Plan An Easter Break To Portugal’s Algarve

Easter is just a few more weeks away; chocolate eggs have been in shops since Valentine’s Day ended and schools are just days away from breaking up for a long holiday. If the idea of spending the Easter break in England keeping the children entertained does not appeal, why not join the many families who will be heading to Portugal’s Algarve region this Easter? Premier Holidays are one of the top choices for those looking to rent a holiday villa and their selection of stunning holiday homes in the south of Portugal will certainly be able to cater to every family’s needs.

In close proximity to some of the best family attractions in the Algarve, Casa Prado is the ideal choice for the parents looking for ways in which to keep their little ones entertained, sleeping up to 8 people (6 adults and 2 children). The Aqualand Water Park and the Zoomarine Theme Park are both located nearby, with the opportunity to swim with dolphins also on offer; an activity for kids and adults alike to enjoy. The elegantly decorated villa features a gated swimming pool, perfect for those with younger children, and also has access to community parkland. In the surrounding villages, holidaymakers will find a cinema (showing many films in English), golf courses and some of the most impressive beaches Portugal has to offer, many with Blue Flag status.

Villa Vanessa is a spacious three-bedroom villa, with a terrace, gardens and a communal pool. It is located near to the trendy resort of Vilamoura, where excursions include dolphin spotting and charter yachts for an excellent day out with the family. The Zoomarine Theme Park is also close by, with a multitude of rides and attractions guaranteed to tire out the children and ensure a peaceful Easter evening thereafter. The villa itself features a snooker table and television for evenings in, or alternatively the authentic restaurants of Vilamoura are just a short drive away.

For those with children who are keen adventurers and enjoy wildlife, the central Luz area’s coast is home to a wonderful fine, white sand, as well as numerous rock pools which fill twice a day with crabs and other sea creatures to be observed. Casa Caitlin sleeps 6 people and not only has a gated pool, but is also situated in a gated area, for extra security. The historic town of Lagos is a short drive away and features Grotto tours of hidden coves and caves, guided by local fisherman; perfect to unleash the explorer within.

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

Temperatures Expected To Soar This Summer In The Algarve After Record-Breaking 2012

Following recent news reports that 2011 was one of the three hottest years since 1931 and confirmation that annual temperatures are consistently rising above the average for the last 18 years, 2012 in the Algarve looks set to be a scorcher. With temperatures rivalling far-flung destinations, the European resort is a cost effective alternative to long haul holidays, making it vital to book early to avoid disappointment.

Whether you’re looking to soak up some culture, enjoy a few weeks on the beach or want an adventure-packed trip, the Algarve offers something for everyone. It was recently named by both TripAdvisor and the New York Times as a top destination for summer 2012, meaning there’s plenty to keep the whole family. Premier Holidays self-catering Algarve holiday villas offer the perfect base from which to explore all the Algarve has to offer this summer and as many properties include private pools, enjoying the sun-drenched days in total luxury is as easy as reserving your own sun lounger.

Several resort areas form the Algarve, all of which are popular holiday destinations in their own right with plenty of amenities and attractions for ages, tastes and budgets. For golfing holidays, the Algarve also boasts two stunning picture-postcard greens within easy driving distance of many of Premier Holidays self-catering villas. The Valle do Lobo holiday villas in particular occupy a prime location with many villas within walking distance of the golf club house.

Water sports are also easy to come by along the Portuguese coastline. Several Premier Holiday’s Algarve villas are within walking distance of a selection of water sport areas, marine tours, inviting beaches and a multitude of beachfront cafes and restaurants. With a buzzing nightlife, the beautiful villages of Lagos, nestled amongst the craggy Portuguese coast is a top choice. The beautiful Villa Nikita offers the perfect combination of coastal views, modern interior and a fantastic large terrace with a barbeque area for al-fresco dinning. Overlooking the small town of Luz, Villa Nikita is only a short distance from historic Lagos and the quaint fishing village, Burgau.

Slightly closer to Lagos is a wonderful older style Portuguese villa with picturesque views of the old walled town of Lagos and popular beach Praia da Luz. Sporting open plan interior design with comfortable furnishings and a fabulous pool area, Casa Ventana is a great option for large family groups.

If golfing and water sports aren’t your cup of tea, the extent of Algarve activities doesn’t end there.  The modern, stylish villa of Casa Potes is not only comfortably situated near both of the pristine golf courses but is within easy walking distance of the well-respected Tennis Academy and the hustle and bustle of Vale do Lobo’s main square, La Praca.  For beginners and advanced players, the Tennis Academy offers and lessons for all ages and levels. Host to the Masters Senior Tennis Tournament each summer it is always recommended to book early.

Situated within easy driving distance of the Lagos, Vilamoura and Vale do Lobo areas lies the  small town of Guia with the Zoo Marine theme park. Perfect for wiling away a hot summer’s day, the marine park offers a range of rides, sea-life shows and a wonderful opportunity to swim with dolphins. 

Conveniently located just outside the Vilamoura area and within a short driving distance of the Vale do Lobo and Quinta do Lobo resorts are several eye-catching villas. Villa Almendra is just one of many great self-catering options for a family holiday, within easy reach of several water parks as well as a selection of beautiful beaches.

For more information about any of these properties and to browse the full range of Algarve holiday villas from Premier Holidays, visit http://www.premier-holidays.com or tel 0800 047 0400. 

Golfing Holidays Top The List of Summer Travel Plans

Hitting the green is often high on the priority list for summer vacationers. With a reported increase of tourists trying their hand at a new sport or picking up their love of golf where they left off, golfing holiday packages are particularly popular. With golf courses and resorts popping up all over the European coastline, the Algarve is most certainly a favourite golfing destination. With a steady increase of golfing tourism, Premier Holidays offer a wide selection of  Algarve holiday villas within easy walking and driving distance of some of the area’s most prestigious courses.

Golfers heading to the Algarve are spoilt for choice when it comes to picking a beautiful spot to tee-off thanks to the abundance of world-class courses. A central location is a must making a Vale do Lobo villa or apartment a sensible base, thanks to its proximity to a number of courses as well as a delightful array of restaurants, shops and bars. A long time favourite with winter golfers, the Vale do Lobo area hosts the most prestigious of all the Algarve golf courses. Premier Holiday’s contemporary Algarve Villa Filomena sleeps up to 8 people and is within just a few minutes of the green. Providing accommodation for up to 12 people, Villa Alenia is an impressive property offering luxuorious interior design, a private indoor heated pool, sauna, mini gym and even table tennis and table football.

Within walking distance from both The Ocean and The Royal Algarve golf courses, Algarve villa, Vista Bonita stays true to its name with picture postcard views.

The golfing haven of Portugal’s premium holiday destination, the Algarve, Vale do Lobo is only a mere 20-30 minutes drive from Faro Airport. With frequent cheap flights to and from most UK airports and without the need to pay the extortionate costs of hotel stays, Premier Holiday’s Algarve holiday villas offer the perfect golfing get-away.

Offering the best of both shopping and golf, Villa Imaculada, with its wonderful sea views is just a few minutes from the Vale do Lobo shopping area, beachfront restaurants and the golf club house.  Easily sleeping 6 people, the property offers space to unwind after a long day on the golf course. Boasting a terrace perfect for evening drinks, a pool and the sea within a stone’s throw, Villa Imaculada is another great statement of the value-for-money Algarve holiday villas that Premier Holidays represents.

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

A Water Sport Enthusiast’s Dream Holiday, the Algarve Has It All

Braving the UK’s summer waters is not for the faint-hearted and even a water sport enthusiast may think twice before donning a wet suit.  Even during the milder temperatures that we all hope are just around the corner, the temperature of the UK’s seas may prove just a little too daunting. Heading to warmer climes is of course the perfect answer and with Portugal within easy travel distance, the Algarve tops the list of holiday destinations.  With cheap frequent flights to Portugal from the UK and great deals on Algarve holiday villas from self-catering specialist Premier Holidays, a week or two splashing around in warm waters is closer than you’d think.

Adventure water Sports holidays are great for all ages and standards and with something to suit all types of adrenaline seekers from the mild to the very brave, are the perfect way to keep the entire family entertained. Water sports above all, offer the perfect combination of sea, sun and sand while toning up a muscle or two and the beautiful, picturesque seaside holiday resort of Lagos is just the place. Offering a variety of water sport activities including surfing, kite surfing and wakeboarding, making a base near Lagos puts you close to the beach, lessons and waves as well as being centrally placed to explore the Algarve’s many other attractions.

With self-catering accommodation the most economic of options, finding somewhere to stay is easy and whether travelling with friends or family, renting a villa is a fantastic holiday. Just a short distance from Lagos and only 20 minutes from the airport, the popular resort area of Vilamoura offers ample choice. The Algarve Villa Jardin del Sol from Premier Holidays is a stunning property which sleeps up to 9 people.

For smaller groups, beautiful Villa Kierie in the Duna Dorada area and Villa Bronti in Quinta do Lago both 4 and are still within an easy driving distance of Lagos and other water sporting areas. They give easy access to the area’s many beautiful beaches including the popular water sports centre on the Quinta do Lago lake.

With plenty of places to relax, renting an Algarve villa for the duration of your stay gives the best of both worlds – the freedom to hit the waves as you please, ample space to relax and plenty of amenities within a few minutes walk or drive. With a myriad of restaurants and bars from which to watch the sun go down and enjoy a cocktail, a local beer and delicious sea food, the area around Lagos is great opportunity for families to get in some rest and relaxation without having to travel far or break the bank.

Offering much needed flexibility; self-catering is a popular choice for families or large groups of friends.  Boasting beautiful surroundings, stunning vistas, modern finishing’s and private pools, Premier Holidays has a range of self-catering Algarve holiday villas with late availability for a last minute getaway as well as a full brochure of accommodation for summer 2012.

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

The Algarve Hits Worldwide Top Holiday Destination List

Blue skies, blue seas and beautiful beaches sound almost too good to be true especially taking into account today’s economic climate and the fact that you really don’t have to travel too far afield to find it. Nestled into the stunning Portuguese coastline is the Algarve, a popular destination for anyone looking for some sun, sand and relaxation. 

Recently deemed one of the top places to visit in 2012 by popular travel website Trip Advisor and included in the Top 50 New York Times Places To See list, the picturesque seaside town of Lagos is the place to be this summer. A buzzing nightlife, great restaurants, quaint seaside cafes and a superb beach has launched Lagos into the spot light as Europe’s current hot spot.  With plenty of stunning Algarve villas for rent at affordable prices, it is advisable to book early and secure holiday plans.

For those who plan to bring the whole family, look no further than the likes of Villa Silvester or Casa Ventana – both gorgeous, luxurious properties that sleep up to eight people. Both of these beautiful Algarve holiday villas are located within a short driving distance of Lagos and boast picture postcard views of the surrounding area.

On the smaller end of the scale the Algarve holiday villa Casa Mimi is a two bedroom property that can sleep up to four. Not far from Lagos, it is situated in the popular resort of Vale do Lobo. Located within walking distance of the bustling shopping centre and the beach, Casa Mimi is a delightful option.

With Lagos and other popular Algarve destinations just around the corner there is plenty to occupy all the family whichever villa you choose. For the slightly more adventurous and the perfect choice for family outings, the Grotto Tour is a definite must. Leaving from Lagos Marina, the tour will take you on a wondrous discovery of the caves, coves and cliffs that line Portugal’s proud coastline.

Although summer is still months away, do not miss out on this perfect opportunity for a week or two of respite in the sun. Starting to plan for a well-deserved holiday break is never too early. With early bird booking prices on most Algarve holiday villas, it is most definitively the time to get in on a bargain and with plenty to do, see and eat, Lagos, Vale do Lobo and the surrounding area offer the perfect family holiday.

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

Beat the January blues with a bargain trip to the Algarve.

Bright blue skies, warm temperatures and cheery faces… If only England was like that in January! Now the festive season is over and people are back to work, things may feel a bit slow and dreary. It’s cold and wet here, with many people facing seasonal depression around this time of year but it’s warm and sunny right now in the Algarve, so for those who are suffering from those pesky winter blues, now is the perfect opportunity to plan a bargain trip to the stunning region of Algarve, Portugal. Now that the idea of going away is set in motion, you may be thinking you won’t be able to find a place to stay in time but rest assured because Premier Holidays offer a selection of lavish holiday villas in the Algarve, available for last-minute bookings at reasonable prices too!

The Post Office survey has reported that Britons planning a self-catering holiday can expect to find that resorts in the Algarve offer the best value for money in terms of food and drink. So for those looking to go away with a small group of friends or family, the Algarve villas should definitely be considered. The Casa Belmira villas, situated just outside the small town of Guia are an ideal choice for groups. The villa can sleep up to five guests (four adults and one child) with two bedrooms and a sofa bed in the lounge. For relaxing lunches or drinks, the villa has a lovely outdoor dining area overlooking the beautiful swimming pool. The accommodation is also reasonably priced for those on a budget, with prices from £491 per week. Best known attractions in the area include an aqua park and a zoo marine theme park, both of which are fun for all ages.

Another of Premier Holidays’ Algarve holiday villas ideal for a small group is the Villa Emmi, situated in the resort of Rocha Brava, not too far from Carvoeiro town. This fully equipped villa sleeps up to six guests in its three luxurious bedrooms, with the master bedroom having an en suite bathroom. The location is superb for those who enjoy scenic views as the villa is surrounded by vineyards and citrus groves, a picture perfect spot for some beautiful snaps of the area. Villa Emmi is located only 500m away from the restaurants and shops, making it a good location as things can be easily reached by foot. Prices start from £672.

For those who enjoy experiencing historic destinations and like a feel for culture, Lagos would be an ideal resort to visit in the Algarve. The Villa Silvester is situated in the secluded area of Funchal Ridge, not too far from Lagos where its old town boasts some of its beautiful architecture and historical sites. There is also a marvellous marina in the historical town of Lagos where you can find many boat excursions providing guided tours around the area. The villa itself sleeps up to eight guests, with its four spacious bedrooms split over the ground and upper level, with prices from £795 per week. It is an extremely attractive property for a group of friends looking for an extremely relaxing break away from the hustle and bustle of gloomy January in the UK.

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

Enjoy the International Gourmet Festival in Portugal's Algarve

The sixth annual International Gourmet Festival will be taking place in Portugal's stunning Algarve region in 2012. One of the most popular gastronomy events on the continent, the festival exclusively features Michelin-starred chefs from all Europe, there to honour the best in international cuisine. Each chef will contribute a tasting menu with wine pairings and other festivities include a golf tournament on one of the region's famous courses, cooking workshops and a Go-Kart race just for the chefs. The Vila Joya Resort will be hosting the event, which takes place from the 12^th to the 22^nd of January 2012.

For those looking for a place to stay while their taste buds are tempted for ten days, Premier Holidays has a beautiful collection of Algarve holiday villas, perfectly situated to attend the International Gourmet Festival. Casa Girasole is located just outside the small town of Guia, which is close to the site of the festival and also famed for its quintessential Algarvian restaurants. The beautiful villa sleeps up to seven people, with three bedrooms and two bathrooms. The living space is open-plan and contemporary, with a modern kitchen perfect for trying out a few of the chef's recipes from the festival. A furnished outdoor area also boasts a charcoal barbecue and the property has a luxurious private pool (with optional heating for a small fee).

Another Algarve villa, Casa Belmira would suit a smaller party, with the capacity to sleep five people (four adults and one child). This single-storey villa resides in the Quinta dos Alamos community, also close to Guia and Albufeira, and with easy access by car to Vila Joya. A water park and the Zoomarine theme park are located close by, as well as the opportunity to swim with dolphins on the coast. The kitchen is well-equipped for a self-catering holiday and an outdoor dining area provides the perfect spot for supper after a long day of golf and wine tasting.

To enjoy Michelin-starred chefs during the day and a luxurious villa by night, Monte dos Avos is the ideal choice. This newly-constructed villa is located a little way out of Albufeira in Alcantarilha, but the distance towards the festival remains fairly equal. It stands imperiously on a small hill so residents may enjoy a stunning panoramic view over the grounds, the swimming pool and the surrounding fruit trees. The villa sleeps eight people in four bedrooms and is an attractive property for a group of friends wanting to enjoy the mouthwatering feasts that the International Gourmet Festival will undoubtedly provide.

For more Algarve villas, things to do and places to stay, call Premier Holidays on 0800 047 0400 or visit http://www.premier-holidays.com.