THE ALGARVE

There are a number of excellent restaurants in the Almancil area ranging from local chicken houses to top quality eateries.

Our office here in the Algarve is based in Almancil and our staff have good knowledge of the local restaurants and have taken the opportunity to share their favourite dining places with you.

‘A Quinta’ restaurant is a firm favourite and is located on the road from Loule to Almancil. The restaurant has a bar area for pre dinner drinks and an outdoor dining area with views towards the coast. The lunch menu features a daily special for just 10 euros including a drink and a coffee. The staff are very friendly and the cuisine is superb-the menu has something for everyone with fish and meat dishes and a good range of delicious desserts. For those with a sweet tooth try the four pots or ‘assiete’ which allows you to sample the creme brulee, chocolate pot, raspberries and home made vanilla ice cream.

‘Vaults’ restaurant is relatively new to Almancil but is already a popular choice with expats as it offers a monthly curry night buffet and sunday carvery! The restaurant is located in one of Almancil’s oldest buildings with lots of character. Lunch specials available from Wednesday to Friday.

For local cuisine at good prices try the ‘Almancil Churrasqueira’ located close to the Almancil GNR (police) station. Reservations area advisable as this place is always packed with locals and holidaymakers alike. The piri piri chicken is a favorite but the vast menu provides something for everyone.

The ‘Alambique’ restaurant is located on the road from Quinta do Lago to Vale do Lobo and is a friendly restaurant in a nice setting with interior and exterior dining available. The cuisine is Portuguese/international with many fish specialities.

‘O Malveiro’ is located just outside Almancil in the Vale d’Eguas area and is worth a visit to sample the special Mozambique chicken and prawn curries. The restaurant owner is friendly and welcoming and happy to show you a sample of his dishes. He also has a good selection of wines and is able to offer advice and suggestions in this regard. 

The Lemon Tree or ‘O Limeiro’ in the centre of Almancil is open for lunch and dinner witha small courtyard providing a pleasant outside dining experience. The menu changes often with daily specials available- the food is described as ‘portuguese food with a twist’

If you are looking for a property in close proximity to these wonderful restaurants then click the link below for some suggestions

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Vale do Lobo has 15 first class restaurants, where diners can enjoy international cuisine ranging from Asian to French, Italian to Portuguese seafood specialities - the choice is extensive.

Over half of the restaurants are located at the beachside Praça, which is the social hub of Vale do Lobo in the evenings, resonating with the sounds of live music and buzzing with a relaxed atmosphere. The options at the Praça range from the exclusive La Place and TeaHouse Oriental to pizzeria La Terrazza, Monty´s steakhouse and the more casual dining options of Papagaio, Sandbanks and the Beach Bar, all of which offer children´s menus. During the day, La Crêperie is a perfect lunch or snack option. In Tennis Valley, Ken Lo´s Memories of China is an ideal dining option for those looking for a quieter environment. Tennis Café overlooking the courts does great value chef´s specials at lunch time, as well as light meals throughout the day.

Meanwhile, catering in particular to golfers are Spikes Restaurant and Brasserie in Parque do Golfe and the half-way house, Café Royal.
Monty’s offers stylish food and drink in an informal atmosphere. The décor is modern and the live music provides a relaxed setting for diners to enjoy the restaurant’s excellent selection of international cuisine. Classic dishes include Tempura Prawns, Lamb Shank and Seared Salmon, not forgetting Cumberland Sausages and Mash! Later on in the evening, Monty’s is transformed into a late night music and karaoke bar which has now become one of the best-known night spots along the Algarve.

La Place offers gourmet French cuisine in elegant surroundings, with stunning views of the ocean from most tables. It is run by Moroccanborn chef Maurice Belhaj and his wife Fátima, whose former restaurant in Paris became so popular it was reported in the international press and the Michelin Good Food Guide. Eating at La Place, one can understand why. The menu offers a range of starters, meat and fish dishes and delicious desserts in traditional French style, accompanied of course by an excellent wine list. The restaurant’s ‘Trilogy’ concept, inspired by the French ‘Menu Découverte’, allows gourmets to sample small portions of three different and complementary dishes for one set price.

Based on health and vitality, the menu of Pure – the café-bar-restaurant at the Royal Spa – is composed of light meals to help with weight loss and promote a feeling of well-being. Dishes are non-acidic and low in salt and calories – great for detox – and food is cooked lightly in order to retain essential vitamins and minerals. The menu ranges from fruit and vegetable snacks to full meals, incorporating fish, meats and salads. An extensive and unusual drinks menu includes herbal teas and fresh fruit and vegetable juices, shakes and smoothies. Any dish or drink at Pure can be adapted for people with special dietary requirements or food intolerances.

Café Royal, also known as the Halfway House, is situated overlooking the picturesque 9th hole of the Royal Golf Course and offers the perfect place for golfers to take a break for some well earned refreshments. However not surprisingly, due to its beautiful location, the café also attracts visitors wishing simply to admire the stunning views and enjoy the peaceful setting. The café offers a range of delicious baguettes, sandwiches and pastries, as well as a selection of soft drinks, beers and spirits.

The stylish, absolutely modern design of Amore Pizza, Pasta Restaurant make it a must-visit. The restaurant has a vibrantly coloured dining room and large outdoor terrace, set on a height overlooking the centre stage of the Praça, where live music is played every night in summer.
A varied menu offers a wide range of home-made pizzas, fine pastas and fresh salads to cater for the different tastes of all family members.
On the upper level of Amore, a spacious Deck Bar has been created, where pre-dinner aperitifs or after-dinner drinks can be enjoyed in a relaxing, comfortable sofa area, with stunning views of sunset over the ocean.

Teahouse Oriental-The eclectic menu at this Asian-fusion restaurant features the best culinary experiences from Japan, Thailand, Indonesia, Singapore, Hong Kong and Vietnam, all prepared and served as appropriate to tradition. A fine dining option full of Eastern promise, Teahouse excels not only for its unusual, top quality dishes, but also for its exceptional service. The décor is simple and elegant and the restaurant enjoys a large outdoor terrace with wonderful sea views.

Spikes restaurant, in the heart of the resort, offers fantastic views of the putting greens and sculpture park. It is chef’s policy to ensure that the food groups are equally represented in each dish on the modern European menu, and to always be in a position to cater for special requests. Menu classics include Duck Breast Salad with foie gras and Roasted Lamb Carré with spinach gratin, as well as unmissable desserts such as the legendary Apple and Blueberry Crumble with vanilla ice-cream. Spikes also makes being healthconscious easy, with appetizing salads, fresh vegetable soups and grilled meats served with vegetables, which taste so good they make watching your diet enjoyable!

The late Ken Lo, author of over 30 books on Chinese cuisine, is the main founder of “Ken Lo’s Memories of China” restaurants and cookery school in London. After his enormous success there, he inaugurated a new branch of his restaurant in Vale do Lobo. The restaurant offers a refined and relaxing ambience and includes a magnificent terrace overlooking Tennis Valley, that is used all throughout the summer season. The menu is diverse, providing a fine selection of chinese dishes to suit every palate.

Sandbanks is located in a prime position, overlooking the beach and enjoying spectacular views of the ocean. At lunchtime, an extensive range of salads, grilled fish and light meals can be enjoyed. A special children´s menu means it is an ideal choice for families. The restaurant’s picturesque view also makes it perfect for evening meals, where diners can enjoy fresh seafood specialities in a relaxing ambience. Sandbanks is a particularly popular choice in the summer, due to its beachside location, and has been enjoyed by many well-known holidaymakers, including the England Football Team and their families.

La Terraza-This stylish restaurant serves great Italian food in cosy, atmospheric surroundings. The inside is ideal for intimate dining, or picking up pizzabaking tips from the chefs hard at work in the open-plan kitchen. Meanwhile a spacious terrace provides the perfect setting for families to enjoy the lively atmosphere of the Praça, especially in Summer. The menu offers an excellent range of home-made pizza and pasta dishes, as well as meat and fish specialities cooked to original Italian recipes with fresh ingredients. There is also a children’s menu.

Papagaio Beach Restaurant enjoys a perfect location overlooking the beautiful Vale do Lobo Beach. Delicious fresh fish and seafood is available, with specialities including fresh sole, cataplana and lobster. A wide range of salads and light bites, including melts and burgers, are served throughout the day for those who want to stop for a snack between sunbathing. Papagaio is also ideal for a midafternoon drink, just a short step from the beach. Later on, the relaxed atmosphere moves up a notch, with lively music and fruity cocktails being the order of the evening.

La Creperie-Delicious crêpes, snacks, light meals and salads are available all day at this modern café, attractively located in the centre of the Praça. The all-day breakfast served in winter is a must for holiday-makers with a relaxed schedule, while the ice-cream and smoothie bar is a great temptation to beachgoers on hot, summer days. In the evening, La Crêperie’s strategic location right at the centre of the lively Praça comes into play. Situated right beside the stage where live music is performed in the evenings, this is a great venue for families to enjoy the summer evening menu (including a children’s menu), or simply an apéritif or digéstif “al fresco”.

For a selection of properties for sale in Vale do Lobo click link below

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The Algarve is blessed with a climate that encourages year round sporting activities. For this there are several large, well equipped sports and leisure centres dotted across the region, for everyone – permanent member and holiday makers alike – to participate in their favourite sporting activity.

Brown’s Sports and Leisure Club:

This centre is located in Vilamoura. It offers a first class year round practice facility in an ideal climate for professional athletes and sports players in Southern Europe. The modern set up and facilities at Brown’s allow trainers and coaches to organise training sessions and team meetings, and take advantage of the opportunity to practice other sports activities, thus providing a complete training approach and better preparation for the demand of professional sport. The excellent standard of Brown’s training centre, the first rate organisation, and the services provided, all make it the preferred choice of a number of the world’s teams for pre-season training and in the run up to important games and competitions. Brown’s also provides accommodation for these worldwide teams in the form of bungalows and villas.

Team games facilities at Brown’s include:

Rugby league
Rugby union
Football
Athletics
Hockey
Cricket
Gaelic football.

The fully equipped sports club caters for: aqua-aerobics classes, squash, racquetball, spinning, gymnasium, and studio classes i.e. aerobics, combat, body conditioning, step. Outdoor facilities include: Tennis courts; beach football, rugby, volleyball, and handball; 5 a side football, 5 a side hockey, uni-hockey, and a running track with workout stations.

After all that energetic running around you might want to visit the relaxation suite with sauna, Turkish bath, and massage therapy room.

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

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Barrington’s Golf and Health Spa:

Barrington’s is the ideal location for training sports fanatics, whatever their sport or background. The centre provides all the onsite facilities that teams could possibly require for a training break including pitches and training grounds adjoining the club. Barrington’s can tailor-make packages to suit your needs. Facilities include football, rugby, bowling, cricket, and golf. There is also a fully equipped gymnasium, squash courts, indoor and outdoor pools, a sauna, Jacuzzi, and steam rooms. Classes provided include yoga, Pilates, body pump, combat, stretch, dance classes, and aqua aerobics. On site accommodation is also available in the form of air conditioned rooms and apartments.

Alfamar Beach and Sport Resort:

This glorious establishment is set on a cliff top looking over the endless sandy beach of Falésia, surrounded by pine trees. It is an ideal location for training breaks for professional athletes due to the amazing facilities and the surrounding areas. Sports undertaken here include: volleyball, basketball, badminton, handball, and table tennis. Outdoor facilities include 3 grass football pitches, track and field athletics, running tracks, high jump, discus, outdoor tennis courts, and golf. Indoor facilities include tennis courts, fitness gymnasium, snooker hall, and a Jacuzzi, sauna, massage suite.

For a selection of properties for sale in Vale do Lobo click link below

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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

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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

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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

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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

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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.

Built in 1966, the 18-hole par 73 Championship Algarve Golf Course is Sir Henry Cotton’s masterpiece – the course by which he wished to be remembered. Originally paddy fields for rice growing rice has been converted into a flat challenging course and especially for the stronger player. Something short of half a million shrubs and trees were planted in the conversion. As the fairways are flat Henry Cotton introduced strategically placed water hazards to catch the unwary long hitter. This Championship Golf Course was the first course in the Algarve and it has been ranked ever since amongst Europe Top 100.

The resort also encompasses two 9-hole facilities, The Resort Course, a pleasant Par 35 with 2,987 metres; and The Academy Course, a Par 30 with 1,851 metres. The Hotel rises above the 360 acre wooded estate, providing beautiful views of the golf course and lush countryside with the backdrop of the Monchique range.

While Le Meridien Penina is recognised for its golf courses, it also offers an amazing range of other sporting and leisure facilities, with a choice of training programmes for all ages and abilities. These include a FIFA-sized football pitch, jogging circuit, Olympic size swimming pool and fitness studios with sauna and massage services, while The Tennis Academy has six floodlit courts and a resident pro. The Penguin Village is both fun and educational, where children are occupied while parents may relax or practice their favourite sport. A courtesy hotel shuttle runs to Alvor Beach in summer, where a private area is available for clients, equipped with sun lounges, shades and towel service.

Portimao is the Algarve’s main fishing port and both the fishing industry and tourist fishing trips thrive here. You’ve a choice of divine Algarve beaches around the location, including one of the best beaches on the Algarve - Praia da Rocha. There are historic buildings and stylish architecture as well as the new Algarve villas and additionally Portimao also benefits from a developing new marina offering a choice of more chic restaurants, bars and shops.

Click here for properties for sale in Portimao, Algarve