Interesting facts about Olhao, Algarve
Romantic sail cruises, long walks, beach sports and swimming with the tuna? These are just a few of the Interesting facts about Olhao, Algarve.
Olhao is now a prominent Portuguese center, helping boost the country’s tourist industry year by year, being the target for many foreign travelers. But in the past, it used to be a fishermen’s village, as many other cities in the Algarve. First mentioned as Olham in a 14th-century document, Olhao has been an oasis of peace and beauty for the most part of its existence. Nevertheless, under French occupation during the Peninsular Wars, the people rose against the regime and managed to evict the French army both from the city and later the entire Algarve, making Olhao an important historical place in Portugal.
Today, Olhao is mainly a welcoming resort by the shores of the endless Atlantic Ocean, particularly popular among the British, French or Scandinavian tourists who come here to escape the cold from their home countries.
Interesting facts about Olhao, Algarve
Olhao comprises the city per se and Armona Island, an excellent place for diving and swimming, full of cafes, clubs and beach houses, ideal for tourists. The island is best loved for its main beaches, Fuseta Mar and Armona Mar.
Cruises on the gentle waves of the Atlantic Ocean are a popular attraction families, but also for lovers in for a bit of romanticism.
All the littoral coast of Olhao is part of the Nature Park of Ria Formosa, a protected humid zone of worldwide importance.
Recently, swimming with the… tuna has also become an option if you are travelling to Olhao, something unique in Portugal, just one of the many tour and diving experiences you can try in this small but beautiful Algarve haven.
Transport is an important aspect for travellers in the Algarve, so make sure you have a rental car or a Faro airport transfer at your disposal whenever you are in Portugal.
