Author: chiracshah

Things to do in the Algarve

Things to do in the Algarve

chiracshah

With its stunning coastline, dramatic rock formations, azure waters and mild temperatures, the Algarve is one of Portugal’s most popular holiday destinations. When it comes to things to do in the Algarve, you really are spoiled for choice. Buzzing coastal resorts offer amazing shopping, eateries, bars, golf courses and beaches for water sports. Further inland, historical villages and hiking trails offer up stunning views and cultural hotspots just waiting to be explored. On the eastern Algarve, lagoons and islands form a stunning natural park where wild birds and flamingos gather. Whatever you like to do during your Portuguese villa holiday, you’ll find it here.   

Play golf in the Algarve 

The Algarve is one of the most popular resorts for golfing holidays, the south of Portugal offers up to 300 days of sunshine per year and an outstanding selection of courses, including those that hold regular championships. Golf in the Algarve is a must for sporting enthusiasts and is a great way to unwind away from the buzzing resorts. Popular golfing courses include Penina Golf Resort in the western Algarve, as well as Quinta do Lago and Amendoeira, which are more centrally based and offer well-maintained greens and epic views over the region’s rolling hills.    

Wander around Faro Old Town 

As the capital and largest city in the Algarve, there is plenty to see in do in Faro for sightseers. Take a stroll around the Old Town, where you’ll find Faro’s Cidade Velha, which sits on Roman and Moorish foundations that date back to the 18th and 19th centuries. Explore a maze of cobbled streets with historical landmarks at every turn, as well as workshops, craft shops, museums, exhibitions, cafes and restaurants. The esplanade by the marina and Old Town is also worth a visit before retiring to your countryside Villa Ines.   

Spend the day at Lagos 

When you’d like to head a little further afield from the tranquil gardens of your Villa Arez, hop in the car and take a day trip to Lagos, which is one of the western Algarve’s liveliest resort towns. History buffs will love exploring the medieval castle walls and sea defences, as well as the stunning churches which date back to the 15th century. It is however the stunning coastline that makes Lagos so special, with caves to explore via boating trips, azure waters for snorkelling and cliff-side walks that offer epic vistas of the shoreline. Take the whole family on a dolphin safari, or spend a few hours exploring local grottoes with a guided tour. Food and shopping here is also very reasonably priced, meaning you can stay for dinner and pick up some local fish and chicken dishes in one of the area’s many restaurants.       

Explore Albufeira 

Known as the beating heart of the Algarve, Albufeira is where the region gets its pulse. Albufeira has a rich history, with quaint whitewashed cottages, ancient chapels, decadent churches and a Roman castle dotted around, but the main pull is the famous Strip and its many clubs, entertainment venues, bars and restaurants. Keep the whole family entertained with a day soaking up the sun on the beach, before retiring to a local taverna for some Piri-Piri Portuguese chicken or the local catch of the day with an olive salad. Or why not take a sunset boat trip from the marina? Go karting, bowling, live music, karaoke, tuk-tuk tours and traditional Fado music are just some of the other entertainment highlights on offer.    

Hike Serra de Monchique 

If you prefer to get back to nature without visiting the beach, take an organised hiking tour across the Serra de Monchique – a dramatic mountain range featuring chestnut trees, wildflowers and plenty of other wildlife. Your guide will take you and your family around the meandering trails across shady woodlands, ancient villages and tranquil waterways. On a clear sunny day, take in spectacular views of Sagres, Lagos and the Atlantic Ocean.       

Now you know some of the best things to do in the Algarve, all you need is a premium villa to stay in with your very own private pool! Browse our collection of holiday properties on Portugal’s southern coast.   

Food Guide: Portugal

Food Guide: Portugal

chiracshah

With flavours inspired by Mediterranean neighbours France, Spain and Italy, Portuguese cuisine embraces the joy of eating through tantalising flavour and rich spices – not forgetting the delicious local wines and of course, Port. When enjoying your villa holiday, make sure you don’t miss an opportunity to savour some of the local fare, which focuses on meat and fish, olives and olive oil, bread, tomatoes and eggs. Here’s some of the best food in Portugal that you won’t want to miss!   

Caldo Verde

This wintry soup is a staple of Portuguese cuisine that comes from the north of the country, and includes potato puree, chorizo sausage slices, greens, kale and a dark green cabbage that grows across the country’s borders, creating a warming and spicy soup with a variety of textures and local flavours. This dish is ideal when you want to indulge in a hearty lunch that packs a punch.

Cod fish

Fish is very popular in Portugal, with many tavernas and restaurants offering a fresh catch of the day. Otherwise known as Bacalhau, cod fish is included in many Portuguese dishes – so much so that residents find more than 365 different ways of preparing it, including baking, grilling, frying, canning and poaching. That makes a different Bacalhau dish for every day of a year. A popular way of enjoying Bacalhau is to enjoy it with scrambled eggs, onions, potatoes, garlic and olives (all dressed with parsley). Why not pick up these ingredients at a local market close to your Villa Marina Azul and prepare this dish for a filling family brunch in your villa kitchen?

The National Sandwich (Bifana)

You’ll find this popular sandwich everywhere you go in Portugal. It makes a perfect bite for lunch, and is usually served with either soup or chips for lunch or dinner. Locals might also pair it with beer for a late evening snack. The main star of this sarnie is the pork, which is marinated in paprika, spices, white wine and garlic, before being placed in a white French-stick style bread with a crunchy crust on the outside, and a soft doughy texture in the middle. Other popular fillings include bacon, eggs, tomatoes, vegetables and lettuce. Every restaurant will have its own recipe for the local marinade. Between Lisbon and Evora is the small town of Novas, which is known for its original Bifana sandwich recipe. Although it is commonly served as a snack, due to its enormous size, and once paired with chips and salad, we’d say it’s more of a full meal for the truly hungry!    

Chicken Piri-Piri

Many Portuguese dishes are inspired by coastal Africa and the 15th-16th century age of exploration. Think spicy chilli, smoky paprika and turmeric. The small, spicy Piri-Piri chilli pepper is known as ‘The African Devil’, and if you love Nando’s, you’ll love eating Frango, which is essentially Peri-Peri chicken the Portuguese way (which has become a global sensation). Restaurants that sell this Portuguese traditional food are known as Churrascarias. Peri-Peri chicken is often served with salad and chips, as well as a cooling refreshment like a glass of beer or wine. Locals never use a knife or fork – it’s all about using your hands, to get all the tender meat off of the bone. When you’ve had a day of relaxation in your private garden or pool in Villa Campos, head to a local Churrascaria for dinner in Guia and get the whole family tucking into this delicious chicken dish.      

Pastel de Nata

Those with a sweet tooth will adore this famous Portuguese food. As you wander around any town or resort, you’ll likely encounter a pastry shop selling this dessert made from eggs, flour, butter sugar and cinnamon. Its rich pastry contains plenty of butter layered within the dough, to give this dish its crunchy and creamy flavour. The centre is filled with egg custard, and then cooked in a hot oven. Locals often pair this with a strong coffee as a mid-afternoon snack. As many as 10,000 tarts are made per day in Libson’s Fábrica de Pastéis de Belém, which still makes the tarts to their original recipe.

Want to indulge in this delicious cuisine? Get booking your dream villa holiday in the Algarve now and get ready to sample some of the best food in Portugal. 

Best places to visit in Portugal

Best places to visit in Portugal

chiracshah

Portugal is a friendly country that welcomes visitors back time and again thanks to its laid-back atmosphere, delicious food and wine, warm sunshine, vibrant cities, ancient architecture and famously stunning beaches – not to mention its crystal-clear waters for snorkelling and swimming! If you’re wondering where might be the best places to visit in Portugal during your villa holiday, we’ve got you covered with our expert guide. 

Albufeira

A beautiful coastal city in the Algarve’s southern region, Albufeira is the place to be if you are a beach lover. The resort boasts 23 Blue Flag beaches in total, each with their own unique characteristics. When you feel like swimming in the fresh Atlantic ocean rather than your private swimming pool in your Villa Emilio Pequena, head to one of the many gorgeous sandy shores on offer and take part in a snorkelling or surfing session. Many beaches have lifeguards, sun loungers, and restaurants where you can grab a bite to eat and take shelter from the heat of the day. Some beaches also offer horse-riding activities, jet-ski rentals, banana boating and kayaking, especially in beaches that are close to caves. Many of the beaches in Albufeira also have hiking routes that take you from the coast and across some of Portugal’s impressive scenery – covering valleys, sweeping vistas and local landmarks.

If you’re a nature and animal lover, spend a couple of hours exploring the wetland area of Salgados Lagoon, where you can stroll along the boardwalk and take in flamingos and other native birds in their natural habitat. If you have children with you, don’t forget to stop at Zoomarine – one of the area’s most popular attractions and an opportunity to get up close with dolphins. The venue also offers theme park rides, aquatic shows, a wave pool and artificial beach.  

Lagos

Famous for its epic beaches and rock formations, Lagos is one of the best places to go in Portugal, showing off the best of the country’s natural wonders. Take a boat trip through the Ponta da Piedade cave system, or why not try windsurfing in Praia da Luz, known for its breezy coast that proves great for a variety of water sports. The region also boasts plenty of day trips when you want to explore a little further outside of your delightful Villa Casa Sophia. Take a Jeep safari and discover the mountainous regions of Monchique and Caldeirão as you take a thrilling ride across epic sand dunes, forests and landscapes. You can also book tours to a traditional Portuguese wine house for some local wine tasting, as well as an old pottery, where you can learn more about traditional craft making in the country. Many tours also take in the coastal rock formations of Algar Seco and Ferragudo – all making some Instagram-worthy snaps. 

Faro

A great place for culture lovers, Faro is one of the most interesting places to visit in Portugal because of its many historical sites and fascinating architecture. Meander around the city’s small Old Town, filled with quirky cafes, restaurants and shops selling local produce and hand made items. After a spot of shopping, give your feet a break with a ride on the Comboio Turística – a land train that departs from the marina and takes in the city’s main landmarks and tourist attractions. The ride takes 45 minutes to take in the Old Town, including the municipal market and the São Pedro church.

If you’ve got kids in tow, visit the Centro Ciência Viva do Algarve – a live science centre offering plenty of interactive experiments and games such as an earthquake simulator, observatory and aquarium with a touch pool. No trip to Faro for a history lover is complete without visiting Milreu – Roman ruins just over 10km north of the city. Set in tranquil orange groves, wander around this fascinating Roman villa site that dates back to the 1st or 2nd century AD, and which was clearly a home for a wealthy individual.   

Ready to escape on your next villa holiday? Explore our collection of premium properties in the Algarve and discover the best places to visit in Portugal.

Best beaches in Portugal

Best beaches in Portugal

chiracshah

Incredible beaches are dotted right across Portugal, which shares its coastline with the Atlantic, offering up incredible snorkelling and water sports adventures. The Algarve is home to many of Portugal’s finest beaches, and boasts a dramatic coastline backed by limestone cliffs and lofty rock formations. With more than 150km of shoreline on offer, you’re spoiled for choice when it comes to finding the perfect place to catch some rays, swim, snorkel and play with the kids. Here’s our ultimate guide to the best Portugal beaches.

Praia da Dona Ana

A beautiful beach located near Lagos that easily makes the list of best beaches in Portugal, Praia da Dona Ana was named after a WW1 survivor – a nun called Ana. You’ll recognise it as the picture postcard of the Algarve, offering inspiring rock formations and gorgeously clear waters. When sitting on the beach, the high cliffs will protect you from coastal winds, while children will love collecting the numerous seashells on the sand. Expect crystal-clear sea water that is ideal for snorkelling and swimming because of its calm nature. It is however a little cooler than other beaches, and it may take some time to acclimatise when swimming, especially during the heat of summer. Praia da Dona Ana is very popular and does get crowded in the summer months, especially during the middle of the day, and is quieter during the mornings and evenings.

The beach is a great place for a romantic stroll as you take in the views. Note however that due to high cliffs and plenty of stairs to access the beach, access isn’t suitable for wheelchair users or parents with pushchairs. When the sun sets head to the nearby town of Lagos for a bite to eat before driving back to your picturesque Villa Dora – a tranquil haven in the hills above San Rafael.

Praia da Marinha

One of the best beaches in Portugal, near Carvoeiro, Praia da Marinha’s sandy shores are continuously rated among the most beautiful in the world, and the shoreline is the poster beach for the Algarve tourism industry thanks to its famous ‘M rock’, formation. Its beauty has to be seen to be believed, and taking in the epic sights this beach has to offer really fills you with wonder. The beach boasts soft, golden sand and a restaurant offering refreshments. When the tide is high, walking to the quieter parts of the beach can be tricky if you don’t want to get wet. During low tide, you can walk right along the beach to the famous ‘M rock’.

When it comes to swimming, the waters are usually calm and clear enough for snorkelling, but you can get higher and more choppy waves than on other beaches, so it may not be suitable for younger children. Because of the high cliffs surrounding the beach, there is plenty of protection from the wind, but not much shade, so pack plenty of sunscreen. During peak season, crowds can gather, but thankfully not in their droves, as you need a car to access the beach.

Many people go to Praia de Marinha to enjoy the stunning views and hike the various walking trails that you can pick up from the beach. Walking to the west, one path takes you from the coast right up to Praia de Vale Centeanes, and is known as the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail, leading walkers up and across seven stunning coastal valleys. It is one of the most famous Algarve walking trails, so expect plenty of Instagram-worthy photos. If you walk to the east, you can take in a cliff walk offering epic views of the coast from the beach right up to Senhora da Rocha. This long trail lasts a few kilometres and is ideal for the whole family as you take in the panoramic vistas.

Have one of the best beach holidays in Portugal by booking one of our beautiful holiday villas in the Algarve. Return to a quality home-from-home after a day of fun in the sun.

Best Places to Visit in Kefalonia

Best Places to Visit in Kefalonia

chiracshah

As the largest of the Ionian islands and one of the most verdant, Kefalonia has long been a must-visit destination that is on the bucket list of many travellers. Many have discovered the epic landscape, stunning unspoiled beaches, crystal-clear waters, caves and historical culture of this beautiful Greek island, which keeps visitors coming back, time and again. Because it is a relatively small island, getting around and exploring the sights is fairly easy, especially if you hire a car. Here are our recommendations for the best place to visit in Kefalonia while enjoying your villa holiday.

Lassi

A popular resort village on the southern coast, Lassi is very popular with Kefalonia newbies thanks to its abundance of restaurants, shops, cafes and mini markets, with everything you could need right on your doorstep. Exploring Kefalonia from here is easy if you don’t have a car, as the village offers rentals and day trips and excursions for those who don’t feel like driving, especially if you want to explore the island’s main capital of Argostoli. Beach and sunbathing lovers are well catered for on this part of the island, which boasts the beautiful white-sand beaches of Platis Gialos and Makris Gialos, offering nearby beach bars, tavernas and water sports for all ages.

Just outside of Argostoli, you’ll find the famous Katavothres Sea Mills, which is one of the island’s most popular attractions, featuring mills that pump sea water to the Melissani Lake, which lies 15km uphill. Lassi is also home to the island’s first travel agency, Panem, which has been running for the last 35 years. They offer family-friendly trips to the iconic Shipwreck Bay, Blue Caves, or even a day trip to the island of Ithaca, the legendary birthplace of Odysseus.

Sami

If you’re wondering what is the best area to stay in Kefalonia, this desirable town is considered to be more Greek in nature, and is home to more locals than expats. Wander around and discover an abundance of traditional tavernas, cafes and restaurants offering their catch of the day. Sami also offers plenty of jewellery and souvenir shops selling beautiful hand made ornaments, pots and lace, as well as a small beach named after the town. The nearby Antisamos beach is the location where the film Captain Corelli’s Mandolin was filmed on the island. If you hire one of our beautiful properties such as Villa Ambrosia Sami, all of this is just short drive away. 

History lovers will delve into the classical sites of Sami, including the Agrilia Monastery, and the Roman baths and town ruins of ancient Sami, which were referenced in Homer’s texts. Also worth exploring is Karavomilos Lake, which is home to many wild birds, fish, a quaint local church and watermill. If you’re into hiking and want to explore the nature of Kefalonia, the 2.5km Watermills Trail makes for a fantastic walk, covering stone bridges, mountain views, lush vegetation and crystal-clear waters.

Assos

Want to experience a very quiet and laid-back side to Kefalonia? Assos is the ideal retreat for couples and those who want to avoid the busier resorts, and is arguably one of the best places to go in Kefalonia. There isn’t much in the way of amenities, which means you’ll see more locals than tourists. A handful of tavernas are dotted here and there, and a mini market stocks local produce you can enjoy when you return to your Villa Kristola. We recommend hiring a car to explore this area of the island properly. Park up and wander around Assos, taking in the picture-postcard alleyways, stunning views, turquoise waters, castle ruins that date back to the Venetian era, and olive groves buzzing with cicadas. Indulge in a spot of lunch on the pebble beach, backed by epic limestone cliffs.

Plan your next getaway and discover the best places to visit in Kefalonia on a luxury villa holiday.  Why not see more of our Very Villa Plus holiday villas on this beautiful Greek island?   

Best Places to Visit in Crete

Best Places to Visit in Crete

chiracshah

Crete has it all – glorious sunshine, beautiful beaches and some of the most delicious fare in the whole of the Mediterranean. As the fifth-biggest island in the Mediterranean and the largest in Greece, there’s plenty to explore, including ancient civilisations, majestic gorges, mountain vistas and white-sand coastlines. However you like to spend your holiday, Crete is abundant in treasures to discover. Here are some of the best places to go in Crete!

Chania

If you’ve already decided on one of our villas based in Chania, like Villa Aggeliki, you’ll have so much to discover right on your doorstep. When you feel like heading out and away from your private pool and gardens for the day, Gerani Beach is just 300 yards away, and the nearby Platanias Resort is just a short drive away, offering plenty of restaurants to choose from and a mini-market so that you can cook up a feast back at your villa.

As one of Crete’s four provinces, Chania is an ancient town that dates back to Venetian Rule, and is surrounded by the epic White Mountains natural park, which takes up much of the western quarter of the island. Lose track of time wandering around the alleyways and winding roads of Chania Old Town, taking in majestic churches, Venetian mansions, souvenir shops, museums and architecture. Chania’s harbour and municipal gardens are also worth a visit in the sunshine. If you love great food, Chania has plenty on the menu for you to enjoy, including mini cheese pies, lamb with chicory and eggs with stàka. Should time allow, visit one of the many wineries located in the region for a tasting tour, where you will learn about different Cretan varieties and vintages – making Chania undoubtedly one of the best places to go in Crete for couples.

Matala

Take a drive to the south of Crete and discover the tranquil seaside village of Matala. This region’s most popular attraction is the Minoan Palace in nearby Phaistos, which dates back to 1900-1700 BC. It was excavated by an Italian archaeologist called Halbherr at the start of the 20th century, and offers a fascinating glimpse into life during its time. History lovers will also appreciate the nearby famous archaeological sites of Gortys, Phaistos and Agia Triada, which is a Minoan villa.   

The village of Matala offers visitors a quieter pace, and is one of the best places to see in Crete if you want to get away from the busier resorts. Visit the Grottes de Matala, Matala or Red beaches for warm and calm waters that are great for swimming, sunbathing and water sports, without the crowds. There isn’t a large nightlife scene here – just a few bars and hotels offering live music and cocktails up until a respectable hour. 

Hersonissos

Positioned east of Heraklion, Hersonissos is one of the best places to go in Crete for families. Once a sleepy town, this is one of the most buzzing resorts in Crete, and is home to around 3,000 permanent residents from abroad. Even outside of peak season, when the resort quietens down, there is still plenty to see and do. After a relaxing morning having breakfast on your private pool terrace at Villa Danae Blue, indulge in a spot of shopping at the many markets, shops and stores offering everything from handmade jewellery to clothing and Greek clay pots. You’ll also be spoiled for choice when it comes to food, with a range of tavernas offering British, Italian, Greek and Mediterranean fare for even the youngest and fussiest of eaters.

An ideal place to stay with children, Hersonissos boasts the Labyrinth theme park, complete with a crazy golf course, maze, pottery workshop and eco-garden, as well as the Hersonissos Aquarium and Cretaquarium, hosting more than 2,000 organisms across 60 tanks. 

Have we tempted you to book your next getaway? Discover more of our luxury villas on the stunning island of Crete.  

Best Beaches in Crete

Best Beaches in Crete

chiracshah

As the largest and most southern of the Greek islands, Crete is renowned for its pleasantly warm temperatures on both land and in its surrounding waters. Whether you are after a safe spot for swimming with the kids, Blue Flag beaches with tavernas galore or a more isolated spot with a good wind for surfing and water sports, Crete has it all. Here are some of the best beaches in Crete to discover on your trip. 

Falassarna

Located in the charming Chania region of Crete and surrounded by olive groves, this beautiful stretch of beach is the ideal retreat for you and your family if you want an afternoon in the sun following a spot of lunch on the terrace of Villa Anni. Enjoy warm, azure waters and plenty of room to spread out on this lengthy beach that spans over 1km. A sprinkling of tavernas and villas dot the hills overlooking the beach, and the fewer numbers of facilities certainly keep the crowds away. Take a picnic that you prepared earlier in your villa if you are coming for the day, along with plenty of sunscreen and water. If you are looking for one of the quietest beaches in Crete, this certainly makes the list. Water sports fans are well catered for here with sea kayaking, paddle boarding and banana boating. You’ll also find a handful of quiet coves should you prefer a secluded snorkelling experience.   

Preveli

Arguably one of the most beautiful and lush beaches on the island, if you’re wondering where to go in Crete for beaches, Preveli will wow with its stunning cliffs and swaying palm trees. Set to the backdrop of Kourtaliotiko Gorge, getting to it is not for the feint-hearted, with a steep path to climb down (which is even more challenging to climb back up!), so bring walking boots, as well as your flip-flops. The work is worth the effort though, as you are greeted by pristine-white sands and glistening waters that are perfect for snorkelling and swimming. If you’re into culture and history, the nearby monastery is worth a visit too, offering stunning views overlooking the Libyan Sea. Aside from a taverna located near its car park, the beach is fairly remote, so pack plenty of snacks and drinks if you’re thinking of a long visit.   

Vai

If you have chosen to stay in one of our luxurious villas in the Agios Nikolaos region, such as Villa Desire, Vai beach is ideal for couples, families and sun-seekers. This glorious beach is often on many visitors’ to-do lists, and features Europe’s biggest forest made up of natural palms, giving it a very tropical, Caribbean-like vibe. If you’re wondering which part of Crete has the best beaches, this surely has to be one of them. As a Blue Flag beach, you’ll find plenty of tavernas and restaurants nearby, where you can indulge in Cretan cuisine and refreshments. As a smaller beach, Vai can get more crowded during peak season, but if you head up the trail to Itanos, an ancient Minoan site, you’ll find more secluded coves where you can swim and snorkel in peace. 

Plakias Beach

Whether you are looking for a day trip on one of Crete’s beaches, feel like taking part in some water sports or just want to relax and top up your tan for a few hours, Plakias beach is certainly one of the best beaches in Crete. Once a fishing village, Plakias now offers a lively scene for families and couples alike, with a mountainous landscape and the Lybian sea caressing its white-sand shores. There’s plenty to keep the whole family entertained with nearby tavernas, rock climbing, a diving school and kitesurfing on offer. Unwind at a beach-side bar with a cocktail while the kids play and splash about in the water. At this beautiful beach, time stands still as you take in the epic views.    

Ready to book your next escape? Discover our range of premium holiday villas on the beautiful island of Crete, where you can find your perfect beach. 

Food Guide: Greek Islands

Food Guide: Greek Islands

chiracshah

Good food is yet another part of what makes an unforgettable holiday. With its fresh seafood and grilled meat, locally sourced olives and other Mediterranean fare, (not forgetting sweet Baklava), Greece and the Greek islands are a culinary heaven for food enthusiasts. Get everyone around your private villa’s outdoor dining table and cook up a storm with some fresh ingredients from the local markets, or eat out in one of the many tavernas. However you like to experience culinary delights on holiday, here’s our guide to the best Greek island food

Cretan Cuisine

Crete food is all about delicious dishes made with fresh local ingredients such as cheese, fish and olive oil, which is consumed in such large quantities, each Cretan person consumes around 25 litres of it per year! Relax in your alfresco seating area by your private pool in Villa Akali  and indulge in dakos for lunch, using ingredients you picked up from local stores in Istron. Dakos is meze consisting of soaked dried bread or barley rusk, topped with tomatoes and feta or mizithra cheese. Other Crete food delicacies include goat stew (sigariasto), snails (kochlioli) and a pilaf made with white rice, vegetable broth, lemon, chicken, dill and garlic.  

Corfu Gastronomy

Food in Corfu has been greatly influenced by international visitors from the UK and surrounding Mediterranean countries, including Italy and France. Must-try recipes include sofrito, which is fried beef, cooked with garlic and onion. Pasta lovers will love pastitsada, which is pasta in a red sauce with marinated chicken or beef. Meatballs (inspired by Italy), are also a favourite on many taverna menus, and are known as porpetas. If you fancy something sweet, you’re also on the right island. Tempt your taste buds and indulge in meringue with caramelised almonds, candied kumquat and loukoumadesm, which are Greek doughnuts with honey.

Sweet flavours in Zante

Snacks and sweet treats are all the rage in Zante. If you don’t feel like eating out in a restaurant and just want to pick up some nibbles to enjoy while lounging by your private pool in Villa Vilenia Horizon, pop into a cafe or bakery in Alykes and pick up some tyropita, which is a staple of Zante food and a puff pasty traditionally stuffed with feta, spinach and ham. It can be served hot or cold, and filled with other meats and cheeses of your choice. Focacce (focaccia) bread is also a local favourite. If you have a sweet tooth, don’t forget baklava, cinnamon cake and puff pastries stuffed with icing sugar, cream and cinnamon.

Marvellous Meze in Rhodes

Meze is big in Rhodes food, and is a staple on most menus. Many restaurants serve a wide variety of dishes and you can choose as many meze selections as you like – from greens and veggies, to seafood, meat, fruits, cheeses and dishes made with Greek yogurt and honey. Meze is a great way to share food at the table with friends and family, where everyone can come together to enjoy Greek delicacies. Wine is considered the holy liquid of Dionysos, and is often served on the Rhodes dining table. If you’re into wine, there are plenty of vineyards on offer where you can visit and take part in tasting sessions. Rhodes wine is considered to be among the best in the world.

Local delicacies in Kefalonia

Kefalonia food is dominated by fresh local produce that is home-grown, reared or caught, including olive oil, vegetables, meat, fish and cheese. When you’re wandering around the island’s towns and villages, don’t forget to pick up products such as local olive oil, honey and sheep’s yogurt, as these are staples in many dishes. Try a traditional Kefalonia meat pie, or taramosalata, which is a meze made from roe, cod or grey mullet mixed with lemon juice and olive oil. Of course, locally-made Tzatziki made from garlic, cucumber and yoghurt is always worth a try, as is the seafood on offer. The island offers plenty of grilled fish dishes made using ingredients that were caught that very same day.   

Have we tempted you? Discover your perfect holiday villa in the Greek islands and get sampling some of the delicious cuisine on your next adventure.

Where’s hot in December?

Where’s hot in December?

chiracshah

It’s the most wonderful time of the year, but with the shops heaving with customers, a long list of presents to buy and family dinners to organise, December can also be the most hectic month on the calendar. If you’re longing to escape to sandy shores and feel a warm sea breeze in your hair, why wait any longer? Make this Christmas one you and your family will cherish with a much-needed villa break to Tenerife or Fuerteventura.

Tenerife

This beautiful Canary Island easily makes our where’s hot in December guide thanks to its balmy year-round climate. Even in the depths of winter, enjoy temperatures of 21°C while lazing by your private heated pool in your luxury Villa Del Conde, complete with epic views of the surrounding mountains and coastline, pool table and BBQ area – and all just a five minute drive from the shopping, restaurants and beaches of Costa Adeje.

If you’re on holiday with children, Costa Adeje has plenty to keep them entertained, including family-friendly beaches that are suitable for watersports and swimming. Playa Fanabe and Playa del Duque are popular Blue-Flag beaches that offer soft white sand, sun loungers and nearby cafes and restaurants. Hop in a Tuk Tuk for just a few Euros to take a whistle-stop tour of the resort, covering beautiful churches and landmarks, bustling markets and beaches. Don’t forget Siam Park too – a Thai-themed water park offering wave machines, water slides, a Thai floating market and rides for the whole family.     

To explore a little more of the island, get in the car in the early morning and drive to Hell’s Canyon (Barranco del Infierno), which offers stunning views and a variety of animals, birds and flowers. Take a three-hour hike around the walking trails on offer, and book ahead, as only 300 visitors are permitted at any one time to protect the area. Guided tours are also available. Of course, no visit to Tenerife is complete without visiting Mount Teide National Park. A cable car can take you right to the summit if you’d rather not walk. Or, if you prefer to hike, the reward is well-worth it as you take in the epic views of Gran Canaria and Tenerife. The world’s largest solar observatory (Teide Observatory), is also positioned on Mount Teide, and is great for stargazing on an evening tour.  

Fuerteventura

Fuerteventura is another beautiful Canary island that easily tops our where’s hot in December list. Enjoy quality time with your family and have a Christmas break to remember in Villa Caleta Heights, complete with its own private heated pool, sunbathing area, outdoor shower and brick BBQ. When you want to hit the beach, it is only a short stroll away.

Fuerteventura boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in the Canary Islands, especially on the north-eastern shores. Take in the buzzing atmosphere as locals come to participate in watersports and spend time in the shoreline tavernas. If you like surfing, the beaches near the Correlajo Dunes are very popular, as well as the ‘North Track’ heading towards El Cotillo, where you’ll be sure to have plenty of breeze to ride a good wave.

When you want a slower pace, drive to the island’s small interior villages, where you’ll find stone houses, stunning mountain views and palm trees and gardens aplenty. Visit Betancuria, which was Fuerteventura’s capital until 1834. Points of interest include the Parque Rural de Betancuria, the Betancuria Archaeological Museum and the Santa Maria Church that was once pillaged by pirates.

Food lovers are welcomed in Fuerteventura. As well as plenty of food markets, tavernas offering fresh seafood and vineyards to discover, the island is also famous for its cheese – goat’s cheese in particular (Majorero). Drive outside of the main resorts to farmsteads like Tindaya, which is where the locals buy theirs. We’d also recommend Canarian palm honey if you feel like something sweeter.

Take a look at more of our beautiful December holiday villas, as well as other properties to share with your family in Tenerife and Fuerteventura.

Where’s hot in November?

Where’s hot in November?

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Lanzarote

Make cold, dark mornings and drizzly days a thing of the past on a holiday filled with warm winter sunshine. Jet off to the warmer climes of the Canary Islands and make lasting holiday memories with your family on a villa holiday to Lanzarote or Fuerteventura, which boast high temperatures of 22-23°C. Swap your bobble hat for swimwear and prepare for brighter days and a luxury property with your own private heated pool.

You’ll be spoiled for choice when it comes to things to do in Lanzarote. When you’re not enjoying your private and tranquil villa Villa Pacifico, nestled in a quiet location but just 800 yards from the beach, hop in the car and explore everything that this beautiful island has to offer. It’s not difficult to see why Lanzarote made our list of where’s hot in November.  

For eight Euros, an absolute must-see when visiting Lanzarote is the Timanfaya National Park, which attracts many tourists every year with its rare species of plants and geological formations. You need to book a tour to visit, as the volcano is still active. Many visitors like to pour water on the ground, which then sizzles and bubbles away to miniature geysers. When you need a bite to eat, indulge in some lunch at Restaurant El Diablo designed by César Manrique, which serves Canarian specialities. 

Green-fingered visitors will enjoy visiting the island’s Jardin de Cactus, which is home to over 4,500 different specimens and 13 families of cactus. Take a stroll around the peaceful gardens originally designed by César Manrique, complete with lava ponds, a windmill and a restaurant serving cactus burgers. 

Have you come to Lanzarote for a beach break? If you’d rather take things more slowly, azure waters and white-sand beaches are aplenty on this calm island. With 213km of coastline, you can visit quiet beaches like Papagayo, which are dramatic and a little more off-piste, or Famara, which boasts an Atlantic breeze that makes it great for watersports and surfing. We recommend a wine-tasting tour after some fun on the beach, where you can unwind with a glass in your hand while the winter sun sets on another glorious day. Visit Bodegas El Grifo, which is the oldest vineyard in Lanzarote. 

Fuerteventura

Offering year-round sunshine (3,000 hours in total), it isn’t hard to see why Fuerteventura makes our where’s hot in November must-visit guide. Famous for its sand dunes, rugged landscape, watersports and some of the best beaches in the Canary Islands, this beautiful island offers travellers plenty to see and do, whatever you like to do on holiday.

Beach lovers will love Villa Buena Vista, which is situated right on Waikiki beachfront and comes complete with its own private heated pool. It’s also just a short walk away from the many restaurants and facilities of Corralejo. While in Corralejo, find the yellow tapas sign in the harbour to discover authentic Spanish tapas bars offering patatas bravas, papas arrugadas, shark stew and mussels. After lunch, wander around the cobbled streets and take a tour of the many speciality shops and boutiques selling handmade souvenirs. For nature lovers, Corralejo is also big on surfing, and welcomes surfers of all abilities. Aloha Surf Academy operates from Cotillo beach, offering surfing lessons to everyone (depending on conditions). Corralejo is also home to the island’s main Natural Park, which offers visitors day trips covering epic views and impressive sand dunes that feel like you’re in the heart of the desert.

Further away from Corralejo, explore Calderon Hondo and organise a guided tour, or take a hike up to its summit yourself. Tours are offered by many major towns on the island, and are affordable. Those who like to explore nature even more off-grid will enjoy the island’s various walking trails. Hire a car and drive to the Barranco De Los Enamorados ravine, which offers breathtaking rock formations and Instagram-worthy views.

Explore our collection of stunning November holiday properties for more inspiration, as well as other premium villas in Fuerteventura and Lanzarote.