Alte: A charming village in the hilly interior of the Algarve

1. The old center of Alte

Parking in the narrow streets is not only a challenge, you will also be competing with the locals. It is best to park outside the center and walk the last part. Just past the cemetery is a public parking lot, as well as at the escola profissional. Once you arrive in the center you will see many traditional Portuguese houses with white walls and blue or yellow contours. Walk through the small streets and be amazed by the pottery in the ceramic shops like the one in the photo below. Taking pictures inside was not allowed according to the 12 warning notes, so that is why I only took a picture of the outside!

2. Queda do Vigário waterfall

From the centre of Alte you can walk to the Queda do Vigário waterfall in about ten minutes. It can be reached via a wooden staircase that starts behind the cemetery. Between autumn and spring the water falls into a small lake that looks inviting for a dip. For me it was a bit too cold in January, but the clear water looked clean. Keep in mind that once the ‘rainy season’ ends around April/May, the waterfall dries up. It may not be the biggest waterfall you will ever see, but I enjoyed watching it and achieving my daily step goal.

3. Praia Fluvial de Alte

Don’t be fooled, because Praia Fluvial de Alte is not a beach. It is a small river that flows past a picnic park where ducks and geese live. In addition to some information boards and sayings in Portuguese, you will find old trees decorated with crochet work. There is also a small stage that is probably used for live music in the summer.

4. Bandeira de Portugal Gigante

That the inhabitants are proud of Portugal and this becomes clear as soon as you look from any point in the village towards the northeast. There in the hills you see a rock face that looks like the Portuguese flag. Indeed, the Bandeira de Portugal Gigante is gigantic.

5. Baloiço Panorâmico do Pico Alto

Once you leave Alte, a stop at this panoramic viewpoint is a nice walk to work up an appetite. At the end of a gravel road where you pass three enormous modern windmills (which are actually quite intimidating up close on a windy day) you will find a swing overlooking the valley. On a clear day you can even see the sea in the distance.

1. Algarve Half-Day Jeep Safari from Albufeira

Don’t have your own transport or want to visit Alte in an adventurous way? Then this half-day jeep safari excursion is perfect! As you drive through the hilly interior of the Algarve, the guide will tell you all about the region and take you to the nicest low-key places such as Alte, the castle of Paderne and a local farmer who makes regional products.

2. Jeep Safari at Sunset

Another incredibly fun jeep safari is this sunset variant including pick-up in Albufeira. Also during this experience you drive through the Algarve countryside and pass Alte, taste fresh honey and pass a goji farm.

3. Walking with donkeys at Donkey Tours

A heartwarming activity in the hills below Alte is walking with donkeys at Donkey Tours. Choose a ‘short’ walk of 3 hours or a full day where you will be busy for 7 hours including a picnic stop.

During the walk you walk through the beautiful hilly landscape of the Algarve on unpaved paths together with a number of the cheerful four-legged friends. The animals are visibly well maintained and receive a lot of care and attention. For young children it is possible to ride a bit on the back of a donkey but (of course) this is not possible for adults.

After the tour you are welcome to stay longer and take a dip in the natural pool that has been created on the property. Advance online reservation is required.

1. Alte Tradition Guest House

This cozy guesthouse is located in the center of Alte. Enjoy the sunset on the roof terrace or in the jacuzzi with a glass of prosecco. The staff is super friendly and the breakfast is well rated.

2. Alte Hotel

Alte hotel is situated on top of a hill, which gives you a beautiful view over the valley from the restaurant and some rooms. It is somewhat dated, but secretly that is the charm of the interior. The restaurant is popular with visitors and the rooms are spacious and equipped with all comforts.

3. Chambres d’hôtes Naturistes Cabanadelsol

This nudist retreat in the hills outside Alte is a little paradise. The rooms are super cozy and warmly decorated, the pool overlooks the horizon and the bubbles in the jacuzzi and the champagne are ready for you. For colder days there is a sauna and the common areas feel like you are staying in someone’s home. This retreat welcomes adults only.

1. Doçaria Água Mel

For coffee and a pastel de nata with a view, this bakery is the place to be. The display case has all the sweets you can order and the counter displays a number of regional products such as honey and liqueurs.

2. Germano biciArte café

A favourite with cyclists, this bike shop/cafe is a great lunch spot for those who (want to) brave the Algarve’s interior on two wheels. Go for one of the combo menus consisting of tapas and a drink and sample some typical Algarve flavours.

3. FONTE NOVA Snak-Bar

For a hearty meal, the Fonte Nova snack bar is a must. Try the traditional piri-piri chicken or a fried fish prepared in Portuguese style. Leave room for dessert, because the fig tart is a true taste sensation.