Here, in the Algarve, there is so much to discover: golden beaches, unspoiled nature, picturesque villages and delicious local cuisine. Vale Vinagre lies inland, in the quiet hills near São Bartolomeu de Messines — a perfect base for days at the coast and walks in the countryside.
The coast of the central Algarve is a short drive away, with long sandy beaches, golden cliffs and small coves.
Central Algarve · by car
From Vale Vinagre you can reach the beaches of the central Algarve, between Armação de Pêra and Albufeira, by car. Long sandy beaches alternate with golden cliffs, rock arches and small coves.
Our tip
Go early in the morning or later in the afternoon: the light on the cliffs is at its most beautiful and the beaches are quieter.
The hills around São Bartolomeu de Messines are crossed by one of the great walking routes of Portugal.
São Bartolomeu de Messines · long-distance route
The Via Algarviana is a long-distance walking route of around 300 km that crosses the Algarve hills from east to west. It passes through São Bartolomeu de Messines: one stage leads to the village of Alte (around 20 km) and another to Silves (around 27 km). You can also walk just a part of it.
Our tip
In summer, start early and take plenty of water: inland the afternoons are hot.
For a family day out. Tickets are sold on each park's official website.
Guia · Albufeira
A marine park with dolphin and sea-lion presentations, pools, a beach and rides — a full day out for the whole family.
Estombar · Lagoa
One of the largest water parks in the Algarve, with slides and pools for all ages.
Quarteira · Loulé
A water park with slides, a wave pool and a water roller coaster.
Algoz · Silves
An animal park with farm and exotic animals, reptiles, pools and mini golf — the nearest of the four to Vale Vinagre.
History is never far away in the Algarve hills.
Former Moorish capital of the Algarve
Silves was the Moorish capital of the Algarve. Its red sandstone castle rises above the town and the Arade river, next to the cathedral. Stroll through the old streets and enjoy the view from the castle walls.
Your nearest town
The nearest town to Vale Vinagre, with shops, cafés and restaurants. It is the birthplace of the poet João de Deus (1830–1896), author of the «Cartilha Maternal», with which generations of Portuguese children learned to read.
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