Tavira, Portugal

TAVIRA is one of the most beautiful towns in the Algarve and a clear winner if you are looking for a base on the eastern stretch. It's sited on both sides of the broad Rio Gilão, which is overlooked by balconied houses and straddled by low bridges. Despite ever-increasing numbers of visitors Tavira continues to make a living as a fishing port, and its seafood restaurants are a powerful incentive to stop. Indeed, many stay longer than planned – particularly those intent on lounging around on the superb island beach of the Ilha de Tavira, which lies within easy reach of the town by year-round ferry.