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Touring the Algarve by Car |
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DISTANCES
The Algarve, the southern-most region of Portugal, is one of Eruope´s most popular holiday destinations. Due to the importance of its position on the world map, this province was at one time its own Kingdom. It has been invaded and fought over by the Phoenicians, Romans and Moors. The Algarve stretches from the Spanish Border in the east to the dramatic headland of Cape St Vincent in the West. The length of the south-facing coastline is approx. 155 kilometres.The old "EN125" main road runs along the coast and has now been partially replaced by a new dual carriageway "Via do Infante" which starts at the border to Spain and stretches west to Lagos. The golden beaches, secluded mountain villages, picturesque appeal, historical monuments,and friendly coastal towns offer a wonderful variety of places to visit, making it one of Europe´s most popular holiday destinations.
There are many places of interest, and a few you certainly should not miss. This week, and introduction to Lagos. Lagos has become a modern, cosmopolitan town whilst still keeping its soul. You will find good shopping, delectable pastries and a peaceful balance between the local traditions and modern reality. It has its roots in the ancient Roman settlement of Lacóbriga. It it probable that prior to the Romans the Phoenicians had a settlement on, or close, to the present town. Several famous ships masters on the original voyages licensed by Prince Henry, hailed from Lagos. Sebastian, the boy king, set off from here for El Ksar-el Kbir, where he was captured, leaving Portugal to lose her independence to the Spanish. Lagos was the capital of the Algarve until 1756, following the earthquake of 1755, much of the infrastructure was destroyed, and the capital was transferred to Faro. One of the best ways of discovering the historical centre of Lagos is to walk round the city walls. Some places to see in Lagos are: The Old Slave Market, Church of Saint Sebastian, and Ponte da Bandeira Fortress. Higher up, Porta da Piedade, is a great vantage point with views over the cliffs and sea, well worth the steep climb.
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