Castro Marim basic guide

castro marim guide

Situated at the eastern edge of the Algarve, Castro Marim is the last town before the Spanish border, and approaching it one will see its majestic castle almost calling to visitors.

The town is surrounded and imbued in rich history, having been long associated with the Knights Templar. Castro Marim organizes a very large monthly market, on the second Saturday of every month – this is where you can find a wide range of fresh fruit and vegetables, as well as hams, local cheeses and honey, not to mention there’s also an antiques market held on the same days in Vila Real St. Antonio.

The town features an interesting feature which you’ll notice especially when coming from the west, as you’ll see five tall pillars with a windmill above them and a chapel on the right hand side. As you approach you’ll see that the pillars are in fact water fountains. This is a sort of an outdoor museum with the windmill being part of it and the rest acting as something of a cultural centre of the place. Going up there is worth the trip if only to see the incredible views across to Ayamonte in Spain – from this vantage point you’ll be able to see over the salt beds, the marches and the wildlife conservation areas that characterize the area on the whole, great spot.

The major tourist attraction of the town is the ruins of the castle which dates from the 9th century. What remains of the castle is open to the public because there are quite a few things to see, displays of stocks and a pretty chapel. The entry fee is usually something symbolic, however the place is only really accessible for those who are fit and not really suitable for the elderly or the disabled.

Castro Marim is a very flat place and features wide pavements and cobblestoned streets. It has smaller daily markets and several good restaurants. Keep our Algarve car rental services in mind when planning a trip anywhere in the region.




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