Insiders Guide to Top 5 Algarve Adventure Holidays

Flights are booked, you are in the process of looking at a cheap Algarve holiday villa but what to do once you reach your destination? Whether you have been to the Algarve before or are a complete newbie to the area, apart from the obvious days at the beach, hours lazing by the holiday villa pool or a round on the golf course, check the out the latest top five adventure holiday ideas.

Dolphin Tour and Caves

Taking to the sea allows Algarve visitors the perfect opportunity to see dolphins at play in the wild. Despite no guarantee of any sighting, these curious and beautiful creatures are not ones shy away from a chance to entertain willing onlookers with their playful antics. The warm waters of the Portuguese coastline the backyard of many a school of dolphins it is more than likely that visitors will come away with some fantastic photos. With several options of dolphin tours, one the most highly recommended comes complete with a tour of Albufeira caves, a series of natural and beautiful structures.  Perfect for all ages, any of the dolphin and caves tours make for a wonderful day out.

Catamaran Cruises

What better day off than a relaxing cruise along the shores of the Portuguese coastline. With lunch included and a stop at a scheduled beach a catamaran cruise is the best way to explore what the Algarve coast has to offer. Boasting some of the biggest caves and tunnels in Europe and stunning rock formations, there will much to see. Return to shore and spruce up at a luxury holiday villa ready for an evening out on the town.

Guadiana River Boat Cruise

For something really different why not sail the beautiful scenic Guadiana River and stop at the quaint and timeless village Foz de Odeleite or take the River Arade and head to the ancient Moorish town of Silves. Food and entertainment is provided along the way leaving nothing but getting to the meeting point to worry about. Enjoy views of the stunning and untouched Portuguese countryside, a perfect opportunity for flora and fauna enthusiasts to enjoy a spot of bird watching. There a number of companies offering a selection of riverboat cruise packages so be such to find the one that best suits your budget.

Faro City Tour

Built in the 13^th century, there is plenty to see in Faro and often requires a full day. Whether you hire a car or join an organized tour, some of the Faro must-sees include: the marina, old town, Arco da Vila and the Sé Cathedral, Capela dos Ossos (Bone Chapel), Archaeological Museum and the Teatro Lethes among other sites. Sight seeing in hot spring and summer months can be tiring work so be sure to plan your day before you go with regular pit stops for refreshments. If taking an organised took, look to really get your money’s worth with a tour that also includes other historic places such as the Moorish town of Olhao and beautiful town of Tavira.

Deserta Island

Also known as Barreta, Deserted Island or Santa Maria Cape Island, this small island is offers some of the purest and most pristine beaches in the Algarve.  Only 11 km wide, there is only one restaurant but despite being uninhabited it is not totally deserted, the Animaris beach offering deck chairs and awnings along with a handful of water sports. Enjoy a day of pure tranquility away from the busier more crowded summer beaches. A public ferry departs every day from Porta Nova Pier in Faro so getting there is easy and extremely affordable.

Relax in the shelter of your luxury Algarve villa upon your return or pick up sample of local food and wine for an evening soiree under the stars. With plenty to keep you busy, the Algarve is a wonderful place for a romantic getaway weekend or a family week of fun.

For up to date availability and further self-catering accommodation options in the Algarve, call Premier Holidays on 0800 047 0400 or visit http://www.premier-holidays.com.

Culinary Offerings in the Algarve Region

For avid foodies and those who love to cook up a storm in the kitchen, choosing a holiday destination can often hinge on the culinary offerings available. Those with a palate for frogs and snails would opt for France, whilst fans of spaghetti and pizza would head straight for the ristorantes of Italy. The Algarve, Portugal’s southernmost region, has a vibrant and exciting food industry, offering the traditional tourist fare as well as regional dishes and a delectable variety of Portuguese wine. Birthplace of ‘piri-piri’ chicken, home to the typical Algarvian dish, couvert, and with a thriving fishing and fruit-picking industry, the Algarve is one of the premier spots in Europe to enjoy fine food.

The farming of fruit and goods such as orange, strawberries, cork ark, carob beans and figs is essential to the Algarve economy. Many acres of land throughout the region are covered in greenhouses, as the southernmost tip of the country provides the perfect weather conditions to facilitate the growth of many of these fruits and foods. Figs are especially popular in Portugal, with Portuguese fig cake a highlight of the region’s culinary offerings. Orange rolls and orange cakes are also sold in many of the bakeries, both in larger resorts or in the quaint villages closer to luxury Algarve villas. Many of these residences are self-catering, so picking up some ingredients and attempting to replicate a local delicacy is encouraged!

Also crucial to the area’s economy is wine; grapes grown and wine made in this region are a huge export. Many tourists flock to the region every year to enjoy exclusive wine-tasting tours and to stay in the vicinity of some of the most beautiful vineyards in the world. Even Cliff Richard has chosen this region to produce his own tipple; his vineyard and occasional home is situated in the small town of Tavira, which is located within the vicinity of many luxury Algarve holiday villas in Guia.

Of course, no summary of the Algarve’s delicacies and major food exports would be complete without the now famous ‘piri-piri’ chicken. This dish can now be found everywhere within the Algarve, from the expensive restaurants located in plush resorts, to the local takeaways and eateries located near Algarve holiday villas and secluded getaways. The spicy flavour is beloved in this region and can easily be found or attempted at home.

Self-catering Algarve Villas Offer the Perfect Respite For Honeymooners

As all too many newly wed couples will attest to, planning a wedding can be a stressful and lengthy process. The few weeks prior to the wedding, which require finalising details with caterers, creating seating plans, going to dress fittings and making last minute changes to the guest count amongst a hoard of other things, is the most exhausting time of all. Even when family and friends have pitched in to help, the appeal of a quiet honeymoon starts to mean even more. With guaranteed magnificent sunsets, fabulous cuisine and heaps of sun, sea and sand, self-catering Algarve holiday villas make for the perfect honeymoon destination.

A honeymoon is a time for rest and relaxation, an important recuperation period. Where budget and quality time together are two of the main factors to take into consideration when booking the holiday, self-catering accommodation is the perfect fit.

Relaxing in the peace and quiet of a spacious luxury villa with private garden and private pool is a wonderful way to chill out after a busy wedding. Add into the equation romantic candle-lit dinners in the hot summer evenings, lazy days by the pool and an excursion or two to discover the Algarve’s beautiful coastline and a self-catering villa holiday in the Algarve suddenly starts to tick all the right boxes.

Without breaking the bank, the Algarve’s popular self-catering resorts offers the luxury that even 5 star hotels just can’t beat; the privacy and the freedom to do whatever, whenever. Midnight dips in the pool, romantic star gazing from the patio; who could ask for more following the prolonged stress-infused lead up to the big day?

The Algarve features everything any honeymoon couple could possibly ask for in one place. Suiting all personality types, the Algarve offers a wonderful variety of activities from eco-tourism, sunbathing and shopping to sports, adventure tours and plenty of sightseeing. Returning in the evening to a comfortable luxury villa with the option of dinning in or dinning out, a self-catering Algarve villa allows a couple to really balance out their holiday while helping to keep the budget in check.

With villas of all sizes and prices to suit all budgets, honeymooners will easily find themselves adapting to laid back Portuguese lifestyle filled with afternoon naps and sunset walks on the beach.

Algarve Self-Catering Resorts Provide Perfect Destination Wedding Location

Getting married abroad is a dream come true for many a bride and groom. Blessed by the warmth of the sun, beautiful blue skies and idyllic sea views framed by a palm tree or two; a destination wedding can be a wonderful start to married life. Within easy flying distance of the UK, the sparking blue waters and golden sandy beaches of the Algarve eagerly beckon and a destination wedding quickly turns from a far off dream into a near-at-hand reality. With this area of Portuguese coast line a popular self catering resort with holiday makers and brides world wide, there are always plenty of Algarve holiday villas from which to take your pick.

Choosing a wedding venue in the Algarve will leave any bride spoilt for choice. From specialised wedding venues, to country clubs, classy beachside restaurants and two world-class golf courses with sea views, there is something to suit every taste and budget.

Being in such close proximity to a range of amenities the Vale do Lo Lobo villas and those of Quinta dos Almos, Quinta do Lago, Dunas Dorads, Vale do Lobo, Lagos and Albuferia are particularly favourable choices for the almost newlyweds and their family and friends. Offering the best of all worlds, couples can say their “I Do’s” on a pristine golf green overlooking the sea, celebrate their nuptials in pure fine dinning style at a top notch restaurant and take their first photos as a married couple on the nearby beach.

Planning a beach side wedding could also never be easier. With miles of beaches to choose from and stunning pirate-like coves tucked away from the busier areas, brides could not hope for a more picture perfect site for their wedding. Making an entrance by boat and approaching the ceremony site from around the cliff face is only one of the many ways in which to wow your guests and surprise your groom.

A big part of a wedding is the exciting lead up. With restaurants, bars, shops and a range of outdoor activities there is plenty in and around any one of the self-catering holiday villa resorts in the Algarve to keep wedding guests thoroughly entertained. Whether it is organising group activities or leaving everyone to wander out on their own, there will be something to please everyone of every age.

Self-catering holiday villas in the Algarve can sleep anywhere from 4 up to 10 or even 12 people. Working out cheaper per person than the price of a hotel per night, a bride and groom can easily help keep costs down and easily make a wedding day turn into a week. Where budget is a particularly big concern, a destination wedding is also the perfect way in which to limit the guest list.

For up to date availability and further self-catering accommodation options in the Algarve, call Premier Holidays on 0800 047 0400 or visit http://www.premier-holidays.com.

Cut Time Browsing For Holidays: Find Guaranteed Quality With Premier Holidays

More than a fifth of those working in the UK have admitted to planning and booking their holidays online whilst they are pretending to be working. Conducting their holiday research under their boss’ nose is a popular activity for 21% of those in the UK’s offices and workplaces, with just 4% claiming that their boss was aware of their activity as they browsed for the best deals. Respondents also stated that they spent around two hours of company time planning their next getaway; risky business if caught but ultimately rewarding when relaxing on a beach six months later.

For those who are concerned about wasting company time or being caught by eagle-eyed bosses while they search, booking a holiday which will guarantee them high-quality and a wonderful break is essential. Premier Holidays can help to save holidaymakers costly browsing hours; their extensive database has a stunning collection of Algarve holiday villas which are certain to provide a luxurious and conveniently-placed base for a Mediterranean break.

The Algarve is one of the most popular tourist areas in Europe, but also possesses a number of quaint seaside towns and coastline towns which are perfect for the quieter trips. The exciting resorts of Albufeira and Vilamoura are ideal for family getaways, with a wealth of activities for children to enjoy, and golf clubs, spas and wonderful beachside views for the adults. The countryside in the eastern region of the Algarve is full of traditional Portuguese markets and bustling town centres, while the dramatic cliffs of Carvoeiro boast some of the most spectacular scenery on the continent. Time spent on workplace computers avidly researching the hotspots of an area can be avoided; all of the Algarve has something to offer.

All of the self-catering Algarve villas are located in close proximity to these fantastic sights and attractions, whilst maintaining an air of seclusion and privacy. Many are in gated communities to cater for the more safety-conscious families with younger children, and some of the more remote properties can house up to 16 people, making group holidays a distinct possibility.

Each luxury Algarve villa has a living room area furnished to a high standard, with varying numbers of bedrooms, most with respective bathrooms or en suites. Stunning fitted kitchens allow holidaymakers to be truly self-catering and take charge of their own meals, cutting out work time wasted spent on review websites reading about tummy upsets caused by hotel buffets or meals. Outside dining areas are included with most properties for sunset dinner parties, and many have private or shared pools with optional heating.

For up to date late availability in the Algarve, call Premier Holidays on 0800 047 0400 or visit http://www.premier-holidays.com.

Premier Holidays Offer an Insiders Guide to Booking an Algarve Holiday Villa

If you’re about to book a self-catering Algarve holiday villa, the following handy tips will help you find the perfect accommodation.

Budget:

Budget is key in determining length of stay and size of holiday let. The budget must be carefully considered before any pennies are allocated to accommodation in order to determine what is and isn’t affordable.  This will make choosing easier as it will automatically rule out some options while offering up others. Dividing up the holiday budget and sticking to it, is really the only way to avoid over spending. Allocating a set amount of the budget to accommodation will also make it clear how much is left for daytime and evening activities in order to budget for holiday outings.

Food:

Self-catering accommodation is just that, self-catering. Unlike a hotel or B&B, very few holiday villas will include a breakfast option so food and dinning expenses must be taken into account. This being said, it is important to look at distances to and from local amenities if car rental is not being considered. All holiday villas come complete with decently sized, fully fitted kitchens and outdoor terraces offer the perfect opportunity for relaxed al fresco dining.

Location:

Choose accommodation according to the type of holiday you and your loved ones want to take. If romping around the countryside and exploring inland villages in a budget rental car sounds like fun, a villa with ample street or private parking is a must. The flexibility of a having a car also means that cheaper Algarve holiday villas located outside popular resort areas can come into consideration. Those merely wanting to stay in the area and don’t wish to rent a car will need to look at the walking distance to and from shops, restaurants and other facilities they would like to use. Booking a lovely villa without checking location may land tourists in a sticky situation and having to splash out on a rental car or taxi fares that they didn’t expect to have to do.

Cleaning Services

Not all holiday lets offer a cleaning or maid service so it is always best to check, and when in doubt, confirm ahead of time. Large families or those staying longer than a week would particularly benefit from having such a service several times a week. Although such service can sometimes be arranged for an additional fee even if not offered, if there is a villa that has already found its way into your heart but could be the deciding factor, it is worth asking.

Internet, Telephone and TV

Never take such amenities for granted. If being connected with the world while away from home is of importance, don’t neglect to check up on such details. It may be that additional charges apply which need to be added into the all-important budget.

Privacy

Premier Holidays ensure that all properties are listed accurately but to avoid misunderstandings, the Algarve holiday villa experts advise to always read the small print. Knowing whether or not a holiday villa comes complete with a private or communal swimming pool and garden is key to securing a villa that best suits personal requirements. Tourists who merely prefer to take a dip in the sea, may want to consider cheaper townhouse accommodation with no additional pool or garden facilities.

For up to date availability and further self-catering accommodation options in the Algarve, call Premier Holidays on 0800 047 0400 or visit http://www.premier-holidays.com.

Premier Holidays Offer an Insiders Guide to Booking an Algarve Holiday Villa

If you’re about to book a self-catering Algarve holiday villa, the following handy tips will help you find the perfect accommodation.

Budget:

Budget is key in determining length of stay and size of holiday let. The budget must be carefully considered before any pennies are allocated to accommodation in order to determine what is and isn’t affordable.  This will make choosing easier as it will automatically rule out some options while offering up others. Dividing up the holiday budget and sticking to it, is really the only way to avoid over spending. Allocating a set amount of the budget to accommodation will also make it clear how much is left for daytime and evening activities in order to budget for holiday outings.

Food:

Self-catering accommodation is just that, self-catering. Unlike a hotel or B&B, very few holiday villas will include a breakfast option so food and dinning expenses must be taken into account. This being said, it is important to look at distances to and from local amenities if car rental is not being considered. All holiday villas come complete with decently sized, fully fitted kitchens and outdoor terraces offer the perfect opportunity for relaxed al fresco dining.

Location:

Choose accommodation according to the type of holiday you and your loved ones want to take. If romping around the countryside and exploring inland villages in a budget rental car sounds like fun, a villa with ample street or private parking is a must. The flexibility of a having a car also means that cheaper Algarve holiday villas located outside popular resort areas can come into consideration. Those merely wanting to stay in the area and don’t wish to rent a car will need to look at the walking distance to and from shops, restaurants and other facilities they would like to use. Booking a lovely villa without checking location may land tourists in a sticky situation and having to splash out on a rental car or taxi fares that they didn’t expect to have to do.

Cleaning Services

Not all holiday lets offer a cleaning or maid service so it is always best to check, and when in doubt, confirm ahead of time. Large families or those staying longer than a week would particularly benefit from having such a service several times a week. Although such service can sometimes be arranged for an additional fee even if not offered, if there is a villa that has already found its way into your heart but could be the deciding factor, it is worth asking.

Internet, Telephone and TV

Never take such amenities for granted. If being connected with the world while away from home is of importance, don’t neglect to check up on such details. It may be that additional charges apply which need to be added into the all-important budget.

Privacy

Premier Holidays ensure that all properties are listed accurately but to avoid misunderstandings, the Algarve holiday villa experts advise to always read the small print. Knowing whether or not a holiday villa comes complete with a private or communal swimming pool and garden is key to securing a villa that best suits personal requirements. Tourists who merely prefer to take a dip in the sea, may want to consider cheaper townhouse accommodation with no additional pool or garden facilities.

For up to date availability and further self-catering accommodation options in the Algarve, call Premier Holidays on 0800 047 0400 or visit http://www.premier-holidays.com.

The Algarve: One Of The Continent’s Premier Surfing Spots

Portugal has long since been one of the premier destinations to head for clad in a wetsuit with a surfboard tucked securely under one arm. That status as one of the world’s top surfing hotspot was cemented this week as Hawaiian surfer Garrett McNamara rode a wave that was reported to have been 100ft high just off the coast of the country. For budding enthusiasts not quite ready to scale the heights of the gargantuan waves like the experts, the Algarve is an ideal holiday destination.

The stunning southern region of Portugal does not experience the heady and often terrifyingly tall waves which hit the west coast of the country; the further away from the Atlantic Ocean, the smaller the waves become at the shore. These more sedate and less dangerous waves are perfect for total newcomers to learn a new skill and for amateur to hone the skills they already possess. Scores of surfing schools operate up and down the miles of sandy beaches and cliffs which line the Algarve, and they attract thousands of visitors every year, from families to groups of friends, and from couples seeking a fun activity to individuals searching for an adrenaline rush. Many opt to secure an Algarve holiday villa in one of the nearby resort towns, just a short drive from the coast, so they can enjoy their recovery time in peace after a day out riding the waves.

The Algarve is also a great place to try out other water-sports, for those who have mastered surfing and wish for a new challenge. Kite-surfing and wakeboarding classes and instruction are available and there are separate lessons for younger participants and adults, making the Algarve a wonderful venue for a family holiday. Accommodation is plentiful in the area, with a range of self-catering Algarve villas available with beautiful mountainside views, private pools and easy access to beaches and amenities.

There are even some schools and camps which devote time not only to surfing but to other fitness activities such as yoga and pilates, prompting many people to choose the Algarve as a health and wellbeing destination. The multitude of spas in the region offer a chance for relaxation and detox, while the peaceful and secluded Algarve villas dotted around the countryside are removed from hectic holiday resorts and offer privacy and tranquillity. As one of Europe’s premier surfing destinations, the Algarve offers something for everyone, whether they are beginners or experts, seeking fun or adventure.

For up to date late availability in the Algarve, call Premier Holidays on 0800 047 0400 or visit http://www.premier-holidays.com.