The villa is situated in Mexilhoeira Grande, a quaint town of 4,000 that’s embraced by the gorgeous countryside of the western Algarve. There are traditional Portuguese restaurants and mini-markets within walking distance and cheap bus service for those who wish to get out and explore.
A 10km journey southward takes you to Alvor, a picturesque fishing village that’s with both European and Moorish architecture; a testament to the area’s rich and varied heritage. Alvor is the perfect place to indulge in Portugal’s world-famous seafood cuisine, and a handful of excellent restaurants provide plenty of opportunities to tuck into a plate of fresh grilled sardines.
Two kilometres further south the Algarve melts into the ocean to the tune of Praia dos Três Irmãos (‘the beach of the three brothers’), a luxurious blanket of golden sand that’s punctuated by coves and fascinating rock formations.
For those in search of something a little more cosmopolitan, the city of Portimão offers shopping, nightlife and gorgeous architecture, while Lagos is famous for its winding cobbled streets, and it’s fascinating eventful history.
Both Lagos and Portimão are also gateways to more beaches than you could ever ask for, each with their unique flavour. Whether it’s the Praia da Rocha or Praia Dona Ana, the coast of the Algarve is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful on the planet
It’s no surprise that the western Algarve is a haven for sports enthusiasts of all kinds. If water sports are your thing, there’s plenty of opportunities to try your hand at sailing, windsurfing and scuba-diving. However, if you’d rather keep your feet dry, paragliding, rock-climbing and mountain biking are all rife in the area.
If the all of the above sound a little hectic, you’ll probably be more drawn to a spot of wine-tasting, or perhaps a relaxing boat trip, where it’s common to catch a glimpse of the dolphins that are native to the area.