For many, Faro is nothing more than the location of the airport by which they get to the beaches and resorts of the Algarve. To the west of Faro you'll find the classic postcard images of the province - small bays and coves intersected by weird and wonderful rock formations and, as a result, an increasingly built up string of holiday villa complexes. To the east the scenery changes dramatically: the coastline is protected by thin stretches of mudflats and sandbanks, or ilhas, offering a much quieter but equally beautiful - an often even warmer - retreat than the western shores. And Faro itself, forming this boundary, is the administrative capital of the region, boasting an attractive harbour, a bustling pedestrianised shopping area, and some excellent local beaches. The city provides the perfect location to explore the wonderful surrounding area, but don't be too quick to dismiss it as a great place to visit in itself.
