A real highlight of Villa Riccarda is its fantastic location, right in the heart of Portimão. This historic port city offers the very best of the Algarve, with terraces, restaurants and bars lining the pretty streets and a welcoming atmosphere ideal for families, couples and friends alike. Portimão is known for its breath-taking beaches, as well as the vibrant nightlife in the city. A little more low-key and relaxed than some of the hectic beach towns, Portimão is perfect for those looking for a little more sophistication and culture, whilst remaining nearby the rugged and energetic Algarve coast.
From the villa itself, you can walk to the harbour, supermarket and shops in the historic centre. In fact, the city beach, Praia da Rocha is only a 15-minute stroll away! This busy beach with its towering rock formations is great for everyone, with plenty of eateries and facilities to keep you comfortable throughout the day! Praia dos Tres Castelos, Praia dos Careanos and Praia de Alvor are some more popular beaches in the area, each as beautiful as the last. Praia dos Careanos is particularly idyllic, perfect for a day in the sand.
Within the city, you can visit the Museu de Portimão, located on the riverfront in a converted 19th-century sardine and mackerel canning factory. You can learn everything about the city’s vibrant past, adding some history into your stay.
For outdoor lovers, a walk along the Arade river is not to be missed, with picturesque views along the entire route. At the very end of the promenade, you will find the Fort of Santa Catarina, which is well worth it with stunning views over the Rocha beach, river and blue azure of the Atlantic!
You can take a boat trip from the harbour, exploring both land and sea. The charming fishing village of Ferragudo is just across the town, characterized by small fishermen’s houses, whitewashed buildings and narrow cobbled streets, making it a photographer’s dream.
Albeit the great food, fantastic wine and pretty cobbled streets are sure to enchant you, it is often the array of shopping that draws visitors to Portimão. The streets are full of shops, so be it window shopping or holiday buying, there is plenty of places to keep you entertained!