Great Things to Do Near Casa da Palmeira
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.
Visit the World of Sand
This international sand sculpture festival is usually held between May and October. Reportedly the biggest sand city in the world, this fascinating and spectacle will amaze all members of the family! There are sand sculpture activities for children and it is illuminated by night. Located on the EN125 between Porches and Lagoa, opposite the Noel International School.
Go to the beach!
The Algarve is renowned for its wonderful beaches of soft golden sand. Most have parking areas, toilets and restaurant facilities and during the peak months all 'Blue Flag' beaches will have lifeguards on duty. There are so many to choose from but a particular favourite on this part of the Algarve is Praia da Falésia, where the sands stretch for over 5 kilometres.
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 motorbikes. The petrol heads in the party will love the experience.
Visit some charming inland villages
Alte is a popular village with white washed houses and narrow cobbled streets. Explore the charming little shops and then relax in the shade with a picnic by the Fontes and have a refreshing swim in the freshwater pool.
Visit the most south westerly tip of Europe
at the 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.
Monchique is a spa town
set in the hills planted with cork, eucalyptus and fruit trees. There are some lovely walks through the woods with stunning views of the mountains. Pamper yourself with treatments at the Vila Termal Spa Hotel in Caldas da Monchique.
Loulé 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.
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.
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.
When in Rome..
don't 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!
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
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.Why not start your evening in style by dining at the elegant restaurant and sampling the international cocktails at the exclusive Big Bar and for entertainment, head to the Miralago salon, where you can enjoy the glitz and the glamour of the spectacular International shows.
Explore the town of Olhao
one of the most important fishing ports along this coast. The town once had close trade links with North Africa which is reflected in shape of the town's cube-shaped houses with flat roofs and external staircases. Reward yourself with a fantastic lunch of the day's catch at one of the many waterfront fish restaurants.
Go to Spain!
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.
Visit the Museu dos Frutos Secos in Loulé
an unusual museum, which focuses on early harvesting methods for figs, carob and almond fruit. Indulge yourself afterwards at one of the petisseries (pastelaria) along the main thoroughfare.
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.
