Castro Marim, Algarve, Portugal

Castro Marim on the Eastern Algarve is a relatively small, sleepy village today, but one with a rich history and well worth visiting.

Castro Marim was once a key fortification in defending Portugal's southern coast, lying only six kilometres from the Spanish border on the opposite side of the Rio Guadiana.

And as you approach Castro Marim you can't fail to miss the impressive fortifications which dominate the village's skyline.

The ruins of the 14th century castle, home to the Knights of the Order of Christ (who replaced the Knights Templar) provide stunning views over the surrounding countryside and to the Fort of São Sebastião, which stands on a hillock opposite.

The Castle of Castro Marim, is all but a shell, but it is still possible to walk the battlements and marvel at the views they provide over the salt marshes, Rio Guadiana and towards Spain. Inside the castle, which is open daily there is a small museum. The museum is filled with artefacts gathered from various excavations of the castle and provides a potted history.

The Castle of Castro Marim fell into ruin following the devastating 1755 earthquake, which rocked Portugal. In the 17th century the Fort of Sao Sebastiao was constructed to maintain the defences.

Fact File

Castro Marim was home to the Order of Christ Knights in the 14th century

Fort of São Sebastião

Salt Pans of Castro Marim

But Castro Marim is not all about history, it provides a pleasant base from which to explore the protected marshes of the Reserva Natural do Sapal, a haven for bird and wildlife.

The Reserva Natural do Sapal, which stretches to Vila Real de Santo António to the south, is home to over 150 varieties of storks, sandpipers, flamingos, Little Terns and the only Portuguese population of Lesser Short-toed Larks. There is also a wide variety of plant, animals and reptiles including the rare Mediterranean Chameleon.

Inside Castro Marim's Castle

Castro Marim with its white washed houses lining the maze of cobbled streets is a relaxing place to simply put your feet up and enjoy the peace and quiet over a coffee.

Castro Marim is located six kilometres west of the Spanish border and is accessible by train. The train station of Castro Marim though is not located within the town, but a 10 minute walk south.

If you are thinking of visiting Castro Marim while on holiday then the ideal time to catch this village at it's best would be at the end of August when it plays hosts to a bustling Medieval Festival.

The medieval festival is held in the Castle of Castro Marim over several days with street entertainment, parades, displays of traditional jousting with all participants adorned in medieval garb as well as lots of concessionaries providing a variety of things to eat.