Choosing Self Catering Accommodation in the Algarve Ever since the dawn of European air travel, the southern coast of Portugal has been at the top of the list of Britain's favourite holiday hotspots. The Algarve has universal appeal, offering 100 miles of stunning coastline, year round sunshine and fun-packed attractions that appeal to young and old alike. Opting for a self-catering holiday here allows you to explore the delights of the region at your own pace without the constraints of traditional package holidays. With the freedom to choose your own itinerary, you can decide to take off and explore at any time that suits you and try out all the local restaurants that are such a delightful part of any holiday on the Algarve.

Faro
Your journey begins at Faro, amid the mudflats and salt marshes of the Rio Formosa wetlands nature reserve. The lagoons and coastal dunes here provide a refuge and breeding area for dozens of rare birds including flamingoes and bee-eaters. The town of Faro itself has a rich cultural heritage and many examples of Roman and Moorish architecture which contrast with its modern shopping arcades and pavement cafes. To the west, the coastline takes on the familiar hallmarks of the Algarve; warm honey-coloured cliffs that plunge into soft sandy coves washed by Atlantic waves ideal for all watersports.

Vilamoura
At the popular resort of Vilamoura, yachts bob gently in the huge sheltered marina, providing an ideal place to stroll in the evening after enjoying fresh seafood at the many seafront eateries. Leisure is a way of life in this cosmopolitan resort, purpose-built to revitalise and relax its visitors, with wide sandy beaches, smart boutique shopping, sporting facilities and boating excursions. For the golfing fraternity, Vilamoura features a number of premier golf complexes set against a backdrop of fragrant pine trees. With its perfect year-round climate and gently undulating terrain the Algarve is the perfect location for a golfing holiday and is internationally renowned for its facilities.

Albufeira
For yet more idyllic beaches and vibrant nightlife, the town of Albufeira and its surroundings are a popular choice. The town grew up around its fishing activities and now has a smart colourful marina lined with bars and coffee shops. The Aqualand adventure water park and Zoomarine and Krazy World theme parks provide lively entertainment for families, but if you prefer the freedom of the ocean waves, jetskiing and dolphin watching excursions are also available. The beaches at the neighbouring resorts of Montechoro, Oura, Praia da Falesia and Ohlos d'Agua are renowned for being the best on the Algarve.

Portimao
Moving further west, Portimao is the Algarve's largest city and main fishing port but also attracts visitors with its art nouveau architecture, open air markets and fantastic fishing excursions. The nearby resorts of Armacao de Pera, Carvoeiro and Alvor all retain the charm of old fishing villages yet offer lovely sheltered beaches that are ideal for children. Avid walkers can explore the clifftop paths above Carvoeiro and enjoy spectacular views over Portimao. Just across the bay from Alvor lies the town of Lagos, a lively resort with an exciting nightlife scene as well as being a hotspot for surfing.

Rental accommodation in the Algarve

With all these superb attractions on offer it is not surprising that holiday villas and apartments are in great demand on the Algarve. Generally, the closer you stay to the coast the more you will pay for your accommodation. If you opt for a basic apartment, these tend to provide all the modern conveniences you need for a comfortable stay and usually have the advantage of being close to all the central attractions and nightlife spots. However, if your budget can stretch to a higher priced option, you may wish to rent a character property built in the traditional Portuguese style with whitewashed walls, rustic arches, terracotta roofs and the typical Algarvean chimney pots. Most luxury villas have swimming pools set in their own gardens and many enjoy fabulous views of the coastline.

Things to consider when renting a holiday home in the Algarve

When selecting accommodation it is important to think carefully about what will best suit your needs; there is nothing worse than being stranded in an isolated villa away from all amenities, or stuck in a nightlife hotspot when all you yearn for is peace and quiet. Hiring a car allows for more freedom of choice and the option of a villa in a rural area. The Algarve is blessed with some of the most beautiful unexplored territory and hidden gems that are a delight to discover, including Monchique, the wild promontory of Sagres and Cape St Vincent. The best advice is to study local maps and select a location central to all the areas you wish to visit, whilst remaining mindful of the need to be within walking distance of bars and restaurants. Finally, ensure that your villa has all those essential appliances that you rely on back home and if you are sensitive to the heat, place air conditioning high on your agenda.

Further self catering in Algarve Information