Running in the Faro District

To kick off this journey in the south of Portugal 🇵🇹, we must mention Faro, the capital of the Algarve. When visiting the city, be sure to explore the Cidade Velha (the historical center). Don't miss entering through the Arco da Vila, constructed in the 19th century upon one of the medieval city's entrance gates 🏰. Inside the old town, you'll find Largo da Sé, the main square dominated by the Faro Cathedral ⛪. For another excellent way to discover the town, the Faro Half Marathon could be your perfect tour guide. The 21.95 km race starts at the beach 🏖️, and for shorter distances, there's also a 10.5 km and an 11 km walk. The outskirts of the city are equally impressive. Barreta Island (also known as Ilha Deserta) 🏝️, located south of Faro, is the southernmost point of mainland Portugal and offers 6 km of pristine beaches. You can reach it by ferry ⛴️. For a truly unique landscape found nowhere else in the country, head to the Ria Formosa Natural Park, a maze of 60 km of channels, islands, and marshes, home to a diverse array of wildlife including rare species like the purple gallinule and the Portuguese water dog 🐕.

Now head to the far southwest of the country, to Sagres. If this village sounds familiar, it's probably because you've tasted or heard of Sagres beer. It's simple: in Portugal, two major beers stand out, Sagres and Super Bock 🍻. Speaking of famous spots, a renowned lighthouse is just 6 km from Sagres, at Cape St. Vincent. This is the southwesternmost point of mainland Europe. Be sure to take a detour to enjoy the stunning beaches and surf spots suitable for all levels 🌊.

Away from the beaches, the interior of the district showcases a more authentic region, marked by picturesque villages where local traditions are still cherished. For instance, Loulé is famous for its "Mercado Municipal", the largest covered market in southern Portugal. Unlike Faro, it is less touristy, displaying many Moorish-inspired architectural designs. In the east, don't miss visiting Tavira, one of the district's most charming towns. It is bisected by the Gilão River and enchants visitors with its celebrated azulejos tiles. If you venture towards Spain 🇪🇸, make sure to see the Guadiana. This river separates the Faro district from Andalusia. Here lies the Castro Marim and Vila Real de Santo António Marsh Nature Reserve. It's made up of marshes, salt flats, and waterways, hosting numerous species like flamingos 🦩 and avocets.

If you're looking for high mountains ⛰️, the Faro district might not be your ideal destination. However, it does have some notable landscapes. Valleys and hills abound with the Serra do Monchique, Serra de Espinhaço de Cão, and Serra do Caldeirão. The highest point of the region is Mount Fóia, at 902 meters above sea level. This area is also known for its thermal waters with therapeutic properties, especially in Caldas de Monchique, a spa resort ⛲ visited since Roman times.

Of course, where there are hills, there are great trail running and ultra-trail running spots! The Trail Serra do Monchique, Ultra Trilhos Rocha da Pena, and ALUT - Algarviana Ultra Trail...