General

Eastern Algarve

Eastern Algarve

Throughout the Algarve’s boom years since the 1970s, the eastern region - from the fishing port of Olhão to the Spanish border – has largely remained a quiet backwater. But recent years have seen the unspoiled Eastern Algarve gain increasing prominence among foreign tourists and property buyers. Focused around historic Tavira – commonly regarded as the Algarve’s most charming town – the area has seen the rise of several excellent golf courses, in turn accompanied by low density, high-quality property developments.

Towards Spain there are a string of wonderful sandy beaches, from remote strands to family sands, all lapped by waters generally shallower and warmer than those found elsewhere in the Algarve. To the west, the barrier islands of the Ria Formosa Natural Park form sheltered lagoons that offer a haven to countless migrating birds. The islands can be reached by regular ferry from Olhão, famous for its bustling fish market, and also undergoing regeneration, with modern marina developments now arising.

For many Algarve experts, a new star is rising in the east.

Central Algarve

Central Algarve

The central Algarve holds most of the region’s premier attractions in terms of tourism and quality property ownership. Top of the bill is undoubtedly the much-acclaimed ‘Golden Triangle’ area formed between Almancil, Quinta do Lago and Vale do Lobo. Quinta do Lago reigns supreme as one of Europe’s most exclusive residential zones, where luxury villa properties overlook championship-standard golf courses or nestle among pine trees beside fabulous golden sands.

Just along the beach, the five-star Vale do Lobo resort also offers golf as well as other quality leisure amenities. Further down the coast, Quarteira remains a popular resort, whilst stylish Vilamoura is a modern, town-sized private development focused around an international marina and with no less than seven top golf courses.

A second phase is set to extend Vilamoura in the coming years, with a whole new development area based on waterways and lakeside properties. Further west still, and Albufeira remains Portugal’s largest holiday destination, a sprawling traditional resort offering bright lights and fun for all the family.

Inland, especially anywhere north of the EN125 road that traverses the Algarve, the picture changes dramatically. Here, traditional towns and villages are scattered among gentle hills - the market town of Loulé is a particular focal point - and a considerable number of expatriates favour properties in these more rural surrounds.

Western Algarve

Western Algarve

For many, probably the most identifiable image of the Algarve would be of sandy beaches backed by red-gold cliffs and striking rock formations – the epitome of the western region. Its most popular tourist spots – Armação de Pêra, Carvoeiro, Praia da Rocha and of course Lagos – are all characterised by such images. Foreign property ownership is prevalent here too, with many a gleaming white villa, townhouse or apartment overlooking ocean, countryside or golf course.

Several modern yacht marinas have sprung up in recent years too, adding a new dimension the west’s continuing appeal.

Inland, the Algarve’s hills rise up to Monchique, a forested mountain ridge long-popular with those seeking an alternative to the coast’s pleasures. Towards its western extreme, beyond Lagos, Praia da Luz remains an ever-popular family resort; whilst a clutch of small fishing communities are nowadays welcoming similar tourism and property development.