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

May 20, 2024June 5, 2024

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

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.

Discover Madeira

February 22, 2023February 22, 2023

Continuously ranked as one of the safest and most beautiful places to visit in Europe, Madeira offers visitors breathtaking levada walks, picturesque cities, epic gorges, delicious fresh seafood and plenty of stunning landscapes to explore. If you’re looking for a quiet haven where you can get closer to nature with a sunny year-round climate, this is the island to visit. Here’s why you might want to book a villa in the regions of Funchal, Calheta or Prazares this year.

Incredible scenery

Madeira is famous for its hilly landscapes offering epic views and picturesque villages. It’s worth hiring a car to explore the more rural and quiet north, while down on the south coast of the island, the vibe is busier thanks to the capital city of Funchal, and most attractions, bars, and restaurants are within easy walking distance. Discover the famous natural swimming pools of Porto Moniz, hike mount Pico Ruivo with a walking guide, or visit Curral das Freiras, known as the Valley of the Nuns, where you’ll find the panoramic viewpoint of Eira do Serrado. Another peaceful spot is Prazares in the west, home to just 700 inhabitants and beautiful hillside walks that look out onto the ocean. Another must-see (easily reached from Funchal city centre via cable car), is the Madeira Botanical Garden, with beautifully planted terraces, a cactus garden, and traditional Santana houses.

Famous walks

If you love getting out in nature for a hike, you’ll feel right at home in Madeira. We’d recommend the Levada do Rei walk, otherwise known as PR18 (which is its unique trail code). It’s an 11km route that takes you through tunnels, underneath waterfalls, into laurel forests and up peaks that are so high, you’ll literally have your head in the clouds! There are plenty of walking tours available across the island, with gentler trails for novices and moderate ones for the more experienced trekker.

You’ll fall in love with Funchal

As the most populous city on the island, Funchal is home to cobbled streets (in vibrant patterns), independent art galleries, coffee shops, renowned restaurants, museums and the list goes on. Visit Funchal market on Fridays – a buzzing hub of energy, noise and colour with fresh local produce, flowers and craft items. Take a stroll down Rua de Santa Maria, tour the cathedral, and visit the Cristiano Ronaldo museum to discover more about one of Madeira’s most famous natives. Don’t forget to take a stop at a local patisserie for coffee and cake!

The food is delicious

Although it may be a Portuguese territory, Madeira has its own flavours that are not just a copycat version of Lisbon. Sample traditional custard tarts (pastel de nata), sweet cakes and biscuits at local patisseries, and plenty of fish and seafood on the main menu, including the local delicacy of black scabbard fish. The island’s national dish is known as espetada – beef, squid or monkfish skewers dressed with garlic, bay leaves and salt. As for dessert, many dishes centre around the banana and passionfruit trees you can see on the island.

Have we tempted you? Explore our collection of luxury Maderia properties in Funchal, Calheta or Prazares.

The Best Time To Visit Portugal

August 11, 2021August 11, 2021chiracshah

If you’re wondering when is the best time to visit Portugal, one of the most popular seasons is summer, when temperatures are at their highest. A popular time is during the spring, when the flora is in bloom and the temperatures are starting to rise again after the cooler winter months. Another popular time is during autumn, when many of the summer crowds have returned home. Winters are cool and quiet, but can be a great time to explore inland Portugal without the crowds.

Summer (June – August)

Portugal is famous for its beaches, and the summer time is undeniably the best time to visit Portugal if you are a sunseeker. During this time, you’ll find that the beaches are very busy with tourists, as are the local and regional attractions. Temperatures in inland cities soar, so many locals also head to the coast where the weather is cooler. Expect long days with plenty of sunshine and heat, as the mercury rises to daily highs of 23ºC in June, reaching 30ºC and above by August. Highs of even 35ºC have been recorded back in 2013. Evenings are mild and balmy, and remain in the twenties temperature-wise, making it an ideal time for eating dinner alfresco on the terrace of your

Villa Eve. Between the 23^rd-24^th June every year, the Feast of Saint John the Baptist is celebrated across Portugal, and particularly in Porto. Expect fireworks, concerts, dancing and intriguing traditions.

Spring (March – May)

As Portugal comes to life in the spring, the numbers of visitors begin to rise. Between March and May, the average daily temperatures range between 20-22ºC, making spring one of the best times to go to Portugal for getting out and about sightseeing, to play golf, go horse riding, or surfing. It is also a perfect time of year to explore the various hiking and walking trails on offer. The evenings are however still cool and can dip to 13ºC, so bring a light coat if you plan on staying out after the sun goes down. Sea temperatures range from 16-17ºC. If you’re more of a pool than sea swimmer, you can always take a dip in the luxury heated pool of your Villa Vilenia Anemelia . Expect rainfall to decrease as May arrives, with only 20mm expected for the month. The 25^th of April is Portugal’s Freedom Day, which celebrates the end of Portugal’s 50-year dictatorship, with plenty of concerts and parades held nationally.

Autumn (September-November)

The autumn time is undeniably one of the best times to book flights to Portugal, as the summer crowds have left, but sea and beach temperatures are still warm. If you plan on sightseeing or hiking, daily highs are more comfortable. If you are a fan of wine, it is also a great time of year to sample the year’s grape harvest and book a wine tour to discover local tipples. You’ll get average highs of 22ºC in September and October, lowering to 19ºC by November. The Algarve still sees 12 hours of sunshine a day at this time of year. Further inland, daylight on offer ranges between 6-7 hours. On the third weekend in September, following the harvest, Portugal celebrates Feiras Novas, which consists of large local fairs and markets, fireworks, brass music and dancing, especially in Ponte de Lima.

Winter (December – February)

The winter months mean fewer sunny days, but temperatures are still warmer than back home in the UK. The Algarve in particular remains sunny and warm, and makes an ideal location for a winter getaway. It is the best time of year to visit Portugal if you are in need of some winter sunshine and a quiet break. If you’re exploring inland Portugal, this can be done with ease in the winter months when cities are quieter, with fewer crowds. Expect daily temperatures of between 15-16ºC between December and February. In the Algarve, temperatures are much warmer and usually reach 20ºC thanks to the winds blowing up from Africa. Nights can however be more chilly, and range from 10ºC-15ºC, so pack a jacket and some layers in your luggage.! The 6^th January is Three Kings’ Day, when Portuguese children receive gifts from the kings, rather than Santa Claus. Portugal also hosts its carnival in February, so expect plenty of music, dancing and extravagant parades in major cities and towns at this time of year.

Have we tempted you to book a Portuguese getaway? Browse our range of premium holiday villas in The Algarve and get planning your dream escape.

Best Beaches in the Algarve

July 21, 2021chiracshah

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

June 15, 2021August 1, 2022chiracshah

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 13^th 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 17^th 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 17^th 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

May 10, 2021May 10, 2021chiracshah

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 16^th century) and the Nossa Senhora do Pé da Cruz (from the 18^th 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

May 10, 2021August 1, 2022chiracshah

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 18^th and 19^th 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 15^th 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

May 6, 2021August 1, 2022chiracshah

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-16^th 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

May 6, 2021chiracshah

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 1^st or 2^nd 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

May 6, 2021May 6, 2021chiracshah

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.