Alte: Hidden Treasure in the Inland Algarve

Alte: An authentic Algarve, away from the crowds

Away from mass tourism, crowded beaches and visitors looking only for sun and sea, there is an Algarve that preserves its roots. Alte, in the municipality of Loulé, is a remarkable example of this authenticity. Thanks to the municipality's continuous investment in conservation and enhancement of heritage, the village keeps its traditional traits alive.

The Mother Church of Alte, considered the main historical landmark of the locality, was built around 1500. However, there are previous records that prove the occupation of the site. Its Manueline portal and the vault covered with blue and white tiles stand out, elements that give grandeur and beauty to the temple.

The landscape of Alte marks the transition between the fertile Barrocal and the Serra do Caldeirão. Agriculture continues to be a constant presence, visible in the fields that follow the course of the Ribeira de Alte.

Fountains, crafts and living tradition

The valley of Ribeira de Alte is closely linked to Fonte Pequena and Fonte Grande, places of great natural beauty that attract visitors for the freshness of the waters and the peaceful environment. Alte is also recognized for its traditional handicrafts, with emphasis on wooden toys, pottery and esparto work.

The white houses with typical chimneys and the well-preserved historic center reinforce the charm of the village. In addition to the Mother Church, Alte offers other points of interest, such as the old water mill from the twelfth century and handicraft shops where you can find genuine local products.

Nature, culture and heritage

The natural pools of Alte are ideal for spending a pleasant day in contact with nature. The Alte Fountains, with clear and crystalline waters, invite relaxation, reinforced by the wooded surroundings.

The Cândido Guerreiro and Counts of Alte Museum, housed in an old manor, exhibits objects by the poet and playwright Cândido Guerreiro, as well as pieces linked to the history of the Counts of Alte, enriching the village's cultural offer.

Alte's connection to water is deep and historical. The springs, the Ribeira de Alte and the springs have shaped the dynamism of the region, today sustained by agriculture and nature tourism.

Vigário waterfall and flavors of the land

The Alte Waterfall, also known as Queda do Vigário, is one of the most impressive in the Algarve. At 24 meters high, the water crashes into a lake of singular beauty. Typical products of the region include honey, cheese and traditional sweets, all of which are handmade.

Serra do Caldeirão: between the Algarve and the Alentejo

On the outskirts of Alte, the Serra do Caldeirão offers a unique mountain environment, located between the Algarve coast and the Baixo Alentejo plain. Despite its low altitude, it is a true paradise for lovers of photography, gastronomy and nature.

Levadas, windmills and Rocha da Pena, a limestone formation with about 500 meters of altitude, rich in cracks and caves, stand out. This unique plateau provides spectacular images and is a place of great geological interest.

The gastronomy of the mountains values local ingredients such as olive oil, aromatic herbs, typical fruits and vegetables. Dishes such as stewed rooster with potatoes, corn porridge, meats with chickpeas and honey pudding are true delicacies of the region.

The flora of Serra do Caldeirão includes strawberry trees, holm oaks and cork oaks. The fauna, although it has undergone changes over time, continues to reveal imposing species such as the deer, the wild boar, the Iberian wolf, the Iberian imperial eagle and the mythical Iberian lynx.

The latter, considered one of the most endangered species in the world, finds in Serra do Caldeirão one of its priority habitats, reinforcing the ecological importance of the region.