Alte

A little about the history of Alte...

1 - A bit about the history of Alte...

A legend tells the story of a very wealthy resident who regularly attended church and was generous with her donations. As a way of saying thank you, the priest never started mass without her. One day, due to the great distance between her house and the church, the elderly woman was very late and the priest decided to start the service. On the way to the church, other faithful informed her that Mass had already begun and she immediately proclaimed, "Alto (Stop)! I'll have a church built right here!". That way, with a church closer to home, she would be able to get to Mass on time. Around this church, dedicated to Our Lady of the Assumption, the parish of Alte was born.

Built in the 13th century, the Igreja Matriz, or Church of Our Lady of the Assumption, is Alte's oldest historical landmark and is classified as a Property of Public Interest.

Although many have defended the myth associated with its creation, there are also those who claim that it was built by Dona Boba, wife of Garcia Mendes de Ribadeneira - 2nd lord of Alte and 1st “vidama” of the Algarve. She founded the church as a way of thanking the saint for the return of her husband, who had left during the battles of the Eighth Crusade.

With the Serra do Caldeirão to the north and the valleys of the Barrocal to the south, Alte is also known for its stunning natural scenery, the most iconic of which are its fountains, the Fonte Grande and the Fonte Pequena. These fountains, once a meeting place for the women of the village who washed their clothes here, were restored in the 20th century and today house a grassy river area with a natural swimming pool, a restaurant and a picnic area.

Next to Fonte Pequena there is also a beautiful tribute to the poet Francisco Xavier Cândido Guerreiro (1871-1953), born and raised here, where some of his most famous poems have been immortalized.

Considered by many to be the most typical village in the Algarve, in 1938 Alte took part in the Most Portuguese Village Competition and won Cultural Village status. The Alte Cultural Week takes place every year from April 25 to May 1 and is one of the most significant festivities in the region, along with the Alte Carnival.

In recent years, Alte has become a sought-after tourist destination, attracting visitors in search of authenticity and natural beauty. The local community strives to preserve the traditions and charm that warmly welcomes visitors.

With the Serra do Caldeirão to the north and the valleys of the Barrocal to the south, Alte is also known for its stunning natural scenery, the most iconic of which are its fountains, the Fonte Grande and the Fonte Pequena. These fountains, once a meeting place for the women of the village who washed their clothes here, were restored in the 20th century and today house a grassy river area with a natural swimming pool, a restaurant and a picnic area.

Next to Fonte Pequena there is also a beautiful tribute to the poet Francisco Xavier Cândido Guerreiro (1871-1953), born and raised here, where some of his most famous poems have been immortalized.

Considered by many to be the most typical village in the Algarve, in 1938 Alte took part in the Most Portuguese Village Competition and won Cultural Village status. The Alte Cultural Week takes place every year from April 25 to May 1 and is one of the most significant festivities in the region, along with the Alte Carnival.

With the Serra do Caldeirão to the north and the valleys of the Barrocal to the south, Alte is also known for its stunning natural scenery, the most iconic of which are its fountains, the Fonte Grande and the Fonte Pequena. These fountains, once a meeting place for the women of the village who washed their clothes here, were restored in the 20th century and today house a grassy river area with a natural swimming pool, a restaurant and a picnic area.

Next to Fonte Pequena there is also a beautiful tribute to the poet Francisco Xavier Cândido Guerreiro (1871-1953), born and raised here, where some of his most famous poems have been immortalized.

Considered by many to be the most typical village in the Algarve, in 1938 Alte took part in the Most Portuguese Village Competition and won Cultural Village status. The Alte Cultural Week takes place every year from April 25 to May 1 and is one of the most significant festivities in the region, along with the Alte Carnival.

With the Serra do Caldeirão to the north and the valleys of the Barrocal to the south, Alte is also known for its stunning natural scenery, the most iconic of which are its fountains, the Fonte Grande and the Fonte Pequena. These fountains, once a meeting place for the women of the village who washed their clothes here, were restored in the 20th century and today house a grassy river area with a natural swimming pool, a restaurant and a picnic area.

Next to Fonte Pequena there is also a beautiful tribute to the poet Francisco Xavier Cândido Guerreiro (1871-1953), born and raised here, where some of his most famous poems have been immortalized.

Considered by many to be the most typical village in the Algarve, in 1938 Alte took part in the Most Portuguese Village Competition and won Cultural Village status. The Alte Cultural Week takes place every year from April 25 to May 1 and is one of the most significant festivities in the region, along with the Alte Carnival.

In recent years, Alte has become a sought-after tourist destination, attracting visitors in search of authenticity and natural beauty. The local community strives to preserve the traditions and charm that warmly welcomes visitors.

 © We Travel Portugal

a. The architecture in Alte

The village of Alte is known for its traditional architecture, characterized by whitewashed houses, terracotta roofs and brightly coloured decorative elements.

The Mother Church, with its simple façade adorned with stone details, is a central landmark, testifying to the cultural heritage of the place.

In addition, some say that this region is home to some of the most beautiful lacy chimneys in the Algarve, encouraging you to take a stroll through its narrow alleys and cobbled staircases.

2 - The parish of Alte in numbers

* (Population aged 65 or over / Population under 15) * 100

** Price Report December 2024 Idealist 

*** Price Report December 2024 Idealist

3 - Why choose to live in Alte?

Surrounded by the Serra do Caldeirão and the valleys of the Barrocal Algarvio, the village of Alte offers a serene refuge away from the urban hustle and bustle.

With traditional whitewashed houses, narrow cobbled streets and picturesque fountains, the area exudes a historic charm and is considered one of the most beautiful and typical villages in the Algarve (and indeed in the whole of Portugal). 

The hospitality of the local inhabitants and the strong preservation of cultural traditions are equally captivating. The town is known for organizing several popular festivals, the most famous being the Festa do 1º de Maio.

With breathtaking natural scenery, this is a true paradise for nature lovers. Picturesque trails invite you to explore the area on foot or by bicycle, including the Alte Trail and the eighth stage of the Via Algarviana, which runs from Alte to Bartolomeu de Messines.

Despite its typical character, Alte is well supplied with services and shops. It is also strategically located, just a few minutes from the Algarve's beaches and only 44km from Faro Airport.

Choosing to live in Alte means embracing a peaceful and authentic lifestyle.

What to see and do in Alte?

The Mother Church of Alte, or Church of Our Lady of the Assumption, is a true historical and architectural treasure. It stands out for its majestic entrance with a Manueline-style portal and, inside, the blue and white tile panels depicting musician angels surrounded by clouds and seraphim heads. Religious events and local festivities take center stage here, uniting the community in meaningful celebrations. The Mother Church of Alte has been classified as a Property of Public Interest since 2013, and is considered not only a symbol of faith, but a symbol of the Algarve's cultural identity.

©Câmara Municipal de Lisboa - Jardim da Parada

©We Travel Portugal

The Ribeira de Alte is the watercourse that runs through the village and its flow is fed by two fountains: the Fonte Pequena (small font) and the Fonte Grande (big font). In the past, these fountains were a meeting place for local women, who washed their clothes here, filled their pitchers with fresh water and shared news. Today, it is a place of leisure (considered the region's main attraction), with a stunning natural swimming pool, a grassy river area and two picnic parks - inviting you to pleasant picnics and moments of relaxation. The 1st of May festivities and other folklore festivals are held every year near Fonte Grande.

©Fonte Grande de Alte

The Queda do Vigário waterfall is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the Algarve and is very popular for its "instagramability". The waterfall, about 24m high, falls into a large, crystal-clear lake, making it a true oasis in the middle of the Algarve mountains. The Alte Trail, which passes through the interior of the village, has its start/finish point here. Tip: The waterfall tends to dry up in the warmer months, so we recommend visiting it in spring.

The Queda do Vigário waterfall is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the Algarve and is very popular for its "instagramability". The waterfall, about 24m high, falls into a large, crystal-clear lake, making it a true oasis in the middle of the Algarve mountains. The Alte Trail, which passes through the interior of the village, has its start/finish point here  Trilhos do Algarve - Algarve, Alte trail Tip: The waterfall tends to dry up in the warmer months, so we recommend visiting it in spring.

The Queda do Vigário waterfall is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the Algarve and is very popular for its "instagramability". The waterfall, about 24m high, falls into a large, crystal-clear lake, making it a true oasis in the middle of the Algarve mountains. The Alte Trail, which passes through the interior of the village, has its start/finish point here. Tip: The waterfall tends to dry up in the warmer months, so we recommend visiting it in spring.

©Visit Albufeira

 © We Travel Portugal

Alte Cultural Week takes place every year from April 25 to May 1, with the aim of celebrating the region's rich cultural heritage. Over the course of a week, locals and visitors are invited to take part in a series of activities that highlight the importance of preserving local culture. Workshops, creative experiments, traditional games, mountain biking and walking tours are just some of the examples. In addition, various shows, such as theatrical performances and musical concerts, provide a fascinating insight into the history and heritage of Alte. As you wander around the village, you'll also find a market selling handicrafts and regional products and a tavern area.

 @amoreiras360view

© CM Loulé

Where to eat and drink:

The Fonte Grande of Alte is equipped with a café/bar of the same name. It is located next to the natural swimming pool and has a relaxing terrace where you can enjoy your meal to the sound of running water!
Opening hours
Monday to Saturday: 10h00 to 02h00
(Closed on Sundays)

©Fonte Grande de Alte

Terra d'Alte is a family-run restaurant serving typical Portuguese cuisine, where the quality of the ingredients and the friendliness of the staff do not go unnoticed! Among the dishes (full of flavor) on the menu are corn stew, lamb chops, wild boar stew and charcoal grills. You can also find the day's suggestions on their Facebook and Instagram pages. "Simple, traditional and tasty"

Average price 20€
Opening hours
Sunday to Thursday: 12h00 - 16h00
Friday and Saturday: 12h00-16h00 / 19h00-22h00
(Closed on Mondays)

©Restaurante Terra d'Alte

If you're looking for traditional Algarve pastries, Doçaria Água Mel is the place for you! Here you'll find all kinds of regional sweets and cakes, such as the famous almond pastries and fig, walnut and carob sweets. You can also take away products such as honey, liqueurs and spirits made from various fruits. All this is complemented by an incredible view of the mountains! "A place where tradition is maintained and flavors endure".
Opening hours
Monday to Friday: 09h00-19h30
Saturday: 09h00-20h00
(Closed on Sundays)

©Doçaria Água Mel

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