The city still boasts temperatures of 25C in September, making it the perfect place to visit for some winter sun
The balmy capital of the Algarve, Faro, still boasts temperatures of 25C in September and has been hailed as one of the top spots for winter sun.
It was given the accolade by the Telegraph’s as part of its 30 Best Winter Sun Destinations. Visiting Faro off-peak is a brilliant way to dodge the throngs of tourists that flock there in the summer months.
Faro’s generous temperatures are complemented by nine hours of daylight, a welcome contrast to the shorter days we experience in Britain during the same period. Plus, there’s a wealth of things to discover.
The city has a rich history dating back to 418 AD, although many of its ancient buildings were destroyed when a massive earthquake struck the region in 1755.
There are numerous picturesque beaches within easy reach of the city, just a short ferry or bus ride away. Coupled with the hot climate, these make perfect spots for sunbathing.
They remain warm enough for sunbathing until October, as this is one of Europe’s driest regions offering the most sunshine hours, reports the Express.
The most accessible is Ilha de Faro, which you can visit by bus from the city centre. This coastline features a long stretch of sand around 5km (3.1 miles) long, with stunning warm blue water that’s ideal for swimming or frolicking in.
Even without its beaches, Faro is a delightful city in its own right, boasting many traditional buildings. Its historical landmarks include the Bishop’s Palace and city hall, but the most intriguing is undoubtedly the Faro Bone Chapel.
The chapel, with its distinct morbid charm, isn’t for the squeamish. Constructed in the 17th century using the bones of Carmelite monks, it boasts over 1,000 skulls.
If that’s not your cup of tea, how about Faro Cathedral? This ancient marvel was erected in the 13th century and narrowly escaped destruction in the 1755 earthquake.
Or perhaps a trip to the city’s renowned Municipal Museum of Faro, a 16th-century convent turned main museum, might pique your interest?
The museum is home to an array of Roman artefacts, including impressive busts of Roman emperors and a stunning Roman mosaic discovered near Faro’s train station in 1926, which was safeguarded in 1976.
Nestled within the city’s narrow streets and pavements in the Old Town, you’ll discover a plethora of cafes, restaurants and bars perfect for an afternoon pit stop to sample the region’s gastronomic delights.
Seafood dominates Faro’s traditional cuisine – expect fresh fish, shellfish and molluscs. The Algarve region is particularly famous for a sweet treat known as Dom Rodrigos, made from fios de ovos (egg yolks finished in syrup, or ‘angel hair’), egg yolk, cinnamon and almonds.
For those seeking a captivating and balmy escape in the coming months, the Algarve’s city of Faro is your perfect destination.