If you’re travelling to the Algarve then it’s nice to pick up some souvenirs. I always like to get mementos from a trip to remember it. One of the best Portuguese souvenirs is in the form of Bordallo Pinheiro ceramics. These are the quintessentially Portuguese creators of beautiful pottery. If you’re looking for what to buy in The Algarve, Portugal, Bordallo Pinheiro Ceramics is perfect.
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Finding out about Bordallo Pinheiro ceramics and what to buy in the Algarve
On a winter trip to the Algarve I spotted the beautiful pottery from Portuguese maker Bordallo Pinheiro. I immediately knew I needed to add it to my collection.
A history of Bordallo Pinheiro ceramics
Rafael Bordallo Pinheiro was known as one of the most influential of Portuguese artists. Drawing caricatures and making ceramics.
In 1884 he and his brother set up a ceramics factory which still produces designs today.
I love the designs the Bordallo Pinheiro factory produces, many of them humorous or with the clever use of the natural world around us.
Discovering the best souvenir to buy in the Algarve
It was wonderful to see that Martinhal Resort & Spa, where we were staying, was using them throughout their villas.
I picked up this beautiful jade green pitcher which they also used in Martinhal.
And also this white cake stand.
The cake stand is covered in geranium flowers which many consider to be a national flower. Gardens and balconies across Portugal are covered in it.
These are now a constant reminder of that wonderful trip.
From the simplicity of the celebration of their natural world to more outlandish creations, the range from Bordallo Pinheiro is vast.
It’s inspiring to see how they use a cabbage leaf design as a serving dish, a pumpkin becomes a tureen and a leaping fish becomes a pitcher.
The company says they love to create pieces where nature, humour and joy are served at the table.
Picking up special items from our travels is always important. It really keeps the memories alive of our trips and they are lovely additions around the home.
Have you been to Portugal? What did you pick up from your travels there? Check out our bumper post of the Algarve with kids for lots more suggestions of things to do and see.
An ultimate guide to Portugal with kids
Watch out for Processionary caterpillars on your trip to the Algarve
A recipe for Portuguese piri piri potatoes
when I traveled before having the children my thing was to visit the local sports club and buy a pin badge from there, and also something locally made. I have a lovely chess set from Greece. Since having children though I seem to spend all my holiday money on Ice Cream
What pretty pieces! I particularly like the pitchers.
My goodness I LOVE the cake stand! It’s very cool that there is a story behind them and the chances of 2/3 Friends having the same piece are very slim 😉
Thank you!! I love that cake stand too….a good excuse for cake 😉 Thank you for your comments!
Oh they are gorgeous and would be perfect for a tea party.
These are cute little pieces. I would love them in my house x
I love the blue crockery, I went to Alhos da agua but never saw anything like that.
Not many smaller resorts stock the brand. I have about 10 small pieces at home, I am a serial collector, 2 or 3 items each time is common now.
The airport at Faro has a shop which stocks a reasonable choice its a bit last minute, but it works for me. I went through late March 2026 and due to go through again this coming Monday.
Hope you added to your collection! I love it! Glad to find a fellow fan.
oh i do love that blue set , certainly something i would like myself x
Yes it’s beautiful isn’t it? Thank you for commenting!
The Jade Green Pitcher is lovely, exactly the type of item I would expect to see in Portugal.
I love that you bring back things that you can use in your home throughout the year and have so many memories
Thank you – I do love searching out things to bring home!!
I always like to pick up something that is useful so it reminds you of your travels when you use it
I love great finds! I remember a little ceramic place we discovered in lake Como and totally regret not taking lots if pieces back home! X
Some lovely things there. You must have a great collection of gorgeous pretty things in your house. Very envious!
Ah thank you so much! I love collecting things from around the world!
I love the cake stand, its super pretty xx
I love the cake stand! To be honest I tend to go for small light souvenirs because I hate carrying lots and worry it will break. Lovely pieces you have there though
For me i adore that pitcher .. so beautiful and such a striking colour x
Those ceramics are gorgeous! I last went to the Algarve as a child – and bought a straw donkey as a souvenir – not quite as classy!