http://www.milonic.com/ test
 
 

The Irish in Britain, including those of Irish descent, make up a significant part of the UK population. Here, you will find news, entertainment, events, sports and features from the local Irish Post newspaper.

 
 
 
 
Mediterranean memories made in Western Algarve

Portugal’s Western Algarve is the discerning sun lover’s haven as well as the adventurer’s paradise.

With so much to see and do it’s often worth spending a few days away from the pool-side and heading out to explore the traditional countryside.

From the tranquility of its sheltered southern bays and harbours to the rugged splendor of the wilder shores pounded by the Atlantic surf the Western Algarve is one of the last remaining areas of southern Europe to remain virtually untouched by commercialism.

And as the winter months are quite mild (even in the middle of winter maximum temperatures usually reach 15 Celsius) — it allows for year-round enjoyment, particularly for golf enthusiasts.

The luxury private Golf Villas and Village Houses at Parque da Floresta are worth considering either as a holiday destination or indeed as a long-term property investment.

The luxury villas boast beautiful panoramic views of the ocean, the golf course and the surrounding mountains.

The health and beauty facility Spa Floresta is at the heart of the resort and is one of the Algarve’s leading spas offering all the latest treatments.

Many of the custom-built properties have private swimming pools and the resort boasts a spectacular golf course, golf academy, outdoor heated swimming pool, children's pool, kid’s clubs and children’s football academy, as well as various restaurants and bars.

And try lunch at the nearby Blue Wave Beach Bar for some of the most delicious fish fresh from the sea, washed down with a glass of chilled white wine.

Between late April and early October visitors can expect a good deal of fine, sunny weather with pleasantly warm temperatures.

Although July temperatures in excess of 40 degrees Celsius have been recorded, it is more usual for temperatures at the height of summer to reach around 28 degrees Celsius.

This is very warm but sea breezes make it feel just pleasantly warm.

The countryside of the Western Algarve is speckled with quaint hamlets where time has seemingly stood still.

A night in nearby Lagos and a walk along its harbour is a must. But beware the heavy swells that can sometimes roll up from the south – quenching the flame of even the most romantic strollers!

Small tour boats that go out daily on dolphin viewing trips and the city itself and has a quintessential old-town feel with cobble-stone pedestrianised zone knit with small knick-knack stores to satisfy even the most ambitious shopper and trinket collector.

A maze of streets bustling with pavement restaurants awaits visitors — try Dom Sebastinao for something extra special.

Lagos has a vibrant city centre and is full of life that goes on well into the early hours for those choosing to indulge in late-night dancing and revelry.

But for many travellers, Lagos is just a stopping point on the way to Europe's furthest south-western corner — Sagres.

Henry the Explorer was also here and the Fortaleza, which lies on a deserted peninsula, still has strong ties to te Elizabethan adventurer.

The short flight times from British airports makes Portugal an ideal destination for a short break or even a long weekend — all-in-all the perfect choice to make some lasting Mediterranean memories.

 
 
 
 
 
 © IrishAbroad.com 2009