A Look Around Loulé Portugal in The Algarve

Take a look around Loulé in Portugal on The Algarve a traditional Portuguese market town, and a popular destination for a day trip. Visitors are drawn to Loule, for its characterful historic centre, the lively market and genuine Portuguese atmosphere.

The focal point of Loule is the Arabic inspired covered market, with stalls selling regional handicrafts, local produce and freshly caught fish. Surrounding the market are busy shopping streets, tree-lined plazas and a warren of alleys, which have barely altered since the medieval period. Within this delightful historic centre, is an ancient castle, the Gothic Igreja Matriz church and remnants of Loule’s solid defences.

Loule is a peaceful and unhurried town, but it comes alive on Saturday mornings, when two additional markets are held in the town. The farmer’s market specialises in local produce, while gypsy market is a chaotic and lively affair.

Loule is one of the few destinations in the Algarve whose primary focus is not tourism; it is a town full of ordinary Portuguese going about their daily lives. It is a likeable town, which offers fascinating tourist attractions, a traditional Portuguese market and a delightful historic centre.

If you are based in one of the larger resort towns (Albufeira, Vilamoura or Quarteira), Loule is the ideal destination for a day trip, and to experience authentic Portugal. There are sufficient attractions to fill a half day of sightseeing, and the town can be easily travelled to using public transport.

The best advice is to visit Loule on Saturday mornings, when both the gypsy and farmers markets are held. Loule should be avoided on Sundays and Mondays. On Sundays, the covered market is closed, while on Mondays, most museums and government managed tourist attractions are closed for the day.

Between the castle and the Igreja Matriz are a labyrinth of narrow cobbled alley and backstreets which follow the medieval layout of the town. These streets are filled with small workshops and artisan studios, where old craftsmen ply traditional family trades, including copper working, pottery, tile painting and furniture making. Above the small workshops are the family houses, which have been owned by the same families for generations. This section of Loule is best to explore by simply getting lost in it and wandering through the series of charming alleyways.

Loule is not a conventional holiday destination, and most visitors are day trippers. For a holiday, Loule is more suited for the intrepid and cultural curious visitor, who wishes to escape from the common tourist haunts. Loule has a distinctly Portuguese ambience, with all services and facilities designed for the Portuguese residents of the town.
Within the Loule region there is a wide selection of rental villas and self-catering apartments, and these tend to be much better value than the coastal towns. Loule is also growing in popularity with people emigrating to Portugal, and there is a significant expat community.

Loule is 10km from the nearest beaches, therefore the town should not be considered for a beach holiday.



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