Vila do Bispo Has It All
When it comes to beautiful landscapes, rich history and spectacular scenery, Portugal’s Algarve region is second to none. And perhaps no town within this incredible region embodies the essence of the Algarve region more than Vila do Bispo. Whether you enjoy lounging on magnificent beaches, dining at first class restaurants, shopping for one of a kind treasures or experiencing unforgettable history and culture, you’ll find everything you’re looking for and more in Vila do Bispo.
The town of Vila do Bispo is located at the center of the municipality which is composed of 5 different parishes. Along with Vila do Bispo, those parishes include Barão de São Miguel, Budens, Raposeira, and Sagres, which is the most southwesterly resort in the Algarve region. Sagres is a tranquil little town that features spectacular beaches and picturesque scenery, and is refreshingly free from that touristy feel that many other towns in the area have become known for. Still, when it comes to places to visit in this beautiful region, Vila do Bispo remains among the best.
One of the most charming features of Vila do Bispo is its delightfully historic feel. The landscape is strewn with old Algarvean style homes, which are situated around the focal point – a magnificent 16th century church. As the communities push westward, away from the center, the houses have a more modern feel; however the atmosphere throughout the town remains blissfully quaint and incredibly welcoming. It’s hard not to feel as if you’ve taken a step back in time to a simpler day, when life was not so chaotic and fast-paced.
Another noteworthy feature of Vila do Bispo is the surprising number of restaurants it boasts, which is particularly intriguing given the town’s small size. But what Vila do Bispo lacks in square mileage, it more than makes up for in flavor! In fact, there is arguably no better place in the Algarve region to experience the delectable local cuisine. The town’s close proximity to the sea means that fresh seafood is often the most popular item on the menu, particularly the delicacy known as Perceves. During hunting season, visitors may find such treats as wild boar, hare or quail on the list of specials.
If beaches are your forte, you’ll be in heaven in Vila do Bispo! There are sandy spots to please everyone, from daring surfers to lazy sunbathers, with a variety of choices including popular family spots and delightfully quiet beaches that are perfect for those seeking a bit more privacy. Some of the nearby beaches even feature bars and restaurants, perfect for those who want to enjoy some of the delectable tastes of the area while experiencing spectacular views of the ocean.
For history lovers, Vila do Bispo does not disappoint. The nearby village of Raposeira, located just to the east of town, is rumored to have once been the home of Henry the Navigator. There is also the Chapel of Nossa Senhora de Guadalupe located nearby, which was built in the second half of the 13th century and a location where Prince Henry once worshiped. This chapel is one of the only buildings to miraculously have survived the devastating earthquake that struck the area in 1775, and remains remarkably intact to this day.