Eco-tourism and Eco-fashion: Sao Bras de Alportel is situated in the Barrocal region of the Algarve comprising large open spaces, pure air and lush foliage of almond, fig, carob and cork trees; to which the region became the biggest cork producing centre in Portugal and the world. Today there are organized cork trails that take you through this beautiful countryside and a visit to the cork museum. In the centre of Sao Bras is the shop where you can purchase many eco-fashion items that are produced from cork such as purses, handbags, belts, shoes and even curtains, which you will find in the lounge of Quinta Fonte do Cascalho.

A Birdwatchers Paradise: ‘Quinta Fonte do Cascalho’ sits in a natural area that is a fantastic habitat for the birds that frequent the Algarve. In addition to the Swallows and Martins that share the pool with you, from the terrace you would see: Golden Oriole, Cattle Egret, White Stork, Black Stork, Bee Eater, Hoopoe, Azure-winged Magpie, Bluethroat, Fan-tailed Warbler, Cetti's Warbler, Melodious Warbler, Sardinian Warbler, Short-toed Treecreeper, Nuthatch, Southern Grey Shrike, Woodchat Shrike, Common Waxbill, Serin, Black-winged Kite, Black Kite, Red Kite, Griffon Vulture, Montagu's Harrier, Short-toed Eagle, Booted Eagle, Lesser Kestrel, Marsh Harrier, Spanish Imperial Eagle. Through our local contacts, we can arrange bird-watching tours, with responsible guides, for sea or the 10 reserved land locations for birds in the Algarve.

Lawn Bowling: During the winter months, the Algarve is an ideal location for Lawn Bowling. There are numerous organized clubs scheduling regular games. Visiting players are very welcome to join in where clubs stock a full range of bowls for hire at a nominal charge. Tavira Bowls club, with an eight rink level green, is just a few minutes away from the villa.