Alte is a village and civil parish in the municipality of Loulé, in the Algarve region in the south of Portugal.
Alte is a small village located in the Algarve region of Portugal. It has a rich history, dating back to Roman times. The village is known for its beautiful whitewashed houses, narrow streets, and traditional chimneys. It was also a major centre for the production of cork during the 19th century. Alte is a popular tourist destination due to its picturesque scenery, traditional architecture, and charming atmosphere. Visitors can explore the village’s historical landmarks and museums, taste the local cuisine, and participate in cultural events. Overall, Alte is a must-visit destination for those who want to experience the authentic Portuguese way of life.
Alte waterfall (Cascata Queda do Vigário)
Let me share with you a hidden gem that you must visit during your trip to Alte Village: the breathtaking waterfall. This mesmerising waterfall is surrounded by lush green meadows that create a serene and idyllic atmosphere. It’s no wonder that this natural wonder has become one of the most popular destinations in the area.
The waterfall itself, with its crystal-clear waters, provides the perfect spot for a refreshing swim. If you visit during the rainy season, you’ll be treated to an impressive display of nature’s power and beauty as the waterfall cascades down from the rocks.
Even if the waterfall is not flowing when you visit, there are still plenty of activities to enjoy in the area. You can take a leisurely walk through the fields, have a fun family picnic, or organise a barbeque with friends.
As someone who loves to explore new places, I highly recommend adding the Alte waterfall to your travel itinerary. The peaceful and natural surroundings offer the perfect setting for relaxation, rejuvenation, and reconnecting with nature. So don’t forget to pack your swimsuit and prepare for an unforgettable experience at Alte’s stunning waterfall!
Church of Our Lady of the Assumption
Our Lady of the Assumption Church (“Igreja de Nossa Senhora da Assunção”) is located in the village center. The church was originally built in the 13th century as a private chapel but was renovated in 1518 as Igreja de Nossa Senhora da Assunção.
The church is designed in the traditional Manueline and Rococo styles popular in 16th-century Portugal. The interior of the church is beautifully rendered in this manner, making it a very magnificent monument in Alte. The church is one of Alte’s earliest historical references; it is well worth a visit!
Fonte Grande and Fonte Pequena
In ancient times, these “Fontes” served as a central location for village women to obtain water and wash their laundry; today, they serve as a lovely area to unwind. The springs feature crystal-pure water that pours from the Alte River, forming a pool popular with summer visitors. Additionally, the spring’s surrounding area is a pleasant spot for picnics and leisure activities.
In Alte, there are a number of restaurants and bars that serve both traditional Portuguese food and food from around the world.
Alte has a variety of places to stay for the night, including hotels, guesthouses, and vacation homes.
Alte has something for every taste and price, whether you want a quick bite to eat or a quiet place to sleep. So, make plans to visit this beautiful town right away and see for yourself its charm and friendly people.
How to get to Alte:
There are several ways to get to Alte, depending on your starting point and mode of transportation.
If you’re flying in, the nearest airport is Faro Airport, which is approximately 30 kilometres away from Alte. From there, you can either rent a car or take a taxi or shuttle service to Alte.
If you’re travelling by car, you can take the A22 highway from Faro or any other major city in the Algarve region. Once you arrive in Alte, there is plenty of parking available in and around the village.
If you prefer public transportation, there are bus services that operate between Alte and other cities in the Algarve region. The Faro bus station is the main hub for regional and national bus services, with frequent connections to Alte.
If you’re travelling from Lisbon, you can take a train from Lisbon to Tunes station and then switch to a regional train or bus to Alte. Alternatively, you can take a bus or drive from Lisbon to Alte, which takes approximately 3 hours.
No matter which mode of transportation you choose, the journey to Alte is worth it for the natural beauty and charm of the village and its surroundings.
If you’re using GPS to navigate to Alte, the coordinates for the village are:
Latitude: 37.2373° N Longitude: 8.1824° W
These coordinates will take you to the center of the village, where you can explore the beautiful streets and alleys and discover the hidden treasures of Alte. However, it’s always a good idea to have a detailed map or directions, especially if you’re driving, to ensure that you arrive at your destination safely and efficiently.
Throughout the year, Alte hosts several cultural traditions and festivals that showcase the rich heritage of the region. Let’s take a look at some of the unique festivals and traditions that take place in Alte.
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Festa de São Luís – This is one of the most popular festivals in Alte and takes place on August 25th every year. The festival is dedicated to São Luís, the patron saint of the village. The celebration includes a procession of the saint’s statue, music, dance, and traditional food. The festival attracts visitors from all over the region and is a great way to experience the local culture.
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Feira da Serra: This is the largest annual fair in the Algarve region and takes place in August in the nearby town of Loulé. The fair features traditional crafts, food, and music from the region, including Alte. Visitors can sample local delicacies such as fig cakes and almond sweets, watch folk dancing performances, and purchase handmade crafts.
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Festival da Juventude: This festival is organised by the local youth association and takes place in July every year. The festival features live music performances, street art, and a variety of workshops and activities for young people. It is a great way to experience the energy and creativity of the local youth culture.
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Festival da Batata Doce: This festival celebrates the sweet potato, which is a staple food in the region. The festival takes place in November and includes cooking demonstrations, food tastings, and a market selling sweet potato products. Visitors can sample sweet potato dishes such as roasted sweet potatoes, sweet potato soup, and sweet potato pie.
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Carnaval de Alte: This is a popular carnival celebration that takes place in February. The carnival features colourful parades, music, and dancing and is a great way to experience the festive spirit of the village.
Overall, Alte is a village that is rich in cultural traditions and festivals throughout the year. These events provide visitors with an opportunity to experience the local culture and learn more about the history and heritage of the Algarve region.
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