Quinta do Lago
This is primarily an upmarket resort with multi-million pound villas. Quinta Do Lago and Vale Do Lobo, make up the most expensive real estate region in Portugal, with average land prices of €5000 per square meter.
Many wealthy individuals and celebrities are rumoured to have purchased property in the area, included pop stars George Michael and Madonna, as well as footballers Alan Shearer and Louis Figo. Many of the fantastic villas are available for rental, however, there are other more affordable options in the form of townhouses or apartments to rent also.
In Quinta do Lago there are at least 2000 acres of pine forest. The Ria Formosa Nature Reserve is home to some amazing and rare species of plant and wildlife.
So many beautiful birds can be located in the wetlands and lagoon of Ria Formosa, some of which are rare and protected species. At sundown the beach is transformed into an amazing beautiful place to be - like something you would see in a film, completely breath taking!
The resort also has two main shopping arcades. Tourists to these centres are able to enjoy the relaxed feel of the arcade. Local people also meet up in these venues to shop and socialise. Browsing the shops you will fine some well known international brands as well as new ones to explore. This gives you the chance to pick up some lovely unique items that friends at home won’t have.
If you are less keen on going out and are more inclined to eat in the quiet seclusion of your villa, fresh fish, meat, local produce and wine is always available, in addition to the other foodstuffs you are likely to need. There is plenty of choice for eating out in the Algarve and Quinta do Lago is no exception, with an excellent range of local and international gourmet cuisine easily accessible if you don't want to go further field. There are an abundance of restaurants nearby, some of which have been awarded Michelin stars.
Although Quinta do Lago is undeniably one of the most beautiful holiday destinations in the Algarve, a big reason many people choose to visit the resort is its abundant natural beauty.
As with Dunas Douradas, Vale do Lobo, Vilamoura and Vale do Garrao, the almost 2 mile stretch of beautiful golden beach, sandstone cliffs and ocean vista are popular and well known in the resort's physical geography.
Quinta do Lago has many a number of different sport resorts. It is probably most famous for its amazing golf facilities. In fact it is probably the largest golf resort in Europe with 4 amazing 18 hole golf courses for your golfing pleasure!
This beautiful resort is the ideal place for those who want to get physical and not spend their holiday sunbathing by the pool - there is always plenty to do.
For those who enjoy watersports, there is a large lake with kayak hire, windsurf hire, hobbycat and various other nautical enjoyments! Lessons are also available. Don’t worry if you want to spend your time doing less water based activities. There is a David Lloyd Tennis Court and Equestrian centre very close by Also there are plenty of squash courts, a health club and clay pigeon shooting.