The Vila Galé Albacora is a four-star eco-resort with an unusual setting: it occupies the buildings of the Arraial Ferreira Neto, a former tuna-fishing camp where the fishing families once lived through the season. The complex stands within the Ria Formosa Natural Park, a short distance from the centre of Tavira.
The old fishermen's houses, workshops and warehouses were restored to form the guest rooms, many with views over the lagoon and the islands. The resort keeps a strong sense of its origins: the original chapel has been preserved and is still used for weddings and christenings, the former school has become a kids' club, and a small museum tells the story of tuna fishing and the people who depended on it.
The hotel has been recognised for its sustainable, eco-focused approach. Facilities include a heated indoor pool, a large outdoor pool, a spa with sauna and Turkish bath, and restaurants serving Algarve specialities. From the resort's own pier, a boat reaches the beaches of the Ilha de Tavira.
Highlights
- Four-star eco-resort in a restored tuna-fishing village
- Set within the Ria Formosa Natural Park
- Preserved chapel and a museum of tuna fishing
- Heated indoor pool, outdoor pool and spa
- Private pier with boat access to the Ilha de Tavira
Amenities
✓ Free WiFi
✓ Heated indoor pool
✓ Outdoor pool
✓ Spa with sauna and Turkish bath
✓ Restaurants and bars
✓ Private pier and boat to the island
✓ Chapel
✓ Museum of tuna fishing
✓ Kids' club
✓ 24-hour front desk
✓ Air conditioning
Frequently asked questions
What is special about the Vila Galé Albacora?
It occupies a restored former tuna-fishing village in the Ria Formosa, keeping its original chapel and a museum of tuna fishing.
How do guests reach the beach?
The resort has its own pier, from which a boat crosses to the white-sand beaches of the Ilha de Tavira.
Is the hotel far from the centre of Tavira?
It lies a short distance from the centre of Tavira, within the Ria Formosa Natural Park, with hotel transfers into the town.