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Morning
An ideal starting point for your drive is Loulé (see Central Region), on a Saturday morning to take advantage of the bustling market. An early start will ensure you get the best choice of the produce. Aim to get there about 9am and allow an hour for browsing the stalls.
Order a coffee in Café Calcinha, Praça da República, 67, before jumping in the car and heading west on the N270 to the village of Paderne, see Other Villages and Sights. If you want to visit the 12th-century Moorish castle, turn right before the village.
To reach the next village, Alte, double back and head towards São Bartolomeu de Messines, turning right at the N124. Alte is now signposted, and you’ll reach it within half an hour. Take time to explore this wonderful rural idyll.
Afternoon
Lunch should be savoured in Salir, a leisurely, 25-minute drive away. Try the Casa Pasto Mouro Bar, in Rua dos Muros do Castelo, below the castle ruins and with superb views of Rocha da Pena.
Continue east on the N124, driving through the Caldeirão mountain range before turning right onto the N396, back towards Loulé.
A signposted detour off this road will take you into the ancient hamlet of Querença ( Other Villages and Sights), with its whitewashed church and the Loja da Quinta, a wonderful little handicrafts store. Treat yourself to some local liqueurs before heading back to Loulé.
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