Discover the Natural Algarve

Now that Spring is here, Portugal is once again taking on its own special charm. The sun shines ever more brightly, there are flowers everywhere and the time is ripe for communing with Nature. Come and visit us and discover the pleasure of strolling around without any fixed timetable, enjoying new experiences and savouring some perfect moments. Take your inspiration from our suggestions and draw up your very own tour plans!

Come and stay with us to enjoy the nature of the Algarve. Check our website for great private villa’s in the Algarve!

We give you 4 suggestions of the many we have to explore the Natural Algarve:

Enjoy the nature of Rocha da Pena

1.

Rocha da Pena

Hidden paradise in the rich Barrocal countryside

Rocha da Pena is a protected nature conservation area which support ecosystems of great ecological interest.

Between Benafim and Salir, with an area of more than 600 hectares and rising to a height of 479 metres, the craggy terrain of the Rocha da Pena site invites tourists to go for walks and is great for rock climbing.

Alvor Beach

2.

Alvor Estuary

Sites of Ecological Interest

Remarkable Observatories

Places where you can see different bird species nesting include the Alvor Estuary, Paul de Budens and Leixão da Gaivota. These are places where you can follow the incredible beauty of birds in flight.

The Alvor Estuary, nestled between Portimão and Lagos, is the most important wetland area in Western Algarve.  A lagoon complex, it covers 1400 hectares of marsh and dunes, which makes the area an excellent place for bird watching.

Monchique Mountains

3.

Serras de Monchique Espinhaço de Cão and Caldeirão

Variations in landscape in a diversely charming Algarve

Acting as a gigantic amphitheatre, the Monchique, Espinhaço de Cão and Caldeirão hills form a protective barrier for the lowlands of the coastal region, providing shelter from the cold northern winds.  The breeze from the Atlantic also contributes to the unique vegetation of the area.

Monchique is like a garden with breathtaking scenery and unique plant life within the Algarvian landscape.  This north-western part of the region emerges with streams flowing down from escarpments, hills where the arbutus berry tree grows, and where oaks, pines and chestnut trees are to be found.

Ria Formosa Nature Park

4.

Ria Formosa

Natural paradise between land and sea

The Ria Formosa Nature Park is a unique lagoon system that is continually changing because of the movements of winds, currents, and tides.

A gift of nature, of approximately 18,000 hectares, it is an area of transition between land and sea skirting 60 km of the Eastern Algarve coastline, between the Ancão peninsula and the Manta Rota beach in the East.

As you can see, our idea is to invite you to appreciate the best of life, get yourself into a good mood and make sure that you go home completely rested and full of energy! We urge you to accept our invitation and let yourself be seduced by the Spring in Portugal.

As you can see, our idea is to invite you to appreciate the best of life, get yourself into a good mood and make sure that you go home completely rested and full of energy! We urge you to accept our invitation and let yourself be seduced by the Spring in Portugal.

Come and stay with us to enjoy the nature of the Algarve. Check our website for great private villa’s in the Algarve!

Subscribe to our blog, so you won’t miss any of our nice suggestions about the Algarve, our Special Offers, and things to do in the Algarve.

Contact me for any further information about our nice holiday villa’s!

Warm Regards,

Michele

Relax and Have fun in the Algarve!

Alvor Beach


Welcoming you to our country is always a great pleasure for us! So, take advantage of the Easter break and come and get to know Portugal! You’ll find excellent reasons here to pause for a while and unwind from all the routine and stress of daily life. And you’ll always enjoy the guarantee of our mild climate, ideal for replenishing your energy. There’s a wide and varied range of options to choose from, but our motto is always the same: relax and have fun!

We give you a few tips of people who live here, of things to do in the Algarve.

There is a very nice walk along the length of Alvor’s beach and then returning via the estuary. One walk, two totally different landscapes

Pictoresque Tavira


Would you like to have some exercise during your holiday? Rent a bicycle, catch the train (with your bikes) at Boliqueime station, get off Faro station and cycle back, following the Eco-via cycle route. This is the best section of the route. You can see flamingos feeding in the Ria Formosa nature reserve; Roman ruins; golfers hitting their balls into the lagoon at Sao Lourenco; have lunch at BJ’s Oceanside restaurant at Quarteira; and stop for a drink at Vilamoura Marina.

Eco-via cycle route

Or fancy more a lazy afternoon at Forum Algarve, a large shopping centre near Faro, or shopping Algarve, near Guia and/or watch a film in the cinema.

Visit one of the region’s many wineries, Portuguese wine is underrated and these small, family-owned businesses are incredibly interesting. Plus there’s the tasting, of course.

Eat in a PROPER Portuguese restaurant – good food and great value. North of the A22 motorway you will find many towns and villages, where you find local food for local prices!

Drive to Monchique, eat typical Monchique food in the restaurant ‘ A Charrete’, enjoy the views in Foia and go across to Aljezur to explore the west coast beaches or go north to the border of the alentejo. Fantastic wild flower displays in the spring!

A drive from Silves to Alcoutim through the EN124 to discover the interior Algarve, fantastic green scenery, windy roads; stop in little villages for a beer or a lunch, discover the Real Algarve.

Having prawns BBQ’d in garlic and lemon with chips and salad followed by mousse de chocolate at the Adega da Marina in Lagos, pure indulgence on a budget!

Algarve Housing rent fantastic villas in the Algarve, all with private pool and garden. Visit our website and contact me for more information. We have some nice villas still available for your Easter break!

Visit the Algarve, and relax and have fun!

Did you enjoy the information? We will publish more about the things to see and things to do in the Algarve, last minute super deals on our holiday villas in the Algarve, so why not subscribe to our Blog.

Warm regards,

Michele


Top tips for things to do in the Algarve

Quinta Palmeiral


Algarve Housing rent holiday villas in the Algarve, the most southern part of Portugal. Apart from sun, sea and sand, we like to share a few other things to do in the Algarve. Top Tips of people who live here!

What else to do?

Drive to the top of Foia, the highest point of the Algarve, just above Monchique and enjoy the most gorgeous views of the coast with the river Arade, and Portimao. After that, allow yourself to get lost in the narrow, winding roads on your way back and experience the real Algarve!

Sit with a book and a light picnic under the canopy at Caldas de Monchique and enjoy the tranquillity and the sound of the stream.

Take a boat trip by traditional fishing boat, from Tavira to Santa Luzia or Faro Marina to Isle Deserta.

Traditional Algarvian Fishing Boats


Visit the most south westerly point of Europe, Cape St. Vincent; it is breathtaking to sit so high above the Atlantic and watch the waves come rolling in.

Stroll through historic, Moorish town Silves, the original capital of the Algarve, in the back streets the past mingles with the present in perfect harmony. Have a nice coffee on the terrace of Café Ingles, while listening to the Brazilian tunes of the live band…

Take a walk along the coastline from Ferragudo all the way to Praia do Carvalho. It works like a therapy, it will revitalise your soul and you will also feel fitter as a result!

Venture down into the awesome depths of the salt mine under Loule.

Look down on the old tiled rooftops of Tavira from the castle garden, or from the nearby camera obscura.

A round of golf on one of the Algarve’s stunning championship golf courses the Algarve boasts.

Famous Golf Courses



Visit to the Vale de lobo Royal Spa for a day of pampering and relaxation.

Dolphin Trip off the coast of Lagos or Portimao. You will see so many dolphins, you will never forget it!

Buying local honey form roadside sellers. Not only the honey is delicious, it helps local producers too!

This were a few tips, soon will follow more.

Please contact me for more information and visit our website for nice places to stay in the Algarve.

Subscribe to our blog for more things to do in the Algarve, Special Offers, and information about the Algarve.

Warm Regards,

Michele

Spring in the Algarve, don’t miss it!

Field of Poppies


Spring in the Algarve is something you cannot miss! Fabulous displays of wildflowers that colonise every available piece of Algarve ground no matter how small. In Portugal you do not need to travel far to see wildflowers. In the Algarve in springtime, the flowers are everywhere- on roadside verges, in abandoned and fallow farmland, in the forests and beside the sea.

We all know the Algarve from the beautiful cliffs and coves and beautiful white sandy beaches, but within a short drive of the coast there is a very different Algarve to be experienced. In the spring you see millions upon millions daisies, poppies and many other colourful flowers…like the Wild Roses (Cistus) in the mountains.

One of our unique villas with private pool


Algarve Housing has a variety of nice holiday villas for rent away from the coast, in rural, private areas, still only a short drive to the coast, with private pool and garden.

If you don’t want to miss the beautiful spring in the Algarve, please have a look at our website for nice self catering villas and contact me for availability, prices and more information.

We will publish more about the things to see and things to do in the Algarve, last minute super deals on our holiday villas in the Algarve, so why not subscribe to our Blog.

Warm Regards,

Michele


Algarve Places to Visit – Lagos, Jewel of the Algarve

Lagos Fort


Algarve Housing rents villas in the Algarve, and we like to tell you about the Jewel of the Algarve, Lagos. We rent two villas,one Town House and onecountry side farm house called Quinta Alfarobeira. More details later.

Lagos Marina


Lagos is a unique little jewel in the Algarve. It has chosen to develop its tourism with taste and class. It offers a balance of the charm and history of the Portuguese culture with a blend of creature comforts and facilities to please the desires of the most discerning tourist. The warmth of Lagos and her people make it difficult to resist falling in love with this seaside town. I can only say that Lagos has a special something that you feel when you spend time here.

Lagos is a city along the Atlantic Ocean, in the Algarve, south of Portugal. Lagos is an ancient maritime town with more than 2,000 years of history. Moorish and Renaissance, from its fortress to its plethora of magnificent churches. While Lagos’ history is rich, it is the area’s fine beaches and beach bars, such as Bahia Beach Bar and Retiro do Marujo, which attract many of today’s visitors.

Lagos Beach


The beaches around Lagos are some of the most beautiful of the Algarve, like Praia de Dona Ana, which can be reached after a 25 minutes walk from the centre of the town, Praia do Camilo, a bit further on, and Meia Praia, whose sands stretch for 4 km (2.5 miles) east of Lagos. However, it is the promontory named Ponta da Piedade and sheltering the bay of Lagos which is most admired by visitors, with its caves, rocks and wonderfully transparent waters. North of Lagos, Barragem de Bravura is a water reservoir offering fine views

Apart from its animated lifestyle, the one learns that this was a fishing village and that its importance grew under the Arabs, which built several fortifications. It turned into an important naval centre in the age of the Discoveries, in the 15th century; became the capital of the Algarve from 1576 to 1756 and was greatly damaged by the earthquake of 1755; thus its beautiful 18th and 19th century buildings. A fine new marina welcomes boats sailing in from the Atlantic.

Lagos Golf


Famous golf courses, looking over the Atlantic Ocean are all a short drive a way.

Algarve Housing rent a beautiful restored luxury town house in the centre of Lagos, called Casa Urbano, that sleeps 6 in 3 bedrooms, and has a beautiful Roman style private pool.

Quinta Alfarobeira, just outside Lagos, is a rustic farm style villa, that sleeps 4, with private pool in a beautiful garden. Please click on photo gallery (slide show) below to see the pictures and contact me for more details.


Would you like to keep updated about Places in the Algarve, Special Offers and Things to do in the Algarve, subscribe to our blog.

Warm Regards,

Michele



Would you like to keep updated about Places in the Algarve, Special Offers and Things to do in the Algarve, subscribe to our blog.

Warm Regards,

Michele

Discover the Secrets of Olhao – East of Faro – Portugal

Ceramic tiles Olhao


Algarve Housing rents villas in the Algarve, and also near Olhoa, time to tell you more about this un-spoilt, un known place in the East of the Algarve.

Pronounced “oll-yow”, Olhão is the Algarve’s largest fishing port. A rare gem, its centre is crumbling, charming, faded, and stuffed full of appealingly batty characters. The occasional tourist wanders about, wondering quite why they’re here. Olhão is a top place for a relaxing. The jewel in its crown isn’t actually in town, but a lovely ferry ride away….

Culatra, board walk to the Beach


Ria Formosa is an estuarine national park, with Olhão at its mouth and the wild Atlantic beyond. Around 80% of Portugal’s clams are fished here, around its four low islands. Farol and Armona are where Lisbon folk maintain their holiday homes; Deserta is a sandy empty place for the Robinson Crusoe in you; Culatra is where the fishermen live, and they are delighted for you to be as active as you wish, as long as that includes watching the waves, counting your toes, playing dominoes, drinking cold drinks, and eating delicious fish….. and enjoying the white sandy, long stretched beaches….

Church in Olhao


Olhoa

There are two market buildings side by side along the water front, which are a ‘must visit’ for the huge variety of extremely fresh fish and sea food straight from the port and the vast array of locally grown fresh fruit and vegetables. Olhão is well known for it’s fish market, in particular and if you haven’t got anywhere to cook some yourself, then try one of the numerous local cafes along the roadside nearby – you won’t be disappointed!

Terraces between the Markets, Olhao


The market halls are surrounded by pavement cafes and it’s a great place to sit and enjoy the view of the boats moored along the water front in the marina and the sand spit beach of the islands Armona and Culatra. Walk along the water front and through the gardens, sit outside a jazz cafe watching the boats, people cycling around and local people going about their day.

Walk into the historic heart of Olhão and the easiest road to follow is directly across from the gap between the market halls. Here, many of the buildings are the elegant merchant’s homes with wrought iron balconies, carved stonework and tile decorations and are such a contrast to the busy port area of Olhão. At the centre of the town at the end of Avenida da República, in  the Praça da Restauração, is the church of Nossa Senhora do Rosário, built in 1698 with contributions from the fishermen when it was the first stone building in Olhão. It’s a very graceful building with a baroque facade and somehow quite a surprise!

In the surrounding narrow, cobbled streets are a wide variety of inviting shops and pavement cafes that tempt you to linger! Well, after the sightseeing you need a break! This historic area of the town is really rather picturesque and gives a totally different view of Olhão from the port and the fishermen’s quarter.

Olhão itself doesn’t have a beach as it is on the Ria Formosa lagoon system but the ferries for the Islands (Culatra, Armona, and Farol)  run from the quayside near the gardens at the eastern end of the market halls. There are regular services throughout the year, although fewer in number during the winter.

Olhao is a place not to be missed, something different and worth a visit. Algarve Housing rent a very nice country side villa close to Olhoa, Quinta Rustica

Please contact me for more information, and if you would like to subscribe to our blog you will be always updated on information about the Algarve, Special Offers of our villas and new special villas we take on,

Warm regards,

Michele


Algarve Town House in Lagos to rent

Town House to rent in Lagos

Algarve Housing has another nice villa to rent in the Algarve, a Town House in Lagos!

About the Place

Casa Urbano, Lagos, is a striking modern conversion of a traditional town house, creating luxurious and stylish accommodation, together with a private swimming pool. This holiday property is situated in a winding street in the historic centre of Lagos, complete with an integral garage.

Lagos is a unique jewel of the Algarve, and has numerous beautiful beaches, all within easy reach of your holiday villa.

The villa, completed in 2008, was accomplished by a well-known design company located in the Algarve. They used polished, limestone flooring, waxed, polished walls and high quality, contemporary fittings in the kitchen.

The courtyard to the rear of the house is paved with limestone and planted with a palm tree and exotic plants. Walk into the azure waters of the pool, reminiscent a Roman bath. From your holiday villa you walk into the centre of Lagos, within a couple of minutes, which offers a balance of charm and history of the Portuguese culture with a blend of creature comforts and facilities to please your desires.

Modern well equipped kitchen


The Accommodation

Ground floor:

Entrance hall with guest toilet

Open lounge area with built in fire place, sat. TV, DVD, I Pod and Radio. The Open kitchen is well equipped and has nice dining area. Kitchen has among others an electric hob, fridge, freezer, dish washer and oven.

The first floor has two spacious twin bedrooms with shared bathroom with shower.

With a separate entrance from the court yard, you get to the third, en-suite bedroom with twin beds, and bath.

Although you are in the centre of Lagos, Casa Urbano has a nice and peaceful atmosphere, where you can relax and enjoy your Holiday in Portugal.

The warmth of Lagos and her people make it difficult to resist falling in love with this seaside town. An ideal place for family, surfing and golf holidays.

Luxury bedroom in centre of Lagos


For more information, pictures, prices and availability, I would invite you to our website. You always can contact me for any question regarding this beautiful Town House in Lagos.

If you do not want to miss out of any of the information we publish on our blog regarding New Villas to rent, Special Offers, What’s on Guide of the Algarve and information about the Algarve, please subscribe to our blog!

Warm regards,

Michele



Algarve Golf Holiday, is Golfing in Paradise, don’t miss it!

Algarve Golf Holiday


You might know already, but if not I got news for you! Playing Golf in the Algarve is golfing in Paradise!
And Algarve Housing rents fantastic self catered villas close to beautiful
golf courses. Why not combine the luxury of your own rental villa and play golf in the Algarve?

Any keen golfer will know what it is like to sit out those months where the weather just does not allow it to play golf or your enthusiasm is at an all time low for this great game because of it.

Those from the Northern hemisphere can’t wait to get past February and March and those living in more tropical climates can’t wait for cooler times. So what to do? The answer has to be the Algarve in Portugal.

The Algarve has all year round superb weather to keep honing your golfing skills so that when your club tournaments begin you’re up and running to win your monthly medal.

The Algarve with its cooling breeze and 300 days of blue skies offers over 30 golf courses within a 160 km (100 miles ) distance.

Golf Holiday Villa Vilamoura


Vilamoura is at the centre of it with some famous courses surrounding it. The famous Penina resort, the Old course, San Lorenzo and Victoria golf courses stand out. But don’t forget the East of the Algarve which offers the newly Jack Nicklaus build, Monte Rei Golf course as well as Quinta da Ria home of several ladies and senior pro tour events.

Just imagine walking along the Atlantic Ocean playing golf while Flamingos are looking at you wondering what all the fuss is about.

Just imagine playing your approach shot from beautifully kept fairways and putting on the quick true greens, surrounded by mountains on one side and the beach on the other.

You probably still don’t know what it is like to play in the Algarve. So the next time you’re dreading your compulsory golf break have a look at our website and book a nice villa that suits all your needs and discover for yourself why so many are choosing to play golf here. Why not
combine playing golf in the Algarve with the luxury of your own holiday villa!

Relax around the pool after a day playing Golf!


Please contact me for more information, like which villa is close to which golf course, prices and availability of the luxury holiday villas.

Or subscribe to our blog to never miss our Special Offers, information about the Algarve or our What’s on Guide.

Warm Regards,

Michele

It is all happening in the Algarve!

Silves Medieval Festival

Great Music events and food festivals, it is all happening in the Algarve, the most southern part of Portugal. Besides that, Algarve Housing rents your perfect rental homes the Algarve. Are you on holiday in the Algarve or live here, please read further for things to do in the Algarve!

There is a Rock Festival near Portimao, at Parkalgar, the international Motor Park of the Algarve. From 5 till 8th of August, you can enjoy various Rock Music with among others James Morrison, Bjorn Again, The Waterboys, Linked In Park, Os Pontos Negros and much more.

At the same location, The international Motor Park, Portimao, Fat Boy Slim is playing, on Monday the 10th.

Silves Medieval Festival

The Medieval Festival in Silves starts at 8th of August. Till the 16th of August, from 7pm the historic town of Silves, steps back to the 12th, 13th and 14th centuries.

The streets of the historic town centre will be bustling with life, exuding a distinctive atmosphere in a unique setting and environment. Along the city’s streets, alleyways, cul-de-sacs and corners, visitors will encounter typical scenes from everyday medieval life.

Beggars, travelling musicians, jugglers, exotic characters and processions of wealthy citizens are just some of the attractions that await you in this journey to the past.

And then we have the greatest Sardine Festival at the riverside of Portimao. If you are anywhere on the Western side of the Algarve in August (7 to 16th of August) then don’t miss the Sardine Festival in Portimão!

Portimão is recognised as the Sardine Capital of the Algarve!

This event is well attended by Portuguese and tourists alike and is organised by the local council. Apart from sardines there will be other Portuguese culinary delights and plenty of good wine and
beer! There will also be music concerts & fireworks. The event takes place in the Riverside/Quayside from 6PM with the concerts starting at 10PM.

Click here for more info.

Rent a holiday home in Medeival style

It is all happening in the Algarve!Don’t you have a holiday accommodation yet, please check our website and contact me for the best prices for the best quality rental properties in the Algarve.

If you do not want to miss our special offers, Things to do in the Algarve, and information about the Algarve, subscribe to our blog, and you will miss never miss it.

Warm Regards,

Michele

Food Festivals in the Algarve this Summer

Grilled Sardines


Three festivals across the Algarve will be celebrating food this summer. Algarve Housing rent villas with private pools in the Algarve. Enjoy nice food and top villas in Portugal.

Private Villa with Pool in the Algarve

The Portimao Sardine Festival on the riverside area will have grilled sardines on the menu from August 7 to 16, while the Olhao Seafood Festival (better known as festival do mariscos) from August 10 to 5 will be presenting visitors with all types of seafood dishes, from boiled prawns and seafood rice to feijoada de buzios (bean stew with sea snails) and crabs. Both events have a varied programme of entertainment planned, including live concerts and street theatre. From September 2 to 6, chefs will be showing off their cooking skills at Vilamoura Marina during the Cataplana Experience festival.

Cataplana


Cataplana is a typical Portuguese dish of either seafood, fish, meat or vegetables, cooked using special cookware, traditionally made of copper. Cookery courses for visitors who would like to learn to use a cataplana will be held during the festival.

For more information about the food festivals or special villas for rent in the Algarve, contact me.

You want to keep updated about Things to do in the Algarve, Special Offers, information about the Algarve and the villas of Algarve Housing, subscribe to our blog.

Warm Regards,

Michele

Things To Do In The Algarve For Coming Week

Algarve Housing rent special villa’s in the Algarve. Are you staying in the Algarve, live here or planning to enjoy the sun, sea and sand coming week in Portugal, then read this article for things to do! Are you bored of the rain at home, get a last minute plane, and enjoy the Algarve! Check out our website for nice places to stay.

Here you find a list with some highlights for the coming week:

22-26 July

Al-Buhera Festival

Multi cultural festival in centre of Albufeira

City Center and Av. Sá Carneiro, Albufeira

Click here for more information.

24-27 July

Carnival de Bahia, Portimao, Riverfront


25 July, 10 pm

Al di Meola World Sinfonia

Monumento Duarte Pacheco, Loulé

At 15º Festival Internacional de Jazz de Loulé

Click here for more information.

You don’t know who is Al Di Meola, check out this You Tube video:


29 July, 9.30 pm

Gilberto Gil and Martinho da Vila

Estádio São Luís, Faro

Click here for more information.


And a You Tube Video of Gilberto Gil:


31 July, 10 pm

Joss Stone

Monumento Duarte Pacheco, Loulé

Click here for more information.

31 July to 2 August

1000 km’s Le
Mans Series

Autódromo Internacional do Algarve, Portimão

Click here for more information


1 August, 10 pm

Seal

CS Herdade dos Salgados Resort, Albufeira

Click here for more information



Next week we will inform you, among others, about the Medieval Festival in Silves that starts the 8th of August till the 16th.

If you don’t want to miss anything, please subscribe to our blog. Apart from things to do in the Algarve, we inform you as well about our new villa’s we rent, Special offers and information about the Algarve.

Contact me for more information.

Warm Regards,

Michele

Music in the Algarve

Cesaria Evora

It is summer in the Algarve, and that means there will be great artists performing! We give you a list of a few coming up this summer in the Algarve. If you have not rent a villa yet, to enjoy this music in the Algarve, check out our website.

22 July, 10.30 pm
Cesária Évora
From the Cape Verde, this fantastic singer, always smoking on stage, but a great voice and fantastic music! Watch the video below! Fishermen’s beach Albufeira, entrance:FREE!

Part of tHe Al-buhera Festival which take place form 22 till 26 of July in Albufeira.
Don’t miss the chance to visit Albufeira. The Al’Buhera Festival is an entirely different kind of event, offering you 5 nights of great cultural enrichment.

A multicultural city like Albufeira fully deserves a festival of this nature – a handicraft fair with more than 50 stallholders, regional confectionery and gastronomy from other countries, all help to make this festival even more appealing.

Avenida Sá Carneiro will also be the setting for street entertainment every
night from 20.00 to midnight.

To make sure that everyone can have the chance to discover Al’Buhera, guided
tours of the city centre will be offered between 20.00 and midnight, and a shuttle service will also be provided, linking all the different venues of the Al-Buhera Festival.
Stage
Praça Pescadores, 10.30 pm

22 – Cesária Évora – Cape Verde
23 – Kumpanhia Algazarra – Portugal
24 – Natiruts – Brazil
25 – Aswad – Caribbean | U.K.
26 – Amália Hoje – Portugal

Stage Eng. Duarte Pacheco, 9 pm

22 – Eduardo Ramos
23 – Lume
24 – Bossa Nossa
25 – Raspect
26 – Banda Alhada

The following events coming up, and we will publish more information closer to date, for now to put in your diary:

29 July, 9.30 pm
Gilberto Gil and Martinho da Vila
Estádio São Luís, Faro
Price: €10 / €25 vip area with access to open bar

31 July, 10 pm
Joss Stone
Monumento Duarte Pacheco, Loulé
Price: €25 and €30

1 August, 10 pm

Seal

CS Herdade dos Salgados Resort, Albufeira

Price: €30/€35

10-15 August, every day from 19.30

Festival do Mariscos – Olhoa

With great artist, among others Brazillian singer Danielle Mercury (14 August)
Price: €8

14 August, 10 pm
Mariza and Guest
Zona Ribeirinha, Vila Real de Sto. António
Price: €15 and €20

15 August, 10.30 pm
Roger Hodgson – the Voice of Supertramp
Marina de Albufeira, Albufeira

18 August, 10 pm
Abba Gold
Vila Sol Algarve – A Renaissance Spa & Golf Resort, Vilamoura
Price: €25 / €60 with dinner (ticket with dinner available only at the venue)

Ticket sales:Ticketline network
www.ticketline.pt, FNAC,
Worten, Forum Algarve Faro
Reservations: T. 00351 707 234 234

You want to be updated of all this fantastic music events this summer in the Algarve, please subscribe to our blog, and you will never miss anything!

You can contact me for more information.

Warm Regards,
Michele

Algarve, new villa for rent with stunning views


Algarve Housing has a new house on their list: Casa Odelouca, is a new built, just finished villa (July 2009), located between Silves and Portimao, with stunning views over the river Arade. The holiday home is furnished and decorated in a modern style, with the use of warm colours and lots of taste! On top of a hill, overlooking the River Arade, a gorgeous L-shape pool with infinity edge, with lush ‘vistas’!

The villa has an en-suite double bedroom; the bath room has a large walk-in shower, with ‘rain’ shower head. The second bedroom has twin beds and bathroom with bath and shower. Adjacent to this room is a room with another two beds, with own entrance, but need to share the bathroom of the twin bedroom. The lounge has a double sofa bed for extra guests. So Casa Odelouca sleeps comfortable 4, but can have guests up to 8.


Peace and quiet, that’s what you get here, but it is only 10 minutes drive to Silves, and 15/20 minutes to Portimao where you can find nice white, sandy beaches of Praia da Rocha, Feragudo and Alvor.

Prices: ask for quote for your party! We can make you a nice price!

Click below for picture gallery:

PHOTOGALLERY

The Arade River is the jewel of this region, and for centuries, it has given
substance to its people. One of the nice activities or things you can do here is take a boat ride to Silves, travelling down the entire Arade River. This river is one of Algarve’s last natural treasures.

The Estuary de Arade is a protected zone that is surrounded by wetlands where you will see lots of seabirds, and other species in this marvellous
natural environment
. Inside this Estuary, there is also a fishing port.

Algarve Housing, rents villa’s in the Algarve, all special, with private pool and garden, and never more then 30 minutes drive to the coast.

Please contact me for more information about Casa de Odelouca,
or other villa’s we rent.

Did you enjoy this information? Would you like not to miss any of the new villa’s for rent in the Algarve, why not subscribe to our blog? We keep you updates about Special Offers, Things to do In the Algarve and much more….

Warm Regards,


Michele

Dance of the Bears in the Algarve


Algarve Housing likes to inform you about a very special event:

The Dance of the Bears show.

Inspired by the Buddy Bears exhibition in Berlin in 2002, Karl Heinz Stock has coordinated the works of a team of sculptors and artists of the Algarve to develop his own Dance of the Bears show.

In 2008 Karl Heinz Stock and his team of sculptures and crafts people began creating virtually life size sculptures of bears.

The concept behind the show is described by Karl Heinz Stock as one of “Evolution” and 15 painters and mosaic artists decorated the life sized bear sculptures within this abstract theme.


The bears will be on show the 11 of July till 23rd of July at ‘Praia dos Pescadores, (Fishermen’s beach) Carvoeiro. The opening starts at 7pm with a wine tasting, music and entertainment!


“The Bear awakes in the spring after his long Sleep”

Since the beginning of time bears captured man imagination, in many civilizations bears often were represented in art, as a symbol strength, and capacity of adaptation to changes. Mankind and art have moved on from the ancient concepts of its early age. Many years have passed and the bear still sparkles as a symbol in modern society for is endurance, perseverance, and capacity of having adapting, characteristics that we humans aspire and admire.

In most fairy tales and expressions bears are still venerated both by their physical strength and their big heart (a good example for this is the Russian Bear: very strong but nevertheless a soft heart).

We needed a medium to transform two-dimensional paintings into a three dimensional object. The medium had to be the same for everybody to ensure the same “starting positions”. It could have been something neutral like a square, a triangle or a sphere, which would have been a kind of three dimensional canvas. Or –as happened before- more individualised animals like a dolphin, a penguin, a cow or also a bear (Berlin Buddy Bears).


“I have decided to use a bear in his normal habitual position”. The bear itself is not directly the theme of the exhibition but more the medium to transfer and translate the message to the viewers. Nevertheless the characteristics of a bear and the myth surrounding him can be integrated into the final artwork (immense strength combined with cautiousness, he will always prefer to trick an opponent in his tracks instead of attacking, he is actually less aggressive than humans, prudent behaviour, high ability to adapt to different surroundings and situations, eagerness to migrate, multicultural; big heart.

The physiognomy of the sculpture has been kept purposely relative discreet in order to present a wide scope for development of the finalising artist’s expression.

Don’t miss this special event Saturday 11th of July at Carvoeiro Beach; every single bear has his own decoration, by 15 different artists from the Algarve.


There will be about 20 bears, something different! Every artist has given their special theme to the bear.

For further information about the Dance of the Bears, please call 00351 282 381 025 or 00351 919766565

Algarve Housing will inform you about special things to do in the Algarve. If you have an event to promote, let us know, and if you don’t want to miss out, please subscribe to our news blog.

Warm Regards,

Michele

Algarve, Events you cannot miss this Summer!

It is summer in the Algarve, and there is lots of things to do you cannot miss. Algarve Housing rents special villa’s in the Algarve and will inform you about things to do and not to be missed.

7th INTERNATIONAL SAND SCULPTURE FESTIVAL in PERA
FIESA 2009 this years theme: “DISCOVERIES”

FIESA is a mega exhibition of sculpture in sand held since 2003 in Pera, Algarve. The festival is unique in the Iberian Peninsula and is considered the largest festival of sand sculpture in the world by the size of its sculptures and the area they occupy. In each new edition the exhibition is devoted to a different theme.

FIESA 2009 is a space where the discovery, the encounter and fun, co-exist in total harmony with the art, providing unforgettable moments. FIESA is shown to the public every day till 22 October from 10 am to midnight (from 22 September to 22 October from 10 am to 9 pm).

Due to the heat during the day in the summer, I recommend to visit the Fiesa at night, beautiful lit, stunning! There is a bar for drinks and food, music and entertainment events. Nice for both children and adults.

More information: http://www.fiesa.org/

10 July Esperanza Spalding – Sítio das Fontes, Lagoa

Esperanza Spalding is one of those rare examples of galloping success based on a genuine innate talent. Still only 24 years of age, she has received fulsome praise in the leading jazz magazines and at the same time seen the doors of many of the world’s most prestigious concert venues opening wide for her. All those who have seen her live version of the classic “Body and Soul” will confirm that the high energy and full commitment of her stage performance have helped them to discover the real essence of this jazz theme about the duality of human existence. A double-bass player and singer, Esperanza was to become the youngest ever teacher at the prestigious Berklee School of Music at the age of only 20…

Price: €20

Ticket sales:
Ticketline network
www.ticketline.pt, FNAC, Worten and Agências Abreu
Reservations: T. 00350 707 234 234
Notice: Tickets available at the venue only on the day of the concert (unless sold out).

Never heard of her, please check this video:

16 July, 10 pm

Glenn Miller Orchestra

Centro de Congressos do Arade . Algarve, Lagoa-Portimão

One of the world’s first truly great jazz idols, Glenn Miller was numbered amongst the great “monsters” of the swing period and became the leader of one of the most historical American big bands.

Do you remember his timeless hits as “In the Mood” or “Chattanooga Choo Choo”.

To refresh your mind:

Price: €20
Ticket sales:
www.blueticket.pt

Ticketline network
www.ticketline.pt, FNAC, Worten and Agências Abreu
Reservations: T. 00351 707 234 234

and at the concert venue:

Centro de Congressos do Arade . Algarve
Encosta do Arade, Parchal, Lagoa
T. +351 282 498 577
www.pavilhao-arade.com

18 and 19 July

Iberian Windsurfing Circuit Proam 09 (Lagos)

Meia Praia, Lagos

Officially recognised by the Spanish and Portuguese Windsurfing Federations, this circuit is considered to be the sport’s top competition in the Iberia Peninsula. It is certainly an event that has one of the highest numbers of participants, every year bringing new competitors and fans of this sport to the Algarve.

The three events held in the Algarve are all able to take advantage of the region’s exceptionally favourable conditions for windsurfing and extreme sports in general.

The event is open to all windsurfing enthusiasts, both professionals and amateurs alike.

This year’s entry is undoubtedly the strongest ever, and it promises to be the windsurfing event of the year!

18 and 19 July – Meia Praia, Lagos (Slalom)
14 to 16 August – Praia do Martinhal, Sagres (Slalom, Speed and Long Distance)

Did you enjoy this information? We will publish more information about What’s going on in the Algarve, things to do you cannot miss! Coming up is the Medeival Festival in Silves , Festival do Mariscos in Olhoa, both in August. Information about Dance Festivals, Gastronomic events, more Jazz and other music events and much, much more….

Algarve Housing rents special villa’s in the Algarve and will inform you about things to do and not to be missed. If you do not want to miss this information, please subscribe to our blog, and you will never miss things to do in the Algarve!

Warm Regards,

Michele

What’s on in the Algarve

Algarve Housing rent nice villa’s in the Algarve. Just recovering from the fantastic Festival Med, a five days world music festival in the Centre of Loule, that have attracted 25000 visitors! Don’t miss it next year! It is summer in the Algarve, and lots going on, we just give you a few tips for coming week:
Carvoeiro, till the 31st of August, Monte Santo will welcome the Belgian artist Michele Frederickx´s exhibit, entitled “Nature in Progress”. The Vermissage is scheduled for July 1st,at 6 p.m. and the painter will be on hand to share her inspirations with all guests. Admission to the event is free of charge and includes an enjoyable cocktail.
Call 00351 282 321 000 or visit: www.montesantoalgarve.com

Until 5 July – First gastronomic festival of seafood in Cacela, Vila Real de Santo Antonio. Special seafood and fish dishes on menus at participatin restaurants.

Call 00351 281 952 434


July 3-5 – Algarve classic cars event based at Tivoli Marinotel in Vilamoura. A total of 160 cars will be taking part in this event across the Algarve. For a full programme

visit: www.algarveclassiccars.com or call 00351 289 412 880/00 351 967 165 555


July 10 and 11 – Silves

Fashion weekend at Praca do Municipio de Silves from 10 pm. Catwalk shows with
clothing form local shops and young fashion designers.


July 11 – 25 July Dance of the bears exhibition will be exhibited at Praia do Carvoeiro. Inspired by the Buddy Bears exhibition in Berlin in 2002, Karl Heinz Stock has coordinated the works of a team of sculptors and artists to develop his own Dance of the Bears show. Free to visit. Call 00 351 282 431 036

July 4 – Café Ingles in Silves, Rua do Castelo. At 6 pm there is an opening of an art exhibition of Marion Riddering and sculptures of Petra van Allen . Plus wine tasting Barranco Longo. More information Silvio Silva: 00351 919 766 565



So, if you are on Holiday in Algarve staying at one of our properties or somewhere else we hope that you found this information useful. Why not subscribe to our blog tofind out more.

Warm Regards,

Michele

Pottery, Ceramics and Decorative Tiles in the Algarve.


Algarve Housing rents fantastic villas in the Algarve,
most of them are located inland, where you can enjoy ‘the real Algarve’,
but always less then 30 minutes to the beach. ‘The real Algarve’,
what is that? Among others Ceramics, pottery and decorative tiles!

Every region in Portugal has its own, distinctive style of pottery,
from the finest porcelain, produced in Vista Alegre in the north, to the
homely-style hand-painted pottery from the Algarve’s neighbouring province, the Alentejo.
Handicraft shops in the Algarve usually stock a variety of designs from other regions, as well as locally made pottery and the plain or simply decorated brown earthenware produced nation-wide. Small items make superb moments of your holiday; if
carefully packed they will arrive home in one piece! (I recommend transporting as hand luggage!) Candleholders and small plates, for example, can be purchased for a few euros. At the other end of
the scale the sky’s the limit. Many shops will arrange shipping of larger
items.


Ceramic production in the Algarve underwent a revival in the late
1960’s, when the late Patrick Swift, an artist of international repute, made a determined effort to preserve ancient Iberian and Moorish patterns on
hand-glazed pottery. Most commonly painted in shades of blue, green and turquoise, the designs are in a free-flowing style. Patrick Swift’s timing was spot on, coinciding with the advent of mass tourism
in the region. Visitors required then, as they do now, souvenirs typical of the area and the pottery industry flourished. The EN125 (main road that goes along the coast of the Algarve, from Sagres (most west) till Villa Real the St Antonio (most east) is festooned with handicraft shops along its length. The best quality is to be found near Porches (a few kilometres east of Lagoa), where members of Swift’s family still run the
olaria (pottery) he established. Cheaper and more mass-produced handicraft products are sold in roadside ‘artesanato’ shops. Souvenir shops in resorts also stock ranges of pottery.



Ceramic tiles are a specialist area of the industry, introduced to Iberia by the Moors and, by the 18th century, produced in greater quantities in Portugal than anywhere else in Europe. The facades of many traditional houses are fully tiled (a long-lasting, low-maintenance alternative to paint) but individual decorative panels, comprising any number of tiles from four upwards, are more in vogue today.

Would you enjoy ‘the real Algarve’ and its nice, cheap pottery, and watch those beautiful tiled with Ceramic, buildings? Have a look at our website, for special villa’s for rent in the Algarve.

You can contact me for more information. Subscribe to our blog to keep updated about Things to do in the Algarve, Special Offers, new villa’s we take on and more.

Warm Regards,

Michele