São Brás de Alportel

The municipality of  Sao Bras de Alportel covers an area of around 153 km² and has only one civil parish with  approximately  11,000 residents. 

The area's extensive plantations of cork oak provided a spring board for commercial and industrial development and for years São Brás de Alportel was the biggest cork producing centre in Portugal and the world. Its increasing population and economic importance led to the creation of the municipality in 1914. The gradual transfer of the cork manufacturing industry to the centre and north of Portugal has prompted the municipality in recent decades to diversify its sources of economic  prosperity.

Outside of the town of Sao Bras villages nestle between hills with walls of whitewashed stone flashing in the sun, the bright colours of windows and doors standing out from plain facades.

The region features vast open spaces, pure air, and breath taking views around every corner. In this area it is easy to believe that time has stood still and when visiting you are always left with a sense of penetrating the secret heart of the Algarve.

Easter Sunday in Sao Bras de Alportel is a glorious, joyous occasion. The streets are lined with flowers and greenery, men and boys carrying astounding floral arrangements parade through the streets calling an Alleluia chorus. Bedspreads are hung from windows to pick up good luck as the parade passes by. Thousands come out to view, eat goodies from market stands, buy balloons for the kids and visit with one another. After the parade there is music, more food and a true Portuguese party atmosphere. Definitely an event not to be missed. 

One of our offices is also based in São Brás de Alportel. On the square south of the main street of the town is our office located at the Largo de São Sebastião 17. We invite you to discuss how we can assist you in finding your dream home in Portugal!