat. Ferries and tours operate to nearby islands like Ilha Deserta and Ilha do Farol.

• Car Rental: Perfect for exploring the Algarve. Rental services are widely available at the airport and in town, with competitive rates.

• Bike Rentals: Some opt for cycling, especially to visit nearby nature reserves or beaches. For example Formosamar.

The Tourist Hotspots

1. Explore the Old Town (Cidade Velha)

• Cobblestone Streets & Squares: Wander the winding, cobbled alleys lined with whitewashed houses and orange trees. Small squares with inviting terraces offer a perfect spot for a coffee or snack.

• Sé de Faro Cathedral: Climb the cathedral’s tower for panoramic views over Faro, the marina, and the Ria Formosa lagoon. Inside, admire the intricate azulejo tiles and Gothic-Renaissance architecture.

• Bones Chapel (Capela dos Ossos): Part of Igreja de Nossa Senhora do Carmo, this eerie yet fascinating chapel is lined with human bones and skulls, a reminder of the fragility of life.

• City Walls & Harbour: Faro’s ancient walls encircle parts of the Old Town, offering glimpses of the city’s Moorish and medieval past. Nearby, the marina provides a picturesque backdrop with bobbing boats and waterfront cafés.

2. Boat Trip Through Ria Formosa Natural Park

The Ria Formosa Natural Park is a must-see, offering a blend of tranquil beauty and ecological richness. Book a boat tour with companies like Formosamar for an unforgettable day.

• Ilha Deserta (Deserted Island): This pristine island is a haven of solitude. Stroll the stunning beach covered in colorful seashells, breathe in the Atlantic’s salty air, and relax at the island’s only bar/restaurant, Estaminé.

• Ilha do Farol (Farol Island): During summer, this island bustles with life, but in November, it transforms into a quiet escape. Boarded-up homes, empty streets, and the occasional fisherman create a hauntingly beautiful atmosphere. Don’t miss the lighthouse and the golden sunsets that paint the island in hues of yellow, red and purple.

• Return Journey: End your tour with Portuguese music playing as the boat sails back at dusk, the vivid sky reflecting in the still waters, a truly magical moment.

3. Day Trips by Train

Faro’s train station offers easy access to Algarve’s gems, perfect for a day trip.
We visited Tavira.

• Tavira (40 min by train): A picturesque white town with a charming canal, cobblestone streets, and cozy terraces. Explore boutique shops and historical sites, or catch a boat to nearby islands where flamingos gather. (Pro tip: Allow extra time to catch the last return boat if you plan an island excursion!)

• Olhao (15 min by train): Known for its seafood market and traditional fisherman’s vibe. Explore the harborfront or take a ferry to nearby islands.

• Lagos (1.5 hours by train): Famous for its dramatic coastline, golden beaches, and lively atmosphere. Visit Ponta da Piedade, a stunning cliffside spot with grottos and arches.

4. Biking Adventure to Praia de Faro

Rent a bike (€15 for a mountain bike) and cycle from Faro to Praia de Faro, passing salt flats, open landscapes, and planes taking off near the airport. The ride takes about an hour one-way and offers plenty of scenic moments.

Once at the Ria Formosa Nature Park, in Quinta do Lago, you’ll find wooden bridges, peaceful lagoons, and chances to spot flamingos. Nearby, Gigi’s, a secluded restaurant behind the dunes near the ocean, offers a serene lunch spot—though it was closed during our visit.

With limited time before returning the bikes and catching our flight, we skipped exploring Praia de Faro peninsula in depth, but enjoyed the tranquil ride through this beautiful natural area.

5. Other Activities

• Dolphin Watching: Embark on a boat tour to spot playful dolphins in their natural habitat.

• Birdwatching: The Ria Formosa is a haven for bird species, including flamingos, herons, and storks.

• Kayaking or Paddleboarding: Navigate the tranquil lagoons and channels of the park for a closer connection with nature.

Would You Like a Table?

Breakfast:

• Chelsea Coffee & Brunch
  A modern and cozy café in the city centre, the perfect place to kickstart your day. Their menu offers something for everyone, from creamy avocado toast & bagels, eggs and fluffy pancakes to smoothie bowls and fresh coffee. The cheerful ambiance and stylish decor set a relaxing tone for the day ahead. The service is friendly and smooth.

Lunch & Sunset Cocktails:

• O Castelo
  The last day, we went for lunch, to O Castelo. Set near the Old Town walls, this spot offers a stunning view of the Ria Formosa lagoon. On the menu, cheese platters, several fish and meat dishes, club sandwiches, salads, spaghetti Bolognese, etc … Arrive in time for sunset cocktails on the popular terrace, a must-try is the white sangria.

Dinner:

• Aperitivo
  For a vibrant and casual evening, Aperitivo is a fantastic choice. Known for its eclectic menu of tapas and international-inspired dishes, this spot is perfect for sharing plates with friends. Add a glass of wine or a craft cocktail for a lively and flavorful dinner.

• Restaurante Cidade Velha
  At Restaurante Cidade Velha, indulge in traditional Portuguese flavors in a rustic Old Town setting. We tried their Cataplana, a seafood stew bursting with fresh, local ingredients, and their Arroz de Marisco, a delicious and hearty dish. The welcoming atmosphere and authentic cuisine make this spot a highlight of Faro’s dining scene. The desserts: Cheescake and Chocolate Brownie were also hugely appreciated

Good Night, Sleep Tight!

During our stay in Faro, we chose the delightful Tropical Flavour Apartment (offered by Booking.com), located in a beautifully restored and centrally located building, hosting several renting appartments. With two bedrooms and two bathrooms, it offered all the comfort we could ask for while traveling with friends. Being so close to Faro’s main attractions meant we could easily explore the city by foot. The host & hostess were very friendly and easy reachable. We were able to drop our luggage upon arrival and departure and to come and collect it at any time.

Other Great Accommodation Options in Faro to consider:

• Hotel Faro & Beach Club 4*

• Casa Apollo Guesthouse 4*

• AP Eva Senses Hotel 4*

• Roots Hotel 4*

• Alameda Exclusive House

• Dona Simone & Amalia Boutique Suites & Studios by Rita’s Place 4*

• 3HB Faro 5*