For many purposes, until 1910 the Algarve was a kingdom. The kings who came after D. Sancho I were given the title of King of Portugal and the Algarves to demarcate this difference in territories.

This difference existed because of a geographical barrier called Serra do Caldeirão, a range of low altitude mountains (the highest point is 589m above sea level) but extensive. So extensive that it constitutes a physical barrier to the passage of cold north winds and northwest depressions, contributing to the existence of a Mediterranean climate on the Algarve coast, with low annual rainfall and mild temperatures in winter.

Due to this mountain range, the Algarve lived as a different Kingdom and isolated from the rest of the country. The journey to the Algarve was long and painful.

In fact, historically the Algarve has always had maritime connections. Over the centuries, the Algarve has been a region heavily influenced by the peoples and cultures of the Mediterranean and during these periods it has been a prosperous region.

With the Algarve Kingdom annexed to Portugal but at the same time disconnected from it due to the geographical barrier, a period of scientific-technological backwardness was entered. It has become a quiet region without major development.

The railroad arrived in 1889, which marked the beginning of socio-economic change. The Algarve saw the birth of a canning industry that developed in the first half of the 20th century due to the huge demand for canned food caused by the two great world wars. Industrial development continued based on the transformation of cork.

On July 11, 1965, the Algarve gained a new gateway, Faro International Airport. From that day onwards, the Algarve opened up horizons and opened itself up to international tourism. Only then did the region gain popularity as a holiday destination for the Portuguese. And so the first steps were taken for the Algarve to become what it is today – the largest tourism region in the country, with a relevant contribution to the economy.

Faro then became the gateway to the Algarve and, in many cases, to Portugal. It is so convenient to get to Faro airport, which is just a mere 2 to 3 hour flight from most points in Europe. And from Faro, just hop on a motorbike provided by Soulful Bikes and start exploring the region and the country.

The number of tourists arriving in Portugal via Faro is increasing. Many stay in the city for a few days to get to know the historic center and the barrier islands. From Faro they begin the tour of the region and the country until they return to Faro again to take their departure flights back home.

Faro Airport is also a great advantage for those who just want to get away for a few days in autumn, winter or spring. During these periods, the movement of the airport is low. After a 2 hour flight, in 30 minutes we are on the motorbike and another 30 minutes later we are already in the mountains of Serra do Caldeirão enjoying the road bends, the smell of pine and eucalyptus trees and the spectacular cuisine! Nowhere else in Europe is this possible.

Every day there are direct flights from the most important points in Europe to Faro. And every day Soulful Bikes can deliver motorcycles with charisma to customers arriving at Faro Airport!

Do you want to have an idea of more things to do in Faro? You can check the city guide on momondo.