Tavira in Portugal

It’s a warm day in mid-April 2024 and we’re about to arrive at Tavira in Portugal. Leaving Cacela Velha earlier in the day brings us to a large motorhome parking area just outside of Tavira town.

Algarve Motorhome Park – Tavira in Portugal

There’s a friendly welcome in this well organised motorhome area, which is neat, tidy, spacious and modern. Algarve Motorhome Park is an Aire-type facility but with amenities of a campsite, so it’s an in-between type of stopover.

After checking in and paying the €11 fee for the night, we drive round and find a pitch. There’s plenty of free places, possibly because it’s between seasons here in the Algarve. The motorhome park has picnic benches, bike racks, washing lines and washing up areas, making use of the land. There’s also a laundry and wi-fi too.

Although it has a shower and toilet block at the entrance, there’s a fee of €1 to use them. We don’t bother, but for those that want to make use of the facilities, there’s a token operated system in place, where you pay for a token at a machine.

Tavira town

Although the motorhome area is a great find, we’re really here to explore Tavira town and set off on foot to take a look.

Unfortunately, we’re both full of colds so aren’t feeling our best, but plod on regardless. The walk takes us beside a shopping centre, but then it all becomes a bit confusing.

There are major roadworks taking place, with many roads on the approach dug up and no real pavements to walk on.

Instead, we’re treading on dusty, bumpy ground, dodging holes and getting somewhat lost in the process.

Finally, somehow we emerge onto a road beside the Gilao River, the wide waterway running through the town. Crossing the river is a Roman bridge and our entry into the charming centre.

Cobble streets

We’re soon wondering through the old cobble streets of this laid back old town. There’s a pleasant atmosphere amongst tourists navigating the narrow streets, many with lanyards from a cruise ship.

This simple town with moorish influence, white wash buildings and plenty of individual shops makes for a relaxing stroll. A tasty ice cream treat, taking in the flavour on a newly painted park bench, offers a chance to watch the world go by.

There’s plenty of cafes around too, so there’s no shortage of places to stop for a break. Unfortunately, we’re not seeing Tavira at its best, simply because of all the dust and dirt from the roadworks.

We’re sure whatever the big development is going to be will be worth it, but in the meantime we feel for the businesses where dust and noise dominate.

It’s been great to visit here nonetheless, but for now we’re heading back to the campervan for a hot lemon drink and early night.

Tomorrow we’ll be moving on again, never one’s to stay anywhere more than a day or two and eager to see more of this wonderful Algarve coast.