Alvor is a quaint, old port at the mouth of the Rio Alvor, about 20km east of Lagos. It boasts stunning views across a natural lagoon and the Atlantic Ocean. Alvor is an ancient coastal village that is now a very popular holiday location, the enclosed narrow streets ensure development is kept to a minimum. Most streets now boast bars with live music and different types of restaurants, however leading off from these there are still traces of the older fishing village. Alvor retains much of the charm of a picturesque fishing village, with streets of white houses and colourful boats.  Alvor is one of the oldest settlements in the Algarve, founded well before the time of Christ, it is suggested that general Hannibal founded the original settlement as far back as 182BC.  The parish church was partly destroyed by the earthquake of 1755 but its Manueline ornamental style doorway, showing the wealth and exuberance that prevailed in the late 15th century, survived. Its amazing architecture can be seen today on the newer church.

There are plenty of beautiful beaches to choose from in Alvor. The largest, sometimes known as Torralta, is the best equipped, sandy and backed by dunes. The other beaches in the vicinity, such as Praia Tres Irmaos and Prainha Beach, are also sandy with huge rocks sporadically dotted along the stretch.  A quieter, scenic resort Alvor is best suited to couples or families who love the beach and enjoy sporting facilities.