Industrial Tourism

As I basked in the sun at Vila Vita Parc, the stunning clifftop resort overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, I marvelled not just at the beauty surrounding me, but at the region's rich tapestry of history and culture. With such picturesque landscapes and world-class amenities, it’s easy to forget that the Algarve has a compelling industrial heritage waiting to be discovered.

During my stay, I learned about a unique aspect of tourism gaining traction in the Algarve - industrial tourism. Who would have imagined that the remnants of factories and the intricate workings of traditional crafts could be a gateway to understanding Algarve’s past?

Industrial tourism offers visitors a glimpse into the production processes of various local products, showcasing a blend of history and innovation. In the Algarve, this translates to breathtaking tours of factories, workshops, and farms, providing insights into everything from traditional pottery and tile-making to olive oil and wine production, or witnessing the journey from rock salt mines to your table, seeing the saltpans where the flower of salt is harvested, and exploring cork harvesting and transformation. You can even tour a canning plant.

For those with a curious spirit, industrial tourism serves as a bridge to the past while also highlighting the efforts of modern artisans and entrepreneurs in preserving traditional crafts, like “empreita”, a traditional palm weaving Algarvean technique, which involves braiding strips of dwarf palm leaves to create baskets and other items. Today, workshops offer tourists hands-on experiences to learn this ancient technique, supporting artisans while allowing visitors to engage directly with cultural heritage. With each outing, I felt a deeper connection to the region, understanding how its industrial history has shaped the local culture.

At Vila Vita Parc, planning an adventure is a breeze. The resort offers Vila Vita Tours, exclusive excursion opportunities, that allow guests to explore the Algarve's industrial icons with the comfort of a private driver and guide. This flexibility lets visitors curate their experience, ensuring that every journey is tailored to their interests.

I decided to take advantage of this service, embarking on a day trip to visit a local pottery, nestled in an enchanting village near to Silves. The drive through the Algarve’s undulating hills was nothing short of spectacular, and Paulo, my guide, entertained me with stories about the region’s history and legends, from its Moorish influences and to its fishing traditions.

Upon arriving at the pottery studio, I was welcomed by the warm, earthy scent of clay and the sound of a spinning wheel. Senhor José, the artisan, while handcrafting intricate pieces reflecting the culture of the Algarve, shared with me his passion for clay and some of his techniques. And then I was fortunate enough to try my hand at the pottery wheel, guided by this skilled craftsman wisdom, who smiled warmly with a sense of patience and kindness, as he shared his expertise, making the experience even more delightful and memorable.

Beyond pottery, the Algarve showed me a wealth of opportunities for industrial tourism enthusiasts. I ventured to an olive oil mill near Monchique, where I learned about the antique pressing process - still with traditional machines and ancient methods - and tasted some exquisite oils, all while enjoying the breathtaking views of sprawling olive groves. The passion of the owner, a local third generation olive grower, resonated with me, highlighting how committed farmers are to preserving the region's agricultural heritage.

Winding through the countryside, I also visited a winery renowned for its award-winning blends. The vineyard tour was complemented by a tasting session that allowed me to savour the delightful fruits of labour from vine to bottle. The sommelier explained the nuances of local varietals, deepening my appreciation for these Algarvean wines, particularly a red that hijacked my taste buds and left me wanting more…

The key to industrial tourism is its educational value. Each visit was an opportunity to engage with local history and traditions. The local craftsmen and people at the places I visited were experts and shared their personal stories, weaving a narrative that made each site come alive. Whether it was learning about the labour-intensive process of cork extraction or the age-old techniques of tile-making, these experiences were genuinely enriching.

Returning to Vila Vita Parc after my adventures each day, I thought about the industrious spirit of the Algarve and was able to appreciate even more the sense of belonging that the resort conveys and how it lives up to its motto “Passionate about Algarve”.  It was exciting to see how the past continues to shape the present, with artisans and producers dedicating their craft to both preserve tradition and innovate.

Exploring the Algarve’s industrial tourism sites is accessible and rewarding. Each expedition invites guests to delve deeper into the region's rich cultural narrative, making the experience much more than just a holiday. It’s a chance to connect with the land and its people, discovering the stories that lie behind the beautiful landscapes, the what’s, the who’s and the how’s.

Whether you are an art enthusiast, a foodie, or someone who simply wants to understand the soul of the Algarve, industrial tourism offers a fresh perspective. So, pack your curiosity and let Vila Vita Parc be your launching point for unforgettable explorations through the captivating tapestry of the Algarve’s industrial heritage. Discover, just like I did, the charm of how things are made in the Algarve.