Discover Faro with ARTEH, the capital of the Algarve and a privelaged summer destination.

September 10, 2006 (PRLEAP.COM) Travel News
When speaking of summer in Portugal, the undeniable destination is the Algarve. The most Southern region of the country hosts all those who perseveringly search for the warm waters of the Atlantic and a bright and generous sun.

Faro, the capital of the Algarve, is a permanently agitated city in the summer, having many interesting locations besides the inevitable beaches.

One of the most interesting aspects is the historic center, found within the Arabic walls, conquered by the King Dom Afonso III in 1249. Take the opportunity to stroll through the straight roman roads, surrounded by cafés and inviting stores. Very attractive for tourists who appreciate a casual conversation on the esplanade and enjoy shopping for craftwork and typical pastry, such as Doces de Massapão – Marzipan Pastry – and the famous Don Rodrigos – made of sweet eggs and almonds.

There are many historically and patrimony rich important places. In the Sé Square, for example, the 18th Century Cathedral is a baroque, gothic and renaissance fusion definitely worth visiting. Prepare yourself mainly for the chapel of Nossa Senhora dos Prazeres, a baroque work of art in gilded carved wood, marble and tile panels. Not far, the Arco da Vila is one of the most notable of the city, originally built by the Italian architect Fabri in 1812, to be an opening between the medieval walls. However during the 90’s a horse shoe shaped door, of Arab origin, was found.

Outside the historic area, there is also a lot to be seen. Such as the Lethes Theater, a former Jesuit College, converted into a beautiful 19th century building that now hosts theaters, occasional exhibitions and concerts. The church of Nossa Senhora do Carmo, an 18th Century Baroque monument that deserves special attention regarding the gilded carved wood in, national style, found on the main chapel. Last, but not least, the Bívar Palace, on Conselheiro Bívar Street, is the best example in the Algarve of neo-classical architecture.

For an unforgettable experience with nature, worth seeing is Ria Formosa’s Natural Park, a protected area of 18.400 hectares that extend along the 60 km coastline, between Garrão Beach (next to the island of Faro) and Mantarrota Beach.




Besides the breathtaking lake landscapes, sandy islands, salt fields and sweet water lakes, this is a natural habitat with great floral and fauna diversity, including rare bird species.

To occupy your time during the day, you have sport activities like golf, tennis and diving. On the other hand, for the bohemian spirits, a number of bars, discos and restaurants are guaranteed to liven up the night.

About the Hotels

To complete the experience and extend sensations in an unforgettable manner, ARTEH® has some of the best charming hotels of the region for an accommodation that are guaranteed to prolong the emotions.

Monte do Casal

A private garden with a view of the sea.

Monte do Casal is nestled in an area of quiet countryside in the Algarve, quite close to the historical village of Estoi, just a few kilometres from Faro International Airport.

This hotel with customised service was born from an attractive 18th century country house, recently refurbished, removed from the hectic bustle of the Algarve’s main cities and protected by lovely gardens with palm trees and bougainvilleas.

The interior spaces are comfortable and elegant, in the rooms the small private terraces where breakfast can be served and their views that extend from the garden into the sea are worthy of special mention.

Pousada Convento da Graça

A century old convent in a city, the inheritance of ancient civilizations.

Pousada Convento da Graça is located in Southern Portugal, in the historical centre of Tavira, a typical city in the Algarve with an inheritance of ancient civilizations. It has been a Phoenician colony, populated by Romans, and also an important city during the Arab occupation.

The façade onto the main square and the noble Baroque inspired staircase, the Renaissance cloister from the 16th and 17th century, as well as the Arab archaeological remains discovered during the refurbishment all standout.

Estalagem Dom Lourenço

A natural paradise to stimulate the senses.


The small and cosy Estalagem Dom Lourenço hides in the Algarve mountain ridge and is part of the stimulating Caldas de Monchique SPA Village, a modern SPA Complex.

This hotel dates from the 17th century when the construction of the ancient inn where it is currently implanted began. Today it is completely refurbished and renovated. Inside, both the delightful living room with a fireplace and the comfortable rooms display a classical simple style that represents the height of good taste.

Hotel Central

Feel the balance between the blueness of the sky and the greenness of the mountain.

Hotel Central is ensconced in the beautiful Monchique mountain ridge in the south of Portugal, within the Caldas de Monchique SPA Village, a small and unique thermal SPA in the Algarve.

After recent renovation this secular hotel has recovered the charm of the 19th century and combined it with indispensable modern comforts. The rooms are comfortable and the lounge area acquired the charm of a private residence.

Hotel Dom Carlos Regis

Discover comfort and well-being whilst being amid nature.

Perfectly integrated into the natural landscape which frames the Caldas de Monchique SPA Complex in the Algarve, the Hotel Dom Carlos Regis is the ideal departure point to benefit from the health and well-being SPA Therapy can offer.

History in this place is long, dating back to Roman times, the first to enjoy these thermal waters, continuing through the Portuguese monarchy, passing by ecclesiastical hands before belonging to the state, all of which throughout the years built the infrastructures for an optimal use of the potential of this SPA.

About ARTEH® – Hotels and Resorts

Best Independent Hotel Chain – Publituris Awards 2004 and 2005

ARTEH® – Hotels and Resorts is a soft brand independent Hotel Chain with a Luxury Collection of Charming & Exclusive Boutique Hotels and Resorts, with Golf and SPA.

For further information on ARTEH® – Hotels and Resorts please visit ARTEH®.

http://www.arteh-hotels.com/