Alcoutim

Alcoutim, in the upper north-east of the Algarve, has been an important river port. Nowadays pleasure boats ousted the merchant ships. The environment is green and well watered. The town is separated from Spain by the (border)river Guadiana and from the region of Alentejo by the river Vascão. Economically the town is totally dependent on agriculture and handicraft.

Sights
- The 14th century castle as where Fernando I signed a peace treaty with Henry of Castile. - With a regular ferry service you can visit the fortress of Sanlúcar de Guadiana on the opposite bank of the river in Spain. - The 16th century main Church of São Salvador, near the river and close to the main square.

Museum
There is a small museum in the castle which displays archaeological finds and remains of the buildings discovered during the excavations.

Boat Trip
There are cruises upriver to Mértola in the Alentejo and downstream to Odeleite. It is possible to rent a boat in Alcoutim.

Trip
The Mountain Villages to the west as where you can find most authentic Algarve handicrafts.

Tourist Office
Alcoutim Rua 1º de Maio 8970-059 Alcoutim Tel. ++351 281 546179
Região de Turismo do Algarve Avª 5 de Outubro, 18 8000 FARO Tel. ++351 289-800400 Fax. ++351 289-800489

Hotel
Estalagem do Guadiana (****) 8970 Alcoutim Tel: 00351 281 540120 Fax: 00351 281 546647