Algarve Tourism Guide - Around Faro

Estoi Near Faro Algarve History

In Estoi to the north of Faro is the 18th century sublime rococo palace - it was built for the Conde de Carvalhal. It's owned by Faro Council who have it earmarked as a luxury hotel.

The palace unfortunately is closed to the public, but the wild surrounding gardens are open where you can view numerous fountains, azulejos tile adorned walls and various sculptures, terraces and shelters. (open from 9am to 12.30pm, and 2pm to 5.30pm from Tuesdays to Saturdays. Admission is free. Visit while you can as it may all soon be off-limits when turned into a luxury state owned pousada.

Milreu Roman Remains Algarve

Significant Roman remains of a Roman villa are to be seen at Milreu just up from Estoi. This Roman villa is thought to date back to the 1st century AD and may have been owned by a fish magnate. Most of the Roman mosaics you can see here depict leaping fish! It could have been a Roman spa or temple though as bath and shrine remains pertaining more to spas than private Roman villas have been found here, there are various theories on the subject.

Whatever Roman function it served, the building is amazingly intact - unusual for Roman remains, this one has survived almost to its roof.

Milreu and its Roman Villa come Spa remains are situated just to the West of Estoi, Tel: 289 997 823. Open Tuesdays to Sundays from April to September - 9.30am to 12.30pm and 2pm to 6pm. From October to March the remains are open until 5pm. Closed Mondays and Public Holidays.