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.

The best time to visit Kefalonia?

August 10, 2021August 1, 2022chiracshah

Dreaming of Kefalonia and wondering when is the best time to visit? Thanks to its mild Mediterranean climate, Kefalonia enjoys dry, hot summers and mild winters, but if you visit later in the year, you may need to pack layers in your suitcase as the nights get more chilly. Sun lovers and beach goers will prefer late spring and summer, when the temperatures are warmer. The best time to visit Kefalonia is in July, when the mercury pushes up to an average of 31°C during the day, with temperatures coming down to 21°C in the evenings. If you prefer cooler weather and fewer crowds then you will love Kefalonia during the autumn and winter. The quietest and coolest month of the year is January, which can see highs of 14°C.

Summer (June – August)

Summer is undoubtedly the best time to go to Kefalonia if you like sizzling temperatures and spending your days doing watersports, swimming in the sea or topping up your tan. The mercury climbs to a red-hot 30°C by August, and throughout the whole of summer you should expect daily temperatures of between 26-29°C. This time of year is also the driest, and most of the island sees virtually no rain at all during July, with just 5mm of rain in June or August. There is also little in the way of breeze, making the days even hotter! The sea can reach temperatures of up to 26°C in August, making it an ideal time for swimming and cooling off from the heat of the day. Attractions and beaches are usually more busy this time of the year, so get to places early in the morning if you want to beat the queues. On 15^th July, the island hosts the Festival of Argostoli, while on the 29^th August, there is the festival of Aghios Ioannis in Ratzakli.

Spring (April – May)

Spring sees sunnier and drier weather in Kefalonia, with average temperatures of between 12°C and 18°C. As the season progresses into May, temperatures climb to a balmy 22°C, and it can be the best time of year to visit Kefalonia for wildflowers and walks in national parks and gardens as the whole island comes to life and in bloom. Expect plenty of natural daylight and sunshine, with up to 12 hours per day. Sea temperatures also rise during this season, and the water can be up to 19°C for a refreshing dip. Spring is still a quiet time of year to visit, and the days should be warm enough for you to enjoy the private pool in your Villa Michou Thalassa . Spring also marks Easter, and is a deeply spiritual event right across Kefalonia (as it is in all of Greece). Expect folk dancing, egg-painting rituals and religious processions on Good Friday and Easter Monday.

Autumn (September-November)

Many believe that autumn is the best time of year to visit Kefalonia, as it is warmer than spring, not as sizzling as the summer, and less crowded. Expect highs of 26°C in September, gradually falling to 22°C in October. As the season progresses, nights may get more chilly, so do bring a light jacket.. Tourist attractions, shops and restaurants should be less crowded, as the peak of the tourist season ends. Some places may even be closed, so you may want to spend more time cooking with loved ones at your Villa Arion . In early September, the island hosts the festival of choral singing, while on 24^th September, there is the feast of Theotokos Drepaniotissa that takes place in Argostoli.

Winter (December – March)

Winters in Kefalonia are mild, with some rainfall, which is how the island manages to remain so lush and green in comparison to other Greek islands. The month in which you travel will have a great effect on daily temperatures. Travelling in January during the peak of winter will mean temperatures of between 5 and 7°C. Wrap up if you feel like taking walks along the coast or decide upon sightseeing. In February, temperatures are higher, and fall between 8 and 14°C. Winter on the island sees 6-7 hours of sunshine per day. Winter is also carnival time in Kefalonia, so expect many of the squares and streets to be filled with people, dancing and music during this time. You’ll find the most action in Argostoli and Lixouri, which host processions of masked people and ‘Kavalieri’ with their ‘Dames’ dancing traditional island performances.

Now you’ve discovered the best time to visit Kefalonia, you can browse our selection of luxury villas in Kefalonia and get booking your dream holiday in Greece.

Best Beaches in Rhodes

August 10, 2021August 1, 2022chiracshah

Beach holidays to Rhodes are relaxing thanks to the island’s calming natural landscape, azure waters and golden sand that greets you when visiting its coastline. Popular with locals, tourists and Greek nationals, Rhodes beaches are among the best in all of Greece, and it isn’t hard to see why. No two beaches are the same – each has its own unique character, and whether you want a quiet cove or busy nightlife, clear waters for enjoying water sports or a snorkelling session, there is a beach for you on this beautiful Greek island. Here are some of the best beaches in Rhodes.

Agathi Beach

An ideal beach for swimming and families, the fine sand and shallow waters of Agathi make this beach a very popular stretch of sand and one of the best beaches in Rhodes. As you make your way to the beach, you’ll find the Castle of Feraclos, which is also worth exploring. There are a few restaurants nearby offering a mix of international fare and refreshments. These restaurants also rent out sun loungers, and have toilets and showers. Apart from this, the beach has little amenities, so make sure you pack your beach bags accordingly. On the right side of the beach, you’ll find small coves and rock formations that are perfect for exploring and spotting fish and marine life when snorkelling. You’ll also find an 800 year old chapel right at the end of the beach!

Agios Georgios Beach

Agios Georgios is a wonderful place if you crave solitude and a quiet, laid-back vibe away from the bustle of other resort beaches. Expect golden soft sands and majestic cedars as a backdrop. Accessed via a long 7-8km dirt road (so a car is essential), it is named after the small church you pass en route to the beach. There are no restaurants or nearby shops or facilities, so make sure you pack food, water, towels and sun cream with you for your day on the beach. Part of the beach is ideal for swimming and snorkelling, so bring your goggles and gear with you. The other part is soft, powdery sand, which is why it has a reputation for being one of the best sandy beaches in Rhodes.

Faliraki Beach

Faliraki beach is one of the most popular Rhodes beaches. Stretching more than 5km, this vast shoreline has entertainment, restaurants and amenities aplenty. Leave your Villa Alexia and spend the day enjoying the mixture of beach clubs, nightclubs, bars, restaurants, water sports, adrenaline sports, shopping and more. Sun loungers can be rented for the day, and the beach has plenty of showers and toilets should you need them. As evening falls, you’ll be spoiled for choice when it comes to dinner, with a wide range of tavernas serving up traditional cuisine.

Gennadi Beach

A mixture of fine sand and pebbles, this beach has two different sides to it, but is one of the liveliest beaches near Rhodes, where you can always find an evening party. There’s plenty of sand on offer to lay your beach towel on or rent a lounger during the day. At night on certain days, beach parties are hosted, and everyone is invited! The nearby village of Gennadi has plenty of tavernas and amenities should you need refreshments. Gennadi is very popular with swimmers thanks to its crystal-clear waters, but the coastline is ample enough that you are likely to enjoy your swim in peace.

Explore some of the best beaches in Rhodes on a villa holiday in the Mediterranean sunshine. Let us tempt you with our exclusive range of Rhodes villas.

Best Time to Visit French Riviera

August 3, 2021August 1, 2022chiracshah

When is the best time to visit the French Riviera?

Otherwise known as the Côte d’Azur, the French Riviera is a popular holiday destination with tourists from all over Europe and beyond. Stretching from Monaco to the Alps, and spanning vibrant and glamorous cities likes Cannes, Nice and Menton, visitors should expect a mixture of pristine palm-fringed beaches, high-end boutiques, award-winning restaurants, Roman ruins, quaint medieval villages, trendy beach clubs and harbours filled with eye-wateringly priced yachts. Here’s our guide to when is the best time to visit the French Riviera.

Summer (June – August)

The best time of year to visit the French Riviera is undoubtedly the summer, when dry, hot and sunny conditions are frequent, and the mercury hovers between 25°C and 29°C. In some cases, summer heatwaves have even pushed temperatures into the low 30s. Summer storms are not as common on the Riviera (unlike mainland France), and sea temperatures are around 24°C, which is ideal for swimming. Pack plenty of swimwear, sun cream and light, loose clothing for the heat of the day. On the 21^st June, you can enjoy the Fête de la Musique – a day that is enjoyed all over France with live music bands and street parties taking over many major city squares, streets and parks.

Autumn (September – October)

The months of September and October are one of the best times to visit the French Riviera. Temperatures are pleasantly warm, ranging from highs of 26°C – 21°C, making it an ideal time to hit the beach and sunbathe, or swim in the sea, which has been warmed up throughout the sizzling heat of the summer months to a pleasant 24°C. It is however worth nothing that as November creeps up and October ends, the rainy season approaches, so it is worth taking a waterproof coat to protect yourself from the odd shower if you are out and about sightseeing. A reduction in the number of daylight hours also means there is less time available to enjoy the sun, but you can easily party the night away at a beach club or music venue. Between the 23^rd – 26^th September, Monaco hosts its annual yacht show, which is worth a visit to see some of the world’s most luxurious yachts.

Spring (March – May)

Expect the mercury to start climbing up in spring on the French Riviera. This is arguably the best time of year to visit the French Riviera, with temperatures ranging from 16°C to 24°C. Gardens and parks are alive with flora as everything starts to bloom. That said, pack a light coat, as there can be some rainfall in spring. Layers will also be needed for fresh, cool mornings and evenings, but feel free to pack a swimsuit for beach visits during the afternoons, or for time spent relaxing in the pool and gardens of your Villa Mas des Fleurs during the heat of the day. May is a big month for the region, as movie stars and celebrities flock to Cannes for its Film Festival, and the F1 Monaco Grand Prix takes place between 21^st – 24^th May.

Winter (November-February)

Compared to other regions of France, winters in the French Riviera are relatively mild, so you can get out and enjoy the region’s attractions without the busy crowds of the summer. Snowfall is very rare, but you may encounter some chilly winds that come off the coast. Expect January to have lows of 4°C, and highs of 10°C. Temperatures can rise to around 13°C by February. You will need to pack some winter clothing, just in case. On the 5^th January, there is a New Year’s run on the Promenade des Anglais, while between the 20^th – 26^th January, Monte Carlo hosts its annual rally with iconic racing cars. Nice’s annual carnival is hosted between 15^th – 29^th February, attracting millions of visitors every year.

Looking for the ideal home-from-home while you explore the Côte d’Azur? Discover our range of premium villas in the French Riviera.

Why group holiday villas suit families looking to get away together

February 21, 2018May 15, 2019

Baby-friendly villa holidays: everything you need to know

February 12, 2018January 9, 2019

If you’re a parent going on a villa holiday with infant children, you’re in for a treat. Swimming pools, beaches and all the other attractions on offer make for treasured memories which you’ll always share. Before you book anything, though, it’s important to think about how to make the most of baby-friendly villa holidays. Keep a few simple precautions in mind and you’ll be fully prepared for a wholly enjoyable family getaway.

Think about the location

The first step in planning a baby-friendly villa holiday is finding a location suitable for your child’s needs. Staying in the centre of a popular resort town can be great for restaurants, shops and tourist attractions, but it’s more likely to be noisy come sundown.

Look for a rural property located close to a town or resort. You should also consider staying somewhere near the beach, that way you’re all set for long sunny afternoons spent making sandcastles and paddling in the shallows – just make sure they wear plenty of sun cream and are supervised at all times!

Book a suitable villa

Scout out a rental with a gated pool. You should always keep an eye on your child when they’re near water, but having a fenced-off pool puts a much-needed extra safety precaution in place.

If you’re planning on spending some time on the beach, check that the villa has space to store buckets, spades and inflatables. That way, you’ll be able to really enjoy the surrounding coastline.

Pack all the necessities

When you’re travelling with a baby or young child, it’s a good idea to make a checklist of what you’re going to need when abroad. This is particularly important if you’re leaving home for the first time since your little one was born. It can be all too easy to forget essential items, then not realise that you need them until you’ve boarded the flight!

Double check you’ve remembered things like baby monitors, changing mats, non-slip bathmats, plastic cutlery and bowls, a nightlight and cot linens. Bring a small supply of nappies, too. Foreign countries do sell these, but you can do no harm by bringing along a few extra in case it takes you a while to find a nearby supermarket.

Before you fly back, cross-check your own list against what the villa supplies to avoid returning home with the wrong baby accessories!

Scout out the property

After arriving at your villa, spend a little time scoping out the house and making yourself (and everyone else) aware of the new surroundings.

Once you’re settled and enjoying the holiday, be extra cautious around the pool. Supervise your young one at all times when they’re in the water – preferably by going in with them. Keep the gates locked whenever you’re not using the pool, and make sure your little ones are wearing the correct floatation devices and enough waterproof sun lotion.

Last but not least? Relax and have fun! Once you’ve planned sufficiently, you can savour all the precious moments of a gorgeous family holiday.

Stuck on where to holiday with your baby? Take a look at destinations catered for by Villa Plus.

By Isabella Perkins, a freelance travel writer best known for writing about self-catering holidays. Her writing tends to have a family focus, and she is in the middle of writing a new travel guide due to be published next year.

Your guide to the Costa Blanca

February 9, 2018January 9, 2019

Holiday safety tips for villas with toddlers

November 2, 2017January 9, 2019

Few things top the freedom that a self-catered holiday gifts your family, especially if you’re travelling with toddlers. Not only can you come and go as you please, cook for yourself and indulge in true privacy, holiday villas tend to come complete with either pools, hot tubs and balconies (and sometimes all three!). To get the very most out of your getaway, be vigilant and ensure that the kids enjoy these facilities too – safely.

We’ve compiled a list of holiday safety tips that will help put your mind at ease, leaving you to relish in your villa holiday and create memories that’ll last a lifetime.

Scope out poolside railings

Before you book anywhere, browse the options available to see what is suitable for your family. Look for a property with a gated pool. These fences are a great way of ensuring no one takes a dip when they’re not expecting it.

While these guarantee a certain degree of safety, they’re no match for the human eye. Keep watch whenever your children are using the pool, either from the side or right in midst of all the swimming pool fun!

Familiarise yourself with fire safety rules

A good holiday villa will be kitted out with the fire safety essentials – a smoke detector, fire extinguisher/blanket and emergency numbers. When you arrive, make sure you know where they all are. After you’ve done that, take a few minutes to explain to your children what they are for. This’ll help to make them experts on fire safety, whether they’re on holiday or back home!

Keep safe by the pool

A private pool is fantastic for keeping kids happy during the daylight hours, but it’s always wise to lay down some ground rules before jumping in. Don’t let children into the water unsupervised, and always have the non-swimmers wearing armbands.

If you’re lucky enough to have an infinity pool, be aware that different rules apply. You can’t use inflatables, and you should tell your children never to sit or lean against the edge.

Fight off sunburn

It’s vital to keep your children – and yourself, for that matter – protected from sunburn. In a foreign country, the sun’s rays can be a lot stronger than you’re used to, even on cloudy days.

Before going outside, apply water-resistant sun lotion that’s at least factor 30 (50 is usually recommended for babies and toddlers), and make sure it’s on their skin for 20 minutes before leaving the villa. Have them wear sunglasses, a hat and a UV suit if the sun is particularly strong.

Avoid silly accidents

Make sure your children dry themselves thoroughly before going inside after a swim. That way your floors will stay dry, and no one will be having any unexpected tumbles! Remind your little ones not to run in the house, and make them fully aware of any transparent glass doors. After all, who wants the embarrassment of walking into one face first?

Villa holidays have all the right ingredients for fun family bonding time. Browse Villa Plus options, and find accommodation best suited to you and your loved ones.

5 romantic nights in for the best ways to propose on holiday

October 26, 2017January 9, 2019

The best ways to propose on holiday are personal and based on what your partner loves. Stick to those two all-important mantras and you shouldn’t go far wrong. To stay on the safe side, it’s a good plan to brainstorm a handful of proposal ideas. For your convenience, here’s some engagement inspiration to get the ball rolling, all revolving around romantic nights in.

1. Make it all about them

Image by WineCountry Media, used under CC License (CC by 2.0)

Selfless love is often the most romantic, so dedicate an entire day of the holiday to making everything about them. Start by preparing a surprise breakfast in bed, then visit those attractions they’ve been banging on about all holiday. All the while, spoil them with flowers or dishes which they love.

When you get back to your holiday rental, run a candlelit bath and indulge in a glass of bubbly. Once you’re nice and tranquil, get down on one knee…

2. The classic proposal

Of all the ways to ask for someone’s hand in marriage, this is the easiest. Spend an evening in your holiday rental and cook up a storm – why not go all out with a three-course meal which they won’t forget anytime soon? Add some champagne, their favourite romantic movie, and you’ve got all the ingredients for a truly idyllic proposal.

This is a classic for a reason – it’s simple, beautiful and not overly obvious that something special is just around the corner.

3. The sunrise/sunset proposal

Image by Kent Larsson, used under CC License (CC by 2.0)

As the title suggests, push the boat out with an early morning sunrise or tender sundown, then once the rays of light shimmer and glow, pop the big question. Other romantics might decide to choose a beach or landmark, but you can do it all from the comforts of your balcony with your soon-to-be fiancé. You could even combine this idea with parts of the so-called ‘classic proposal’, swapping dinner for breakfast if you’re opting for the early start.

4. Reach for the stars

For this one, choose secluded accommodation with a clear view of the open night sky. A private villa with a balcony, for example, makes for the perfect backdrop to this momentous occasion. You’ll need to wait for a starry night though, otherwise you won’t get the full effect.

Get cosy on the terrace for a few hours cuddled under the stars. If you have binoculars or a portable telescope, use them to help you both get a better perspective of the stars. Point out constellations written on love legends and share the stories with your partner. Casually throw in your own story (without being too overt), then propose.

Not clued up on the cosmos? You could do no wrong by checking out Perseus and the Andromeda, Orion and the Seven Sisters, or Altair and Vega.

5. Surprise them with loved ones

Imagine you’ve been on your romantic villa holiday together for several days. One evening, having spent another day exploring your chosen destination, you return to your villa as usual. Only this time, your partner’s friends and family are in wait! Muster your courage, pop down on one knee and let them know how much they mean to you, then enjoy the blissful moment together.

Got the lust for love? Check out Villa Plus rentals geared towards couples…

Villa honeymoon ideas: inspiration for cunning newlyweds

October 3, 2017January 9, 2019

When many people imagine their perfect honeymoon, they envision nights in a hotel’s most luxurious suite, complete with a hot tub, rose petals and some bubbly. Yet this style of honeymoon can be both expensive and lacking in adventure. A villa honeymoon, on the other hand, gifts newlyweds the ideal blend of comfort, convenience and affordable luxury, with some great views thrown in the mix.

If you’re looking for a villa honeymoon to remember, follow these tips for a loved-up, unforgettable trip from day one.

Daytime exploration

Staying in a hotel makes it easy to book yourselves onto guided tours and excursions. But if you’re seeking a little more adventure, get off the beaten track and go exploring! The romantic Greek island of Crete is littered with secluded spots, such as Frangokastello Beach. Why not use your villa as a base camp for uncovering them?

Charming towns like Gouves provide an attractive opportunity to observe the authentic Cretan way of life, sample traditional food and spark up conversation with the locals. To put it frankly, other methods of accommodation just don’t offer the same opportunity for adventure.

Romantic evenings at home

Villa honeymoons on Spain’s Costa Blanca or Costa del Sol give you the benefit of your own private space, while still keeping you close to the action. If you’re sticking to a budget, or simply don’t fancy going into town for the evening, bring the fun home with an indulgent night in.

Start with an alfresco meal on your balcony or terrace, then take your drinks into the hot tub or pool. For the ultimate touch of luxury, source a couple of bottles of local sparkling wine (Spain is famous for its cava) and chill them in the fridge of your rental in advance of your romantic evening.

Fantastic food

One of the key benefits of a private holiday villa is that you’re able to prepare food yourself. That means you can enjoy the local supermarkets, greengrocers, delis and the enticing ingredients they have in stock.

Tempted by dreamy Canary Island destinations like Tenerife? Then immerse yourself in the local cuisine by picking up kitchen staples like gofio (a flour added to all kinds of soups, stews and desserts, although it’s also eaten as a dough mixture) and goat’s cheese, which is normally eaten fresco (i.e. without being left to mature).

You can also try your hand at cooking Canarian specialities like mojo, a spicy sauce that combines garlic, chillies and paprika with vinegar, oil and other seasonings.

World class views

Whichever honeymoon destination you end up choosing, villas set in a hidden hilltop spot will make your stay truly special. Instead of being cooped up in your hotel room or jostling for room at the shared pool, you’ll be able to stretch your legs, enjoy some alone time with the fantastic view and, best of all, take a siesta under the sun.

It’s the recipe for a truly idyllic honeymoon. Once you’ve tied the knot, why not take a look at some romantic places you could visit?