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Since moving to Spain I have been feeling pulled more to smaller and quaint mountain towns. Arcos, Vejer or Olvera – all towns I have fallen in love with. During a trip to Portugal, I saw that we weren’t too far from the small town of Alte, recently on CN Traveler’s list as one of the Prettiest towns in Portugal. Alte, Portugal was named the most “typical” and “untouched” village in the Algarve and was the perfect day trip. I loved spending my entire morning enjoying coffee, the town, their shops and the natural springs.
Typically, I would write an entire guide, but for this post, I think sharing how I spent my day trip to Alte is best. If you find yourself in the Vilamoura or Albufeira area of the Algarve, it is only about a 30 minute drive – perfect to spend the morning and afternoon!
How to get to Alte, Portugal
The best way to get to Alte is by car and to park near the town center. This is the best way to see the town in my opinion, but there are jeep tours if you prefer.
A Day Trip to Alte, Portugal
Once you park close to the town center, I recommend stopping in at Doçaria Água Mel first thing in the morning before exploring. The back of their cafe has a beautiful view of the rolling hills – a perfect introduction to the quaint and serene environment. Their coffee and local Portuguese treats were the perfect welcome to this charming village as well.
After breakfast and a view explore the most picturesque streets. I was worried the town wouldn’t live up to the hype I had read, but it really did. Take in the church, Igreja Matriz de Alte (and head inside for a small fee).
Spend the morning shopping ceramic shops such as Casa do Artesão (when I visited they weren’t open, unfortunately)! Pop into Fudge & More and explore the beautiful street art as you walk around the small center. I will note, some businesses do not have their hours online, and may not be open but even just wandering through the town is lovely.
If you find yourself needing lunch, head to O’Regional (a hamburger restaurant with quirky decor and a souvenir shop attached for local pottery). A few other options are FONTE NOVA Snak-Bar or Olho de Boi while enjoying Fonte Grande de Alte (natural spring).
Of course, one of the main attractions (during the hotter months) is Fonte Grande de Alte mentioned above. You can swim in the cool Springs and enjoy the greenery around you. I was there on a cooler day and didn’t see anyone enjoying the water – but I imagine on a hot day it gets quite busy.
On your way back from the Springs, stop into Mercearia da Fonte Pequena for local and other house goods such as honey. You can sit and have a drink if you like as well, it is set back form the main center and is a perfect spot to feel how local the town is.
I am thankful I made the decision to venture into the most authentic villages in the Algarve. If you find yourself breaking of from the coast to see Alte, Portugal for yourself, I hope this mini guide is helpful!
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