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Boliqueime

Boliqueime in Central Algarve Portugal, Boliqueime is a small village falling under the district of Loule it is one village that has been disputed during the 1830’s-1860’s as then it fell under the parish of Albufeira, this is not the first time towns/villages have been disputed for either their rich fishing rights of abundant Tuna, or the plentiful supply of fresh spring water.

The Algarve is famous for its chimneys which are unique to this part of Portugal. They come in all shapes and sizes and featured on many postcards.

Said the larger more elaborate the chimney more wealth one had. You will often see grand chimneys on small cottages that look out of proportion. The small village of Boliqueime celebrates by having the chimney on its coat of arms. The village has the largest cement factory in the Algarve and can be seen from the A22 motorway, Boliqueime village sits above sea level of around 45 meters with good sea views toward both Vilamoura and Albufeira.

The small square at the village center, with the main church “Igreja Matriz”  being the dominant building in the center was completely rebuilt after the 1755 earthquake. It becomes a center point of the  village in August/September & October holding food events in honor of Our Lady of Sorrows, normally held over a 2 day weekend in the evening with pop up restaurants and coffee bars selling an abundant  array of traditional cakes and deserts.

There are many narrow streets that still have cobbled stones, and if not careful you can find yourself testing your driving skills. Boliqueime has remnants of it’s wealthy past, evidence of merchant’s houses with  elaborate stone door surrounds, wrought iron balconies and window grills.

Many tourists would not find a reason to visit the village apart from visiting the two newly built Aldi’s and Lidl located just off the new double roundabouts, but Boliqueime has two smaller parishes. Fonte de Boliqueime, with the EN: 125 road running through the middle of it. You will not actually find Fonte de Boliqueime. The place name refers to hot and cold springs that were present in the 13th to 15th century and appear to have reference to Italy with the name ”bulicame” meaning Thermal springs . Nowadays the only remaining evidence of a Fonte is one that sits inside a restaurant.

Poco de Boliqueime just further up. This is where most tourists think they have visited Boliqueime and having nothing to offer. But you would be wrong as to drive that little further until you reach Boliqueime itself, the village has the charm of other villages in the Algarve. Boliqueime has a monthly market on the last Thursday of the month (see Markets). Many good restaurants offering fantastic sunset views. The village is well worth the inland visit for those staying closer to the coast.

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