In a town where people still greet each other, just a few kilometres from the Algarve coast, the development seen in the big conurbations is still some way off. In São Brás de Alportel, time still passes slowly, there is space and time to say hello to each other and for an outing.

You could start with the “calçadinha” Roman Road, one of the trademarks of São Brás de Alportel. The “Calçadinha” in São Brás de Alportel was one of the Romans’ ‘motorways’, which started in the city of Ossonoba (Faro), headed north, passing by the Roman villae of Milreu (Faro) and Vale do Joio (S. Brás/ Faro). The archaeological remains can still be seen today along two stretches of road.

In the town proper, you should have a look at the architecture of some of the manorial houses, many of them belonging to the cork barons or newly rich traders also linked to the agricultural sector of dried fruits, among others. Don’t forget that during the 19th century, São Brás de Alportel was the nerve centre for the cork business in the whole country.

Much of this history is on show at the Ethnographic Museum of Algarve Costume, mainly items of clothing of course, but with 1500 items representing the whole region.

In the town centre, don’t miss paying a visit to the Main Church. The origins of the building probably date back to the 15th century. However, it was only at the beginning of the following century that the first documentary references appear, with the Visitor of the Order of St James mentioning in 1518 “that the parishioners and residents of the said church had made it and built it anew”. Not far away in the Jardim da Verbena, the highlight is an 18th century fountain with eight spouts covered by a dome. Also deserving special attention is the bandstand in the middle of the garden.

After so much culture, it’s time for an excursion into the realm of great cuisine, at an altitude from where almost the whole of the municipality can be seen. So what about a trip up to the Pousada de São Brás de Alportel, where you will get quality service and cuisine with a touch of elegance.

The specialities include Algarve-style Cockles, Algarve-style Trout, Fish Cataplana with clams; Xerém (made with maize flour) prepared in the manner of the Algarve, Grilled Salmon with herbs and a Squid Kebab with prawns.

The stars among the meat dishes are Moorish chicken and lamb with a green tea jelly. And you might be interested to know that the restaurant’s décor has not changed since 1944, including a 19th century sofa, and an 18th century fireplace, along with other interesting items.

_{'gastronomy' 'goodlife' 'saobras'}