What to see in Estoi
• Roman Ruins of Milreu
Just 15 minutes or 10km/6 miles north of Faro is the sleepy but charming village of Estoi, which is home to the ruins of a grand Roman villa. Located in beautiful countryside down the road from the center of the village, they offer insight into Roman life. While some of the sculptures unearthed on the site were taken to Faro’s Municipal Museum, a small exhibition shows some of the art and explains the architecture and the history of the place.
• Estoi Palace
A visit to the Roman ruins should be combined with a stop at this palace nearby (it’s about a 15-minute walk away). Although it’s now a luxurious hotel, the rococo halls, and romantic Versailles-style gardens are open to visitors. Built in 1782, it was the grandest residence in Algarve, and you too just might want to make it your home for a day or two.
