THE ALGARVE

A Pousada is a hotel that is owned and partly managed by the state. Many Pousadas are interesting historic buildings such as castles or monasteries that have been restored. Many have prime locations and excellent views and they generally offer 4-5 star accommodation and associated facilities.

The first regional Pousada was created in Portugal in 1940 when the state owned Portugal Pousadas Group began- the concept was to restore and preserve national heritage and to increase the supply of first class accommodation. The Pousadas are classified into 4 groups being Historic, Historic Design, Nature and Charm.

The Hotel Pousada de Sao Bras de Alportel has magnificent views of the surrounding Algarve mountains and is near the Atlantic Ocean and the most beautiful beaches in Portugal. This Pousada offers the best of both worlds. It is set in peaceful countryside away from the crowded Algarve resorts and only thirty minute drive from the coastal resorts.Click here for properties for sale in Sao Bras

If you are looking to purchase a property in Portugal then you will be aware that the majority of properties for sale here are priced in euros. Therefore, in order to make a purchase you will need to exchange your sterling funds for euros. The rate of exchange has fluctuated quite a lot within the last year with rates varying from highs of around 1.5 euros to the pound and lows of around 1.25 euros to the pound. It is thought that the higher rates were an extreme and current rates are around 1.3 euros to the pound.

If you would like to purchase a property in Portugal and are concerned about fluctuating rates then it is possible to purchase a property in
pounds sterling and avoid having to exchange monies into euros. There are a number of property owners in the Algarve who set their property prices in sterling and are happy to recieve payment in this currency.

For details of a selection of properties priced for sale in pounds sterling, please click the link below.

Click here.

There are also property owners who will accept euros or sterling and have reduced their sterling price substantially to attract potential buyers from the UK.

The first such property is a fantastic 2 bedroom townhouse on a small condominium with just 12 houses and a large communal swimming pool. The house is located in the area of Vale Formoso which is less than a 10 minute drive from the popular beach resorts of Vale do Lobo and Quinta do Lago. The house benefits from air conditioning, underfloor heating and is being sold fully furnished. The asking price is 345,000 euros which at a rate of 1.3 is the equivalent of approximately 265,000 pounds sterling. However- the owner will also accept 250,000 sterling for the property thus a saving of 15,000 pounds sterling.

Click here for further details and pictures

Another great value property currently available for sale in pounds sterling is this spacious 4 bedroom detached villa close to Almancil just a 15 minutes drive from Faro airport.The villa is set on a plot of 1000m2 with around 300m2 build size making it a comfortable property for either permanent living or for a holiday home. The single storey property has air conditioning,
double glazing, underfloor heating, alarm system and a heated swimming pool. The property is being sold for 725,000 euros which equates to approximately 557,000 sterling. The owner is also prepared to accept 500,000 sterling hence a saving of 57,000 pounds.

Click here for further details and pictures     

This luxury villa in the Golden Triangle is located only a short distance away from the premier Algarve resorts of Vale do Lobo and Quinta do Lago, where you will find some of the Algarve’s finest beaches, top golf courses, as well as tennis and sports clubs.

As you walk through the front door of this villa close to Quinta do Lago, you are will immediately appreciate its luxurious, light and airy interior. Continue into the large open plan living/dining room and make your way to the large doors leading outside.

Outside this luxury villa close to Quinta do Lago, you can relax on one of the many terraces, have a splash in the stunning salt water swimming pool or take the time to appreciate the private landscaped gardens. It is a wonderful place for ‘al fresco’ dining whilst gazing out at the beautiful views over the hills of Alte and Loule!!

This luxury villa in the Golden Triangle consists of four comfortable, modern bedrooms and four bathrooms. You have the added advantage of both air-conditioning and under floor heating in all of the bedrooms, ensuring your comfort at all times. Three of the bedrooms are on the ground floor. There is a large double room with double doors leading you straight onto the terrace and swimming pool. The other two bedrooms are twin rooms.

As you go upstairs, you will find the master bedroom with its Jacuzzi bath and shower and doors leading onto a large terrace with spectacular views!

Downstairs, there is a large basement which is ideal for use as a games room. Furthermore, there is a self contained flat which could comfortably sleep four people.

If you are looking for somewhere close to Quinta do Lago, but don’t want to pay Quinta do lago prices, this villa will prove an excellent choice. It’s ideal to relax, unwind and enjoy yourself in luxurious surroundings, be it as a holiday home or something more permanent, then this luxury villa in the Golden Triangle, which includes Quinta do Lago, Vale do Lobo and Almancil, is exactly what you are looking for! Click here for more details.

Gatehouse International have a number of Luxury villas for sale in Quinta do Lago, Vale do Lobo and within the Golden Triangle.

Portugal: 00351 289 356395

UK: 0044 (0)1480 477773

If you are looking for a country villa in the Algarve then the area of Loule in the Central Algarve region is a fantastic choice. This market town is just 15 minutes from Faro airport and has lots of character with narrow cobbled streets, lots of history and traditional restaurants offering local dishes at good prices. Loule has supermarkets, shops and a food market offering fresh produce including fish, vegetables, fruit, cheese and home made bread and cakes.

In the town of Loule itself the properties are mostly apartments and townhouses but on the outskirts there a number of beautiful areas with country villas for sale at all different price levels. Many of these areas offer
fantastic views towards the coast and have the convenience of being just a short drive from Loule and all of it’s amenities. Loule is a popular area for people looking for a holiday home away from the busy tourist resorts and also a good choice for those looking to relocate to the Algarve and settle in a quiet area close to the airport and facilities such as medical centres,
shops and restaurants. Loule is just minutes from the A22 motorway which makes access to the airport and other areas convenient and it is just 20 minutes drive from the coast and the beautiful Algarve beaches.

A country villa in Loule can cost anything from around 300,000 euros to 2 million euros depending on it’s location, size and finishings. Below are details of 3 very different country villas for sale in Loule and surrounding areas to demonstrate what you can get for your money there.

The first is a 3 bedroom detached villa with pool and separate annex around 10 minutes drive from Loule. The villa is in a quiet location in the village of Salir and is very well priced at 280,000 euros. The villa is on a good sized plot of just over 1000m2 and benefits from lovely views of the countryside. The property provides the perfect opportunity to purchase a ‘bolt hole’ away from it all with the convenience of the town’s amenities close at hand.

More details of this property

For 675,000 euros you can buy this fantastic 3 bedroom farmhouse on a plot of 5000m2 with sea views. The house is set in an elevated position and has fantastic landscaped gardens and a private swimming pool. The house is just a short drive from Loule and benefits from a garage and central heating.

More details of this property

If you are looking for a property in a fantastic setting with sea and country views and luxury finishings then the next property could be for you! This country villa is just 8 minutes drive from the centre of Loule and is set on 3 floors with 4 bedrooms and 4 bathrooms and guest cloakroom. The 4th bedroom is on the lower floor and is set in a self contained apartment with lounge, kitchen, bedroom and bathroom and direct access to the pool area. The villa has underfloor heating, air conditioning, newly fitted kitchen and bathrooms, large games room with bar area and a spacious lounge with fireplace. The villa has many terraces from which you can enjoy the fabulous views and there is also a room next to the bbq area with kitchen, bathroom and shower which makes outdoor dining easy. The villa is priced at 1.5 million euros and has to be viewed to be appreciated. Click here for further details.

Contact us for further details of these country villas in Loule or for a range of alternative properties. Tel 01480 477773 from the UK or (00351) 289 356395 from other areas.

The idea of part ownership of an overseas property was borne out of the demand for the opportunity of investment for all level of investors. It also provides the chance of regular holidays in one’s own home but without the pressure of feeling one has to holiday there at every opportunity because of a large mortgage. For a relatively small investment, one can become part-owner of a freehold property, yours to enjoy for a part of the year, on a rotating basis, meaning that each owner will occupy the property at different times of the year. Many resorts also provide a full rental service with their part ownership scheme. Thus if you choose not to use your allocated time they will rent and manage your property for you, leaving you with a pay cheque to spend on a holiday somewhere else!

PESTANA

The ‘Four Owner Scheme’ at Pestana Golf Resort in Carvoeiro uses the wonderfully simple scheme of rotation. Along with three other independent parties you own a luxury freehold property at Pestana Golf Resort, each quarter secured by individual title deeds. This well proven system considerably reduces the cost of ownership as it is split into four equal parts, with each party using the property for thirteen weeks of the year. The convenient rotating system means that each owner will enjoy the property in different seasons each year. This golf resort will let your property for the periods that you don’t want to personally use, and of course you can sell your investment at any time. Every property is sold fully furnished and the professional management team takes care of the maintenance and administration of your property. As a freehold property owner you benefit from special golf rights during your ownership periods.

Prices start at €54.700 for an apartment and go up to €149.500 for an off plan 3 bedroom townhouse.

Click here for further information

PALM GARDENS

This peaceful resort consisting of only 80 townhouses is set on a stunning cliff top location just outside Carvoeiro. Many of the houses boast sea views, and all are sold fully furnished and with air conditioning, satellite T.V, and fitted kitchens. Communal facilities include tennis courts, swimming pool, gymnasium and health club, and owners benefit from discounts on nearby golf courses. The Four Owner Scheme on this development also operates on the simple and convenient rotating system that allows each owner to use the property for the different seasons. The resort team can let your property for the periods that you don’t want to make use of it, and an owner can sell their investment at any time.

Prices start at €59.500 for a two bedroom townhouse.

Click here for further information

AMENDOEIRA GOLF RESORT

This luxury golf resort set amidst the beautiful countryside east of the historic city of Silves, with 640 acres of golf, leisure, and accommodation facilities, is set to be one of the finest of its kind in Europe. The project will feature two 18 hole championship golf courses, hotel and spa, swimming pools, tennis courts, football pitches, bowling greens, and a family centre with crêche, activity club, restaurant and bar. The Stepping Stone Scheme consists of each property owner enjoying 13 weeks of the year, in rotation.

The scheme is available on 2 and 3 bedroom apartments with prices starting at €170.000, and there is one remaining 3 bedroom villa quarter share still available at €290.000.

VILA BAIA

This resort in the village of Luz provides two different part ownership schemes. Stepping Stones is the simple quarter share ownership scheme with each owner enjoying 13 weeks of the year, in rotation. The second scheme ivolves 12th share ownership of linked villas. This new approach to home ownership allows 12 unconnected buyers to collectively own 100% of a freehold property in the sun. This scheme meets the needs of many potential buyers and provides the steps to a dream home. This is a practical and appealing way to own property providing all the benefits of ownership without the burdens and responsibilites, and the price includes a quality furniture package. The property can be rented out to generate income, thus reducing the annual overheads considerably.

Prices for quarter share Stepping Stones start at €65.000 for a one bedroom apartment and €110.000 for a 2 bedroom apartment. The 12th Share Scheme has prices starting at €25.000 for a 3 bedroom linked villa.

VILA SOL

For a fraction of the normal purchase price the buyer can enjoy the full services and discounts of this luxury golf resort, and only pay a quarter of the fixed costs such as condominium fees. The rotational occupancy scheme ensures all co-owners enjoy an equal share of holiday time within the different holiday seasons. These apartments are within Vila Sol Village, near to the luxurious spa and brand new commercial centre of the resort. There are ample grassed areas, three main pools – one of which is heated – a children’s pool, jacuzzi, and a bar/restauarant. This much sought-after golf resort boasts a 27 hole golf course, tennis courts, and restaurants. The properties are fully furnished and equipped and feature fitted kitchens, air conditioning plus heating, and a T.V and stereo system.

Prices for this Seasonal Ownership Scheme start at €120.000 for an apartment.

Click below for further information

For more information on share ownership, contact Gatehouse International on either:
Portugal: 00351 289 356 395
UK: 01480 477773

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

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

Algarve Removals are a family run international relocation company who have many years of experience in the transport and removals trade and specialise in offering clients a professional solution when moving to Portugal. Algarve Removals have weekly departures from the UK and the Algarve every week, 50 guaranteed departures per annum. Staff and vehicles in both the UK and Portugal offer the customer a cost effective and efficient service on full or part loads on either of your personal effects or international freight

 

Service Removals Options:

Full or part load shipments
High quality and secure containerized storage facilities in the UK and Algarve
Weekly scheduled departure for: 1 box to Full or Part load shipments
The Transportation of Cars, Boats and Motorbikes
Villa to Villa moves within Algarve
Full Packing and Wrapping service
Distribution of freight within Portugal
Algarve Storage

Additionally there are full storage facilities in both Essex in the UK and Albufeira in Central Algarve to cover our removal services, operated by experienced English and Portuguese speaking staff. Storage needs are accommodated for both short and long term. For both options, purpose built storage warehouses which are secure and alarmed at all times. Both warehouses have loading bays to enable MSD staff to either load or unload export containers for Worldwide Shipping

Held in stock:

Removals Boxes - Different shapes and sizes
Bubble Wrap
Sofa & Arm Chair Covers
Mattress Covers - Single & Double
Corrugated Wrapping Card Board

Contact Details

Algarve Removals Ltd
The Generals
Main Road
Boreham
Chelmsford
Essex
CM3 3HJ

UK

Tel:  01245 468 888      
Mob:07711 179 842      
Fax: 01245 467 700

Algarve

Tel:   00351 289 513 851      
Mob:  00351 969 134 801      
Fax:   0044 (0)870 9908435
Email: sales@algarveremovals.com

If you are considering moving to the Algarve permanently then it is worth looking at our website which features all different types of properties in all areas of the Algarve. Click on link below for a listing of properties for sale in Portugal

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

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

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

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

http://www.algarveprop.com/property-for-sale-Vale%20do%20Lobo.html

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