Cacela Velha is full of hidden stories! Beyond its fortress and church, you can spot hints of its Moorish past. Some of the original village has even been lost to rising sea levels over the years, but its charm is perfectly intact.

The Knights of the Order of Christ once used Cacela as a strategic base.

For inspiration, artists often turn to this peaceful village.

Vila Real de Santo António, a charming border town in Portugal’s eastern Algarve, offers elegant 18th-century architecture, riverside walks, and easy access to Spain via ferry. Enjoy the relaxed atmosphere in the cobbled Praça Marquês de Pombal, explore the nearby salt flats and nature reserve, or unwind on the pristine beaches nearby—perfect for those seeking a slower, more peaceful Algarve experience.