With many delightful courses, pure coastal breeze from the Atlantic ocean, great fresh gastronomy and fantastic weather conditions, Portugal is a Golf Bliss for most golfers.
Portugal Golf - Alvor
Alvor History
It is believed the Carthaginians founded Alvor and its history is interesting.
It is said by some that it was really the site of "Portus Hannibalis". The
Romans gave it the name Ipses and it was considered an important port and was
allowed to issue its own money. Its importance is confirmed by the ruins of a
wealthy Roman villa located slightly inland from the present village. In the
time of the Moors, who first occupied the area in 716, they gave it the named of
"Albur" and the village passed through both the Portuguese and Moors hands
several times until 1250 when the Christians conquered it for the final time.
King Dom João II, who is regarded in history as an outstanding Portuguese king,
is recorded as dying in within the town walls from a prolonged illness in 1495.
Most of the original village and its castle was destroyed in the earthquakes of
1532 and 1755.
Alvor Description
Although this ancient coastal village is now a very popular holiday location the
enclosed narrow streets have kept development to a minimum. Many of these
streets now boast bars with live music and different types of restaurants,
however leading off from these there are still memories of the older fishing
village. In the area are a number of holiday resorts from which the tourists
enjoy visiting it and its attractions. The village is well located facing a
natural lagoon opening onto the sea. There is a choice of a long open sandy
beach or a number of small coves tucked under the cliffs. The originally 16th
Century Parish Church was rebuilt after the earthquake of 1755 and still has a
prime example in its main doorway of the great craftsmanship of the Manueline
era of architecture. It was the only building that more or less survived from
the earthquake.
Alvor Nearby Locations
Places near to Alvor are the commercial town of Portimão, the famous popular
beaches of Praia da Rocha and Praia do Vau, and the semi-nature reserve of Quinta da Rocha.