Algarve Villa Holidays - Spotlight on Lagos

If you are thinking about an Algarve villa holiday next summer, then why not come and stay in Lagos? Read on to find out more about this popular Algarve villa holiday destination.

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Lagos Town

The A22 motorway now takes you all the way from Faro International Airport to Lagos and without pushing it, the journey should take about an hour. You’ll pass some lovely scenery en-route but don’t worry; there are many more photo opportunities to come. The historic town of Lagos is now a lively and very busy place, popular among tourists and holidaymakers. This belies its quiet fishing village past, of which there are still plenty of reminders.

Lagos is in the western Algarve, not the point breaks and craggy rock faces of Sagres, where all the adrenalin junkies hang out, but a chilled out, more grown up version of its loud and kiddy-centric neighbour in central Algarve. The town is guarded by a 17thC fort, which was erected to protect the town and their piece of the coast. The building now houses a small museum with information about Portugal's maritime history and is worth a look if you’re into that sort of thing.

The third largest town on the Algarve, Lagos is a maze of winding cobbled streets, lined with pavement cafés, restaurants and bars. Some dimly lit, brooding and seductive, others laced with neon and pumping out eurotrash. Antiques and art shops abound here in a town desperate to cling onto its culture and history. Somehow though, this quaint old fishing manages to serve both masters, combining the charm of it's past, with the demands of a modern and popular Algarve holiday destination.

One of the ways Lagos manages this juxtaposition of both age and style, is by staging street entertainments on a regular basis. Throughout the year you will find buskers (some paid, some not) and performance artists displaying their skills, eager to pose for a photo or two. You’ll find street markets and a whole calendar full of festivals and many times the two will clash, filling the main square and streets with revellers. The Portuguese are also passionate sports fans, especially when it comes to their football, so if a high profile game were also to coincide with a festival, as often happens, there’ll hardly be room to move on the streets – It’ll be fun though.

The Accommodation

At Villa in Algarve we have a wide selection of Algarve villas and apartments for rent in Lagos, sleeping up to 10 people. Villas to rent and apartments for hire in Lagos in Portugal are extremely popular and are sure to suit almost everyone. In the beautifully landscaped Jardim da Meia Praia, development for example, you’ll find superb 2 and 3 bedroomed townhouses, sleeping 4 to 6 people respectively. Elsewhere in the town, you’ll find self-catering apartments for rent with fully equipped kitchens, comfortable beds and balconies, some affording superb views of the countryside, whilst others present breathtaking views of the coast. You’ll find individually styled Algarve holiday villas which offer a luxurious base, from which you can either explore the beaches or simply lounge around your own private pool surrounded by lush green gardens.

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The Beaches

Lagos lays claim to eight beaches, namely; Batata, Estudantes, Camilo, Dona Ana, Luz, Meia, Pinhão and Porto de Mós, though, it should be said that 1 or 2 of them are shared with the neighbouring town of Luz. Meia is by far the largest and most popular beach in Lagos, stretching from the edge of the bay, to the Alvor estuary. The beach presents miles of soft white sand and crystal blue waters, and there is a wide range of beach bars and restaurants to choose from.

The Marina

The recently constructed marina is postcard pretty and a wonderful place to while away a few hours people and boat watching. Besides its permanent moorings, many of which, themselves are not cheap, it is usually full of expensive yachts passing through on their way to or from the Mediterranean and the Americas. From the marina you can book boat tours, hire yachts and go on deep sea-fishing outings. Or if you’d rather stay on firm land, you could climb the steps of the 17th Century “Forte da Bandeira" which guards the entrance to the harbour. If you climb the steps, to the top of its outer perimeter the view from there is amazing. The Fort houses a small but very interesting museum which is dedicated to the Portuguese Discoveries.

The Coastline

The coastline here in Lagos is a great mix of soft sanded beach and rugged rock formations, making this location ideal for families and groups of mixed ages. You can choose between laying on a beach, reading a book and sunbathing, or clambering around the rocks, looking for sea creatures in the small pools of water left behind by the tides.

If you fancy going on a boat trip, pop down to the harbour at Lagos, you’ll find several guides there that will be only too pleased to take you for a tour to the many caves along the coast. They are very friendly and will happily regale you with stories of pirates and smugglers, some true, some maybe not quite so true. Other guides will give you a running commentary on the different rock formations, their names and the folklore that goes with them. These interesting and informative tours tend to last for around three quarters of an hour but the guides are more than happy to extend this, stopping to explain some of their favourite features in detail. They will navigate around and in some cases, under the intriguing rock formations and take you into caves, pointing out the many secluded beaches that surround the town.

The Dolphins

If you do decide to go on the dolphin safari you really need to book the day before, as they tend to be very popular. Your party will be taken out in a rubber inflatable boat, with an outboard engine. The captains are very experienced and you are issued with life jackets so it is very safe. The boats can get up to about 40knots (46mph) which is great because even if its really hot, the breeze will cool you down. Remember to take lots of sun cream with a high spf number though because the sun reflects off the water, intensifying its power.

Dolphin watching is a truly exhilarating experience. The dolphin's relationship with man has been well documented throughout history and many stories are told of how these magnificent creatures have saved lives by protecting people from sharks and guiding lost ships to safety. Sadly, most people only ever get to see the dolphin in captivity but on a Dolphin safari, you get the opportunity to see the dolphin in its natural environment.

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Algarve Villa Holidays - Spotlight on Luz

Luz is a great all round Algarve villa holiday destination in western Algarve. Read on to find out all about Luz town and the accommodation, beaches, coastline, sports, shops, restaurants and nightlife in Luz Algarve.

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Luz Town

Luz is a resort town close to Lagos but a little further west along the A22. The motorway leading from Faro International Airport to the town of Sagres on the Algarve’s western tip, will connect you to Luz in a little over an hour, which is good news if you have youngsters because they won't have time to get fractious. They’ll be too busy looking out of the car windows and too excited about their holiday to worry about anything else.

Once you arrive in the town, you’ll notice how really quite different it is to the towns in central Algarve. Here it seems, there’s more going on. The sea is a little less quiet, not choppy or rough but just that bit more exciting. You can wind surf here and there are rocks to climb. The beach is clean and tidy and the waters are still very safe, but there’s more action here. There are banana boats and huge rubber rings, which get towed behind boats and there’s water-skiing and jet skiing.

It is a lively and popular tourist location, close enough to central Algarve not to be too rough and rugged and yet far enough west to be interesting. There is more to Luz than laying on a sun bed catching some rays while the kids play in the sand. You can do this of course, there’s nothing to stop you, but if you want to explore and clamber about the rocks and caves or go wind surfing then it is all here for you to do.

The Accommodation

Luz was once a quiet fishing village but over time it has become recognised as a favourite holiday resort and as a result, there has been some extensive development, particularly to the west of Luz Beach

At Villa in Algarve we have a wide selection of Algarve villas and apartments for rent in Luz, sleeping up to 10 people. Villas and apartments for hire in Luz are extremely popular as is the wonderful purpose built development called Estrela da Luz, which has a range of different sized apartments to suit couples, groups of friends and families alike.

Elsewhere in the town, you’ll find self-catering villas, townhouses and apartments to suit parties of up to ten people. Many of them are beautifully furnished and decorated to the highest standards, coming with their own, private pools. Some afford superb views of the countryside, whilst others provide wonderful coastal views. You’ll find unique Algarve holiday villas in Luz, which offer a luxurious base, from which you can explore the beach and the surrounding countryside or where you can simply lounge around poolside and get lost in that book you picked up at the airport.

The development of Luz, around the central beach or “praia”, is almost exclusively 'low rise', consisting of apartments and villas of all sizes with facilities principally aimed at family holidays. Many of our villas in Luz are beautifully located in the village itself so they are perfect if you are looking for a resort, which blends character and history, with the demands of a modern holiday destination. Luz has something for everyone and its safe, sandy beaches are a real boon for many visitors.

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The Beach

The beautiful beach at Luz boasts miles of soft white sand and crystal blue waters and there is a wide range of beach bars and beachside restaurants to choose from, serving up tasty lunches and evening meals.

The Coastline

The coastline in Luz is a mix of soft-sanded beach and rugged rock formations, making this location ideal for families and groups of friends of mixed ages. You can choose between laying on the beach, reading your book and sunbathing, or clambering around the rocks. Many young adults take this past time very seriously and you’ll often see them in Luz, as they prepare their kit for the rocks and rougher waters of Sagres and points further west.

The Sports

Water-sports are available including windsurfing and boating. Tuition is available for water skiing and diving if you fancy learning something new. The key to getting up out of the water, as the Luz water skiing instructors will tell you, is straightening your legs out in front of you. Sounds easy doesn’t it! The area is also good for surfing. The Luz Ocean Club offers tennis courts, a fitness gym and swimming pools, and the sports centre in Burgau offers squash, tennis, aerobics and other facilities as well as evening barbecues and live music.

The nearby riding centre in Bensafrim offers rides, instruction and day-long picnic rides. Bird watching can be arranged at various protected reserves in the area guided by experienced ornithologists. The Luz Water Sports Centre offers scuba diving, windsurfing, fishing, sailing and snorkelling. There are also 3 excellent golf courses nearby at Parque de Floresta, Bela Vista & Palmares.

The Shops

Luz supports quite a good range of shops that will provide for all of your shopping needs, whether that’s day-to-day food shopping or present buying for the folks back home. There’s a small café and cake shop on the left hand side (coming from the 'square') just past the Ocean Club, which is the best place to get bread and croissants first thing in the morning. There’s a bookstore, for those essential holiday novels and they will even do exchanges, so you can give them the one you bought for the plane, in exchange for something else. There are boutiques, fashion shops and beachwear shops for your flip-flops and beach towels. There is a butcher for all your barbecue meat and there are a number of craft shops selling genuine, and not quite so genuine, original artworks. There’s a car rental office in case you decide you want to trip around a bit and they also hire out quads, scooters and pushbikes too. There are furniture and soft furnishing shops as well as interior designers too. Luz also has two dentists as well as a pharmacy and opticians. There are supermarkets, a post office and a fresh fish, fruit and veg market, in fact, if you can imagine living here full time, which won't be difficult, you’ll have everything here that you’ll need for the home, and if its not here, its a quarter of an hour away in Lagos.

Restaurants and Nightlife

There are a number of very good restaurants in the village serving a variety of local and International dishes, There’s Italian and English as well as Portuguese. Check out Lote 1, Pastelaria Chicca, Cafe a Fabrica and Jake's Bistro, they all come highly recommended. As well as restaurants, there are some great beach bars too and in the centre, some lively pub type bars that turn into small discos or clubs later.

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Autumn and Winter in the Algarve

Arguably one of the best times to visit the Algarve, the autumn and winter months of September through to December are never what you’d call cold. They are at worst warm and you can still get a good colour with temperatures reaching the mid 30’s at times. This time of year many of the tourists and holidaymakers of the summer have disappeared, leaving miles of golden sanded beach for you to explore, at your leisure.

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Flights to the Algarve, from the UK and other parts of Europe are that much cheaper at this time of year, making for a great value break. There’s also less traffic on the roads so your trip along the A22, that glorious stretch of tarmac leading out from Faro Airport, will be a breeze and when you get to your destination, whether it’s a villa in the eastern Algarve town of Tavira or an apartment in the central Algarve golfing resorts of Quinta do Lago or Vale do Lobo, you’ll feel nicely refreshed from your journey.

The same is true if you’ve taken a villa in the western Algarve town of Sagres, or made it round the point to Castelejo or Arrifana, or stopped anywhere along that piece of the coast at Zavial, Mareta, Tonel or Beliche. Here the journey time from the airport might be that bit further, but it is well worth it, especially if you are into action sports like surfing and climbing or just prefer the more rugged scenery that this part of the Algarve is famed for.

During the autumn and winter months, there’s increased availability in terms of accommodation. You’ll find that you’ll be able to look at hiring a villa or renting an apartment that, during high season, might have been out of budget. You’ll find also, that pretty much everything else, drops in price too. You can hire cars and motorcycles cheaper, your can get a table at a restaurant more easily and the service is likely to be better, since they’ll have more time. This is great because you’ll often get an impromptu lesson in Portuguese thrown in to the bargain.

If you’re into bartering, you won’t have to barter quite so hard and if you do, you can often come away with some good deals. The only price you pay for this increased flexibility and friendliness is the risk of the occasional shower and temperatures that are not quite as hot but it is still shorts and T-shirt weather here, most of the time.

Some people prefer the lower temperatures, making for a different style of holiday. Sports such as tennis are great played in the lower temperatures – and for golf enthusiasts lower green fees are charged out of season and there are fewer people to ‘play through’. This even applies to the championship courses of Vale do Lobo and Quinta do Lago.

If golf is not your thing; how about a pleasant stroll in the Algarve countryside? At this time of year, tramping around the Ria Formosa Natural Park is lovely and there is lots to see. The forty four thousand acres of wood and park land are largely protected by a string of islands that form a natural barrier against the off shore elements. This barrier shelters a large, tidal salt-water lagoon which is home to a diverse mix of wildlife, both animal and vegetable. The vast green space is of particular importance to numerous wintering waders and ducks and the reed beds here form important nesting sites for many of them.

During the autumn, the lagoon regularly attracts 20,000 or so water birds including; Eurasian Wigeons, Greater Flamingoes, White Storks, Eurasian Spoonbills, Little Bitterns, Purple Swamphens, Black-winged Stilts, Pied Avocets, Grey Plovers, Common Ringed Plovers, Kentish Plovers, Bar-tailed Godwits, Ruddy Turnstones, Dunlins, Little Terns and the bird that has become the symbol of the Ria Formosa, the Collared Pratincole.

If you are in Portugal and the Algarve for Christmas, you are in for a real treat. Things get started as early as December the 8th, that’s way before most of us in the UK have even got into the festive mood! Festivities and firework displays will generally happen throughout December but Christmas proper is celebrated on the evening of December 24th. This tends to be a comparatively quiet, family affair, but the celebrations kick off again afterwards, in the run up to New Year when there are yet more firework displays, culminating in the big ones which take place over the water.

All of the main resort towns will have their own highlights and the shopkeepers make a special effort with decorations, lights and trees. Goods wise though, you’ll find nothing much changes, there isn’t the big Christmas consumer push that there is in the UK. In Portugal, and even in the most Anglicised parts of the Algarve, Christmas is still, first and foremost a family affair. That’s not to say, they don’t like to party, of course they do and they love their festive treats too, but when it comes to buying presents and in particular, Christmas cards, the Portuguese are a little more, reserved.

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Algarve’s “Golden Triangle” Quinta do Lago, Vale do Lobo and Almancil - See It To Believe It

The Golden Triangle is the name given to the area between Quinta do Lago, Vale do Lobo and Almancil. This area, located barely 20 minutes drive from Faro International airport, contains some of the richest real estate in Europe with studio apartments priced at a cool quarter of a million Euros and villas available at anything up to six and a half million. Here at Truly Algarve, we specialise in Algarve holiday villas and Algarve apartments to let throughout the Algarve, including the prestigious resorts of Quinta do Lago, Vale do Lobo and Almancil.

Our luxurious Golden Triangle Algarve villas and apartments are ideally placed for playing at some of the best golf courses in Europe. But if you disregard the golf, what is it about this location that makes it so special?

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Villas in Quinta do Lago | Villas in Vale do Lobo

Property

Property in the Golden Triangle is highly regarded and sought after because of its build quality and location. The Portuguese government have long since known that the Algarve is their country’s crowning glory and their best hope of attracting tourism, holidaymakers and serious external investment. The Golden Triangle is the jewel in that crown and for that reason; property development has been very closely monitored and restricted. These restrictions ensure that any development in the area, is carried out sympathetically, so as not to adversely affect the intrinsic beauty of the area.

Landscape

The beauty of the landscape is here for all to see and the villas and apartments have been thoughtfully designed to complement their surroundings. Most of the villas for rent in the Golden Triangle are offered with beautifully landscaped gardens and even those that have not been professionally landscaped are so well and regularly tended that you would think they have been. This attention to garden detail means that you can relax in very beautiful surroundings with lush green, manicured lawns, amid colourful flowerbeds and verdant trees.

Shopping
No holiday destination worth its salt, would be complete without some decent shopping and the Golden Triangle is no exception. What is exceptional about the Quinta shopping centre in Quinta do Lago, is its range of fashionable boutiques and wonderful restaurants. There is a choice of excellent Chinese and Italian food along with a traditional English pub, just in case you fancy a little taste of home. Quinta shopping offers a host of other delights and is well worth your perusal. The centre has some lovely open air terraces and wide esplanades lined with designer fashion, jewellery and cosmetics emporia. Also for your day to day shopping needs, for bread and eggs rather than designer handbags or watches, there’s the Bougainvillea Plaza, just next door. Here you’ll find all the super markets, banks and newsagents necessary to keep life ticking along as usual.

In Vale do Lobo there is a small shopping area in the main square that overlooks the sea and there are a number of others in and around the resort entrance. The most widely used supermarkets and shops and the local chemist is at Almancil. Slightly further afield, but well worth a visit for souvenirs and gifts is the Forum shopping centre on the outskirts of Faro. It has in excess of 120 shops and around 20 restaurants and there’s a hypermarket for your groceries.

Weather

The Algarve’s climate is one of year round sun. It’s going to be warm-hot whenever you go, it’s just a matter of how hot. August and September are usually the hottest months with temperatures rising to the mid to late 80’s, but even if you were to take a holiday villa in the Algarve in January, you’d still experience temperatures in the 60’s.

Facilities

The facilities on offer in the Golden Triangle are second to none. There’s world-class golf here, and lots of it. The Golden Triangle boasts no less than 6 championship courses, the 'Royal' and 'Ocean' courses at Vale do Lobo and the 'Pinheiros Altos' and 'San Lorenzo' courses as well as the 'North' and 'South' courses at Quinta do Lago. There’s the fabulous shopping we’ve already touched on, but there’s far more than that. There are salons and health and beauty spas, there’s tennis and a wealth of other sports available including water sports either in the ocean, or on one of the many man made lakes in the area.

Restaurants and Eateries

As you would expect, there is a great choice of restaurant in the Golden Triangle. Not least of which, is La Terrazza in Vale do Lobo. This stylish Italian serves up pizza and pasta dishes as well as meat and fish specialities, all prepared and cooked in an open plan kitchen so you see the chefs at work. Other restaurants and eateries in Vale do Lobo include; Amore, a modern pasta and pizza restaurant, La Place, which serves up gourmet French cuisine in very elegant surroundings and provides stunning views of the sea from most of its tables. There’s Ken Lo’s “Memories of China” in Tennis Valley. Here, the late Ken Lo, has set up this refined eatery with a wonderful view of Tennis Valley. Monty’s is still another recommendation, dishes include tempura prawns, lamb shank and seared salmon and they do a great cumberland sausage and mash for those less adventurous souls.

The Breeze Papagaio Beach Restaurant overlooking the beautiful Vale do Lobo Beach has been refurbished quite recently and now looks much more contemporary with its aluminium and white resin furniture. This gives the place a wonderfully relaxed holiday feel. If you’re watching your diet, or just want to eat more healthily, Spikes in Vale do Lobo, is the restaurant for you. They serve up appetizing salads alongside fresh vegetable soups and grilled meats served with vegetables. In Quinta do Lago some equally tasty treats await and you can pop along to any of half a dozen or so very tempting eateries, among them Koko Lane, Casa do Lago, Gigis, Casa Velha, Koko Beach and The Quinta do Lago Clubhouse, all of them with delightful menus of fresh meats and fish cooked to order and served at your table.

Bars and Night Life

Much of the night life in Quinta do Lago is based around the stylish shopping area known as Quinta Shopping. Here you’ll find “De Barra”an Irish themed bar, you’ll also find Master Pub and The Melting Pot. Elsewhere in Quinta do Lago there’s the T Club piano bar and disco and in the Bougainvillea Plaza you’ll find Bar DCK and Trigonometria.

In Vale do Lobo check out the Beach Bar. It's right on the beach, so you can’t miss it! This place turns from a great stop off for a tasty light bite during the day, to a sports bar/night club in the evenings. Another great nightspot is the Gecko Club in Vale do Lobo. Here the music is a mixture of everything from the latest dance tunes to some of the all time great classics.

Language

Another reason The Algarve is such a popular holiday destination, particularly among the British, is that English is so widely spoken here. You can quite happily ask a bar steward or a member of the waiting staff for your favourite drink in English and they will understand you perfectly. Their response will doubtless be in English too, albeit, with a Portuguese lilt. That said, as with anywhere in Europe, if you make an effort to speak the language, the natives will respond with an encouraging smile and maybe even a brief language lesson to help you on your way.


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Villas in Quinta do Lago | Villas in Vale do Lobo

Algarve Villa or Algarve Apartment - Planning your Perfect Algarve Holiday Accommodation

When planning your Algarve villa holiday or Algarve apartment holiday, you first have to consider your budget and the length of your stay. You then need to look at the size and age range of your party. Are you holidaying as a couple, as a family with one or two children, or as a group of friends? The answers to these questions will largely decide upon the size and/or type of holiday accommodation you need.

A family with two children will require very different accommodation to that required by a couple and a couple’s requirements will be different again, to those of a group of friends who are holidaying together.

Your next consideration is the area. Is your party drawn to western Algarve with its rugged coastline, cliff faces and fast and furious surfing action or is there a pull to the more family-centric, central Algarve, with its calmer waters, sandcastles and pedaloes? Or would you prefer instead somewhere quiet and romantic, somewhere in eastern Algarve perhaps? Read on for more information on each of these Algarve areas.

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West Algarve

The principal towns in Western Algarve are Lagos, Luz and Sagres, with Sagres almost at the Algarve’s westernmost point. The further west you go, along the coast towards Sagres and beyond, the more rugged and exhilarating the coastal terrain becomes. Here, you’ll find groups of fit young adults with four wheel drive vehicles, climbing equipment and/or surf boards, with never say die glints in their eyes.

As you come further east to Luz and Lagos, the choppy, sometimes rough seas give way to calmer, gentler, more pedalo friendly waters. The town of Lagos is situated on the edge of a bay, which is protected from the elements by large rock formations. There are five different beaches all within walking distance of the town centre, which is itself, enclosed within 5th century walls. There’s a modern and well equipped marina on the sea front which has gone some way to making Lagos the tourist centre it is today.

Holiday villas and rental apartments are in plentiful supply in the area, many of which take advantage of their proximity to Meia Praia, the beach which runs from the west of the town’s marina, right along the coast to Alvor. Other fine beaches, together with some lovely restaurants can be found at Dona Ana and Porto de Mos.
The once small fishing villages of Rocha Negra, Burgau and Salema are now firm favourites among holidaymakers for their many Algarve holiday villas and apartments. Development in these areas however, as with most of the Algarve, has been sensibly controlled so as not to spoil and over-commercialise the area.

Central Algarve

Further along the coast into Central Algarve and the situation calms still further. Here, vast expanses of golden sand, give way to crystal blue waters, ideal for those with lilos and rubber rings. Watersports here are plentiful still but they are of a different kind. The waters are warmer and calmer, perfect for splashing around in and for petrol powered sports like waterskiing and jet skiing. Banana boats and huge rubber rings regularly carry hoards of screaming kids, twisting and turning as they go, in an attempt to dump their loads, unceremoniously into the bath like warm waters as parents watch on from the safety of their sun loungers and beach parasols.

East Algarve

The eastern Algarve is altogether more sedate, more relaxed, quieter and romantic. The wide soft sanded beaches here are a haven for couples who wish to spend some quality time alone together. The coastal town s of Olhao, Tavira and Vila Real de Santo Antonio, cater for those who would rather not hop on a jet ski but, instead, spend their time in each others company or buried deep in the pages of a good book.

The town of Tavira itself is still very fishing oriented and there are many more reminders of the old ways here, than there are of the new. As time goes on of course, this situation is changing but in general it is quieter and more gently laid back part of the Algarve, a part that continues to move at its own pace. Fishermen still land their hauls here and the many good quality fish restaurants that seem to have been here forever, even if they haven’t, delight in serving the very best of the day’s catch.

With the area roughly sorted and the size and type of accommodation decided, it’s now time to consider some of the other variables. Do you want your own private pool or would you be happy to share? Do you want to be high up in the hills with a great view of the coast or surrounding countryside or do you need to be on the flat? Would you rather be close to town for all its amenities and nightlife or somewhere a little more remote for the peace and quiet or privacy? Will you be hiring a car or motor scooters during your holiday? The answers to these questions will help you to narrow down your search for your ideal Algarve apartment, help you to zero in on your perfect Algarve villa and help you to enjoy a wonderful Algarve holiday.

Here at Villa in Algarve we offer a wide range of holiday accommodation including luxury villas sleeping from 5 to 16 people and beautifully appointed holiday apartments accommodating from 2 to 4 people. We have Algarve holiday accommodation available in all parts of the Algarve from western Algarve into central Algarve and eastern Algarve, including villas and apartments in Sagres, Luz and Lagos, Alvor, Portimão, Albufeira, Carvoeiro, Quarteira, Vilamoura, Olhao and Tavira as well as the golf resorts of Vale do Lobo and Quinta do Lago.

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Algarve Villa Holidays – All About Monchique

If you are thinking about an Algarve villa holiday either this autumn or next summer, Monchique is a great Algarve holiday destination or place to visit during your stay. Read on for more information on our guide to Monchique in the Algarve.

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The first thing you’ll like about the Monchique is how very easy it is to get to. From Faro International Airport, head west along the A22. This four lane motorway is a delight to drive and affords some breathtaking scenery along the way. Take Exit 5, then at the roundabout, simply follow the signs to Monchique. Pick up signs for the N124 and follow that north, to a split in the road. Take the left hand fork and soon you’ll be climbing the hill to the village of Monchique.

The narrow, winding road, lined with tall eucalyptus and groves of orange and lemon trees, will take you past the Omega Park Zoo. You might want to make a mental note to pop back there at some point during your Algarve villa holiday. It’ll take a few hours to properly enjoy the park and you’ll get to see a number of endangered species like the crowned sifaka, which is a kind of lemur, the bamboo lemur, the oryx, which is a member of the antelope family and the cheetah. The zoo is run very much with the animals in mind. They are not confined to small spaces, but have plenty of room to move about and their environment is kept as close to “natural” as possible.

On your way to Monchique, you’ll pass several little villages with shops and stalls selling pottery, cork and leather goods and the Caldas de Monchique, which often gets confused with the town of Monchique itself. The Caldas de Monchique is a spa town with supposedly healing waters. Just a short drive away fromMonchique proper, they are close enough for you to visit as many times as you wish during your stay.

In Monchique itself, there are a good number of shops offering a great selection of cork, leather and brightly coloured, typically Portuguese pottery pieces. There are many restaurants and bars tucked away down the narrow cobbled streets, along with great little cafés serving tasty pastries and snacks, some of which are only found locally. So, find somewhere to park, either in the main square or further up the mountain and wander down the hill for a leisurely mooch around town.

If you happen to pop into one of the bars or fancy a drink with your lunch or dinner, check to see if they are serving Medronho. Medronho is a locally produced liqueur made from the fruits of the Arbutus unedo or “strawberry tree”, which grows in the surrounding hills. Although their fruits look a little like strawberries, hence the name, they don’t taste anything like as sweet and so, Medronho is an acquired taste. It is, or can be, rather strong though, so if you do acquire a taste for it, go easy!

Another particularly good local product is Monchique honey. It is used in the making of the most delicious cakes and desserts, which you’ll find on sale in the cafes and pastelarias (cake shops) in the region. If you want to take some home though, remember it must go into check in luggage, not hand luggage.

Holidays in Monchique are all about rest and relaxation. They are all about spectacular scenery and history, peace and quiet. There are plenty of walks to go on and lots to explore and discover. You don’t come here for the party atmosphere or for the bars with neon lights that stay open all night; there are other parts of the Algarve for that. You come here to relax, unwind and enjoy life at a slower, steadier, more comfortable pace, in a climate that is never too hot, nor too cold.

Algarve Villas - click here to search our villas and apartments in Western Algarve

Algarve Villas - Featured Holiday Resort Location: Albufeira

Once a small fishing village, Albufeira was levelled by the earthquake of 1755. It has since been rebuilt but has lost a lot of what was once quaint and charming. You can still find pockets of the old town that are reminiscent of old Albufeira but for the most part; it has changed beyond all recognition.

The centre of Albufeira is today a Mecca for tourists looking for all night revelry in the Algarve's Capital City of Fun. The area known as The Strip is not for the feint hearted. It is THE place to head for if you are looking for a pulsating, party atmosphere and a nightlife that simply does not stop. It is lined with neon clad cocktail bars and theme pubs and there is every imaginable fast food outlet serving food right through the night.

Located on the coast of central Algarve, just 29km from Faro's International airport, it boasts no less than 23 golden-sanded beaches, which are filled with holidaymakers soaking up the sun and enjoying a wealth of water sports in the almost Mediterranean temperatures.

Algarve Villas – Click here to search for holiday villas and apartments.

Water Sport in Albufeira

Jet Ski – At Dreamwave in the Marina de Albufeira you can hire Jet Skis. It's maybe not something you get to do everyday but it is a lot of fun and well worth doing. Riding a jet ski is a great way to live your holiday life to the fullest, so pack your swimming trunks and head to the Albufeira Marina to book a ride! The Yamaha Waverunners feature a quiet 4-stroke, 1100 cc engine with 110 horsepower. They can go very fast but don't worry, if you've never ridden a jet ski before, the guys at Dreamwave will provide you with safety and operational training until you feel comfortable at the wheel. You can book sessions of either 15 & 30 minutes at a cost of €45 and €80 respectively and pinion riders go free.

Stand Up Paddle Boarding – This fun sport is gaining recognition as an alternative sport to surfing and boating despite being a combination of both disciplines. To enjoy this sport, you do not need to rely on waves or wind; all you need is the open water, a paddle and a board! Why not try stand up paddle boarding at Albufeira, on the Obidos lagoon?

Water Skiing – The calmer waters off the coast at Albufeira and at Oura Beach lend themselves perfectly to being towed along at high speed behind a racing powerboat with just two small planks for support.

Banana Boat / Tyres or Hoops – Oura Beach and Albufeira Marina are the locations for these fun waterbased activities as well as parasailing, pedal boating and Kayaking. Look for a representative of the company Ski Molhado, Their distinctive two flying dolphins motif can always be seen at Oura and at Albufeira beach.

Snorkelling / Scuba Diving - The seas along the Algarve coast are crystal-clear and very clean. Visibility under the water is very good and provides ideal diving conditions.
The most well-dived spots are the waters off Quarteira, Lagos and Sagres, but all along the coast you will find a breathtaking array of marine life.

Sailing or Boat Hire – The Algarve's warm waters and particularly the calmer ones off the coast of Albufeira, provide the perfect conditions for sailing of every kind. Whether you choose to do all the hard work yourselves or let a large outboard motor do it for you, you can hire all kinds of vessels from the smallest of sailboats, to the grandest of gin palaces.

Clubs and Bars in Albufeira
There are many clubs and bars in Albufeira pandering to every different taste in beverage and music. There are theme pubs, Irish Bars, English Pubs, cocktail bars, discotheques, and nightclubs of all sorts so you will never run out of choice. From Real Guinness to WKD blue and from Rusty Nails to Cosmopolitans, whatever you fancy is available here and you don't even have to go too far, if all you fancy is a cup of coffee.

Steps Bar in Rua de Outubro, Albufeira is said to be one of the best bars in Albufeira, but then the chap who runs it would say that! Another tripadvisor source however, has it as "the place to go at night, excellent live music, great staff." And gave it 5 out of 5 so it can't be bad. Other bars in the town offering live music are Six Degree Centrido, Floyd's bar and The Cho-bar, also look out for Eddies Bar and Diamonds, both of which are great for younger adults.

Augustos Sports Bar on Avenida da Liberdade attracts fans of all sport and whilst football is a clear favourite, they will show other high profile match ups including rugby, boxing and motor racing. The sports fans are good natured and friendly and the drinks aren't hugely expensive.
If you fancy a bit of a boogie, head for Capitulo V, Kiss and Planet C, there are loads of others you can go to for sure but these are right up there with the best that Albufeira has to offer with impressive light and laser shows and some great tunes.

Nightlife, sunshine, beaches and lots and lots of fun are just some of the guaranteed features of Albufeira. Here life takes on a rhythm of its own and it really comes alive after the sun goes down. There is every chance you'll bump into those sun worshippers you met on the beach earlier because here, in Albufeira, no one really wants to go to sleep.

illas in Albufeira – click here to browse our villas and apartments to rent for fun packed holidays in the Algarve

Autumn holidays in the Algarve

The Algarve is a wonderful place to holiday at any time of year but it is in the autumn when the Algarve’s wild life really comes into its own. You can sit and watch in awe as the region bursts into autumnal colour and life with splendid and ever changing pictures presented to you, from the windows or verandas of lovely Algarve villas or Algarve apartments.

You will never tire of the views. At this time of year, the grass seems to grow greener and wildflowers decorate the landscape with reds, oranges, dark purples and creamy whites. Vineyards, coming to the end of their yearly harvest create spectacular scenery, while thousands of migrating birds fill the skies with shapes, colour and delightful sound.

Summer’s rush is over and autumn brings with it a certain sigh of relief and the chance to settle back and enjoy the fruits of this fine country; its beautiful scenery, its wonderful foods, fine wines and the peace and contented quietude of an area, secure in the knowledge that it is truly blessed. Blessed that is, with beautiful beaches, stunning rock formations, a glorious climate and wonderful scenery.

The beaches are relatively quiet around September/October time but still attract temperatures of around 20°C, making an afternoon’s lazing around in the sun, a peaceful and relaxing pleasure. But beaches are not all the Algarve has to offer. You’ll enjoy walking along the coast and taking in the colourful autumn flora and fauna or you can always take to the greens and play a few rounds of golf. The region offers many of Europe’s finest golf courses with a large number of them reaching championship standard.

Another way to enjoy your autumn holiday in the Algarve is to wander through the vineyards. If you really fancy getting stuck into some great Portuguese wines then look for those from the Douro, Bairrada and Dão regions. The Douro is probably the country’s premium wine-producing region. This area of steeply terraced vineyards has produced some real corkers! Look out for Barca Velha, Duas Quintas Reserva and Quinta do Côtto Grande Eschola as well as the Muxagat Tinto from 2006 and the Casaca de Ferro Colheita Branco, all of which are very worthwhile. From Bairrada, check out the wines from Casa de Saima, Luis Pato, Quinta das Bágeiras and Quinta do Baixo and from Dão; Quinta dos Roques, Quinta das Maias and Quinta do Pellada are some of the names to look out for.

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Featured Algarve holiday resort - Vale de Parra

Villas in Vale de Parra are ideal for relaxing family holidays in the Algarve and for Algarve couples’ holidays. Within easy access of either Albufeira or Armação de Pêra, depending on the type of nightlife you’re after, Vale de Parra also boasts the Salgados Golf Course, one of the finest golf courses on the Algarve and some of the loveliest beaches including those at Castello, São Raphael and Praia da Galé.

Salgados Golf Course

The Salgados Golf Course is located on a nature reserve close to the town and beach of Albufeira. This gives golfers a unique experience, since several species of endangered and rare birds have made the course and its surrounding area, their home. The beach is a few metres away and the sea view makes playing the field a relaxing and wholly pleasurable experience.

Castello Beach

Castello Beach is one of Portugal’s hottest adventure spots and holiday destinations, not just in terms of temperature, but in terms of all there is to do here. There are countless shades of seawater blue and numerous rocks to climb, you can sunbathe on the long beach and enjoy some great nightlife after the sun goes down. You can watch the sun set as you relax in a nearby restaurant or bar and later, go on to one of the area’s exciting discotheques which are open to the early hours even in autumn.

Sao Rafael Beach

The Sao Raphael beach is one of the real treasures of the Algarve. It is a picturesque beach in Vale de Parra, not far from the popular resort of Albufeira. With impressive limestone rock formations including those known as the Ponte Pequena or “the small bridge” and the Ninho das Andorinhas or “swallow’s nest” and its fine, golden sands, this beach is a must see for anyone holidaying in the Algarve.

Praia da Galé

The Praia da Galé is a continuation of the beach at Armação. The western part is wide and open while at the eastern end; there are more rocky outcrops, some wonderful rock formations and caves. The rock pools are always a hit with families, particularly those with young children who are fascinated by the marine life they shelter.

So, if you’re looking for the perfect Algarve autumn getaway, then consider the Vale de Parra. With its fine sandy beaches, wonderful golf course and delightful scenery, it makes for the perfect holiday destination.

Villas in Vale de Parra – click here to browse our villas and apartments to rent for autumn holidays in the Algarve

Featured Algarve Holiday Resort – Carvoeiro

If you are thinking of taking an Algarve villa holiday this summer or autumn, we have still got availability in the town of Carvoeiro – a popular Algarve villa destination in Central Algarve.

About Carvoeiro

The population of Carvoeiro is steadily on the increase. Last recorded in July 2011 as approaching 3000, this obviously does not take into account the huge influx of tourists that artificially swell the figures to 2 or 3 times that, for the better part of the year. Formally a small fishing village whose livelihood depended entirely on what its inhabitants could pull from the sea, Carvoeiro is now extremely popular with tourists, a popularity that has been growing steadily since the early 1960’s.

With this increase in popularity came the inevitable and much needed improvements in infrastructure and a rise in the standard of living, not just for the tourists, but also for the indigenous population as a whole. For fifty years now, tourists from all over Europe and especially from England have been flocking to this part of the world in their thousands, lapping up its sun, sea, sand and sangria lifestyle and in so doing, bringing with them, cultural changes and influences that have permanently altered life in this once sleepy little fishing village.

Carvoeiro is now a tourism hub and a hive of activity from daybreak to sunset and long afterwards. The streets in the town and its beaches are alive and buzzing with couples, families and groups of holidaymakers who are either enjoying the sun and relaxing on one of Carvoeiro’s five gorgeous sandy beaches, paddling or swimming in the sea or living it up on the busy Carvoeiro “strip”.

It’s not all about tourism though; Carvoeiro still has along way to go before it comes even close to comparing to the hedonistic fervour of Albufeira. Carvoeiro is first and foremost, a family resort, with plenty to entertain children and young adults as well as the grownups. The villas and apartments in Carvoeiro provide everything you could possibly wish for in terms of quality and convenience. Whether you are holidaying as a couple or as a larger family group or group of friends, there is the accommodation here, to suit. There are studio apartments, ideal for that quiet, romantic couples break and there are large detached villas that will comfortably accommodate larger family groups and groups of friends.

One of the joys of Carvoeiro is that despite its increasing popularity, it still manages to hold onto its roots, The charming atmosphere and character of old Carvoeiro is still very much present, particularly around the old harbour and this permeates the very fabric of its buildings with their traditional tiled roofs, white painted walls and colourful shutters. The modern, contemporary villas and apartments that have sprung up of recent years have been sympathetically created to blend well with these buildings of yesteryear and the result is a harmonious yet eclectic blend of style and culture.

Three “must dos” during your stay in Carvoeiro are a visit to Algar Seco, just down the road and visits to Zoomarine and Slide and Splash.

Algar Seco is arguably the most beautiful spot around Carvoeiro. It is a strange rock formation, carved out by the wind and the sea. It is amazing to see the effects that the elements have had on this rock face and the weird and wonderful shapes this has created. As with many tourist attractions in this part of the world, there is a bar on hand, in case you get thirsty.

Zoomarine and Slide and Splash are not far from Carvoeiro and both make for great days out with the family or with a group of friends. Their names are a bit of a give away and describe exactly what you can expect when you get there, but the chances are, you have never before seen anything quite like what’s on offer here.

Zoomarine, as the name suggests, is a waterpark for marine animals but more than that, it is an education zone with presentations about dolphins, sea lions, seals, birds of prey and reptiles. There is so much to see and do here, you’ll have fun and come away having learnt something about these wonderful creatures.

Slide and Splash is a water fun park with so many different slides and water based activities, you can be there all day and never get bored. In fact there are only two reasons the kids will want to stop playing; they’ll either get hungry or tired and if they’re hungry a quick visit to the onsite restaurant will soon have their batteries recharged. This is an ideal opportunity to give the kids a great and active day out, whilst the parents relax and enjoy the relative peace of the beautifully landscaped garden areas within the park.

If you fancy playing a bit of golf in what is after all, Europe’s capital of golf, you have three very good, local courses to choose from. The Gramacho, Pinta and Vale de Milho courses are all within reasonable striking distance. The first two are 18 hole courses and the last one; Vale de Milho is a par 3, 9-hole course. There are many more, further afield but these three are quite challenging in their own right and well worth a day out if you are a golf enthusiast!

Villas in Carvoeiro Algarve – click here to browse our Carvoeiro Villas and Apartments!

Last Minute Holidays in the Algarve – Its Not Too Late to Book Your Algarve Villa Holiday

If you haven't booked your summer holiday yet, it is not too late! Here at Villa in Algarve, we have hundreds of Algarve holiday villas and a few are still available for late summer and early autumn 2011.

Algarve Villas – click here to search our Algarve villas and Algarve apartments

Holiday Villas in the Algarve

The holiday villas available for rent through Villa in Algarve, range in size from 2 bedroomed townhouses with sun terraces in Carvoeiro and Rocha Brava through to large detached villas with beach frontages or set in land with breathtaking sea views, that can comfortably accommodate up to 16 people.

Many of our holiday villas to let in the Algarve come with their own private swimming pools and some come complete with well-appointed games rooms too. All of them however, are offered in superb condition and furnished and decorated to make your stay as comfortable as possible.

Located on Portugal’s popular Algarve coast, the villas, townhouses and apartments to rent here, benefit from the area’s fantastic Mediterranean climate. Indeed, the climate is so good here, that the Algarve has become one of Europe’s most popular holiday destinations. With an average of 3000 hours of sunshine every year the Algarve is actually sunnier than California and in the summer months, the Algarve will see around 12 hours of sunshine per day and have virtually no rain.

If it’s sunshine and heat you’re after, and for some there is simply no substitute, then head for the eastern coast. Here, the easterly press of the Mediterranean and the squeeze of the Atlantic from the west, keeps the temperatures up in and around Tavira, making the area seem just that bit hotter than the likes of Lagos or Luz. In the summer months of course, the variance is not enough to make any real difference, but in spring and autumn, you may just notice those few extra degrees.

Summers in the Algarve are hot, not unbearably so but certainly hot enough to make it well worth the trip. From June to September, long hot days and balmy evenings are the norm. Temperatures are up in the late 20’s regularly and rise to the mid 30’s in peak season but even this is not too uncomfortable as the sea breezes make it seem cooler and the low humidity means that as warm as it gets, it’s still a very pleasant, dry heat.

Activities and Places to Visit

Many people return to the Algarve time and again. It very quickly becomes a favourite holiday destination with holidaymakers returning to the same town, if not the same villa. It is interesting to see how much the place changes from one year to the next. The local government restricts building in the area so that it remains in keeping with the environment, but that does not stop improvements to roadways and it does not stop the constant upgrade and improvement of facilities and properties in the Algarve. So even if you’ve been here many times before, there is nothing better than wandering around and exploring to see how much the place has changed since your last visit and if this is the first time you’ve visited the Algarve, you’re in for a real treat.

Once here, you can explore the area to your hearts content. You can take yourselves off on lovely coastal walks, enjoying the scenery, you can explore by car or even by boat. What better way to properly appreciate the drama of the Algarve coast than from the deck of a boat you’ve hired for that very reason. If you want to stick to the shore, why not enjoy a lovely picnic together or go for a meal at one of the very fancy local restaurants. Alternatively you can enjoy lovely meals in very reasonably priced local bistros or cook up a feast of your own back at your Algarve villa.

This part of Portugal is famed for its fresh fish and meat dishes and the towns and villages of the area celebrate this fact, by regularly holding fresh produce markets. These markets feature stalls offering every kind of fruit and vegetable imaginable and a range of fresh meats and fish that will have your taste buds working overtime.

Every kind of fish is available here including Halibut, Salmon, Swordfish, Sole, Sea Bass, Sea Bream, Mullet, Turbot and Tuna. In fact the area has a centuries old tradition of tuna fishing, which is still alive today. The fishermen would lie in wait for the tuna schools as they made their predictable way from the open Atlantic, to spawn in the Mediterranean during May and June and if they missed their catch on the way in, the fishermen could always await the Tuna’s return journey, which would happen in July/August.

You can still see the fishermen of today, hauling their catch up onto Fisherman’s beach in the old part of Albufeira. There is a frenzy of activity as each boat comes ashore, the fishermen quickly unload the catch and get it into safe, cold storage as fast as possible and its good to know that within a very short time, one of those fresh finned fancies will be gracing a barbecue or a dinner table near you. On your travels, particularly around Tavira you will see the huge but now derelict fish canning factories, many of which will over time be levelled or converted as part of the future regeneration of this part of the Algarve.

Booking your Algarve holiday

It is not too late to book your Algarve villa holiday for 2011! Browse our web site now to search for Algarve villas and apartments to rent.

Algarve Villa Holidays - The Benefits of Self Catering Villa Accommodation

Our self catering Algarve villa accommodation provides flexibility which is great for families

One of the principal benefits of self-catering Algarve villa holiday is flexibility. Flexibility in all things such as what time you get up in the morning, what time you have breakfast and when and where you have your lunchtime and evening meals. There are no fixed schedules; you can simply enjoy your Algarve holiday at a pace that suits the needs of your party.

For good all round family accommodation, check out Albufeira - A principal holiday destination on the Algarve, Albufeira offers excellent family holiday accommodation and it is also an excellent choice of destination for groups of friends. The marina is the perfect place for a leisurely stroll with a relaxing view of the many boats in their moorings whilst Albufeira town offers all you’ll need when looking for supplies as well as an interesting and vibrant night-life.

Our self catering Algarve villa accommodation is luxurious (with pools).

Our Algarve villas offer luxurious holiday accommodation for a relaxing and enjoyable holiday. The majority of our villas for rent in the Algarve come with private pools, set in attractive gardens and all come with air conditioning to make your stay even more comfortable. Villas are cleaned prior to your holiday and the majority of properties receive maid service 2-3 times a week as well as a weekly linen change. They also contain everything you will need for a relaxing summer break, such as a BBQ, patio furniture and well equipped kitchen.

For luxurious Algarve villa holidays, check out Quinta do Lago and Vale do Lobo – At Quinta do Lago or Vale do Lobo a villa with a pool takes on an entirely new meaning. Manicured lawns and beautifully tended walkways lead to pristine poolside areas complete with loungers and umbrellas to keep the sun off. Here you can relax by your pool with a cocktail or settle into a good book amid stunning surroundings.

Our self catering Algarve villa accommodation is family Friendly.

Our Algarve villa accommodation is family friendly with cots and high chairs available on request and even a baby-sitting service. So, if you a planning on bringing your young ones away with you, simply let us know when you book and we will ensure that their stay is as comfortable as yours.

For another great family friendly resort, check out Luz - Beautiful beaches abound here, boasting miles of white sand and lovely crystal blue waters. There are beach bars and restaurants aplenty, all with great views of the ocean. Luz is very family friendly with a great deal on offer to suit all tastes and budgets.

Our self catering Algarve villa accommodation provides lots of space.

Villas in the Algarve have been constructed with an eye to quality and style and particularly to maximising the space available. All our villas are spacious, light and airy. They are offered with contemporary décor and with an eye to luxury and comfort.

We have villas in the Algarve to suit parties of all sizes, including townhouses sleeping 2, small villas sleeping four to six through to large Algarve villas which can comfortably accommodate parties of 8 to16. Our larger properties are perfect if you would like to come away on holiday to the Algarve as a large group of friends or an extended family.

For great views and a great selection of villas, check out Rocha Brava - Rocha Brava is a resort location on the cliff tops just outside Carvoeiro. There is a large central pool area which is surrounded by gardens and sunbathing terraces. The poolside 'Palm Bar' sells drinks and ice creams, and adjoins the 'Pool Balcony' of the 'Farol' restaurant. The restaurant offers an à la carte menu and a variety of international and typically Portuguese dishes.

Our self catering Algarve villa accommodation is set in stunning locations.

You never have to look too far to find a stunning location in the Algarve. Whether it’s a beachfront villa, a cliff top vantage point or a cosy little hideaway, the location is bound to be breathtaking. You might look out over a verdant golf course, or the deep blue of a swimming pool, you may have sight of a crested wave or overlook a deep green pine forest but whatever your view, it is sure to be stunning. This part of the world is picture postcard perfect. Remember to bring your camera!

For a truly stunning location, check out Vilamoura - Vilamoura is centrally located around a beautiful Marina, with excellent shopping, trendy bars and fabulous restaurants, as well as a world famous Casino and great sporting facilities with golf courses not far away. One of the largest resort locations on the Algarve, Vilamoura is a very popular family holiday destination providing activities for people of all ages.

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Algarve Villa Holidays in the Golden Triangle

If you are searching for a choice of Algarve villa holidays in the Golden Triangle, you have come to the right place. We have a huge choice of Algarve villas for rent in this most desirable of locations between Almancil and the luxurious golfing and holiday resorts of Quinta do Lago and Vale do Lobo.

Summer in the Algarve is one thing, but summer in the Algarve’s Golden Triangle is quite another. Do not expect loud discos, all night bars and cheap, take away food here. This is not the Algarve for that. Do not expect beach revelry, drinking competitions and tacky souvenir shops either. Instead, expect the finest quality, expect peace and quiet, the best service, amazing food and expect to be mixing in the best circles. The Golden Triangle takes the best of what the Algarve has to offer, packages it in one neat little tri-cornered bundle and presents it as a gift, for the world to enjoy.

In Quinta do Lago for example; high end shopping is available at Quinta Shopping. Located at the roundabout which marks the entrance to the Quinta do Lago Resort, this shoppers paradise is filled with fashionable boutiques and fine dining restaurants, elegant furniture emporiums, jewellers and beauty salons. There are even English speaking estate agents on hand in case you decide to turn your luxury Algarve holiday into something a little more permanent.

Quinta do Lago offers three of the worlds finest and most challenging golf courses, the North and South courses and the newer Orangery course. This exclusive golfing holiday complex stands on nearly 810 hectares of the most picturesque countryside with pine forests abutting the Atlantic Ocean and the Ria Formosa Natural Park. Since the early 70’s it has been wining awards for excellence and it has built an enviable reputation as one of the premier spots for golf in the Algarve.

Vale do Lobo offers more of the same - more luxury, relaxation, superb villa accommodation, fabulous views and great golfing experiences. The activities, shopping, dining and the other entertainments laid on at this resort are all superb. Everything here is done to make the lives of the residents and guests that bit sweeter.

Vale do Lobo is a luxury golf and beach resort and it is no accident that the world golf is mentioned first in it tagline. Golf is the reason for Vale do Lobo and high quality, high end golf at that.

Vale do Lobo offers two of Europe’s most famous golf courses; The Royal Course and The Ocean Course. The Royal Course provides dramatic cliff top vistas whilst the Ocean course plots a gentler sweep down to the beach.

Vale do Lobo is unashamedly posh, it is decadent and luxurious in the extreme. Apartments here start at around €250.000 and don’t stop far short of a million and for a detached villa you can expect to pay anything up to €6.000,000.

Almancil, the third of our Golden Triangle locations has grown to provide support for the neighbouring holiday and residential developments of Quinta do Lago and Vale do Lobo This has had the effect of raising the bar in Almancil. The town has had to pander to the more discerning tastes of the residents and guests of these neighbouring developments and as a result, it too has taken on an entirely new and upmarket persona.

A good selection of restaurants offers many different cuisines and as you might expect, a number of estate agents offices, interior designers and furniture shops have sprung up to cater to the needs of both locals and expatriates alike.

Algarve Villas – click here to search for Villas in Quinta do Lago | Villas in Vale do Lobo

Ten Top Algarve Holiday Destinations from West Algarve to East Algarve

Everyone has their own personal favourite Algarve holiday destination. Some like the busy bars and happening nightlife of Carvoeiro and Albufeira. Some prefer the peace and quiet of the Algarve coast’s secluded coves, some like nothing better than lying in the sun, relaxing with a good book and others, particularly those with young children, like the organised excursions and adventure playgrounds. People love Algarve holidays for a host of different reasons. Here are just a few ideas to help you decide on the ideal location for your next family holiday in the Algarve.

Algarve Villas – click here to browse our luxurious Algarve holiday accommodation

Sagres

Sagres, in western Algarve, is the most southwesterly resort destination in the Algarve. It is relatively untouched by tourism compared to the likes of Luz and Carvoeiro further east along the coast, but it does attract its own particular breed of tourist.

The tourist here is less likely to be concerned about getting a tan and much more likely to worry about when the next big wave is coming in. Here the “tourists” prefer wet suits to linen ones and spend more time applying wax to their boards than their chests. This, if you like, is the business end of the Algarve. Cocktails give way to energy drinks and steaks, to pasta and jacket spuds. They might have fun lying around in the sun further east but here, it’s all about catching the wave and having the energy to do it properly.

Luz

Families with small children may like the safe, clean beaches of Luz. Praia da Luz is the beach at Luz in western Algarve. Not the western Algarve of the surfer and adrenaline junkie, but the western Algarve of the pedalo and banana boat. Add this to the miles and miles of soft sandy beach that are available here and you have the perfect recipe for a fun filled beach family holiday. You can lie around on the beach to your heart’s content, knowing the kids are under the constant supervision of the beach lifeguard and that if/when they get peckish, you are never to far from a restaurant, bar, café or ice cream vendor. Praia da Luz is the ideal resort location for young family holidays. Everything is close at hand including supermarkets, shops and banks.

Lagos

Lagos in western Algarve is full of history. The older part of the town is still encircled by city walls that were built during the 16th century when it was the residence of the governors of the Algarve and there is evidence of more of Lagos’ history all over town. That said, Lagos has very definitely moved with the times and today’s Lagos is as vibrant and lively a place as you could wish for.

Restaurants and cafes abound in the tiny streets off Praça de Gil Eanes, which is the main town square and there are loads of bars that stay open until the early hours. In the summer, the town and its modern marina really come to life and people of all ages mill about, enjoying themselves and enjoying the party atmosphere. Lagos has a large marina which can berth more than 450 vessels. It has been awarded both the Euromarina Anchor Award and the Blue Flag award and with its variety of shops, bars and restaurants, it has an atmosphere all its own, together with great views of the boats.

Alvor

The 1960’s was the time when Alvor, like most of the Algarve began to witness tourism. Since then it has undergone a steady flow of development but this has been carefully monitored by the authorities so as not to lessen the area’s appeal. Alvor can still boast a charming old town with narrow cobbled streets which wend their way down to the harbour.

The riverfront in Alvor has had a face-lift in recent times and is now fully paved and lined with palm trees. Several bars exist offering plenty of outside seating for those endless summer days and balmy evenings. The riverfront is lovely and watching the fishing boats as they offload their daily catch, mostly to the local restaurants, is a delight, especially as you know that one of those barbecued beauties will land on your plate very soon.

Portimao
The largest town in western Algarve, Portimao is a busy town and perfect for the family who just don’t want to run out of anything. There are a myriad of shops here, selling everything from a bucket and spade to a jar of olives. There are gift shops and clothes shops aplenty, some of which you’ll recognise from British shopping malls and there are even hardware and garden furniture stores.

Portimão’s architecture is a mix of late 19th, early 20th century in the older part of town but the ice cream coloured high rise apartment blocks which are dotted about the place are obviously a little more modern. Bars, restaurants and café’s are in no short supply either. You can sit outside at the pavement tables enjoying a bite to eat or a drink as you watch the world go by. A modern marina now joins Praia da Rocha which is the main beach of Portimao and has become a tourist resort in its own right. The marina sees many boats at anchor and its development has given rise to yet more bars and restaurants, many of which are of a very high quality.

Carvoeiro

Originally a traditional fishing village, like many others on the Algarve coast, Carvoeiro has become very popular with tourists and has grown accordingly. The old part of town, the original village has been expanded upon and built around, to accommodate the increasing demand for residential property in the area and the reason for this, quite simply, is the small beach, Praia do Carvoeiro and its surrounding rocky inclines are beautiful.

With plenty of shops, you can source whatever you need in terms of groceries and household items in the town centre or just outside at one of the larger supermarkets and as far as nightlife is concerned; Carvoeiro is well served with bars and restaurants but it is not the place for nightclubs.

Albufeira

One for the young adults this; Albufeira is a party town. Benefiting from more than 3000 hours of sunshine every year, it seems that the summer is never really over here and that the party season lasts all year. The atmosphere that pervades the town is one of fun and excitement and small wonder really, as the town is jam packed with bars, nightclubs, restaurants, cafes and fast food outlets.

Unlike Luz, Albufeira does not have just one beach by which it is known, there are several, all within easy reach of the town centre. There’s the Praia do Peneco with its wide promenade lined with restaurants that look out onto the beach. There are look out posts which are great for sightseeing and row upon row of sunbeds, ideal for catching some rays. Then there is Fisherman’s Beach or Praia dos Pescadores. Here, unlike at the majority of Albufeira beaches, there area no rocks, the water is clear and the place is quiet and relaxing. Then there's Praia do Inatel, a beach that is named after the Inatel tourist complex, which overlooks the sea at the beach’s eastern end. The Praia dos Alamães, Praia das Areias de São João, Praia dos Aveiros and the Praia da Oura all go to round off the list of Albufeira beaches and as many as there are, they are responsible for just five of the Algarve’s 155km coastline.

Vilamoura

There isn’t much about Vilamoura, aside from the weather that is typically Portuguese but if you want to see how the Portuguese do luxury accommodation in the Algarve, this is the place to come. It is arguably the most impressive resort of its kind in Europe and one of the best in all of Portugal. There are luxurious villas and apartments and townhouses with picture perfect views of the coast or of manicured golf courses.

There is a gorgeous marina, which is lined with high-end designer shops, quality restaurants and trendy bars, and as you’d expect of this location, the marina itself is full to bursting with expensive yachts and gin palaces. Vilamoura offers something for everyone, boat trips can be arranged for those that don’t own one of their own and if you’re feeling fit and fancy a trek, you can embark on one of the specially designed walking or biking tours of the area, safe in the knowledge that a cocktail awaits your return.

Olhao

Olhão is the largest fishing port in the Algarve and you can look at the town in two ways; you can see it as a busy, industrial port town or as a very pleasing water front facing village type environ with a delightful promenade which is lined with trees offering cool respite from the heat of the sun. At once, Olhao is both these things, it just depends which way you look.

The town of Olhao is well known for its large fish markets. The produce, which comes fresh off the boat in the port, is lined up alongside colourful locally grown vegetables and fruit, creating an array of sights and smells and all around the markets are little pavement café’s, great to sit out and enjoy the sights and sounds of this bustling arena.

Tavira

Tavira tries hard to avoid the march of progress and tourism, preferring instead to cling to its traditions and live life at a more genteel pace. That said, the market hall on the river has been re-vamped and is now home to several shops, cafes and restaurants, which have been arranged around a central space, regularly used for exhibitions and special events.

This very attractive town boasts some grand old buildings which reflect its
wealthy past and these can be found around the Praça da República. Off of the square you’ll find rows of typical Portuguese 'town' houses along narrow cobbled streets a good number of shops to browse around and some very pretty little squares to sit and relax in.

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