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Vila Real’s handsome central square is named after its creator, the Marquês de Pombal, and features a boldly graphic black and white mosaic pavement radiating from a central obelisk. The square is lined by a row of orange trees, which bear plump fruit, and a number of tidy 18th-century town houses, cafés and restaurants.

Dedicated to Portugal’s foremost wood engraver, this museum ably spotlights Cabanas’ extensive portfolio of ink-relief images. See Museums

The highpoint, literally, of a visit to this church is its six gorgeous stained-glass windows, set aloft over the chapel and altar. They were designed and installed by Algarvean artist Joaquim Rebocho as part of a major restoration in 1949. A further set at ground-floor level floods the baptistery with a surreal rainbow glow.

This brooding frontier stronghold consists of two castles. The inner part, built by Dom Alfonso III in the 13th century, became headquarters of the Order of Christ. Dom João IV added heavier outer ramparts in the 17th century.

Surrounded by a jumble of masonry, a cracked but intact portal with a damaged stone crucifix crowning its arch is the most tangible evidence of the Igreja de Santiago, where Henry the Navigator once prayed.

Tucked inside the weather-worn battlements of Castro Marim castle is a humble museum, displaying a collection of local finds, including ancient lances, chipped cannon balls, ceramic fragments and amphorae. (Currently closed for renovation.)

Replaced many years ago by a much larger church situated outside the castle walls, the original 17th-century church has still kept its looks thanks to generous restoration work. Unfortunately, you cannot see much beyond the Renaissance doorway as the church is closed to the public.

Mirroring Castro Marim’s castle from a nearby hilltop, this smaller fort was built for Dom João IV in 1641. Now in ruins, the fort is redeemed by its panoramic views.

A large expanse of marsh and salt pans that is an important breeding ground for plovers, avocets, little terns and black-winged stilts. Flamingos may also be seen feeding here.

Swordsmen, archers and jousters battle it out under the illuminated walls of the castle, as Castro Marim celebrates its medieval past through pageantry. The raucous period fun goes on for three days. See Festivals.