Guide to Albufeira

Golden sand, buzzing bars and restaurants and a colourful nightlife make Albufeira one of the most popular places for our villa holidays in the Algarve.

Despite being one of the oldest and most established resorts in the region, Albufeira is an ancient fishing town which still retains its original charm. Cobbled streets meander through the old town, shaded by terracotta-roofed houses and there is an ancient castle and traditional market. The brand new marina adds a more cosmopolitan air. Shopping is excellent, and the famous Strip is brimming with friendly bars, shops and restaurants. The beaches in the area are spectacular. Gale has wide clean sand and Castelo, Coehla and Sao Rafael have a selection of hidden little coves with small intimate stretches of sand.

Our villas in Albufeira and the surrounding villages are situated in quiet residential areas, giving them privacy, but all are within easy reach of the resorts amenities.

Within a 10 minute drive, there is a newly opened shopping centre with famous names like Zara, Mango and Pull & Bear, several designer shops, lots of restaurants, and a multiplex cinema.

Villas to go recommended beaches…

Galé - a long beach with sand dunes to the west and cliffs to the east. It is a popular destination for Portuguese tourists, with good facilities.

Castelo – a small but beautiful beach, surrounded by eroded cliffs with good quality water.

São Rafael - a charming beach with fine sand, set amidst a magnificent landscape of rocks, both on the beach and in the transparent waters.

Villas to Go recommended golf courses…

Salgados – set on the flat lands behind Praia de Gale, west of Albufeira. An 18 hole course meandering through many small lakes but otherwise very open to the elements. Watch out for the onshore breeze!

Pine Cliffs - a nine hole golf course used by many visiting pros. Part of the Sheraton hotel complex, west of Albufeira. Look out for the 9th with its beautiful views of the sandy beach, locally nicknamed the ‘Devil’s Parlour’

Balaia – A small 9 hole course useful for improving your short game. Nicknamed the ‘Executive Course’ for its quality layout, you can view most of the course from the first tee, with the Atlantic ocean shimmering in the backdrop.

Villas to Go recommended time out…

Visit the famous Zoomarine, near Guia. This spectacular ocean theme park has several large aquariums, sea life shows and a fun fair.

Take the family to Aqualand waterpark, nearby. Buses pick up from various parts of the resort.

Go shopping in the newly opened Algarve Shopping complex, and browse through boutiques like Zara, Mango and Pull & Bear. Check out the designer shops and restaurants, and end the day with a trip to the multiplex cinema.

Search the local market for traditional handicrafts. Choose from copperware, baskets, lace and footwear.