The Algarve, Ferragudo:
Situated to the south of Portugal, on the southwest tip of Europe, the Algarve is one of the world's most beautiful, unspoilt stretches of beach and coastland. In fact, the Algarve is one of Europe's sunniest spots and has been described as a unique jewel where the finest sandy beaches and the perfect, sunny climate meet to give this fabulous location is world-renowned reputation.Ferragudo village - with its elevated structure and whitewashed buildings, this village still provides all that's good about tradition and yet manages to meet the demands of its visitorswithout any sign of disruption. Both the old and the young, the families and the local businesses all take pride in their culture and are never anything less than helpful. For some a romantic holiday is the prerequisite, others it will be an large safe sandy beach for the children to play on, Ferragudo has something for everyone.
Getting to Ferragudo:
We recommend that a taxi is the best and quickest way to get to the villa. Most of the time this is achieved in about 35 minutes these days because of the new motorway system which runs from the airport, along the coast line. Car hire is not essential but can be either picked up easily at the airport or can be arranged locally in Ferragudo. Many people take a taxi from the airport to the Villa and hire a car locally for a few days only. This enables them both to relax in the resort, taking a few days out to see some of the other beautiful surrounding areas in the Algarve. Train is an option from Faro to Portimao or Ferrugudo but be warned whilst the trains are traditional and clean in true Portuguese relaxed and chilled style, they do take a little time to get you to your destination.
Activities for the family:
The villa overlooks the beach and is within easy access of water sport facilities, a marina, zoos, marine parks, aqua playgrounds, diving, fishing, sailing and horseriding.. The beach is long and wide, the sea on the local beach is usually calm and safe for children to swim. Excellent beach bars offer good refreshments and sun umbrellas and lounge chairs if that is what is wanted. Beach volleyball and kite flying can also be seen frequently at the end of the day when the sun is going down. If one is really lucky, you are able to see one of the top Portuguese kite windsurfing champions in action on the local Praire Grande, (the local beach). Traditional windsurfing and kite surfing tuition is managed by the Kalu Beach Bar and the hire of equipment is available from this family business. It's a favourite of ours.
Golf:
Portugal provides an all year round climate which facilitates the golfing fraternity. Early morning and late afternoon golf is excellent in the summer months and with the mild winter climate, there is no restriction to what time of day a round of golf can be played in the other months throughout the year.
A great selection of courses are all within easy reach of Vila Castelo such as The Pinta and Gramacho courses at neighbouring Carvoeiro which is only five minutes away, as well as just a slightly longer drive to the championship course of Penina. There is over 20 courses within a 40 minute drive.
Keen golfers find that the location of this villa is ideal to combine both a beach and a golfing holiday and it also works well for partners and children who do not participate in the sport. Something for everyone.
Guest Book:
A wonderful holiday, spacious villa, good facilities and lovely views. The children had great fun in the pool as well as the run of the beach. - MR & MRS KEN WELSHMAN, CHELMSFORD. Outstanding Villa, high specification, tastefully furnished, fantastic artwork. The local restaurant owners were friendly and helpful. The Marina is also a great place to go to for dinner, Dockside has good fish and the Italian cafe is somewhere the teenagers liked to hang-out. HARROWSMITH'S, SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA. Can't resist coming back each year. Had a lovely holiday, ideal villa for family and our new baby. Weather was perfect. NIKI & MATTHEW CLARK, LEIGH ON SEA. The villa was lovely--completely up to expectations--and the location was perfect--beautiful view of the beach and sea. We so enjoyed staying at the villa and feel very lucky to have found it. I would highly recommend it. MOYA KEYS, NEW YORK, USA (Moya is happy to receive emails from potential guests (Moyakeys@nyc.rr.com)