Attractions and Places To See around Villablanca - Top 20

Vila Real de Santo António is located on the Gulf of Cádiz, which is part of the Atlantic Ocean, and on the right bank of the Guadiana River, whose lower reaches form the border between Portugal and Spain. The town offers several attractions, charming restaurants, bars, and cafés! A ferry ⛴️ provides convenient hourly service to the Spanish town of Ayamonte.

Vila Real de Santo António is a municipality and town in the Faro District of Portugal. It lies on the Gulf of Cádiz, which is part of the Atlantic Ocean, and on the right bank of the Guadiana River, whose lower reaches form the border between Portugal and Spain. Ayamonte, in Spain, lies on the opposite bank of the Guadiana River.

In the heart of the Algarve, perched on a hill on the right bank of the Guadiana River, Castro Marim Castle holds centuries of history and battles. Although human presence in the region dates back to prehistoric times, it was here that Romans and Muslims found a strategically valuable vantage point, taking advantage of its privileged position. The imposing fortification you can visit today (for a small fee) was built in the 13th century by order of King Dinis, serving as a defensive bastion against invasions and as a watchful sentinel on the border with Spain. At the top, the reward is a breathtaking panoramic view: the town of Castro Marim at your feet, the shimmering salt flats, the bridge connecting Portugal and Spain, and, in the distance, neighboring Ayamonte.

The perfectly square Marquês de Pombal Square, formerly called Real and later Praça do Comercio, is the city's main square. To the east are the town hall and prison, to the south is the police station, and to the north is the church.

Castro Marim Castle was strategically built in the 13th century on a hill on the right bank of the Guadiana River. Currently, only the remains of the castle remain, including four towers, a gate, the ruins of the 14th-century Church of São Tiago, the Mayor's Palace, and a few houses.

Perhaps one or two bikers won't just roll past this sculpture carelessly, but will be inspired by the metal lady on her bike to do the same and pause briefly at this spot—which offers a beautiful view of the bird sanctuary's landscape. And perhaps even take the opportunity to take a nice selfie. Incidentally, the lady here also has a male counterpart; the man in question is located in Odeceixe. He's also been added as a highlight in the komoot system. If you're interested, see the following link =>> https://www.komoot.com/de-de/highlight/4257940

Castro Marim Castle was strategically built in the 13th century on a hill on the right bank of the River Guadiana. It bears witness to the region's rich military and cultural history. The semi-circular outer wall enclosed the settlement and the so-called Old Castle, and it was here that the town initially developed. Today there are only remains of the castle with four turrets, a gate, the ruins of the 14th-century Church of São Tiago (Saint James), the Palácio dos Alcaides (Governor’s Palace) and houses.

Entrance fee €1.10 per adult...you have a fantastic panoramic view from up here. You can see the entire town, the Salinas, the bridge between Portugal and Spain and have a great view of Ayamonte. There are toilets and the ruins are beautiful to look at. Visit on January 12th, 2025