Olhao - Tavira - Cork Factory - Estoi

Route: Faro - Olhao - Tavira - Cork Factory - Estoi - Faro
Duration: 7 h
The first stop of our tour will be at Olhão where you discover the hidden charm  if you  go up to the top of the main church tower, the higher point. Only then you can see the hundreds of roof terraces - the "açoteias" -, typical of the Algarve. Back at the ground level it is worth wandering trough the fishermen's quarter, which stands between the quay on the Ria Formosa and the earth of the city defined by the main church. The houses here are small and white, their walls topped with bands of geometric decoration that are in effect the verandas of the roof terraces.After short stop we will drive to next place called like Tavira. Walking tour is one of the best ways to discover Tavira, learn legends and history from this city where passed Phoenician, Romans, Visigoths and Arabian people before Portuguese conquest. This walking tour goes all around and pass on Saint Maria Hill, where is the castle and we will visit several monuments, local activities and taste the best Orange juice. Church’s admission included and petisco (tapas) is optional. Tavira is a city with a great history, since the Phoenician times until today. A great Arabic influence and land of tuna fish fisherman's are present in small details through city. The next stop will be at Cork Factory. Immerse yourself in the world of cork on this guided tour. First, visit the Cork Room at the Algarve Costume Museum to see a film and learn about the process from tree to finished product. Then, visit a traditional cork factory to see the process up close, a cork shop to see unique finds made from the material, and take a walk amongst cork trees at a Cork Oak Plantation and see how it’s produced. After we will visit to village Estoi. Being one of the less explored sights of Algarve this place still maintains that traditional, peculiar and authentic feeling of a typical Portuguese village. This unusual vibe along with its Roman Ruins of Milreu and its Palace make Estoi one of the most interesting places. You’ll start off this tour by going back to the Roman occupation of the Iberian Peninsula, in which Faro’s name was Ossónoba, and exploring the tight connections between Algarve’s capital and the Estoi Village. You’ll then visit the Roman Ruins of Milreu, known for their beautiful tiles, roman bath, and for being one of the most well-preserved Roman ruins in Portugal. After exploring Estoi’s Roman past you’ll set off for its Palace, a monument classified as public interest and a unique example of rococo in the South of Portugal. Here, you’ll not only be able to appreciate its interior but also enjoy its beautiful jaw-dropping gardens. At the end of the tour, you’ll explore the village centre where you’ll be amazed by its quirky streets and old houses. After that we will return to Faro.
Price: per person