Category: Algarve

Exploring the Enchantment of The Algarve: 3 Must-Visit Towns

Exploring the Enchantment of The Algarve: 3 Must-Visit Towns

Nestled along the sun-kissed shores of southern Portugal, the Algarve region beckons travellers with its picturesque landscapes, golden beaches, and charming towns. From historic villages steeped in tradition to vibrant coastal escapes, the Algarve offers an array of experiences for every wanderlust soul. In this blog post, we unveil three of the most captivating towns that promise an unforgettable holiday experience in the Algarve.

1. Lagos: Where History Meets Coastal Beauty

Canavial Beach

Step into the enchanting town of Lagos, where cobblestone streets wind through a labyrinth of whitewashed buildings adorned with vibrant bougainvillea. This historic gem is renowned for its rich maritime heritage, evidenced by its centuries-old forts and imposing city walls. Wander through the charming old town, where quaint cafes and bustling markets invite you to savor local delicacies and immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere.

Lagos boasts some of the most stunning beaches in the Algarve, with pristine sands lapped by turquoise waters. From the iconic Ponta da Piedade cliffs to the secluded coves of Praia Dona Ana, each stretch of coastline promises breathtaking views and unparalleled tranquility. Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, Lagos offers a perfect blend of cultural immersion and natural beauty.

2. Tavira: A Tranquil Oasis of Old-World Charm

Escape the hustle and bustle of modern life and journey to the tranquil town of Tavira, where time seems to stand still amidst its timeless beauty. Meander through the labyrinthine streets adorned with Moorish architecture, where ancient churches and historic landmarks whisper tales of bygone eras.

Explore the historic center, where charming cafes and boutique shops line the picturesque squares. Climb the clock tower of the Castelo de Tavira for panoramic views of the town and the shimmering waters of the Gilão River. In Tavira, every corner reveals a new facet of its timeless charm, making it a must-visit destination in the Algarve.

3. Albufeira: Where Vibrancy Meets Coastal Splendor

For those seeking a blend of lively entertainment and coastal beauty, look no further than Albufeira. This vibrant town captivates visitors with its bustling streets, lively nightlife, and stunning beaches.

Stroll along the iconic Praia da Oura, where golden sands stretch as far as the eye can see, or soak up the sun at the picturesque Praia dos Pescadores, framed by colorful fishing boats and dramatic cliffs. Thrill-seekers can embark on boat tours to explore the hidden caves and grottoes that dot the coastline, while culture enthusiasts can immerse themselves in the town’s rich history at the Moorish castle and historic churches.

As the sun sets, Albufeira comes alive with a vibrant nightlife scene, offering a plethora of bars, clubs, and restaurants where you can dance the night away or savor delicious seafood fresh from the Atlantic. Whether you’re seeking relaxation or excitement, Albufeira promises an unforgettable holiday experience in the heart of the Algarve.

Embark on an Unforgettable Journey

From the historic charm of Lagos to the tranquil beauty of Tavira and the vibrant energy of Albufeira, the Algarve region beckons travelers with its diverse landscapes and enchanting towns. Whether you’re a history buff, a beach lover, or a nightlife enthusiast, there’s something for everyone to discover in this captivating corner of Portugal.

So pack your bags, embark on an unforgettable journey, and let the magic of the Algarve captivate your soul.

Best Beaches in the Algarve

Best Beaches in the Algarve

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Frequently considered one of the best beach holiday destinations in Europe – the Algarve has it all. Expect sun-drenched dramatic coastlines with epic rock formations and stunning views, soft powdery sand between your toes and azure waters that are bursting with vibrant aquamarine life. The Algarve boasts 150km of shoreline just waiting to be explored, leaving holiday makers spoiled for choice. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly stretch of sand to play on with your children, snorkelling-friendly waters or watersports aplenty, you’ll find it on Portugal’s southern coast. Here’s our guide to the best beaches in the Algarve.   

Praia da Dona Ana 

This breath-taking beach often makes the Algarve’s (and even Portugal’s) list of top ten beaches. A calm and quiet beach, it is ideal for families thanks to its gentle waters and shelter from sea breezes thanks to the surrounding high cliffs. These sandy shores were actually extended in 2016 to make them the largest beach along the Ponta da Piedade coast. Waters are clear and perfect for swimming and snorkelling. Locals and tourists don’t come here for watersports, but to relax, and the absence of banana boats, jet skis and speed boats make it a quiet haven from more bustling beaches. Parasols and deck chairs can be hired for €15 per day, but be sure to get to the beach early, as the shores can get crowded in the summer. When you’ve topped up your tan, take an invigorating walk along the clifftops for some dramatic views and memorable holiday snaps, before heading back to your Villa Junico for dinner and an evening glass of wine by your private pool.     

Praia do Farol 

For those who want to get away from it all, this stunning Algarve beach, which has a name that translates to ‘The Island of the Lighthouse’, is the home of Cabo de Santa Maria’s Lighthouse, and is rarely visited by tourists because they don’t know it exists! Expect plenty of locals here who want to escape the bustle for a day. You get to the island via boat from Faro Marina or Olhão Marina, and if you want more of the beach to yourself and more space to relax, this is the place to be. Lifeguards are on hand during the summer months, and there are bars and restaurants nearby and sunbeds for hire, making it an ideal day out for couples or groups of friends who want to spend a few hours relaxing before grabbing a bite to eat and the last boat back to Faro or Olhão.      

Praia da Marinha 

Known as the poster-beach for the southern coastline, Praia da Marinha is repeatedly ranked among the best beaches in the Algarve. Many visitors come to see its ‘M’ rock formation, which has been famously featured in travel guides and promotional materials around the world, and which visitors can walk towards to investigate when the tide is low. We recommend taking in the panoramic views from the clifftops, before descending the stairs that are built into the cliffside, leading to the soft sand. An ideal beach for families, the waters here are usually relatively calm for swimming, paddling and snorkelling, with plenty of fish and marine life to discover in the rocky shoreline. If you are visiting with children, keep in mind that the beach provides little in the way of shade, so stock up on sun cream, as you will need to reapply it throughout the day. To get to the beach, which is located between Armação de Pêra and Carvoeiro, you will also need a car. Follow the N125 road, taking the exit at the International School. Signs clearly indicate the way to the beach. Parking is limited, and in the summer months, the shores can get busier and more crowded. Leaving your Villa Marina Azul in the early mornings will ensure a quieter experience if you’re holidaying in peak times.      

Explore some of the Algarve and Portugal’s best beaches by booking a quality holiday villa in the sun. Discover our range of properties in the Algarve. 

Things to do in Lagos

Things to do in Lagos

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Nestled towards the western corner of Portugal’s south coast, Lagos has a reputation for beautiful beaches with dramatic rock formations and azure waters that are perfect for swimming. It is one of the most popular areas of the Algarve, and was founded in around 2000BC by the Cónios tribe. Its rich history dates back to rulings by the Moors, Romans, Carthaginians and Christians, with some buildings and churches even dating all the way back to the 13th century. Now a bustling hub of activity, this former fishing village boasts plenty of historical sites, romantic town squares, a vibrant marina and plenty of day trips and activities to keep the whole family entertained on your villa holiday. Here’s our guide to popular Lagos things to do. 

Spend the day at the beach

Stunning beaches and rugged cliffs offering fabulous views is the main reason why Lagos is so popular with world travellers. If you feel like spending the day away from your private pool and gardens in your Villa Daisy, why not spend a day at one of the many Blue Flag beaches in the area? All beaches are well-catered, featuring lifeguards and toilets. We recommend Praia Dona Ana, which has been consistently rated as the poster beach for the Algarve. Staggering rock formations and jagged cliffs harmonise with deep turquoise waters for Instagram-worthy snaps. Cave kayaking and diving lessons also operate from this beach. Another good beach for families is Meia Praia – an open stretch of vast white-sand shoreline, warm waters for swimming and a local bar. It’s an ideal place for the whole family to play in the water due to its gentle waves. Also worth visiting is Praia dos Estudantes, which is famous for its dramatic cliffs, rock stacks and natural caves that are popular with travel photographers. These waters are excellent for surfing and paddle boarding. If you’re an experienced surfer, head a little further west to Sagres, where the waves are more energetic.  

Enjoy a boat trip

Sailing along the Algarve in a catamaran is the perfect way to create holiday memories with your loved ones. Many catamaran day trips include stop-offs for swimming, dolphin watching and snorkelling. Children in particular will love spotting dolphins in their natural habitat, and dolphin sightseeing trips can be organised using speed boats to ensure that you have the best chance of seeing these amazingly intelligent creatures. Other boat trips cover the famous Ponta da Piedade caves, which feature luminous waters and epic rock formations.

Visit a theme park

If you have children to keep occupied, one of the best things to do in Lagos is to visit its zoo, where you can learn more about the region’s wildlife, as well as other animals from around the world that are far more endangered, such as the Lynx. If you’d rather get stuck into something adrenaline-filled, Lagos Adventure Park features high ropes and a treetop obstacle course and is fun for both kids and adults. Or why not try Pro Putting Garden – an 18-hole crazy golf circuit that will test the whole family’s putting skills!    

Tour historical ruins

History buffs are well catered for in Lagos, which boasts a very rich and diverse heritage. Explore the Forte Ponta da Bandeira – an ancient 17th century fortress that once defended the harbour and was considered the most advanced structure in the region because of the strength of its walls. You can cross the moat through the drawbridge, which leads to a small chapel containing beautiful tiles. Also worth visiting is the Castelo de Lagos, which looks like something out of Game of Thrones. It is unknown exactly when this castle was constructed, but it has been suggested that it also dates back to the 17th century.  

Now that you know some of the best things to do in Lagos, it’s time to book the holiday villa of your dreams close by. Browse our selection of quality holiday villas in Lagos.

Things to do in Albufeira

Things to do in Albufeira

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As the largest resort town in the Algarve, Albufeira has plenty of things to do to keep you and your loved ones occupied during your next villa holiday. What was once a sleepy fishing village has now become one of Portugal’s most popular resorts – and for good reason. Unspoiled beaches, a historical town centre and plenty of theme parks, boat tours, day trips, shops, restaurants and bars make Albufeira a fantastic holiday destination for all ages. Here’s our guide to the best things to do in Albufeira. 

Investigate the Old Town and Strip 

There are two sides to Albufeira – one is ancient, historic and calm, while the other offers a more lively social and nightlife scene. However you like to spend your holiday, both the Old Town and the Strip are worth exploring. Once occupied by Arabs and Romans, Albufeira has an intriguing history that reveals itself in the Old Town. The local 18th-century church of Sant’Ana in Largo Jacinto d’Ayet is an interesting landmark, as is Albufeira’s archaeological museum, which offers artefacts dating all the way back to the Stone Age. Meander around the Old Town and take in the local history while stopping on occasion for refreshments at a traditional cafe. 

Livelier is the Strip, which is the home of Albufeira’s nightlife. Stretching from north Albufeira to Oura beach, it is filled with places to eat offering Italian, Portuguese, Spanish and English fare, as well as plenty of bars, clubs and shops. Whether you visit during the day or night, this area of the resort is always buzzing with life.        

Explore Paderne village 

If you feel like heading a little further out from Villa Casa Pinheiro (located on Albufeira’s outskirts), around 13km away from the resort and set back into the Portuguese countryside lies Paderne village, which is perfect for a tranquil day out and experiencing rural life. Wander around the historic village centre, which features an old watermill, renovated windmill, historical bridge and two churches – Nossa Senhora da Esperança (from the 16th century) and the Nossa Senhora do Pé da Cruz (from the 18th century). If you and your family love the great outdoors and hiking, take the walking trail up to Moorish Castle, which rewards you with magnificent views once you reach the top, as well as intriguing castle ruins. Art lovers are catered for too, with the Corte Real gallery selling a variety of international artworks that you’ll want to take home. 

Enjoy a beach day 

Stroll along one of the longest stretches of sand in Portugal, the Praia da Falésia, which stretches 6km from Olhos de Água to Vilamoura, and offers spectacular views, whether you decide to walk along the clifftop or the shoreline. Albufeira offers plenty of stunning beaches just a stone’s throw away, but if you want to head further up the coast to a quieter spot, hop in the car and drive to Praia Galé, which is just west of Albufeira. This beach offers epic rock formations, calm waters for snorkelling and plenty of bars and restaurants for refreshments – the ideal place to spend the day on the beach, before returning to your Villa Marina View. 

Head to a theme park 

When you’re on a family holiday with the kids, Albufeira offers plenty of things to do. Zoomarine offers an amazing family day out, and features water slides, a 4D cinema, bird shows and of course, dolphins. If you’d rather stay out of the heat during the day, head to Hot Wheels skating park – an indoor complex that has the boastful title of the Algarve’s fastest karting track, and which also features a bowling alley nearby. If water parks are more your thing, the whole family can cool off at Aqualand, which has everything from a lazy river to adrenaline-filled water slides, kamikazes and more.    

Have we inspired you? Get booking your dream villa holiday in the sun and browse our collection of villas in Albufeira.   

Things to do in the Algarve

Things to do in the Algarve

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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.   

Best places to visit in Portugal

Best places to visit in Portugal

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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

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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.

Where to go in Portugal in 2021

Where to go in Portugal in 2021

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When it comes to sunshine, Portugal is one of the best places for holidays in 2021. Enjoy soaking up some vitamin D on the beautiful sandy beaches, or wander around the various towns and resorts of the Algarve – home to crystal clear waters, unlimited sports and leisure facilities, incredible food and wine and an intriguing culture. Here’s where to go in Portugal on your next villa getaway. 

Praia D’Oura

Also referred to as Oura Beach, Praia D’Oura is a lively resort on the east side of Albufeira. Expect plenty of bars, restaurants and nightlife for adults of all ages. For families with children, a large and inviting golden sand beach offers plenty of space to play, sunbathe and build sandcastles, as well as safe swimming, especially during low tide. Enjoy jet skiing, parasailing or banana boating courtesy of the various water sports facilities available for hire. The Albufeira region also offers plenty of day trips that make for amazing family holiday memories, including boating and caving trips from Albufeira Marina, Jeep safaris of the Algarve region, quad biking and dolphin watching. 

After a long relaxing day at Villa Sueste, when night falls, Oura beach comes alive at night with vibrant cocktail bars, happy hours and live music. You’ll be spoiled for choice for eateries too, with restaurants offering Indian, Chinese, Italian and Portuguese food, as well as a range of cakes and pastries.

Guia

If you’re wondering where to go on holiday in Portugal, then located a little further inland from the southern Algarve coast is the tranquil town of Guia – an ideal location for those who want a more peaceful and laid-back vibe to their holiday. Nestled in the country but with plenty of facilities and things to do, Guia has the best of both worlds. Food lovers will appreciate this region, which made chicken piri-piri famous. Sample the very best of this dish while in Guia. Don’t forget a stop at the Adega do Cantor Winery, where you’ll be able to savour the finest wines from the region.

When your family isn’t relaxing in your private garden and splashing around in your Villa Campos private pool, Guia has plenty to keep all ages entertained, with some of the Algarve’s most popular attractions. Hop in the car and drive to the Zoomarine park, where you can get the chance to swim with dolphins, as well as watch shows featuring birds and sea lions. The park also offers rides, a water park and a man-made beach. The Fiesa Sand Sculpture Park in Lagoa is also well worth a visit, with jaw-dropping sand sculptures including figures from Harry Potter, Star Wars, popular landmarks and more.     

Sao Rafael

If golden sands, dramatic limestone cliffs, turquoise waters and plenty of delicious food are all on your list of priorities for your 2021 Portugal Holiday, then the region of Sao Rafael is perfect for you. If we can tear you away from your private Villa Marrachinho, the seafront is the perfect place to unwind in a secluded spot, with shallow waters and warm sea temperatures for swimming. Beaches feature plenty of spots for refreshments, as well as showers, toilets and parking for those who are driving to the coast. Snorkel around the rock formations for amazing views of tropical fish. Take a wander around Sao Rafael marina and indulge in a shark burger, fresh swordfish or clams that have been caught the same day, before perusing the various souvenir and produce shops offering hand made trinkets, gourmet wine, olive oil, cork, pottery and preserves.

Have children in tow? You’ll want to make a stop at Aqualand, which is just ten minutes away from Sao Rafael by car. Kids and adults alike will love sliding down the many chutes on offer, riding the kamikaze and the adventure playground with tipping buckets.

Now you know where to go on holiday in Portugal, all that’s left to do is book your private villa. Discover more beautiful holiday properties in the Algarve.

The 3 most Instagrammable destinations in Europe

The 3 most Instagrammable destinations in Europe

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Are you an Instagram lover deciding where to book your next villa holiday? Look no further than our top three most photogenic destinations in Europe. Rent a holiday villa at one of these Insta-worthy locations and you’ll get incredible #nofilter shots that’ll make your followers wish they were there.

 1. Cala St Vicente, Majorca

 

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Want to fill your feed with picturesque charm? You can’t go wrong with a villa holiday in Cala St Vicente. Nestled in a hillside on Majorca’s northwestern coast, this quiet traditional fishing village is the perfect choice for a peaceful and scenic getaway.

Head to Cala Barques, the largest of the four unspoilt cove beaches, for photographic paradise. With golden sand contrasting against the azure Mediterranean water, you’re guaranteed to get some dazzling shots. There are fascinating rock pools to discover too.

After you’ve uploaded your last snap, why not continue soaking up the view from one of the local seafood restaurants? Or if you’re feeling more energetic, explore the surrounding area by taking a walking or cycling trail through the spectacular Tramuntana Mountains.

 

 2. Carvoeiro, Algarve

 

Carvoeiro Beach

For picture-perfect coastal character in the Algarve, a relaxing villa holiday in Carvoeiro is just the ticket. An ideal family destination, this traditional Portuguese resort town is bursting with cobbled streets, whitewashed houses, great shops and fantastic eateries.

But the jewel in Carvoeiro’s crown is Praia do Carvoeiro, one of the most stunning beaches in the region. This gorgeous sandy bay is flanked by imposing sandstone cliffs and dotted with fishing paraphernalia. It’s sure to have you instantly reaching for your camera.

To enjoy breathtaking panoramic views over the dramatic coastline, take a clifftop stroll along the wooden walkway from the beach’s eastern end. You’ll end up in Algar Seco, a series of impressive limestone rock formations where you can get even more snap happy.

 

3. French Riviera, France

 

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It’s easy to see why we’ve added the French Riviera to our range of destinations this year. This enchanting part of southeastern France boasts quaint villages, sun-kissed beaches, glamorous cities, delectable cuisine and much more.

But if you’re looking to capture photos that’ll totally wow your Instagram followers, set off for the Valensole Plateau. Famous for its 800km² of lavender fields, you can point your lens at endless violet carpets while delighting in the intoxicating scent that fills the air.

To marvel at the best blooms, you’ll need to make sure your French Riviera villa holiday falls between mid-June and mid-July. Visit Valensole during daylight to get a magical snap of the vibrant purple flowers against the blue sky. Or arrive in the evening to capture a glorious sunset shot that’ll send your likes soaring.

 

Want extra inspiration for your next villa holiday? Check out our Instagram for even more European destinations that you and your camera will love.

On the Gourmet Trail. Algarve: Piri Piri Chicken

On the Gourmet Trail. Algarve: Piri Piri Chicken

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As part of our On The Gourmet Trail campaign, we are taking the most popular and traditional dishes from our fantastic holiday destinations and showing you how to create them on the BBQ at your villa or in your kitchen back home. Here is a recipe from the Algarve, where Piri-Piri was invented in Guia.

Ingredients

1 whole chicken (about 1kg/2lb 3oz), spatchcocked, salt and freshly ground black pepper.

For the piri-piri sauce

6-12 fresh red chillies, depending on how hot you want it

1 tbsp garlic, blanched and chopped

1 tsp salt flakes

½ tsp oregano

½ tbsp paprika

100ml/3½fl oz olive oil

50ml/1¾fl oz red wine vinegar

To serve

chips

salad

 

Method

1. To make the piri-piri sauce, preheat the oven to 180C/350F/Gas 4. Place the chillies in a roasting tray and roast them for 10 minutes.

2. Allow the chillies to cool and then roughly chop. Add garlic, salt, oregano, paprika, olive oil and vinegar to the chillies and place in a saucepan, and simmer on a low heat for a couple of minutes.

3. Allow the mixture to cool, then blend it to a purée in a food processor or blender.*

4. Place the spatchcocked chicken in a sealable plastic bag. Add half the piri-piri sauce, spreading it evenly over the chicken. Seal and marinate in the refrigerator for at least one hour.

5. Preheat the oven to 200C/390F/Gas 6, and preheat a large griddle pan on the hob. Alternatively, if cooking at your villa, light your barbecue.

6.  Cook the chicken on the griddle pan for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown.

7. Transfer the griddled chicken to a roasting tray and roast in the oven for 30 minutes, until cooked through. Alternatively, place the chicken on a medium heat barbecue, covered, for 10-15 minutes on both sides or until cooked through basting regularly with the remaining piri-piri sauce.

8.  Serve with chips and salad.

 

*If stored in a container, the sauce will last for a month.