The Scottish Bridge Union 16th Overseas Spring Congress

Nights

7

From

£795
Land Package – call for tailor-made flight prices

Departs

26 May 2026

Nights

7

Departs

26 May 2026

From

£795
Land Package – call for tailor-made flight prices

Join the Scottish Bridge Union for their 16th Overseas Spring Congress in Portugal.  A National Red/Green Pointed Event.

Tavira is a charming, traditional Portuguese town in the heart of the Algarve, beautifully preserved and untouched by mass tourism.

Stroll across the Roman Bridge spanning the Gilão River and enjoy the sounds of local musicians as you take in stunning views of the town and riverbanks. Wander through narrow cobbled streets lined with whitewashed buildings and discover why Tavira is known as the “City of Churches” — home to an impressive 37 historic churches.

Climb to the ancient Tavira Castle and explore its tranquil gardens and ruins, offering panoramic views over the town. Immerse yourself in local life with a visit to Tavira’s bustling market, where you’ll find fresh regional produce, local crafts, and an authentic taste of the Algarve. For more sightseeing, hop on the tourist train to Quatro Águas Pier or take a guided Tuk Tuk tour through the historic centre to uncover the town’s rich heritage.  Don’t miss a short ferry ride to Tavira Island, where pristine sandy beaches and nearby salt pans attract flamingos, spoonbills, and other exotic birdlife. For golf enthusiasts, the area offers four excellent 18-hole courses set in scenic surroundings.

The 4-star Hotel Vila Galé Tavira is ideally situated in the town centre, just moments from the coastline, local shops, and top attractions. Inspired by Moorish architecture, the hotel features elegant ceramic tiles and stylish Arabic-themed décor. Its low-rise structure surrounds a large outdoor pool and peaceful gardens, offering a relaxing retreat. Guests also enjoy access to an indoor pool and wellness centre for ultimate relaxation.  All our rooms are pool and garden facing.

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Highlights

  • 16th Overseas Spring Congress
  • National Red / Green Masterpoints awarded
  • Excellent location in the centre of Tavira
  • Elegant hotel with outdoor and indoor swimming pools and wellness centre
  • Drinks package included at dinner and evening drink after bridge

Itinerary

Day 1

Faro International Airport > Hotel Vila Gale Tavira

For guests arriving at Faro International airport, join the group and transfer to the Hotel Vila Gale Tavira. (Transfer time approximately 40 minutes).


7.30pm - 11.00 pm: Pre-Congress Pairs

Day 1
Day 2

Hotel Vila Gale Tavira

10.00 am: Welcome Meeting in Bridge Playing Room

1.30 pm – 5.00pm: Open Teams

7.30 pm – 11.00 pm: Swiss Pairs Session 1

 

 

Day 2
Day 3

Hotel Vila Gale Tavira

10.00 am – 11.00 am: Bidding competition

Journey Along the Cork Route to Historic São Brás de Alportel – Optional half day tour:

Enjoy a short but scenic drive inland along the famous Cork Route to São Brás de Alportel, once Portugal’s largest cork-producing town. Step inside an authentic cork factory to explore the fascinating, centuries-old bond between people and the cork oak, and savour a taste of traditional local liqueur.

Next, wander through the Ethnographic Museum, housed in the elegant former home of a prosperous cork merchant. To complete this cultural experience, relax on the charming terraces and delight in a tasting of three exquisite local wines, perfectly paired with homemade tapas.

7.30 pm – 11.00 pm:  Swiss Pairs Session 2

Day 3
Day 4

Hotel Vila Gale Tavira

10.00 am: What Should I have Done? Discussion with experts

1.30pm - 5.00 pm: Pivot Teams

7.30 pm – 11.00pm: Swiss Pairs Session 3

Day 4
Day 5

Hotel Vila Gale Tavira

Discover the Charm of Olhão and the Stunning Ria Formosa Islands - Optional full day tour

Join us for an unforgettable full-day excursion to the picturesque town of Olhão, renowned for its vibrant waterfront market and charming historic quarter. Experience the magic of the unspoiled Ria Formosa Islands on an exclusive private boat tour through this breathtaking estuary, celebrated for its pristine sandbanks, oyster and salt farms, and as a sanctuary for diverse coastal birds.

Our journey includes a relaxing stop at the idyllic Culatra Island, where you’ll have free time to explore its natural beauty, take a refreshing swim, or indulge in a delicious fish dinner at one of the island’s authentic traditional restaurants.

Or 1.30 pm – 5.00 pm: Optional Pairs for those not participating in tour


7.30 pm – 11.00 pm: Swiss Teams Session 1

Day 5
Day 6

Hotel Vila Gale Tavira

1.30 pm – 5.00 pm: X Imp Pairs

7.30 pm – 11.00 pm: Swiss Teams Session 2

Day 6
Day 7

Hotel Vila Gale Tavira

1.30 pm – 5.00 pm: Men’s, Ladies and Mixed Pairs

5.00 pm: Drinks Reception & Prize Giving

Relaxed Dinner & Chill or Party Bridge from 7.30pm the choice is yours!

Day 7
Day 8

Hotel Vila Gale Tavira > Faro International Airport

Today we bid farewell to guests and after breakfast and hotel check-out depart on the group transfers to Faro International Airport.

Day 8

What's included

  • 7 nights’ accommodation in pool view room half board
  • Complimentary upgrade to pool view room
  • Drinks package with dinner – glass wine, beer, or soft drink, mineral water & coffee
  • Drink in bar after evening bridge – wine/beer or soft drink.
  • Complimentary use of indoor heated pool, gym, jacuzzi and Turkish bath and relaxation area
  • Red & Green Masterpoints awarded
  • Return airport transfers
  • Unusually for a British tour operator, 100% of Bridge Collection holidays are fully financially protected – via our Trust Account for accommodation-only bookings, and with ATOL protection for guests booking flights and accommodation.

Prices

Date

Nights

Double/Twin (pp) from

Single from

26 May 2026
7
£795
£1,035

Date

26 May 2026

Nights

7

Double/Twin (pp) from

£795

Single from

£1,035

Fees

SBU Bridge Fee
£105
Non-Bridge Player
£55

Full operator terms and conditions apply. Prices are per person based on two adults sharing a room unless otherwise stated, subject to availability and change. For flight inclusive prices or to tailor-make your Bridge Holiday with land stays, added excursions and more, call today. Please note, for guests making their own travel arrangements, please speak to our friendly Bridge team prior to confirming your flight arrangements. Bridge hosts/directors may be subject to change due to unforeseen circumstances. Local tourist tax payable locally if applicable.

Upgrades

Details

Nights

Double/Twin (pp) from

Single from

Extra night in pool view room, bed and breakfast
1
£60
£95

Details

Extra night in pool view room, bed and breakfast

Nights

1

Double/Twin (pp) from

£60

Single from

£95
Extra night in pool view room, half board
1
£80
£115

Details

Extra night in pool view room, half board

Nights

1

Double/Twin (pp) from

£80

Single from

£115

Hotel Vila Gale Tavira

The charming 4-star Hotel Vila Gale Tavira is perfectly located in the heart of the historic town of Tavira on the banks of the Ria Formosa.

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The Scottish Bridge Union Overseas Congress is a National Red and Green Pointed event, featuring a full programme of duplicate bridge tournaments under SBU regulations.

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