Alvor
The village of Alvor sits in a sheltered lagune, midway along the curving coastline of the Bay of Lagos. It was founded well before the time of Christ and probably used by the seafaring Carthaginians. It is now a haven for local fishermen and, even more so, for holidaymakers, who mingle in the narrow streets leading down to a big, beautiful beach. All around Alvov is being modernised. There are fine hotels and new complexes. The promenade along the front of the village is new, too, but it adds to the charm of the old village.
Take a look at the 16th century parish church and note in particular the main doorway. It is an example of the Manueline style of ornamental architecture, which reflected the wealth and exuberance that prevail eden Portugal at the time of the late 15th century discoveries.
A good place to sit around and watch people is down by Alvor's fish market at one end of the new promenade
The Alvor lagune is a must see for nature lovers and birdwatchers. Small roads are leading to the quiet side of the lagune.
Omega Parque Zoo
Omega Parque is a zoo set in beautiful mountains of the Algarve. It is specialising in endangered animals such as limos, crowned sifakas, bamboo lemurs, cheetah, oryx etc. It offer a great day out both educational and entertaining.
Directions: On the main road from Portimao to Monchique, on the right hand side look for sign & parking area before village of Caldas. You can also take the Frota Azul Monchique bus from Portimao.
Slide and Splash aqua park.
Slide & Splash .
The aqua park is rated high in Algarve. There are a great variety of rides for all ages & a jacuzzi for mum, and large gtreen ground for rest, games and recreation. There can be queues for refreshments in the busy season, so maybe take your own picnic, and do watch out for sunburn and keep replacing the suncream.
Directions: Situated on the E125 about 5 minutes from Lagoa.
ZooMarine
Zoo Marine The main attraction are dolphins who give three shows a day in a large arena. The shows are roughly half an hour each, and there's enough of them to last you a day. The shows are very entertaining and original, which makes it good value. It is possible to join dolphins in the water for a "dolphin experience" but you must pre-book. There are seals & sea lions also giving three shows a day and you can also see the aquarium with numerous sea creatures and small tiger sharks. There are also parrot shows, a play area, theme rides and a swimming pool.
Directions: Zoo Marine is situated on the E125 near Albufeira on a very dangerous corner on the left hand side. There is a loop road which allows you to cross the road and join traffic going in the opposite direction so that your turning is a simple and safer right turn but even then it is pretty scary!
Krazy World
Krazy world is just an ideal family outing place. Some people like it so much that buy an unlimited pass. There is a huge mini golf, swimming pool, a petting farm where you can make friends with llamas, deer, wallabies, camels, and more. There are quad bikes, pony rides, a crocodile park and several other attractions which are addae regulary. In summer their are live shows showing different animals.
Directions:From Portimao - Take the IP1 motorway (becomes the IC4) towards Faro. Leave motorway at Algoz, Follow the signs to Krazy World, Turn LEFT at the "Heavy Trucks Only" sign when approaching Algoz, Follow the signs RIGHT to Krazy World through Algoz, Turn LEFT at the T-junction, Cross the railway line,Drive past "Churrasqueira Rodrigues" restaurant and bar on your left hand side.Cross the "one-car" bridge.Turn right into Krazy World (approximately 500 metres after the bridge).
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