Located
about 30 km. east of Faro, and an equal distance from the Spanish
border, the town of Tavira is one of the many charming towns on the
Algarve. This gem of a town has been influenced over the centuries by
many civilizations, including the Phoenicians, the Romans and the
Moors. It is located on the banks of the Ségua and Gilão Rivers, and is
sometimes referred to as the town of churches, as it has a total of 21
churches, including the Church of Misericórdia that dates back to 1541.
In the heart of town you will find the Pousada de Tavira. The Pousada was formerly the Convent of St. Augustine, which was founded by King
D. Sebastiao in 1569. The renovation restored the beauty of the
traditional convent and its interior courtyard that is framed by stone
archways. Modern furnishings and amenities were added,
along with an inviting outdoor pool. From this peaceful retreat visitors
can easily explore the sites of this charming town, and beach lovers
can catch a boat nearby that departs to the sandy beaches on the Island
of Tavira.