Almancil

Almancil, the shopping and service centre

A small village until 25 years ago, Almancil is now one of the Algarve's most fashionable towns. Serving the luxury villa resorts of Vale do Lobo, Quinta do Lago, Dunas Dourados, Vale do Garraõ and Pinheiros Altos. Just 12km from Faro International Airport, Almancil is a convenient shopping facility for the holidaymaker.

Just 3kms from Vale do Lobo and Quinta do Lago, Almancil has an array of shops, boutiques and restaurants geared to the needs of visitors, since tourism has been the main thrust for growth. Therefore you will find that fashion and jewellery shops are well represented in the town, in addition to the banks, estate agents, post office and other everyday shopping facilities that you would expect to find in a town of this size. There are also some very chic furnishings and lifestyle shops and others for those with a passion for antiques.

Almancil: a cultural heritage

Whether you are interested in Almancil's art history or just take pleasure in the aesthetic beauty of ancient craftsmanship, the town is worth a visit. Particularly noteworthy is the church at São Lourenço, a little to the east of the town centre. If you pay a visit to this monument, you will only be a short walk from the São Lourenço Cultural Centre. In addition to the year round displays, the centre holds art exhibitions and musical events giving the visitor a little more insight into the region's cultural heritage.

Eating out

Local fare and international cuisine is available in Almancil from the bistros, cafés and restaurants. Whether you want an informal meal or something more special, the choice is excellent. French, Italian and Indian cooking is well represented, as well as the best in Portuguese. Naturally, fish and seafood of all kinds is on the menu, but there is something for all tastes.

Some of the bars and restaurants in Almancil also have live entertainment, to add to the flavour of the experience. One of the local eateries is called the Pig and Whistle, but don't be mislead by the name as the food served is rather more sophisticated than the pub fare suggested by the name. A great place for barbecue chicken (Plain or with Piri Piri flavour) or fresh fish of the day - at Portuguese style prices - is "Churrasquiera de Almancil" which is in Almancil on the main road to Loulé (take the turning at the traffic lights) about 800 metres after the Police Station (GNR). Alternatively, you could pay a visit to another of the local style restaurants, opposite the Post Office - look out for the sign "Nosso Café".

Sport

Golf is everywhere in the Algarve and there are a number of courses on Almancil's doorstep so you are spoilt for choice as you are with the resorts of Vale do Lobo, Quinta do Lago and Vilamoura. The close proximity of these places to each other means that there is always plenty to do that is within easy reach if you hire a car. If you don't want to take to the road, you might like to try out your driving skills on the karting circuit in Almancil.

If information you require about Almancil and villa accommodation is not here, please try the FAQ page for this area or browse the villa list; alternatively we would be happy to answer your questions by phone or email, so please contact us. Information about the holiday destinations of Vilamoura, Quinta do Lago and Vale do Lobo may also be of interest.