Between two of the most exclusive areas of the Algarve - Quinta do Lago and Vale do Lobo - this villa is perfectly placed to make the most of the Golden Triangle.
The Algarve is known for its superb golf courses within outstanding natural landscapes. Quinto do Lago resort has a performance centre, a Paul McKinley Golf Academy and championship-level courses. The South Course famously has breathtaking views of Rio Fermosa National Park. This nature reserve has limitless hiking and bicycle trails that pass through salt pans and amazing lagoons. Rio Fermosa is home to an array of wildlife and stunning natural beauty.
One of the most popular activities for tourists in the Algarve is dolphin spotting in the Atlantic Ocean. The dolphins are curious and friendly towards humans - up to 50 can be seen swimming happily in the wild. Many boat companies will bring a marine biologist on the trip, so guests can learn all about the beloved mammals. Many other boat trips can be taken around Vilmoura, which has a luxury marina filled with million-dollar yachts and several Michelin-star restaurants nearby.
Charming Almancil is another point of the Golden Triangle to explore. Here, guests can admire the Church of São Lourenço, which has dazzling blue tiles on the inside. This style of design is known as azulejo and the Baroque church dates back to 1730. Nearby, there is a cultural centre that hosts a variety of art exhibitions as well as musical performances.
In terms of Portuguese food, try Caldeirada, which is a delicious fish and seafood stew, complete with local clams and mussels. Pastels de nata are a must-try - the famous sweet egg custard tarts are dusted with cinnamon sugar and are deliciously creamy. Vale do Lobo has a lovely atmosphere in the evenings, with late-night ice cream parlours and lots of cafes with live music.
Of course, a trip to the Algarve wouldn't be complete without visiting the amazing blue-flag beaches. There are so many you could visit a different beach every day if you like! Start with one of the most famous beaches in the Golden Triangle, Praia do Ancão. It has almost 7km of golden coastline, with a backdrop of dramatic ochre cliffs. For a quieter option, check out Praia do Vale do Lobo, which is close to the villa and has stunning blue sea, gorgeous cliff views and powdery sand.