Monday, October 4, 2010

Algarve Villa Holidays - A Romantic Destination for Couples

An Algarve villa or apartment in the Algarve is ideal for a romantic holiday getaway. Whether you are looking for a romantic holiday for two or honeymoon accommodation, Villa in Algarve have beautiful private villas and apartments in all the popular Algarve holiday destinations throughout east, west and central Algarve.

Algarve Villas – click here to search

Algarve Apartments – click here to search

Romantic Resorts

Whilst it might be said that romance can be found anywhere, not all Algarve holiday destinations can be considered “romantic”. Some are lively and touristy and some are ideal for families with children but others will be just perfect for a romantic break. We have selected a few that should appeal to those who only have eyes for each other.

Romantic Western Algarve

Figueira

The town of Figueira features a wonderful beach with coves in which you can lose yourselves. The ideal hideaway, this area is guaranteed to light a romantic fire. It can only be reached by foot and you’ll need to be quite determined but once there, you can enjoy your time together in relative peace and quiet.

Sagres

Sagres is a wild, untamed place and therein lies its romance. The area is of tremendous historical importance. The site of the Sagres School of Navigation founded by Prince Henry the Navigator in the 13th Century; it was where Christopher Columbus sought refuge having been attacked by pirates in 1476.

Among the other famous names to have passed this way are Sir Francis Drake, Admiral Tourville, Sir George Rooke, Admiral Sir George Rodney, Admiral Don Juan de Langara, Sir Charles Napier, Don José de Cordoba, Sir John Jervis and Lord Nelson and the place hasn’t changed that much since last he saw it back in 1805 on his way to the Battle of Trafalgar.

Romantic Central Algarve

Armação de Pera

Here couples may spend hours on end, lazing around on the quiet beaches and come evening time, find romance in the old cobbled streets too. There a great choice of restaurants and bars and because it’s not hugely touristy, it gives itself over to couples who are more interested in each other than in going out and painting the town red.

Vilamoura

With its marina and upmarket restaurants, Vilamoura is the epitome of romance. Take a stroll along the waterside gazing at the boats, enjoy the beaches, play a round or two of golf, have a game of tennis or try something more adventurous like parasailing. For a really romantic occasion take a 'champagne cruise' aboard a luxury cruiser and see the beautiful coastline and stunning views from a different perspective.

Romantic Eastern Algarve

Tavira

The East Algarve is quiet and less touristy so could be ideal for a romantic break. The town of Tavira is choc full of romantic heritage and boasts the most beautiful and surprisingly empty beaches that seem to go on forever. Fields of orange trees, hills of fig and almond and houses with dazzling whitewashed walls offer just a hint of the charms of Tavira and its municipality.

Altura

Take a close look at the extreme east of the Algarve, here, where Portugal borders Spain and you’ll find some real hidden gems. Close to the beaches on the coast is the quiet town of Altura, an ideal location for those seeking a secluded resort away from the crowds and the noisy pubs and nightclubs. The laid-back feel of Altura is reflected in the pace of life here from the daily market to the hospitality of the local people, it is romantic to its core.

Romantic Beaches

There are lots of romantic beaches on the coast of the Algarve. Some feature beachside restaurants, some have clifftop views, others are lit up to dramatic effect in the evening and all provide the perfect opportunity to relax and watch a truly magnificent sunset.

Praia da Mareta in Sagres is very popular with lots of water side and beach activities but is still quiet and romantic at times.

Baleeira beach again in Sagres is ideal if your idea of romance features a meal in a fine restaurant with wonderful views overlooking the ocean. You will also like the beaches at Porto de Mós and Meia Praia in Lagos and Praia Verde in Tavira.

If you prefer to enjoy the sights in relative peace and quiet, the beaches of Esteveira and Vale Figueira in Aljezur; Bordoeira in Carrapateira; Barranco das Canas and Praia de Ingrina in Vila do Bispo and Cacela Velha in Tavira are really good choices.

Romantic Activities

Portugal combines the exotic with the romantic; it combines natural beauty with medieval splendour and sophistication. The area boasts year-round sunshine and clean blue Atlantic waters. Wherever you choose to stay on Portugal’s Algarve, you'll find lots of places to enjoy romantic activities and to savour those very special, romantic moments.

Romance of course means different things to different people, some may find romance in sporting activities like hot-air ballooning, horse riding, canoeing, hiking, mountain biking or water sports. Others may find romance in enjoying a cruise together or touring a winery.

Romance can also be found in the markets as you shop together for jewellery, fine wines and ports, pretty embroidered fabrics and ceramics to feather your nest. You can have fun choosing from the colourful “azulejos” These are the distinctive, hand-made tiles used to decorate the interiors and exteriors of many of the most beautiful homes in Portugal.

Some find romance in food and Portuguese cuisine is as diverse and tasty as you would expect any Mediterranean country’s to be. Fresh grilled sardines and succulent lobster can be found on many Portuguese menus, and you’ll find locally grown almonds and figs adding their own sweet flavours to many a dessert. These taste sensations are even more delicious when enjoyed “al-fresco”, dining in one of the Algarve's many open-air restaurants.

Algarve Villas – click here to search for holiday accommodation.

Monday, September 20, 2010

'Get to know the East Algarve' – an ideal Algarve Holiday Destination

East Algarve

The eastern region of the Algarve is the ideal place to look for Algarve villas to rent. The eastern Algarve region starts at Faro with its international airport and ends at Villa Real St Antonio, the border town between Portugal and Spain. Eastern Algarve is comprised of six regions namely Olhão, to the west of the eastern region, São Brás de Alportel, a little further east on the coast, Tavira, which occupies a more central position and Vila Real de Santo António, on the coastal border with Spain. Further in land and to the north are the regions of Castro Marim and Alcoutim. Each of these very different areas has something unique and exciting to offer.

Olhão

The town of Olhão, situated in the Ria Formosa national park, eastern Algarve was established back in the 17th Century. With still very strong links to the fishing industry, it was the first to open a tuna and sardine canning factory of the sort that are now ubiquitous along the Algarve coast. Olhão is still the busiest fishing port in the Algarve and proudly displays its regular catches in its fish markets.

Outer Olhão is typical of a modern and busy working town but reach the waterfront and things are markedly different. You’ll find a delightful area full of markets and well kept gardens. Stylish cafés line the cobbled streets leading to the old 'Moorish style' town where fascinating architectures and a lively market atmosphere await. A ferry moored at the pier, island hops from here, to Armona and Culatra which offer contrastingly relaxed sunbathing on beautiful, unspoilt sandy beaches and a pleasant swim in the Atlantic

São Brás de Alportel

São Brás de Alportel made its fortune in the cork trade in the early 20th C. It was the largest producer of cork in world at that time and was made a municipality in recognition of its economic importance. In recent times however, the centre of the cork trade has relocated to central and northern Portugal with the result that São Brás is left to rely on its local craft work and tourism.

Old São Brás is typical of the Algarve of yesteryear. Low rise white painted houses interspersed with small shops and cafes, line the maze of cobbled streets centred around the church which, like pretty much everything else in this part of the Algarve, was rebuilt after the earthquake of 1755

São Brás is proud justly of its past but it does not cling to it. Further out of town and the streets widen. The cobbles give way to pavers and tarmac and modern apartment blocks stand in place of older, more traditional housing. The town has fully embraced its new life as a tourist and 2nd home location. The older parts remain of course, for posterity and tourism’s sake but new São Brás is a place of modernity. Many shops, supermarkets, restaurants and cafés are thriving in the area, serving their new, if slightly foreign clientèle.

For the tourist and visitor São Brás de Alportel, in the foothills of the Algarve is the ideal base from which to explore the local countryside. There is plenty to do and see in the area and days at the beach and some superb golfing are just a short drive away.

Tavira

The ancient and architecturally stunning town of Tavira can be dated back 4000 years. The town was built on the fishing and later the shipping industries and still today bears the hallmarks of both these trades. The earthquake of 1755 saw the area completely rebuilt and perhaps by way of prayer that such a calamity should not befall the area again, saw the erection afterwards, of some 37 churches.

The rural areas of Tavira, on the outskirts of town are gradually changing with the times to welcome the tourist and the ex pat. Three superb golf courses, four if you count Colina Verde though that’s a little more toward Olhão, now pander to the increasing number of professional, semi professional and hobby golfers that are drawn to this part of the world. The beach in Tavira is known as Ilha de Tavira. It is a wide natural sand bar accessed via ferry from the mainland and is a very popular destination for locals, tourists and ex pats alike.

Vila Real de Santo António

Vila Real de Santo António to the east of the Algarve coast, lies at the mouth of the river Guadiana and marks the border between Portugal and Spain. The waterfront is a glorious display of gardens and colour and its busy marina is a very lively and trendy place. The town has grown from the humble beginnings of a small fishing village to now feature a wonderful selection of shops.

In 1997 a bridge spanning the River Guadiana was built to connect the city of Seville in Spain with the Algarve. This now serves as a popular crossing point and an area where the two cultures can mix freely. You can also cross the River Guadiana by ferryboat to visit the Spanish town of Ayamonte. It is a pleasant and relaxing experience, since the Guadiana never gets too rough.

Alcoutim

Alcoutim is located at the point where the River Guadiana becomes tidal, so anyone wanting to ship goods had to wait here until conditions were right. And so, a town was born and a once thriving one at that. The diminishing role however, of the river as a transport route, the distance of Alcoutim from the sea and the decline of the local mining industry led to a long period of economic stagnation.

Today visitors to Alcoutim can enjoy peaceful hours walking through the streets of this charming old town or along the river. There is a wonderful 14th Century castle overlooking the river, built to defend the border against invasion from neighbouring hordes, this had to be adapted some 300 years later to deal with the changes in artillery warfare, as such it gives an interesting insight into changing battle practice

Villas in Algarve – click here to search for Algarve Holiday Villas and Apartments

Wednesday, September 8, 2010

Late Summer and Autumn Algarve Breaks – With Truly Algarve

Unlike some other resort locations, the Algarve is an excellent holiday destination for late summer and autumn breaks, especially if you fancy packing your clubs. The greens and fairways are always in great condition since they are worked on all year round, the fees are reduced making a round of golf great value as well as great fun and the weather is a very pleasant 15°-19°C.

It may perhaps be a little to chilly to swim in the ocean but you can still laze around on the beach or the pool and enjoy 5 or 6 hours of very warm and unbroken sunshine, with all the beach bars and restaurants at your disposal.


At this time of year you'll find the delightful villages and towns of the Algarve offering just as warm a welcome as they do in the height of summer. Less crowded and with fewer children since most of them are back at school, you’ll find the emphasis shifts from mass appeal to a relaxed, more service oriented approach. Shop keepers, bar owners and restaurateurs are happier to take time out to welcome and talk to their guests and the whole area takes on a more laid back and contented feel.


Another advantage of coming away slightly later in the year is that sporting activities of all sorts are more widely available, especially if you choose to visit one of the larger resorts like Albufeira, Lagos or Vilamoura, here you can have your pick of the restaurants, cinemas and clubs and enjoy a still very lively nightlife.


Great Late Summer and Autumn Destinations


Albufeira


Albufeira on the coast of central Algarve is an extremely popular destination amongst holidaymakers and 2nd home owners from the UK and Europe and a visit to this beautiful old town, particularly in late summer will quickly reveal why so many find it such an appealing destination. Just a short drive from Faro international airport it is the ideal location for a relaxing end of summer break.


Albufeira is sunny all year round, vibrant and lively, it can also peaceful and romantic. In late summer it is a relaxed haven, the crowds have all but disappeared and the children have returned to school leaving Albufeira to relax into its naturally idyllic pace. The town is all things to all people it caters for families, couples and groups of friends looking for plenty to do combined with great beaches.


Lagos

Lagos on the western side of the Algarve has something to offer everyone. It is an ideal family holiday destination, catering for people of all ages. Lagos can trace its roots back 4000 years and has always had connections with the sea, it was these connections that bought great wealth to the town from North Africa some 500 years ago.


Lagos is brimming with historical artefacts and statues commemorate great figures from its past but Lagos is not all about the past. It is a lively town with many attractions taking place around its central square. The Praca de Gil Eanes regularly plays host to Portuguese football which is played out on big screens in the town centre. The Portuguese are a passionate people and this is as true of their sport as it is anything else, so you’ll often find the town square filled with people enjoying the sport and other entertainments laid on by the nearby restaurants and bars.


Vilamoura


To really experience luxury on the Algarve, Vilamoura is the place to come. It is among the largest private tourist resorts in Europe but don’t let size put you off. This delightful town features some of the most luxurious hotels, villas and apartments in the Algarve, all set in glorious scenery with views over golf courses, the town, the marina or coast.

Vilamoura is a hive of activity featuring many quality restaurants and trendy bars. There is a wealth of designer clothing on offer here and the marina has to be seen to be believed. It can berth up to 1000 boats and many of the craft that are moored here are very special indeed.

The town and the marina in particular, come alive of an evening with the bars and restaurants opening themselves up to embrace the warm night air. Later in the evening the clubs open their doors but these are not the clubs of Ayia Napa or Ibiza, they are nocturnal venues for a more discerning, genteel crowd.

We have highlighted just three of the many wonderful destinations on offer in the Algarve and know that you will be delighted with a stay at any one of them but, wherever you choose to take your late summer holiday or autumn in the Algarve, you are assured of great weather, golf, food, entertainment and a fabulous time whether you come here as a couple, a group of friends or a family.

Algarve Villas - Click here for late summer availability.

Friday, August 20, 2010

Apartments at the Rocha Brava Resort - great value accommodation for couples

Just 45 minutes drive from Faro International airport, in the Portuguese Algarve, lies the fabulous resort location of Rocha Brava or “Wild Rocks”. Set amid nearly 57 acres of landscaped gardens and rolling coastal countryside and consisting of just 410 luxurious holiday units, the accommodation is offered in a wide range of styles and sizes from 1, 2 and 3 bedroomed apartments and townhouses through to 3 and 4 bedroomed villas with their own private swimming pools.

Apartments in Rocha Brava – click here to search


Rocha Brava has the accommodation and the facilities to suit everyone, so, whether you are a couple, just looking to get away from it all for a while, a large group of friends holidaying together or an extended family away for your annual break, there is something here for everyone and all set within the most delightful of coastal locations.


Central to the development is a large kidney shaped swimming pool with a smaller, circular kids pool adjacent to it. There are many reclining sun beds arranged in the pool area, for you to relax and enjoy the sun and a poolside bar serves refreshments and light snacks in the afternoons and through to the early evenings.


Situated just two and a half kilometres from the popular fishing village of Carvoeiro, where fishermen can still be seen hauling their daily catch ashore, it is the ideal location for a self catering holiday but if one day, you choose not to cook, there are some delightful restaurants offering a la carte menus and a wide choice of both international and Portuguese cuisines, located all along the shoreline. Some hold pride of place, fronting onto the beach, from where you can dine as the sun sets looking out over the Atlantic Ocean and enjoying its cooling breeze.


If you are feeling active you can indulge in a spot of tennis. There are four tennis courts available and a tennis school operates year round with its own resident coach. Other amenities include a children’s club, a games room and a fitness centre offering everything from free weights to treadmills.


A short walk, 500 metres or so from the resort itself is the picturesque beach of Centianes. Here a steep craggy cliff face gives way to a wide and sweeping, sandy beach. The waters here are never too rough so it’s the ideal place to practice your snorkelling, scuba diving and wind surfing. If all that sounds a bit too energetic, you could always paddle around on a lilo or simply sunbathe, taking the occasional refreshment from one of the conveniently located bars and restaurants.


If you are prone to wanderlust and feel the urge to explore, the coastline will certainly not disappoint. There are numerous coves and beaches to explore, most of which are served by at least one bar or restaurant. There are some quite lovely walks to be had along the cliff tops too, with more beautiful views. Watch your step though and look out for signs of erosion, most have been well signposted but it pays to be on your guard.


Slightly further afield, yet still within easy reach are the two golfing resorts of the region, the Gramacho and the Vale de Pinta, for which residents of Rocha Brava can obtain discount passes. Both courses were designed by Ronald Fream together with the former world No. 1 golfer, Nick Price and with their 18 holes and numerous different tee points, you’ll be able to enjoy both courses time and again, but from ever changing perspectives.


The Gramacho has played host to the Portuguese Ladies Open several times and as such, it is recognised as an official championship course. Don’t let that put you off though, golfers of every handicap are invited to play here and enjoy the natural stone outcrops, dry stone walling and ancient trees that have been left in place and incorporated into the design, together with the attractive lakes and devilish bunkers.


Other local family entertainments include an equestrian centre and two large water parks, one of which, called Zoomarine, plays host to Dolphin and seal shows, has a number of different swimming pools, fairgrounds and a large family picnic area.


Algarve Villas – Click here to view our full range of Algarve accommodation





Thursday, July 8, 2010

Carvoeiro and Five of it's Beaches

The seaside town of Carvoeiro has some 12 beaches for you to choose from. They range in style from the very busy and family fun orientated, to the quieter, romantic and more couple centric. This fabulous selection of beaches cater for everyone from the couple just wanting to relax and enjoy each other’s company, to families with young children enjoying, sun, sea and sandcastles and groups of friends looking for beach bars and adrenalin fuelled water sports.

Part of the Algarve’s appeal is that it can be all things, to all people. Its vast coastline, varying terrains and changing waters, make it the ideal holiday location. One day you can be enjoying the thrills and spills of waterskiing and the next, the peace and quiet of a secluded beach cove.

The waters are warm and generally calm. The currents pick up in a few places but these are well marked with flags and the main beaches are manned by lifeguards throughout the summer months keeping them as safe as possible.

1. Praia de Marinha


Ideal for a day trip to the beach, once here, you won’t want to leave. Marinha is located 5km southeast of Lagoa and just 1km east of Benagil but from wherever you are staying in the Algarve, Praia de Marinha is well worth a visit.


One hundred and sixteen wide shallow steps, cut from the rocks, transport you effortlessly from a cliff top car park to the soft golden sands beneath. This small beach cove sits below some magnificent rock formations providing an intimate, cosseted feeling that will make you want to stay on longer and this
feeling is further enhanced, by the friendliness of the staff at the beach side snack bar.
At high tide this relatively small beach is reduced in size still further, becoming no more than a sandy strip.

At this time, the sand is usually home to the gear of snorkellers. The quality and clarity of the water here is so good that it attracts people from all over, to spy on and mingle with species from the sub aqua world.


When the waters recede, the area becomes a fascination for children of all ages as the many rock pools play host to some interesting and varied marine life. Previously submerged coves become accessible once again and harbour treasures left behind by the sea.


2. Praia de Benagil

This small beach, a short drive from Rocha Brava on a sharp bend in the road, is often used by local fishermen. They haul their boats up onto the beach, laden with the days catch which makes for an interesting spectacle. A small number of restaurants and bars in the area regularly benefit from the fisherman’s catch, ensuring the very freshest of fish gets served at their tables.


Having unloaded their catch and finished for the day, for a small fee the fishermen will offer to take holidaymakers out on the water. As you trip up and down the coast, you can properly appreciate the majesty of the rock formations and the diversity of the scenery that this part of the world has to offer.

3. Praia de Carvalho

If you leave the resort of Rocha Brava and wander across the cliffs tops with views of the sea out to the west, you will stumble upon this tiny but beautifully presented beach. With steps in the rocks leading down to a tunnel,
through which you have to climb to get down to the beach, access to the sanded paradise is not exactly straight forward, but it is certainly worth it.

This secluded spot is a haven for couples who are looking to escape the other more touristy beaches and because it is relatively difficult to access, many of the more committed peace seekers find their way there. With rock formations on either side it is a natural sun trap and out of the cooling breeze, it really can get very warm indeed. A number of stubborn rock forms protrude from the sea and present dramatic sunset photo opportunities.


4. Praia Centianes


This lovely beach is proving more and more popular, so much so, that a new apartment complex is being built in the vicinity. Just 500 metres from the resort of Rocha Brava, the beach provides plenty of space at least when the tide is out.


A measure of its increasing popularity is the fact that the beach has recently been extended, through the removal of some crumbling cliffs. These needed to go, to make the beach safe but as a result of the increased space, this has led to increased patronage. The beach is approached by a pathway from a small gravel car park and there are a few steps leading down onto the sand. Sunbeds and shades are available here.


5. Vale de Covo


The beach at Vale de Covo is about as picturesque a setting as you are likely to find in The Algarve, especially in the evening. The rock formations are dramatic, the beach is small and intimate and the whole thing is lit up at night time giving it an especially, magical feel.


This pretty little cove just past the Almonsor Hotel is reached by quite a few steps so you must go prepared, but it is well worth the effort once you are there. There are lots of small caves that have been eroded into the rocks providing perfect little hideaways for those feeling romantic.


Villas in Carvoeiro
– click here to search for holiday villas and apartments

Tuesday, June 15, 2010

Villas in Carvoeiro | Holidays in Carvoeiro


If you are planning on taking your holidays in Carvoeiro this year, or are looking at villas in Carvoeiro to rent, then you are quite literally spoiled for choice. We have an extensive range of villas and apartments to rent, in and around this popular Algarve location.

Holidays in Carvoeiro are very popular among families and couples alike as there is such a large choice of quality self-catering accommodation both large and small. Whether you are looking for an intimate apartment with 1 or 2 bedrooms or a large villa to accommodate an extended family, we have many holiday properties to choose from, which will exceed your expectations.

Once a traditional fishing village relying on its Tuna catches, Carvoeiro has moved with the times to become a very popular seaside holiday resort. Catering for the wants and desires of the modern day tourist, the town now offers a high standard of accommodation, together with quality restaurants and bars. One thing you certainly won't be short of in Carvoeiro, is somewhere to eat and drink! There is a huge selection of bars, restaurants and cafés all within easy walking distance of the town centre.

The centre of Carvoeiro itself is still quite contained as it hasn’t sprawled like so many other popular holiday resorts. There are just two roads leading down into the town, meeting in a small square adjacent the beach. Unfortunately there is no longer any parking available in the town square since it’s re-vamp in 2009, so if you’re driving, you should look for parking in one of the side streets. It’s not too far to walk though and besides, it’s nice to get out and wander round.
Although the town itself is quite small, in Carvoeiro’s case, small does not mean sparse. The town has all the things you are likely to want in a holiday resort and a lot more besides.

You’ll find plenty of shops catering for your everyday needs and because they are so used to British visitors you will be able to find most of your normal groceries here. There is also a large “Intermarché” on the Lagoa road which is on the outskirts of Carvoeiro. Like our out of town supermarkets, these larger centres stock a huge range of goods and groceries, including electrical items, but do remember, the power grids are different here, so you’ll need a converter plug to use any electrical item bought here, back in the UK.

As with most seaside holiday resort locations, much of the larger accommodation is located on the outskirts of town but it has all been sympathetically designed to merge with the existing architectures of the area, so as not to stand out as bold, brash, new or garish. Carvoeiro is not a town of high rise hotels and apartment blocks, nor will it ever be, the authorities here will simply not allow it.

The town square features plenty of bars and cafés so you can enjoy watching the action on the beach, while you sit comfortably in the shade with a cool drink in hand. If you prefer something a bit more hands on, you could catch a ride with the local fishermen who offer boat trips around the coastline to see the caves or you could seize the opportunity to jump on a jet ski or go water skiing.

There is so much to do here; the list of activities is endless. From boat trips to big game fishing, from cycling to golf and from horse riding to water sports, you’ll never run out of things to do. The cliff tops around Carvoeiro offer plenty of scope for walking and some great views but do beware of the ‘algares’. Algares are holes in the cliffs where the sea has eroded them from underneath, there are some near the lighthouse at Cabo de Carvoeiro. Luckily, they have been fenced off but it just goes to show how fragile the cliffs can be.

If even the thought of all this activity is tiring you out, or you simply want to relax quietly with your partner and soak up the sun, you can. Away from the main beach of Carvoeiro, there are plenty of smaller bays and coves. Here, couples can relax in a truly romantic setting, taking in the sights, sounds and sunsets of this glorious seaside location, whilst enjoying nothing but each other’s company.

Algarve Villas – click here to search for holiday villas and apartments in Carvoeiro

Wednesday, May 19, 2010

Family Holidays Algarve – Albufeira

Truly® Algarve offer a stunning selection of holiday villas and apartments, just perfect for Algarve family holidays. Available for rent, in and around the beautiful coastal town of Albufeira, these delightful and luxurious holiday homes come fully equipped* with everything you’ll need for a relaxing family holiday.
One of the larger towns on the coast of the Algarve, Albufeira has lots to offer the whole family. From children’s entertainment, through to ample shopping, to water sports and a great nightlife, there is plenty to occupy older children and teenagers alike.

Family Holidays Algarve - click here to search for Villas in Albufeira

If you prefer the quiet life and want simply to lounge around by a pool, then a villa just outside of town should suit you to a tee. Many of them are within walking distance of local shops, so stocking up on supplies is easy and this highlights the true beauty of a self catering villa holiday; you are free to do exactly as you wish. If that means nothing more than sunbathing and tending to a barbecue between drinks, before sitting down to a freshly prepared alfresco family lunch, then so be it.

If you feel a little more adventurous and would like to explore the local countryside, there are walking, cycling and horse riding opportunities aplenty. Alternatively you could go fishing, play tennis or golf. The area is famed for its golf and with many of its courses benefitting from breathtaking countryside and coastal views; it is quite possible to lose yourself for a while between the first and ninth or even the eighteenth holes. With so much to occupy the older children, why not take advantage and escape for a while?

Albufeira combines its old town tradition and character with a modern outlook. Its contemporary marina offers all the modern tourist conveniences including supermarkets, beach resort shops, bars, pubs and restaurants and yet, within a short time, you can be amongst the fishing boats or out in the countryside and in a quiet place that has deliberately ignored the march of time.

The town is centrally located on the Algarve’s Atlantic coast. The weather here is consistently warm, without being unbearably hot which makes it ideal, even for those with very young children. The beaches are wonderful, soft golden sand stretches for miles in both directions along the shore and the relatively calm, quite shallow waters are perfect for snorkelling or splashing about on lilos and pedaloes.
Many parts of this glorious coastline have received awards for both cleanliness and safety and if you are beach lovers, you are quite literally, spoiled for choice.

There are over 20 beaches to choose from in the Albufeira region, from large expanses of golden sand to intimate little bays. These are wonderful locations from which you can marvel at stunning sunsets and photograph some awesome rock formations.
Whatever you choose to do and however you choose to spend your time here, a self catering villa or apartment holiday in Albufeira on Portugal’s Algarve coast will relax and rejuvenate and provide some quite wonderful holiday memories.

*Cots and highchairs are available on request.