THE ALGARVE

Whether you are just looking to spend your holidays in Portugal or perhaps you are thinking of a more permanent move, it is worth considering learning the language.

Of course, English is widely spoken in areas such as the Algarve but it is nice to be able to understand a Portuguese menu or even order yourself a drink or meal in Portuguese.

There are many options available to assist you including books, cds, internet based learning and language schools. There are many colleges in the UK
offering Portuguese evening classes and if you are going to be living here you can attend one of the local language schools.

The Europa Algarve language school is located in the old part of Loule close to the Loule Camera (council) building. The school offers group, private and intensive courses and is a great way to meet new people whilst learning the Portuguese language.

For a selection of properties for sale in Loule click link below

http://www.algarveprop.com/property-for-sale-Loule.html

Here are a few words and phrases that might come in useful!

Ola- Hello

Bom Dia- Good Morning

Boa tarde- Good Afternoon

Boa Noite- Good Evening

Tudo Bem?/Como esta?- How are you?

Com Licenca- Excuse me

Desculpe- Sorry

Obrigado/a-Thank you

De nada!- You are welcome!

And of course a very important request- Uma cerveja se faz favor! A beer please!

Go on give it a try!

There is an abundant selection of facilities for both horse riding and stabling across the Algarve. Below are a few of these establishments:

Pinetrees Riding Centre is a British run riding school in a 5 star holiday resort in Almancil. The team provides qualified riding teachers speaking many languages amongst them. The two arenas are used for dressage, jumping, beginners’ lessons, and ‘Riding for Disabled Riders’ sessions. The horses can cater for children and adults of up to 14 stone. Changing rooms with toilets and showers are on site and riding equipment is supplied.

Click the link below for a selection of properties for sale in this area of the Algarve

http://www.algarveprop.com/property-for-sale-Almancil.html

Vale Ferros is a well equipped riding centre close to Portimão and Lagos, a short distance from the sea and beautiful sandy beaches of the Algarve. Programmes are designed for novices – ‘Learn to Ride’ – and for riders who seek a more intensive experience on horseback - ‘Discovery Trail’ – a true adventure with rides taking place in the mountains, on the beach, and on the plains of the Algarve, mainly within the Monchique Natural Park. Another programme provided is entitled ‘Dressage with Lusitano Stallions’.

Tiffany’s Riding Centre is situated in Almádena, on the outskirts of Lagos. It caters for all the family, including lead reins for tiny tots, beginners’ rides, hacks from 1 to 3 hours, and all day adventure trails through stunning scenery.

Quinta de Paraíso Alto is one of the largest stables in the area. They offer a wide variety of quality rides and competition horses, and lessons from qualified instructors, rides to suit all standards, individuals or small groups, all through beautiful scenery with breath taking views. They also accept horses for livery and training.

Quinta do Lago Riding Centre has stabling for 26 horses and a large arena for show jumping and dressage. The staff caters for all standards, from novice to advanced riders. Quinta do Lago has miles of riding trails and the surrounding countryside and uncrowded beaches have much to offer the horseback explorer.

Click the link below for a selection of properties for sale in this area of the Algarve

http://www.algarveprop.com/property-for-sale-Quinta%20do%20Lago.html

Red Horse Ranch, tucked away beneath the gently hills above Loulé, is the ideal base for horseback safaris. A 1 or 2 hour trek in the immediate surroundings of the ranch incorporates spectacular panoramic views of the coast and the Algarvean countryside. These short rides are suitable for the less experienced riders. For more experienced riders there is a choice of whole day, overnight, and week long treks.

The Algarve is a haven for an eclectic mix of wildlife species, many of which are sadly waning in numbers.

The Algarve makes an ideal stopping point for migratory birds during the winter months. Storks are a common sight and often build their nests on church bell towers, chimneys, and other high buildings in town. The Parque Natural da Ria Formosa is considered the most important wildlife sanctuary in the Algarve. This natural reserve stretches along 40 miles and its rich ecosystem is ideal for the development of varied flora and fauna. The Ria Formosa lagoon was created by the last great earthquake in 1755 and has been a nature reserve since the mid-eighties, where sea water birds can find protected breeding places. Its lagoons, marshes, channels and islets are abundant in shellfish such as cockles, clams and oysters, and shelter a variety of birds such as flamingos, the cattle egret, white stork, oyster catchers, ibis, and cranes, to name but a few. Another nature reserve is that of Castro Marim, covering over 5 acres of land. The biggest attraction here is the large number of birds, especially aquatic birds. There are 153 species to spot including storks, avocets, sand pipers, mallards, and flamingos. This reserve is also home to many species of mollusc, fish, reptiles, amphibians, and mammals. A visitors’ centre at Cerro da Rocha provides literature and guided visits.

The Portuguese water dog has long been associated with the Algarve and is now a regular character in the Ria Formosa National Park. The breed was long ago used by fishermen to work on the boats and was treated as much a part of the crew as the men, earning the right to their fair share of the catch. Renowned for its ability to swim, dive, and retrieve, they were used to herd fish, retrieve nets, and relay messages between the boats. This dog is highly intelligent and possesses incredible swimming and diving techniques, magninfied by its characteristic webbed feet. It also has the ability to detect sharks by staring into the water. As the number of working boats began to dwindle due to modern fishing techniques, so did the need for the water dog. Whilst this creature can still be found in the Algarve as a pet or working dog, it is still recognised as a rare breed. The kennel in the Ria Formosa Natural Park, near Olhão, specialises in this breed and gives visitors the opportunity to see and stroke the dogs, talk to their handlers, and learn more about the breed.The Iberian Lynx, the most endangered of the world’s 36 cat breeds, teeters on the edge of extinction. This cat is just over twice the size of a domestic cat but with longer legs. They have distinctive bob tails and tufts on the ear tips. An average adult can weigh up to 15kgs. Their ideal habitat is a mixture of mature Mediterranean scrub and forest, and open meadows in which to hunt. To avert the tragedy of extinction, the conservation organisation ‘SOS Lynx’ has been formed.

The Dolphin is a natural visitor to the shores of the Algarve. Dolphin watching boat trips provide visitors the chance to see the dolphin in its natural environment. Several companies run these trips from the marinas of Lagos and Portimão and Alvor Harbour.

Take the opportunity to appreciate the natural wildlife of the Algarve whilst you are here on holiday. After all, there is more to know of the Algarve than simply lying on one of its beautiful beaches.

Click the link below for a selection of properties in all areas of the Algarve and Silver and Blue Coast areas

http://www.algarveprop.com/all-listing.html

When buying a property in Portugal, it is worth contacting a Portuguese bank with regards to mortgages available as they can often offer superior rates or conditions than that offered by your current bank.

We would recommend that you contact an independent mortgage adviser in order that they can establish your particular requirements and find the best deal for you. We currently recommend such a company here who are based in Almancil although they are happy to meet you in any area of the Algarve. They do not charge a fee for their services and by contacting them you will not have to navigate your way around the banking system if you have limited Portuguese. They work independently and are able to offer a great range of mortgage and investment products through a number of well known financial institutions here in Portugal. As well as mortgage advice, they are able to offer a range of services such as investment advice, home, car and life insurance and foreign exchange transfers.

General documentation required to apply for a mortgage in Portugal is listed below.

• Portuguese tax number (the company can arrange this for a small fee)
• Copy of ID card or passport
• Last 6 months of bank statements (current and savings)
• Birth certificate
• Last years tax return (P60)

Further documentation will be required with regards to your current employment status. Mortgages for non residents are offered up to 80% loan to value. The borrowing level is based on the house valuation and not the purchase price.

Please contact us if you would like more information and we would be pleased to ask a representative to contact you to discuss your requirements further. You can email us on gatehouse@sapo.pt or call on our UK number +44 1480 477773. This will divert free of charge to our office in the Algarve.

Click the link below for a selection of properties in all areas of the Algarve and Silver and Blue Coast areas

http://www.algarveprop.com/all-listing.html

‘The Savannahs’ is a wonderfully exclusive village providing a peaceful secure environment for people that appreciate tranquility, glorious surroundings, and the idea of living amongst peers from generations that they are familiar with and understand. The village is only available to people over 55 years of age, thus creating a unique environment and atmosphere. It is located in Almancil, just a short drive from shops, restaurants, the beach, and the renowned golf courses of Vale do Lobo and Quinta do Lago.

The Savannahs will consist of 250 residences – townhouses and apartments; a piazza with a small supermarket, local shops, and boutiques; a clubhouse with function rooms for get-togethers and club activities; bar and restaurants; leisure facilities such as indoor and outdoor pools, putting course, tennis and bowls; guest accommodation suites; a business centre; spa and medical facilities; and a nursing home.

The village is set in small clusters of houses along a one way street that meanders through the village, accessed by the sole security gated entrance. A multi-denominational chapel will be located near to the heart of the village. Each of the generously appointed properties will have a private terrace or roof terrace looking onto the glorious gardens designed by Charlie Dimmock. The walkways that wind through the village, linking residences, gardens, and village centre, will be illuminated at night and will be suitable for the journey of electric buggies and wheelchairs. Each property will have a private covered parking space.

Community fees will cover communal insurance, repairs, decoration, gardening, and cleaning etc. When required, meals, medical care, and home nursing will also be available.

Click the link below for a selection of properties on the resort and

in the Almancil area

http://www.algarveprop.com/property-for-sale-Almancil.html

The market town of Monchique lies in the saddle created by the two mills Foia and Picota; the former being the highest peak in the Algarve, measuring 902m above sea level. Overlooking the town is a neglected 17th century Franciscan monastery from where one can enjoy a panoramic view over glorious countryside. The 10,000 inhabitants of this town have retained its rustic atmosphere with steep cobbled streets and small traditional buildings housing various artisan trades. The town and its surrounding areas depend on the products grown or handmade in the surrounding hills, especially timber, cork, smoked ham, honey, aguardente and medronho liquors, basketwork, leather goods, woollen sweaters, and the renowned Monchique chairs.

Click the link below for a selection of properties for sale in Monchique

http://www.algarveprop.com/property-for-sale-Monchique.html

The village of Caldas de Monchique lies just below Monchique in a wooded ravine which resounds in early summer to the song of nightingales. It was well developed in Roman times as a spa. Even today one can sample the curing elements of the sulphur smelling hot spring water that emerges at a constant temperature of 32 degrees centigrade. Locals continue to benefit from various water therapy treatments for rheumatism, back pains, and respiratory and muscular complaints.

There are 2 further hot spring sites, one to the south of Picota hidden in a valley. It is called Fonte Santa and is rumoured to have special healing effects. Some people make annual visits to this spring and in its history there have been recorded visits by the king of Portugal and the King of Italy.

Villa Termal das Caldas de Monchique Spa Resort, amongst the green hills and blue skies, is formed of hotels in restored historical buildings, thermal water outdoor swimming pool thermal spa, restaurants, wine bar, and shops. This place of leisure and relaxation offers all year round a variety of well-being programmes, thermal treatments, and golf and spa programmes. The nature and the clean air of the hills make Caldas de Monchique the ideal stage for outdoor activities such as walking, hiking, and off road biking. For more information go to their website via our directory

Renting villas and apartments has become an extremely popular way to holiday in the Algarve, given the advantages this has over hotel accommodation. There are properties that sleep from 2 right up to 12, sometimes more, covering east to west, featuring either private gardens with pools, or complexes with communal gardens and pools. Alternately many people choose to rent a villa in the Algarve to stay in whilst they are looking for their ideal property to buy. This can make their search a lot easier as it can reduce flights to and from the U.K every time they find a property to view, or need to see their lawyer or bank manager here in Portugal. Villa rentals can be long or short term and can generally be found in whatever area of the Algarve is required.

At Brisa Vilas you will find a wide range of apartments and villas to choose from, stretching from central Algarve to the East, in areas such as Albufeira, Vilamoura, Estoi, Olhão, Moncarapacho, Fuzeta, and Tavira; all within reach of Faro airport. The properties also are in a mix of locations, such as near to the beach or golf, out in the country away from it all, or within reach of local amenities. Wherever you go in the Algarve you can’t be too far away from all of the above. The Brisa Vilas properties start with one bedroom apartments and increase in size to villas that sleep ten people. For further information of their services and details of the properties, go to their website via our directory.

Another reputable firm renting out properties for long or short term lets is Algarve Budget Service. They have a range of properties available to rent, and provide the usual services such as maids, pool and garden maintenance, and a linen service. For more information, go to their website via our directory.

If you are considering buying property abroad and would like to rent a property as a trial run, to be sure you are looking in the right areas, visit the websites of the above companies and consider a stay in one of their available properties.

If you would like to look at prices and types of properties available to buy in all areas of the Algarve and Blue and Silver Coast click on the link below

http://www.algarveprop.com/all-listing.html

The Portuguese have long been a maritime nation and the sea is in the blood of the Algarveans. For such a compact area of land, it enjoys a vast expanse of coastline. The climate and gentle waters of the Algarve ensure a pleasant voyage along its 150 kms of coastline, and the marinas and ports provide safe harbour and excellent facilities.

There are currently 5 marinas in the Algarve, all enjoying facilities such as restaurants and bars, and 3 future constructions in the pipeline including one in Ferragudo, one in Olhao and a second marina in Vilamoura.

VILAMOURA MARINA was the first in the Algarve. It features a working shipyard but is generally known as a vibrant, sparkling hub of entertainment within the tourist resort of Vilamoura. This marina is popular with local residents, tourists from over seas, and Portuguese holiday makers from outside the Algarve. It boasts many restaurants and a sprinkling of bars, including the bar owned by the Portuguese footballer Figo which has a football theme and shows all the big football matches on large screens. Vilamoura is also home to a marina and a nightclub, both open until the early hours, and many shops, and enjoys a lively, bustling atmosphere.

For a list of properties for sale in Vilamoura click on the link below

http://www.algarveprop.com/property-for-sale-Vilamoura.html

ALBUFEIRA MARINA is a recent addition to the directory of marinas in the Algarve. Once seen, never forgotten, this marina is of a unique design involving an unusual use of pastel shades for the residences that line the bowl of the marina. Visitors can enjoy a few bars and restaurants but the marina is gradually building up its range of tenants so a more eclectic mix can be expected in the future. The marina is a stone’s throw from the bustling tourist town of Albufeira where you will find all the normal facilities associated with tourism, but if you look hard enough, some traces of the quaintness of the older Albufeira remain.

For a list of properties for sale in Albufeira click on the link below

http://www.algarveprop.com/property-for-sale-Albufeira.html

LAGOS MARINA has received many awards over the years and is currently titled a ‘5 Anchor Award’ marina. Within the marina you will find lots of residential, commercial, and leisure facilities, including health clubs, swimming pools, and adventure parks. The historical town of Lagos played an active part in creating the history of the world. It was from this port that the ‘caravelas’ of Prince Henry sailed to discover parts of our present world. The town has maintained a lot of its architectural charm and this, coupled with its popularity with the tourists, makes it a good location for food, drink, and entertainment.

For a list of properties for sale in Lagos click on the link below

http://www.algarveprop.com/property-for-sale-Lagos.html

PORTIMÃO MARINA, a neighbour of Lagos, features some 300 apartments, plenty of shops, a reserved beach, boating facilities with a shipyard, and a huge swimming complex. It is within walking distance of the beach of Praia da Rocha and the town of Portimão – a commercial area once known for its fish canning industry. The advantageous position of this marina provides excellent opportunities for wind surfing.

VILA REAL DE SANTO ANTONIA MARINA was opened in 1998. The port town itself was rebuilt in 1755 after a disastrous earthquake destroyed its previous buildings. Across the Guadiana River - which offers a tempting cruise - is the Spanish town of Ayamonte. This area also offers the opportunity to explore the Ria Formosa Natural Park. With many rare species of flora and fauna, this park covers some 60 kms of coastline and is home to rare breeds such as the Portuguese water dog.

Whether you are a boat lover or simply appreciate historical towns or modern nightlife, you are bound to find a marina on the Algarve where you can feel at home.

The Algarve is ideal land for all manner of outdoor sports and activities. The more popular of these include walking and hiking, and cycling and mountain biking. This hilly terrain was almost designed for these activities and because of this it is easy to find many companies providing activity holidays, and many stores providing the necessary equipment, be it for sale or hire, such as ‘Megasport’, the bicycle store for rentals and sales www.megasport.pt. The teams will provide details of imminent events such as the Lisbon off road marathon. They can help with race applications, bike and equipment hire, and bicycles and equipment on sale. They will also carry out any repairs or services required. Megasport have three stores in the Algarve, all fairly centrally located in Faro, Loulé, and Albufeira.

Created especially for lovers of nature and outdoor activities, the ‘Algarve Way’ is a long-distance footpath that runs from the Spanish border at Alcoutim on the Guadiana River to Cabo São Vicente, at the point where Portugal’s southern and western coasts meet. This is not the first attempt at an east-west walking route across the Algarve. A full Algarve Way was established in 1998 covering 243kms, and a slightly modified version of this can be traversed on horseback.

The hills of Monchique provide an excellent setting for hiking and mountain biking. Home to ‘Fóia’, the highest peak in the Algarve reaching 902m, these hills have been renowned since Roman times for their springs with therapeutic qualities. This thickly wooded mountain range divides the Algarve from the region of the Alentejo. The view from Fóia is fantastic and on a clear day reaches as far as Cabo São Vicente in the west and almost as far east as Lisbon. Unfortunately the landscape at Fóia itself has been somewhat blighted by an array of military communications aerials, but nothing can spoil the distant views and the long climb to the top is truly worthwhile.

For a list of properties for sale in Monchique click on the link below

http://www.algarveprop.com/property-for-sale-Monchique.html

Wherever you are in the Algarve, you are never far from the opportunity to take to the hills and fall in love with the wild and rugged nature of this truly wonderful region.

 

CABANAS: An excellent rental investment within walking distance to the waterfront and ferries to the beach. Currently under construction, this private condominium of 1 and 2 bedroom apartments is in a prime location just 100m from the waterfront and the fishing village of Cabanas. The apartments come with air conditioning, fully fitted kitchens, fitted wardrobes in the bedrooms, ample terrace areas, and underground parking. The complex is built around a tropical garden area which incorporates 2 private swimming pools. Some limited off plan properties are available.

Click here for more details

BENAGIL: This unique development of 49 x 2 bedroom townhouses is in a prime cliff top location in this small but beautiful fishing village. Specifications include fully equipped kitchens with Zanussi appliances, double glazing, security entrance door with intercom, pre-installation for air conditioning, and an electric safe. The development has a communal swimming pool, parking, and automatic irrigation, and each townhouse benefits from a spacious roof terrace with sea views.

Click here for more details 

CARVOEIRO: This development consists of 80 x 2 bedroom townhouses in a great cliff top location close to the centre of Carvoeiro. The houses are sold fully furnished and with air conditioning, satellite T.V, and fitted kitchens, and many enjoy sea views. Facilities include tennis courts, communal swimming pool, gymnasium, health club, restaurant, and discounts on nearby golf courses. Quarter share options are available from just €49,500.

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LAGOS: This luxury 5 star spa and beach resort is situated between Lagos and Praia da Luz, overlooking the picturesque Porto de Mós beach. The development comprises 1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartments and penthouses, spa bedroom suites, and 2 bedroom townhouses, the majority with sea views. All are surrounded by beautiful secluded landscaped gardens with a bar and restaurant. The leisure facilities include a 5 star health and beauty spa, hydrotherapy pool, sauna and steam rooms, gymnasium, aerobics studio, 1 indoor and 4 outdoor swimming pools, and 2 tennis courts.

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LAGOS: This new development can be found just a few steps away from the town walls of Lagos and its historical centre, with breathtaking views of Lagos’s natural bay and sandy beaches. The development features a commercial zone, swimming pool, private parking and ample green spaces. The apartment comes with fully fitted kitchens, pre installation for air conditioning and with high quality wood finishings.

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LAGOS: This private electric-gated condominium consisting of only 15 apartments is in an amazing location, just 100 metres from the beach. The heart of the apartments - the kitchen and living room - was designed in an open plan style and exudes space and light. The contemporary fixtures and fittings are of a very high standard with feature doors and furnishings. The ‘pièce de résistance’ of these apartments is a most beautiful communal roof top terrace, complete with heated swimming pool. The views are simply stunning - the longest stretch of beach in the Algarve, Meia Praia, over to the Monchique Mountains, and along the coast to Alvor and Portimão. The apartments also feature: elevator, satellite T.V, air conditioning, luxury kitchen with appliances, double glazing, electric shutters, and pre-installation for central heating, central vacuum system, and surround sound system.

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PRAIA DA LUZ: Close to the heart of Praia da Luz and less than 200 metres from the beach, this complex comprises luxury studio apartments and 1 & 2 bedroom apartments. All the apartments are fully equipped with under floor heating, satellite TV, and a central vacuum system. The underground parking comes with a large amount of storage space. Leisure facilities include gymnasium, aerobics studio, indoor swimming pool, Jacuzzi, sauna, café, bar, and restaurant. There is a poolside snack bar, a multi purpose sports area for tennis, basket ball and football, a playground, and outdoor swimming pools for both adult and children.

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BURGAU: This brand new development of apartments with high quality finishings is ideally situated in the small fishing village of Burgau, just minutes away from the small bay and cafés and restaurants. The apartments benefit from private parking, a communal swimming pool, and some have sea views. Additional features include air conditioning, double glazing, and pre-installation of central vacuum system and surround sound system.

Click here for more details