THE ALGARVE
The Algarve stretches across the whole of southern Portugal. Although the area has been occupied by a variety of peoples over the millennia, the Moors were in attendance for more than 600 years, and the name originates from the Arabic El-Gharb meaning "occident" or the occidental part of the Al-Andalusian (the title given to the Muslim Iberian peninsula). This occupation has left innumerable influences of the Arab culture, still to be seen in the techniques of building and construction, in the stylish dwellings, and in areas as diverse as plants, tools and utensils. Even today, houses are built with typical Arabic chimneys.
East of Faro the coast is known as the leeward shore. The area stretching eastwards to the Spanish border forms an unusual lagoon landscape closed by sandy islets. A great part of the coastline has been declared a protected area (the Parque Natural da Ria Formosa). The windward shore is the Algarve's most famous stretch of coast. Ochre-coloured cliffs plunge down to the beach and the turquoise sea sparkles and surges into coves and grottos. The interior of the Algarve varies greatly in its picturesque appeal due to its variety of fauna, soil and geography. Early in the year the coast is painted white with almond blossom shading the many varieties of wild orchids, followed by the heady perfume of orange blossom mixing with the bloom of acacias. During the Spring the cascades of wild flowers mingle and shock with the riotous palate created by the many colourful birds. Summer is the time for cherries, strawberries and melons, followed in early Autumn by grapes, figs and almonds. In November, chestnuts are traditionally gathered for the national festival of São Martinho, while in December it is time to start picking the famous sweet juicy Algarve oranges which continue through to March.
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