The Algarve features miles and miles of pristine sandy beaches and top golf courses. There are endless outdoor activities for families or groups to immerse themselves in. Villa Select has a wide variety of holiday accommodation and resorts located within the Algarve for you to choose from. There are Algarve villas for a small family. There are holiday villas that can cater to large groups looking to escape to the beauty of the Algarve.
The Algarve is a popular destination for holiday makers from all over. The Algarve’s year round temperate climate makes it ideal for family holidays, golf holidays or the multitude of water sports on offer including deep sea fishing. For those seeking a more laid back approach, there are many top notch shopping locations around the Algarve, or you can relax on the beach enjoying the Portuguese sunshine. Faro/Almancil Area
Faro is the gateway to the Algarve for millions of holiday makers who flock to the Algarve for a few days of fun in the sun every year. For wildlife lovers, explore the Ria Formosa Natural Park, there you will find numerous migratory and non-migratory wildfowl, the area also has an abundance of wildlife.
Located 13 km north-west of Faro, Almancil is known for its proximity to the luxury beach and Algarve villa destinations of Quinta do Lago, Vale do Lobo, Verandas do Lago and Quinta das Salinas. Quinta do Lago sits within an exclusive 1700 acre complex and is comprised of several 5* hotels, top international restaurants and 4 championship golf courses. Villa Select offers great selection of private Algarve villas with pools in the resorts around the Almancil area. Albufeira Area
The once small fishing village of Albufeira has now grown into the tourist capital of the Algarve. Miles of golden beaches, endless outdoor activates and a thriving night-life attract holiday makers from all over to enjoy all that Albufeira has to offer. Villa Select offers great selection of private Algarve villas with pools in the resorts around Albufiera, the villas are located in Guia, Gale, Salgados, Castelo Beach, Vale de Parra, Vale de Carro, Falesai, Branqueira and the Santa Eulalia Beach areas.
Lagoa/Portimão Areas
Lagoa is the wine capital of the Algarve. Between September and October, trucks and carts carrying freshly-picked grapes can be seen taking their harvest of freshly picked grapes through the country lanes to the local wine makers. South of Lagoa is the beach town of Carvoeiro, which has grown from a small fishing village into a top holiday resort destination within the Algarve with two golf courses, tennis facilities and horse riding centre.
After Faro, Portimão is the most important commercial centre in the Algarve and the main hub for the region’s thriving sardine-canning, leisure cruise ships and big game fishing businesses. Portimão is very cosmopolitan with many quality restaurants, shopping centres and large, bustling markets. The Villa Select villas in the Lagoa/Portimão lie with the beautiful town of Estombar. An Algarve villa in Estombar is perfectly situated for easy access to the main towns of Lagoa and Portimão and only a short drive away from the beautiful beach resort of Carvoeiro.
You can’t get much better than a villa holiday in the Algarve.
The Algarve, located in southern Portugal, is renowned for its stunning coastline, golden beaches, and charming towns. With its warm climate, dramatic cliffs, and turquoise waters, it’s a favorite destination for both relaxation and adventure. The region also boasts rich cultural heritage, fresh seafood cuisine, and historic villages like Lagos and Tavira. Whether exploring hidden coves or enjoying vibrant nightlife, the Algarve offers something for every traveler.
Places of interest and activities you can enjoy when going on a villa holiday in the Algarve:
Lagos Old Town
A charming historic center with narrow cobbled streets, colorful houses, and lively plazas. It’s rich in history, featuring landmarks like the Forte da Ponta da Bandeira and the Slave Market Museum.
Perfect for wandering, shopping, and dining.
Ponta da Piedade
This spectacular coastline near Lagos is famous for its dramatic golden cliffs, hidden grottoes, and crystal-clear turquoise waters.
You can explore the caves by boat or kayak, or enjoy stunning views from the cliff-top paths.
Praia da Marinha
Widely regarded as one of the most beautiful beaches in Portugal, Praia da Marinha is known for its clear blue water, impressive limestone rock formations, and sandy coves.
It’s ideal for swimming, snorkeling, or just relaxing.
Benagil Sea Cave
A natural wonder and one of the Algarve’s most photographed spots. This sea cave features a large circular opening at the top, creating a magical skylight effect.
Accessible only by boat, kayak, or paddleboard, it’s a must-visit.
Silves Castle
A well-preserved Moorish castle perched on a hill above the town of Silves. The red sandstone fortress offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and a glimpse into the region’s medieval past.
Restaurants which are worth a visit:
Vila Joya (Albufeira)
A Michelin two-star restaurant located right by the sea, Vila Joya offers exquisite Mediterranean cuisine with a creative flair.
Known for its elegant atmosphere and exceptional tasting menus, it’s perfect for a special night out.
O Marinheiro (Albufeira)
A charming, family-run restaurant with a cozy, rustic vibe. It’s well-loved for fresh seafood dishes and traditional Portuguese flavors, served in a beautiful garden setting.
Restaurante A Rampa (Portimão)
Famous for its fresh fish and seafood, A Rampa offers a relaxed atmosphere overlooking the marina.
Try their grilled sardines or seafood cataplana for an authentic Algarve taste.
Casa do Prego (Lagos)
A trendy spot in Lagos known for creative tapas and a great wine selection. Perfect for sharing small plates with friends while enjoying a lively atmosphere.
O Leão de Porches (Porches)
A rustic restaurant with a focus on local ingredients and traditional Algarve recipes. Their grilled meats and seafood dishes come highly recommended.
Details correct as at 24/06/2025. These restaurants are neither endorsed nor recommended by Villa Select.
The best beaches to enjoy in the Algarve:
Praia da Marinha
Distance from Faro: ~50 km (about 45 minutes by car)
Famous for its stunning cliffs, crystal-clear turquoise water, and golden sands. Often ranked among the most beautiful beaches in Europe.
Great for swimming, snorkeling, and photography.
Praia da Rocha (Portimão)
Distance from Faro: ~70 km (about 1 hour by car)
A wide sandy beach with a lively atmosphere, backed by cliffs and a vibrant promenade full of restaurants and bars.
Perfect if you want a mix of sunbathing and socializing.
Praia do Camilo (Lagos)
Distance from Faro: ~90 km (about 1 hour 10 minutes by car)
A small, picturesque beach accessible by wooden stairs leading down from the cliffs.
Clear waters and dramatic rock formations make it a favorite for visitors.
Praia do Ancão (Quinta do Lago area)
Distance from Faro: ~20 km (about 25 minutes by car)
A pristine beach known for its fine golden sand and calm sea.
Located near luxury resorts, it’s ideal for families and relaxation.
Praia de São Rafael (Albufeira)
Distance from Faro: ~40 km (about 35 minutes by car)
Surrounded by cliffs and pine trees, this beach offers calm waters and beautiful rock formations.
It’s a quieter option near the busy Albufeira.
5/5 
© 2025 Villa Select. All rights reserved.
