Great Things to Do Near Casa da Montanha
Go to the beach!
With miles and miles of golden sands, you are sploit for choice. Try the long stretch of beach at Falesia or the pretty coves east of Albufeira. All blue flag beaches will have facilities, lifeguards, beach bars and restaurants available.
The Big Night Out!
Located right in the heart of Vilamoura, the Casino Vilamoura is an ideal choice for a first-class night out. There´s plenty to choose from and the casino offers something for everybody´s taste.
Visit the attractive fishing village of Ferragudo
which sits at the mouth of the Rio Arade, on the opposite banks to Portimao. Very much a working village, the quayside is dotted with fishermen’s huts, artisans’ workshops and a sprinkling of excellent fish restaurants. The nearby sandy beach of Praia Grande is home to an excellent windsurfing school. Narrow cobbled alleyways wind their way uphill to the impressive church with great views. on an organised safari trip with a guide.
Motor racing!
The Autodromo Internacional do Algarve is just off the A22 between Portimao and Lagos and is well signed. Check out the events for this forthcoming season on www.autodromodoalgarve.com for both cars and The petrol heads in the party will love the experience.
It is worth taking a trip to the border with Spain
at Vila Real de Santo Antonio, on the banks of the river Guadiana, which forms the border with Spain. Explore the twin castles of Castro Marim which were strategically placed to protect the settlement for many centuries.
The village of Estoi
is famous for its Roman ruins at Milreu dating from the 2nd Century. They are about a 10 minute walk out of the village. The 19th Century Estoi Palace and gardens, now a chic hotel are also well known and attract visitors to see the ornamental fountains and the blue and white Portuguese tiled terraces.
Visit a water park
There are several along the Algarve coast, the nearest to the property being Aquashow Algarve at Quarteira. It is also a bird park with birds of prey and tropical birds such as parrots and macaws. www.aquashowpark.com
When in Rome..
don' forget to sample the many different types of port wine! Chilled white port makes an interesting aperitif and can be a serious rival to sherry. Accompanied by some delicious local olives, it's a great way to preface a supper of freshly grilled sardines!
Need some retail therapy?
Visit the Algarve Shopping Centre, on the EN125 at Guia. As well as over 130 shops, there are bars and restaurants for those who need a little respite from carrying those heavy shopping bags and to rest those weary feet. There is also a multi-screen cinema here. It is open daily from 10am.
For a day out with a difference
visit the Parque Natural da Ria Formosa, which stretches along 37 miles of coastline east of Faro from Olhao to Tavira. It was created to protect the ecosystem of the area and is an important breeding area for wetland birds.
Brush up your tennis skills
at one of the many tennis centres and academies in Vilamoura and Vale do Lobo. If you are lucky you might be there when some big names are in town to participate in a tournament.
Visit the most south westerly tip of Europe at Cabo de Sao Vicente
which has reputedly the most powerful lighthouse in Europe. To watch the sun setting here is a truly memorable experience.
Faro is the regional capital and has a delightful old town
which is well worth spending an afternoon or early evening having a wander around. Stop for a drink and 'people watch' along the rua de Santo Antonio, which is lined with shops, bars and restaurants.
Play Golf!
The Algarve is renowned for the quality of its golf courses, offering challenges for every standard of playing.
Wine tasting!
Visit the Quinta da Miradouro winery near Guia to sample the Vida Nova wines specially produced for Sir Cliff Richard. Tours are available but must be pre-booked. Visit www.winesvidanova.com or if you simply wish to purchase you can visit Cellar Door Shop.
The castle town of Silves is worth spending a day exploring
The Cathedral, built in red stone and the Moorish castle both offer beautiful views over orange and almond groves below.
Loule is famous for its lively Saturday market
where it is possible to buy some great bargains in leather and textiles. It is also well known for its crafts and you can watch artisans wood carving, making lace and painting pottery and tiles.
Horse riding and trekking
are available at Cegonha Countryclub Vilamoura with rides and trekking for all abilities. Also nearby is Pine Trees at Vale do Lobo, situated on the road between Vale do Lobo and Quinta do Lago
Take a boat trip
Trips leave from Albufeira and Vilamoura Marinas for trips along this stunning coastline or out to sea for dolphin watching.
Get back to nature
Explore Paderne castle, the nearby biodiversity area and medieval bridge - a great place to enjoy history and nature.