‘Caribbean-like islands with no crowds’ – the European city that’s a gateway to the world’s best beaches

FARO in Portugal is our latest destination for our weekly Spotlight On series.

The Sun's Deputy Travel Editor Kara Godfrey recently visited.

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She said: "Most people skip Faro to head straight down to the Algarve.

"But there are some fantastic islands just off the coast where you will see barely any tourists.

"Ilha Deserta, also known as Barreta, takes just 20 minutes by boat, with tickets a few euros.

"Some call it the Caribbean of Portugal - something I agree with thanks to its golden sandy beaches.

"There is nothing on the island apart from the fabulous restaurant Estamine - a must visit serving up locally caught food".

Here are some of our other top tips.

One of the most captivating elements of Faro, the capital of the Algarve region, is its fascinating history.

And no place tells this city's stories better than the chapels.

The 18th-century Capela Dos Ossos on Largo do Carmo within the walled city is an absolute must, but it's only for the brave.

Translated as the Chapel of Bones, the ancient walls of this holy places are decorated with pieces from over 1,250 human skeletons.

If that doesn't appeal then the Museu Arqueologico de Faro, the archaeological museum founded in 1894, houses an impressive collection of Roman artefacts.

Praia de Faro, on the island Ilha de Faro, is considered the best beach in the Faro region by locals, but few tourists have heard of it.

The gold sands stretch for five kilometres with views of the sea on one side and a natural park on the other.

The island can be accessed via a narrow bridge, crossing the Ria Formosa and makes for a great day trip - although be warned, the sea here can be very chilly even in the summer months.

For outstanding views across the entire capital, head to the Cosmopolitan Rooftop Bar at Hotel Faro.

From here you can soak up the marina and its glittering lights all while sipping on an exotic cocktail - there's even live music on some nights.

The best time to visit is certainly sunset, but make sure to book if you want to bag one of the best seats.

There are bar snacks, too, if you're feeling peckish. (hotelfaro.pt/ en/cosmopolitan-bar).

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Tertúlia Algarvia (tertulia-algarvia.pt) is more than just a restaurant, it's a culinary experience where visitors will not only gorge on traditional meals, but also participate in workshops and visit regular exhibitions.

It's in the heart of the Old Town and has a strong focus on seasonal produce and fresh seafood.

Keen to sample one of the local specialities? Order the Cataplana.

It's a traditional Portuguese fish stew, which pairs very well with a fruity white wine.

3HB was the first 5H hotel to open in Faro, but it's not the comfy beds that attract most visitors.

The modern rooftop bar offers an impressive menu of classic and well-executed cocktails as well as gastropub style meals including a juicy burger.

The AP Eva Senses Hotel is tough to beat and that is partly down to its location, with the Ria Formosa Natural Park as its neighbour.

Head to the rooftop for impeccable views of both the marina and the Old Town.

As well as comfortable bedrooms, many of which have a balcony or terrace, there's a spa, gym and three onsite restaurants.

Prices start from £91 per night based on two adults sharing and including breakfast (see ap-hotelsresorts.com/eva).

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