ALGARVE

EUROPE

• Spain
• Canary Islands
• The Balearic Islands
• Portugal
• The Algarve
• Maderia
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FARAWAY PLACES

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The Algarve

The Algarve has everything, beautiful beaches, world-class golf courses, superb cuisine and some of the friendliest people you will ever meet. Travel a few miles inland from the hustle and bustle of the main resorts and you will see why the Algarve is so famous for its superb hospitality and friendliness.

Dialysis is available under the EHIC/GHIC in Portimao, Faro and Tavira. All the units provide double and single needle and dialyse every day except Sunday. Transport is available from certain resorts to the Portimao clinic, but this is ambulance transport.

Portimao

Portimao is a sailor’s delight, thanks to its calm waters and beautiful conditions. Plenty of elite international competitions happen here, but you don’t have to be a professional to set sail. Cruising the coast on the double-masted Santa Bernarda pirate ship is a family favorite. On dry land, you can wander the lovely Alvor boardwalk, enjoy a succulent seafood meal or zip around the go-kart track at the Autódromo Internacional do Algarve.

Faro

The Algarve’s capital has a more distinctly Portuguese feel than most resort towns. Many visitors only pass through this underrated city, which is a pity, as it makes for an enjoyable stopover. It has an attractive marina, well-maintained parks and plazas, and a historic old town full of pedestrian lanes and outdoor cafes. Its student population of 8000 ensures a happening nightlife, and its theatre scene is strong. Marvellously preserved medieval quarters harbour curious museums, churches and a bone chapel. The lagoons of the Parque Natural da Ria Formosa and nearby beaches, including the islands of Ilha de Faro to the southwest and Ilha da Barreta (aka Ilha Deserta) to the south, add to Faro’s allure.

Tavira

Set on either side of the meandering Rio Gilão, Tavira is arguably the Algarve’s most charming town. The ruins of a hilltop castle, an old Roman bridge and a smattering of Gothic and Renaissance churches are among its historic attractions. An enticing assortment of restaurants and guesthouses makes it an excellent base for exploring the Algarve’s eastern reaches. Tavira is ideal for wandering; the warren of cobblestone streets hides pretty, historic gardens and shady plazas. There’s a small, active fishing port and a modern market. Only 3km from the coast, Tavira is the launching point for the stunning, unspoilt beaches of Ilha de Tavira.