The quaint fishing village of Cabanas faces the lagoons of the Ria Formosa Natural Park. Here, yachts and painted wooden boats bob in the smooth waters.
A short walk from the coastal road and pier where boats depart for Ilha de Cabanas, this modern hotel offers an outdoor pool, two restaurants, and free bikes to explore the town. Rooms are simple with contemporary design and offer a balcony.
1. Visit the Church of Nossa Senhora da Anunciacao
The Church of Nossa Senhora da Anunciacao is a 12th-century church in Mertola, Portugal. This beautiful church is the centerpiece of the municipality of Mertola, and is also a popular pilgrimage site for many Catholics.
There are a number of things to do in the area, including taking a boat tour of the Ria Formosa. The town is home to a number of museums and galleries, including the Museu de Arte e Historia do Algarve. There are a variety of shops and restaurants in the area, as well.
This is a great place to visit for families with children, as there is so much to do in the area. It is also a good choice for couples looking to spend some quiet time.
2. Take a Boat Tour of the Ria Formosa
The Ria Formosa is a series of saltwater lagoons and tidal mudflats that protect the coastal areas of the central Algarve from powerful seas. It’s also home to pristine islands and some of the region’s best beaches.
Taking a boat tour of the area is an ideal way to explore the landscapes and wildlife around this unique national park. You’ll be able to see a variety of bird species, observe the lagoon’s ecosystem and visit the island of Cabanas.
The island is home to a small fishing community that lives purely from the sustainable fishing of the lagoon and its waters. It’s a fascinating village to explore, with no cars on the roads and a single main street made of a sand path. You can access the island and its secluded beach by private boat or water taxi. There is also a campsite on the island and several restaurants. The island is a popular destination for visitors looking to escape the seasonal crowds and stroll through the Ria Formosa Natural Park.
3. Visit the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Mercy
The Sanctuary of Our Lady of Mercy is a sanctuary dedicated to the Virgin Mary located at the former residence of the Society of Jesus in Oliveirinha-Cabanas, Portugal. It features a chapel delineated by Corinthian columns, supporting plinths surmounted with simple frieze and cornice, and a triumphal arch that separates the sanctuary from the college. It is a significant shrine in the Roman Catholic Church.
There are a variety of things to do near Casa Da Oliveirinha, including parks and beaches. For shopping and dining options, head to the center of town. The secluded Praia de Cabanas beach is just a short walk away, offering plenty of space to spread out and relax on the sandy shoreline. This pristine beach is often uncrowded, even in summer. This is a great option for families who want to avoid the crowds at the more popular beaches in Tavira.
4. Visit Fado com Historia
The Fado com Historia is a traditional Portuguese show with music, dance and song, and it tells the story of the city of Oliveirinha-Cabanas. The show is a great way to learn about the history of the area, and it also provides an excellent opportunity to sample some traditional Portuguese cuisine.
The best way to get to Fado com Historia is by car, taxi or Uber. There is also a bus service available, but it only runs once per day and isn’t always reliable.
If you’re planning on taking a bus to Fado com Historia, be sure to check out Rome2Rio’s helpful travel guide. It will give you step-by-step directions and help you plan your trip. You can also use the guide to compare ticket prices and travel times. Alternatively, you can also book a private tour through a local company. This is a great option if you want to avoid the crowds and have a more personalized experience.