According to figures from the Portuguese Real Estate Association, Portugal receives around two million British tourists a year. Between 17,000 and 18,000 Brits buy property in Portugal annually, with over 50% opting for homes in the Algarve.
It is easy to see why this is a popular area, as homeowners and holiday makers experience more than 3,000 hours of sunshine a year. With more than 30 golf courses to enjoy this on, miles of white sandy beaches and numerous seaside restaurants and bars, there is loads of ways to enjoy the great weather.
The different areas of the Algarve offer something for everyone. For those who like action, the eastern parts are perfect, and the established development of Vale do Lobo is a great choice.
Renowned for its two championship golf courses, Tennis Academy with 14 courts, beautiful new Royal Spa, a two kilometre sandy beach and extensive choice of restaurants, bars and shops, you’ll be spoilt for choice.
Here, Chesterton International (www.chesterton-international.com) is selling apartments, villas and plots. Prices start from £654,000.
The further west you go, the countryside gets more peaceful, with beautiful expanses of land and almost deserted beaches. But facilities are still plentiful and the city of Lagos has a marina, historical cites and pretty cobbled streets to explore.
Located nearby is Parque da Floresta Golf & Leisure Resort (www.parquedafloresta.com), favoured by numerous football stars, including former England goalkeeper David Seaman, who holds an annual golf tournament at the 18-hole championship course.
The resort also has tennis courts, swimming pools, a beauty and hair saloon, fully equipped gymnasium, three children’s clubs and five onsite restaurants and bars.
A range of properties are available here, including golf village houses in the latest Quinta da Encosta Velha phase. Two-bedroom properties with communal gardens and heated swimming pools are available from €397,500 (approx. UK£314,849).
Further north, central Portugal and in particular the Blue Coast, has been growing in favour with increased infrastructure, upgrades to the current Lisbon airport and the construction of a new main airport in Alcochete for 2012.
This is great news for buyers at Troiaresort (www.irgtroiaresort.com), as it means that the new airport will be a short 25 minute drive from the resort, which is currently being developed by Sonae Turismo.
The Tróia Peninsula is a traditional weekend and holiday destination for Lisbon’s influential inhabitants.
Being built here is Troiaresort, a 440-hectare development encompassing the existing Robert Trent Jones 18-hole golf course.
A range of residences are being developed, including apartments and private villas, along with two five-star hotels, two four-star aparthotels, a 184-berth marina, a casino, a conference centre, a beach club, a country club, a tennis centre and an equestrian centre.
Charles Roberts, Sales Manager of IRG Portugal, the exclusive affiliate of Christie’s Great Estates who is selling the development, says, “The Blue Coast has seen its popularity rise in recent years, as people discover the area’s numerous charms. From historical sites to vineyards, and golden beaches to golf courses, the area has much to offer second home buyers.”
Prices at Troiaresort start at €290,400 (approx. £209,375) for a one-bedroom marina apartment. Individual plot prices start at €800,000 (approx. UK£633,670).
Whatever area you choose, you can be assured many hours under blue skies and the Portuguese sun.
