Photos

The pretty town of Tavira lies along both sides of the river Gilão, being linked by a bridge of Roman origin.
Up to the 16th century, the town was considered an important centre due to its proximity to the coast of Morocco, having become a base against pirates and upholding Portugal´s positions in Northern Africa.
Tavira is filled with historic churches (21 in all) and magnificent mansions dating mainly from the 16th to 18th centuries (...) and offshore, the island of Tavira offers 11 kilometres (8 miles) of some of the finest beaches in the region, being also part of the Ria Formosa nature reserve and popular among bird-watchers. It can be reached by ferry and is an ideal place for swimming.