quinta do lago, santa barbara de nexe, vacation apartment algarve, holiday villa portugal, golf, tennis, quality, pool, continent, beach, stay,

It's Portugal, but with a difference. Northerners think of their laid-back southern cousins as almost a race apart, and in many respects they're right. The Algarve was long a disputed territory and whilst the Moors finally relinquished this beautiful land they left behind a powerful influence on the culture. Today this translates into the familiar image of the languid, whitewashed villa, or a graceful Moorish curve embellishing a window or chimney, bestowing the relaxed elegance that gives the Algarve its indisputable style. Of course there is so much more that makes it special. Unique beaches; an azure sea that is a sheltered and privileged corner of the Atlantic, and reminds us of how the Mediterranean should be; a climate that rarely lets you down; and both charm and sophistication - which Uma Casa Portuguesa brings to you combined.

Local Gastronomy Fish soups Fish and Seafood 'Ameijoas na Cataplana' Tuna cooked in onions Sweets; fig, almond and egg sweets

Festivities Loule Carnival Procession of Nossa Senhora da Piedade or Mãe Soberana - Loule, May Senhora do Carmo Fair - July Senhora dos Martires Fair - Castro Marim, August Algarve Folk Music and Dance Festval - various locations, September Santa Iria Fair - Faro, October October Fair - Monchique Handicrafts Wicker works, copper and tin items, straw hats and baskets, wooden craftwork, ceramics. : Another resort of distinction, is notable for its four golf courses, as well as other fine leisure facilities. lt is also the site of the Ria formosa wildlife sanctuary - indeed the beach is accessed by a wooden bridge spanning a lagoon that forms part of the sanctuary.

Vale do Lobo: A most exclusive area, known for its splendid residences, golf course and superb beach with attendant waterfront restaurant.

Faro: The capital of the Algarve and site of the international Airport, Faro is surrounded by a medieval wall, part of its heritage as defender of the region. Today it is still the site of a large number of monuments, churches and other items of historical interest.

Portimão: One of the Algarve's principal fishing towns, Portimão is set on an estuary and commands one of the most strategic points of access along the Algarve coast. Of course watersport, and especially fishing, including game fishing, are high on the agenda of activities.

Lagos: Principally a resort town towards the west of the Algarve, Lagos has a pleasant relaxed atmosphere much appreciated by the visitor. The central old town is off limits to traffic and plays host to many little bars and cafes.