alvor

Alvor is a village and civil parish in the municipality of Portimão, in the Algarve region of southern Portugal. It sits at the mouth of the River Alvor, where the estuary flows into the Atlantic Ocean. The area is known for its long sandy beach, Praia de Alvor, and the adjacent Ria de Alvor estuary, which forms a protected coastal wetland important for birdlife and marine habitats.

The old town center preserves traditional features such as whitewashed houses and narrow lanes, reflecting its historical roots as a fishing community. Alvor’s economy traditionally centered on fishing and boatbuilding, but in recent decades tourism has become a major economic activity, alongside local services and hospitality. Seasonal visitors flock to the beaches, seafood restaurants, and the maritime atmosphere of the village.

Geographically, the parish encompasses coastal dunes and wetland areas around the estuary and forms part of the Ria de Alvor Nature Reserve. This makes it a popular destination for birdwatching, walking, and watersports, in addition to its seaside appeal. The area is linked by road to Portimão and is near the A22, with Faro Airport serving as the main international gateway for the region.

Demographically, the parish has a population in the low thousands, with a significant seasonal influx during the warmer months. Culturally, Alvor maintains maritime traditions and hosts events related to its fishing heritage, while continuing to develop as a gateway to the Algarve’s southern coastline.