Santa Luzia is a freguesia (parish) in the municipality of Tavira. It is considered the "capital do Polvo" or "capital of octopus" which is a local speciality and Santa Luzia fish market sells octopuses by auction upon boat arrival in the morning.

This tranquil village can be found on one arm of the sea at the edge of Tavira, amid soothing countryside and in a delightful setting. The nature reserve, the Island of Tavira, which is home to an abundance of wildlife including hares, chameleons and numerous species of birds can be found on the other arm of the sea. This makes Santa Luzia a small natural paradise.

The area boasts more than 300 sunny days a year which gives mild winters and hot summers with a light refreshing breeze from the Atlantic Ocean.

Being located next to the sea, Santa Luzia has a number of several high quality restaurants serving all kind of fish from the coast as well as many local delicious fruits.

The village has a pharmacy, bank, post office, butchers, fishmongers and some small mini markets selling groceries making it possible to enjoy a self catering holiday without the necessity of car hire. However, to truly enjoy the surrounding area and all that it has to offer car hire is recommended.

Santa Luzia Crest by Sérgio Horta

Tavira, an unspoilt historic fishing town, is just 4km away and about 30-45mins drive East from Faro Airport. The architecture including the churches are some of the most impressive in the Algarve and date back to 2.000 BC. After the earthquake in 1755 most of its buildings were destroyed but have since been rebuilt with many fine 18th Century buildings along with its 37 churches. Igreja de Santa Mario do Castelo (near the castle.. and also the castle) are a must visit.

A Roman Bridge marks the spot where the River Gilão and the River Ségua meet. There are so many fascinating stories and so much interesting history to be discovered in this wonderful, picturesque town.

Along with the great day life of visiting sights of interest and going to the reknown Ilha da Tavira (Tavira Island) the blue flag beach reached by ferry from the centre of town, the town also has a number of quiet portuguese bars, traditional restuarants and a daily market. On warm summer evenings public entertainment can be found in the park by the river.

Red cone marks the location of the property in Santa Luzia, Tavira, Algarve, Portugal

Beaches: The apartment is within easy access of the numerous blue flag beaches of the Ria Formosa islands known for being peaceful and unspoilt. From July to September, just 5 mins walk from the apartment, a boat services runs to the beach at Santa Luzia. Barril beach can be accessed by using the little train (about 5 mins drive away) or by walking. Tavira island beach, which is accessed by a regular ferry boat is just 10 mins drive away.

Boat to Tavira Island & Picture of Barril Beach

Golf: Benamor golf course near Cabanas is a 10 min drive and the golf courses of Quinta da Ria and Quinta de Cima another 10 mins further down the road. To the west Quinta do Lago and Vale do Lobo courses are approx 30 mins from the apartment and the golf courses at Vilamoura a further 15 mins.

Travel: Nearest airport is Faro approx 30km. Car hire is not essential but recommended.

Other interests: Bird lovers will be delighted with the bird life as the apartment is 100 yds from the 45000 acre Ria Formosa national park, famed for it's salt-marshes and lagoons. One of the last places in Europe to find such birds as the Great and Little Bustard. Storks, flamingoes, spoonbills, hoopoes, bee-eaters and many more species can also be seen.

Monthly Climate Statistics

Apartment Location in Santa Luzia: