Located just under 10 km from the city of Faro, Olhão is a county with 5 towns — Olhão, Quelfes, Pechão, Fuseta, and Moncarapacho — that sits on land that stretches throughout the nationally protected Ria Formosa to the Barrocal of Algarve.
Olhão offers an enticing blend of history, culture, and nature that’s hard to resist. From its unique architecture and maritime tales to its vibrant markets and proximity to the Ria Formosa, there’s no shortage of fascinating things to do in Olhão:
1 – Explore the Path of the Legends
Olhão, often regarded as the Algarve’s fishing capital, has deep roots intertwined with the sea. Its origins date back to the Moorish era, with its narrow streets and unique cubic houses bearing testimony to its ancient architectural influences. The town flourished in the 17th century as a prominent fishing port, and this maritime legacy remains evident even today. The Path of Legends is a pedestrian walkway through the narrow streets of Olhão, connecting five neighbourhoods. In each of these five locations, there are eye-catching statues and other artistic creations, all of which are accompanied by signage telling captivating tales which reflect the history and the colourful nature of the region. Follow it to understand more about the history and heritage of this wonderful town:
THE FLORIPES LEGEND – (PRAÇA PATRÃO JOAQUIM LOPES)
Floripes could be seen, occasionally, in the rooftops of the houses of Olhão. The beautiful and enchanted moorish lady, was tempting the mens, daring them to cross the ” Ria Formosa”, or the ocean, with a lamp lit in their hands. Whatever he achieved, he would own his heart and the kingdom of his missing father. Those who failed, drowned.
ARRAÚL – THE ALGARVE LOVER (LARGO JOÃO DA CARMA)
Arraúl was the beautiful son of the Hercules columns chief guard and Atlantis only survivor.
One day Arraúl was caught by a storm that swept him into the deep sea while a whale swallowed him.
Despite his misfortune, the young man survived and the whale brought him ashore at the prainhas site – The place where Olhão was founded. as it is said.
Arraúl immediately fell in love with the place and decided to protect it by building an enormous sand barrier with soil from S.Miguel and Cabeça´s Hills.
He created the dune cord of the present Ria Formosa, which protects the Continent in this zone of the Algarve.
THE LEGEND OF THE BIG-EYED BOY
(LARGO DO CAROLAS)
On dark winter nights, a crying boy with big black eyes would appear to the fishermen in this neighbourhood but say nothing. Taking pity on him, they carried him with them, but the further they walked, the heavier he became until, eventually, they could carry him no more. They left the boy on the ground, still crying. It is said that the boy no longer appears and that when Floripes (see the legend of Floripes) left for North Africa, she took the ‘big-eyed boy’ with her.
THE ENCHANTED MOORISH BOY (LARGO DO GAIBEU)
Manuel Caleca, a young fisherman, was playing in the streets with his friends when a young boy appeared and asked if he could join them. They agreed and began to play, but the young boy wasn’t very good at the game and Manuel told him so.
The young boy suggested that he and Manuel go and play elsewhere, eventually leading Manuel to a fantastic palace full of treasures. The sight of the treasures nearly drove Manuel insane. The young boy took Manuel back to his parents, vowing that only Manuel would ever be able to see him.
This proved true until Manuel’s mother took him to communion, after which the young boy disappeared, with Manuel never seeing his friend again.
THE LEGEND OF MARIM (LARGO FÁBRICA VELHA)
In the Marim neighbourhood of Olhão, there was a beautiful palace where Princess Alina lived with her father. Every evening, a young man named Abdala serenaded Alina with songs of love. Alina’s father disapproved so, to deter the young man, he told him he could only have his daughter’s hand in marriage if he located the source of the nearby river and delivered it to the palace. The source of the river was 100 miles away, so Alina’s father thought it an impossible task.
The next evening, Abdala failed to appear. Alina was devastated. Then, as dawn broke, she heard a distant lute. It was Abdala! He’d found the source of the river and transported it to the palace. Alina’s father was enraged that Abdala had achieved such an impossible task and in a fit of rage, threw his daughter out of her bedroom window. Thankfully, Abdala caught her and the two of them sailed away down the river to live happily ever after.
The five legends tell tales of amazing deeds, lost love, friendship, ghostly tales, and the benevolence of the Gods of Atlantis.
What do each of these legends mean? Do they even have meanings? That’s part of the fun of visiting Olhão with family and friends to talk about the legends and see them in the context of the self-styled ‘capital of the Ria Formosa’ and the place the Gods of Atlantis were so keen to protect.
The map for exploring The Path of Legends is available at: museumunicipal.cm-olhao.pt/menu/1195/caminho-das-lendas
2 – Explore the Markets
One of the true highlights is the municipal market on Avenida 5 de Outubro, right near the waterfront. This market is split into two impressive buildings: one for fruits/vegetables and another, the fish market, which stands out not only for its offerings but also its architecture.
The market is open every day, except Sunday, from 07:00 – 13:00.
3 – Take a Boat tour on Ria Formosa Natural Park
The Ria Formosa Natural Park is a unique ecosystem that spans over 60 kilometers of Portugal’s coastline. The park is home to a diverse range of habitats, including salt marshes, sand dunes, and lagoons. The park is also home to a range of bird species, including flamingos, storks, and eagles. Ria Formosa Natural Park is an expansive lagoon system renowned for its wildlife, beaches, and five barrier islands. Among these, Armona, Culatra, and Farol (Lighthouse) islands stand out as Olhão’s neighbors.
Ilha de Armona offers pristine beaches, a perfect spot for relaxation. You’ll be surprised by its endless beaches and crystal-clear waters , some say that this island is the Maldives of Portugal. Culatra, on the other hand, is home to restaurants, a beach, and an oyster farm. Ilha do Farol is famed for its commanding lighthouse, a beacon for mariners.
One of the best ways to explore the park is by taking a boat tour. There are a range of boat tours available, and most tours offer the opportunity to see the park’s wildlife up close. Most tours offer the opportunity to explore the town’s coastline and visit nearby islands. Some tours also offer the opportunity to go fishing, and there are a range of fishing charters available.
4 – Take A Picture Of The Town’s Murals
As you meander through Olhão, the town’s history is painted vividly on its walls. Particularly around Rua da Fábrica Velha, murals come alive with tales of a bygone era: fishermen navigating their boats, women meticulously cleaning fish, and bustling scenes from the canning factories.
A prominent board in Largo da Fábrica Velha marks the site of the Algarve’s pioneering canning factory, an industry that once breathed life into the local fishing scene and reshaped Olhão’s trajectory. Commissioned by the town council and crafted by four dedicated artists using historical photos as their muse, these murals encapsulate Olhão’s rich heritage.
5 – Shop Local Artisans In The Town
Insert on the vibrants Municipal Markets in Olhão, here you will find all the typical products that you wish to take back home with you, just to keep the fantastic memory from the Algarve, very present with you. National Pottery, Hand made baskets, fridge magnets, cork products, etc.
For a different vibe, step into Pinta Roxa, half shop, half local artist gallery. Then, let your eyes wander over intricate patterns at Mosaic Olhão, a studio specializing in bespoke mosaic artworks.
Where to eat
Olhão is a place where tradition meets the sea, making it a paradise for seafood lovers. Here, local fishermen haul in the day’s catch, providing the freshest ingredients for the town’s renowned seafood restaurants.
Vai e volta restaurant
It’s a simple place where your fresh fish is barbecued to perfection. No wonder that even Jamie Olivier praised Vai e Volta in his monthly magazine.
Maré Shrimp & Stuff
It’s a top restaurant in Olhao, known for its juicy prawn dishes and modern seafood twists. Visitors rave about the flavorful and fresh seafood options, such as red prawn bisque, shrimp tacos, and shrimp Berlin balls.
Terra i Mar
Terra i Mar is a fantastic restaurant that offers a variety of delicious dishes. The menu includes fresh fish, tapas, and seafood paella. Customers can choose from a selection of fresh fish at the counter and enjoy grilled options served with potatoes and salad. The restaurant also serves garlic shrimp tapas, Santa Luzia octopus, Ria Formosa clams, ribs, pork cheeks, and more.
Eat Fresh Oysters On Culatra Island
Fresh from the sea, indulge in the creamy and salty goodness of these oysters, perfectly paired with a sip of refreshing Portuguese sparkling wine. It’s not merely a tour; it’s a hands-on, unforgettable gastronomic experience.
Where To Stay In Olhão
Octant Vilamonte -Moncarapacho
Set on a rural hillside in the heart of the Algarve, Octant Vila Monte is a rustic boutique retreat. It is spread across large tranquil gardens filled with citrus, olive and carob trees, with the 55 rooms housed in three accommodation annexes, each with their own style and character. Within the grounds, there are two inviting swimming pools, a small massage pavilion, gym, various fire pits, a large koi pond and a small outdoor cinema where you can enjoy a film under the stars.
From the elegant Deluxe Double Room to the expansive Three-Bedroom Villa with Private Pool, there is a perfect accommodation option for everyone.
Quinta dos Poetas
Located in Olhão’s scenic countryside, Quinta dos Poetas offers a serene escape. Boasting a vast outdoor pool, lush gardens, lakes, and a fitness trail, it’s a nature lover’s retreat. For those seeking added privacy, separate apartments with full kitchenettes, spacious terraces, and private parking are available.
Pure Formosa Concept Hotel
The highlight of the Pure Formosa Concept Hotel is without a doubt the stunning rooftop pool with a view of the ocean. The rooms also have everything you need and look very bright and welcoming.
Real Marina
5-star hotel, luxury rooms with balcony and views of the Ria Formosa Natural Park and the marina. It also has indoor and outdoor pools with panoramic sea views.
Armona’s Island
A different choice on where to stay overnight in Olhão can be to spend the night in Armona Island. This beautiful island is about twenty minutes by boat from the port of Olhão. With several houses to rent, this is one of the favourites for Portuguese visitors during the summer months.
Enter Olhão, a charming small Algarve town that offers the quintessential Algarvian allure but with an intimate, local charm — a serene escape from the bustling crowds, where traditions run deep and authenticity thrives.
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