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PocketSights / Ilha / Praia de Faro - Architecture

Ilha / Praia de Faro - Architecture

Walking
20 Stops
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Preview Tour

Tour Overview

Discover the hidden architectural treasures - 20 projects - of Faro's beach island

Ilha de Faro is much more than a popular beach destination. Until the 1960s it was a quiet fishing community, but after the bridge opened in 1959 it developed into the Algarve's favourite seaside retreat, with holiday homes, beach cafés and remarkable examples of Modernist architecture.

This walking tour takes you to the work of Manuel Gomes da Costa, including the iconic Hotel Aeromar and several beautifully preserved villas. Along the way you'll also discover charming beach houses, hidden architectural gems and buildings inspired by his distinctive style.

Walk through what could be called the "Miami Beach of the Algarve"—where modern architecture, the Ria Formosa lagoon, the Atlantic Ocean and a relaxed beach atmosphere come together.

Explore the island at your own pace and discover its unique architecture, restaurants, beach bars and spectacular views. Starting at Hotel Aeromar near the bridge.

Stops

  1. Stop 1: Hotel Aeromar - Architect Manuel Gomes da Costa - late 1950's

  2. Stop 2: '50 Houses: Look-a-like Twins

  3. Stop 3: Café do Zé

  4. Stop 4: Traditional house with modernist Brise-soleil

  5. Stop 5: The Blue House

  6. Stop 6: House with the fish mosaic

  7. Stop 20: Casa Aníbal de Brito

  8. Stop 7: Beachhouse with tree - Architect Manuel Gomes da Costa - 1959

  9. Stop 8: Sal'Mar Beachclub

  10. Stop 9: Casa Dr. Balté' - Architect António Vicente de Castro - 1959

  11. Stop 10: Casa António Pires - Architect Manuel Gomes da Costa - 1959

  12. Stop 11: `The neighbor house from Casa António Pires - Architect unknown

  13. Stop 12: Ronchamp looking service building - Architect unknown

  14. Stop 13: Bel'Mar Beach Club / Tapas Bar

  15. Stop 14: Beach Houses at the Lagoon

  16. Stop 15: Savior Swimmers Homes (Casas para Nadadores Salvadores) - architect João Ramires Fernandes 1968

  17. Stop 16: Traditional House with Post Modern details

  18. Stop 17: The Salvador Dali-House

  19. Stop 18: The Mondriaan House

  20. Stop 19: Esplanade casino “Miramar” & Refúgio ABOIM / ASCESÃO / Shelter for children

Map