• Algarve property prices increase for first time since 2008 (Knight Frank)
• Investor interest in Algarve increasing (Ideal Homes Portugal)
• Gourmet ‘Rota do Petisco’ tapas trail sees well over 100 restaurants take part in 2016

Whether it’s good news about property prices or the perfect place to indulge your love of gourmet food, the Algarve is the place to be this summer.

According to Knight Frank’s Inside View Portugal 2016 report, the Algarve recorded its first annual increase in prime prices since 2008 in 2015. Buyers have been enticed back to the area by a combination of its ongoing infrastructure improvements (the main A22 motorway, which runs the length of the Algarve, and the €32m expansion of Faro Airport) and its plentiful tourist attractions (stunning weather, 37 pristine golf courses and well over 100 fabulous beaches – 88 of them with Blue Flags – to name just a few).

Nearly 50 airlines now serve Faro Airport, with passenger numbers jumping by 35% in the decade to 2015. While the area is traditionally popular with British, Irish and German buyers, the pool of those interested in buying property in the Algarve has been widening for several years. Data from Knight Frank shows an increase from buyers of 128 nationalities searching for Algarve property in 2012, to buyers of 147 nationalities searching in 2015.

Despite its increasing property prices, the Algarve remains the best value destination in the world, according to the 2016 Post Office Travel Money World Holiday Costs Barometer. The low cost of food and drink were key factors in Portugal topping the chart. An ice-cold beer usually costs €1 in the less touristy eastern end of the Algarve and excellent wines are available in the supermarket for €4 or €5 per bottle, costing around double that in restaurants. Super strong, delicious coffee costs from €0.70.

Interestingly, given the low prices, Portugal has a rapidly growing reputation for the quality of its food. Already known for its hearty seafood stews and rice dishes, the area is now enjoying a booming reputation as the place to indulge in ‘petiscos’ – the Portuguese equivalent of tapas. This summer will see the Rota do Petisco (Tapas Route) run from May until September, with over 100 restaurants taking part. Visitors can purchase a route passport for €1 (profits go to local charities), then access a huge range of petiscos in participating restaurants along the Algarve. The snacks, which include everything from octopus cakes to yoghurt ice cream with almond sigh and cherry syrup, are available for €3 including a drink. Desserts with liqueur are available for €2.

“The Algarve’s culinary offering has really changed over the last few years,” comments local businessman Chris White, Founding Director of boutique estate agency Ideal Homes Portugal. “What’s great is that the food has remained true to its roots, with strong influences of seafood, black pork, tomato, onion and coriander. But recently there has been a push to elevate Algarvian cuisine from its peasant food origins into something more refined and the results have been outstanding. The Rota do Petisco is perfect for highlighting that.”

Ideal Homes Portugal has observed an increase in those looking for investment property in the Algarve recently, with rising prices adding to the attraction of owning a rental property there. This two bedroom ground floor apartment in Lagos (a town firmly on the Rota do Petisco map) is close to the beach and enjoys its own private garden with built in barbecue as well as a high spec kitchen, Jacuzzi bath, built in sound system and central vacuum. The development also includes a communal swimming pool and Jacuzzi. On the market for €255,000, the property comes with an “excellent rental history” thanks to its superior features, condition and location.

Investors looking for a villa with excellent rental potential towards the eastern end of the Algarve would do well to consider this stunning linked villa in Castro Marim. Just 30 minutes from Faro Airport and less than 10 minutes from Spain, Castro Marim is known for its two beautiful castles, fabulous golf courses and lively mid-summer Medieval festival. Available for €400,000, the front line property is surrounded by a combination of golf course, ocean, nature reserve and the pretty Guardiana river. The villa comes complete with three bedrooms, three bathrooms, two private terraces and pool. The master bedroom benefits from under-floor heating, Jacuzzi bath, dressing room and upper level terrace.

For further details call Ideal Homes International on 0800 133 7644 or +351 289 513 434, email info@idealhomesinternational.co.uk or visit www.idealhomesinternational.co.uk.

• Holiday bookings to Portugal up by 29% (ABTA)
• Algarve climate is perfect for tennis lovers (Ideal Homes Portugal)
• Villa with own tennis court and heated pool available for €1.2 million (Ideal Homes Portugal)

The grass is being manicured, the outfits pressed and the racquets strung as the UK prepares to be gripped by Wimbledon fever once more. Every year, The Championships, Wimbledon, showcase the world’s best tennis in a setting that is one of the most recognisably and traditionally English events of the year.

It’s not just the professionals who are getting excited as the Wimbledon Championships approach. Interest in properties with tennis courts always surges at this time of year, even overseas, as Chris White, Founding Director of boutique Algarve estate agency Ideal Homes Portugal, explains,

“We see a lot of excitement from buyers about homes in the Algarve sunshine that include their own tennis courts or are near to tennis centres and academies at this time of year. The Algarve’s 300 days of sunshine per year mean that it’s a great place to practice the sport, with a long season that’s perfect for honing your skills.”

Portugal has just been revealed as the overseas destination that is most swiftly increasing in popularity when it comes to bookings made through UK travel agents. According to the ABTA travel association, bookings to Portugal have risen by 29%, beating Spain’s 26% rise and Cyprus’ 18%.

Former Dragon’s Den star Duncan Bannatyne and his fellow Dragon Peter Jones are both keen tennis players who recently enjoyed a week of sharpening their on-court skills at the tennis centre in Portugal. The visited the Val de Lobo resort, best known for its stunning golf courses, but also boasting top quality tennis facilities. More than one international tennis star owns a home in the area.

Duncan Bannatyne purchased his own dream Algarve villa through Ideal Homes Portugal in 2014. Those looking to do the same – and to take advantage of the area’s fantastic tennis amenities – have a wide range of options available to them.

At Alcantarilha, near Silves, a luxurious four bedroom villa with private gardens, infinity pool, BBQ and terraces costs €997,400. The prestigious golfing development on which it is located includes not just two championship golf courses and a gold academy, but also six tennis courts, a sports club and a clubhouse bar.

At the world-renowned golfing haven of Quinta do Lago, this spacious villa with panoramic views and lovely heated pool and terrace area is just a short walk from Jim Stewart’s tennis centre. On the market for €1,995,000, it would make an ideal first or second home for those who are keen to enjoy easy access to a top class tennis academy.

But for those who are really serious about their love of tennis, it has to be this five bedroom luxury villa in Carvoeiro, complete with its own on-site tennis court. Incredibly reasonably priced for a villa of this quality (the asking price is €1,200,000), the villa boasts sea views, covered barbecue area, heated pool, mature garden with automated irrigation, underfloor heating, electric gates and plentiful terraces and balconies. That’s game, set and match for those looking for an ultra luxurious Algarve property in which to pursue their passion for tennis!

For further details call Ideal Homes Portugal on 0800 133 7644 or +351 289 513 434, email enquiries@idealhomesportugal.com or visit www.idealhomesportugal.com.

• Single-day cycling and walking activities in Europe worth €35 billion (ANA)
• Ecovia do Litoral takes those on foot or 2 wheels the full length of the Algarve coast
• Rural ecological tourism resort available for €1.5 million in western Algarve national park (Ideal Homes Portugal)

The Algarve is Portugal’s most popular tourist destination. In the summer months, the country’s entire southern coastline comes alive: restaurants are full, bars are buzzing and shops are packed. The region’s population triples if not quadruples during July and August, thanks to the huge influx of international visitors and much of the population of Lisbon decamping south for the summer.

Then September rolls around and most of the tourists go home. A few shoulder season visitors keep the region ticking over for a month or so, but by early October the sunbeds are packed away, the bars and restaurants have let their summer staff go and an eerie peace descends on areas that were thronged with people just a few weeks earlier.

For those who own a second home in Portugal, off-season visits are ideal. Chris White, Founding Director of boutique Algarve estate agency Ideal Homes Portugal, explains,

“Those who visit the Algarve outside of the summer months are often awed by the stillness and beauty of the region. Unspoilt beaches, quiet restaurants and minimal traffic on the roads create a real feeling of calm almost as soon as you arrive. It’s a delightful contrast to the frenetic summer months.”

Of course those summer months also have their own appeal. The Algarve offers a lively yet safe environment for families looking to enjoy the sea, sand and sunshine on their summer break. In fact, the Portuguese government has just revealed plans for the Algarve to become recognised as “Europe’s safest tourist destination.” The ‘Algarve – A Safe Destination’ initiative will see national and local organisations working together to create a “sense of safety and security among foreign and national tourists alike,” according to Home Affairs Secretary Jorge Gomes.

Not only that, but a further initiative is set to balance out the seasonal employment fluctuations, at the same time as promoting the Algarve’s walking and cycling routes. While Portugal hosts many professional road races for cyclists, many visitors are unaware that the Algarve also offers a scenic cycle route – the Ecovia do Litoral (Eurovelo) – which runs the whole length of the southern coast. The route takes riders (and walkers) through richly diverse landscapes including working salt pans that are packed with wild flamingos during the winter months, butterfly-filled meadows and rolling farmland covered with orange trees, olive bushes, carob trees, fig trees and almond trees.

The Via Algarviana, the Rota Vicentina and the Rota Guadiana are also available to those looking to explore this beautiful region on foot or on two wheels. They offer an excellent way to keep active while on holiday and to catch some sunshine while seeing more of Portugal, whatever time of year it may be.

Ecological tourism in the Algarve offers some interesting opportunities and the new focus on promoting the cycling and walking routes in the region is bound to give this a serious boost. According to data from ANA Airports, Europe is experiencing growing demand for this kind of tourism, which is worth some €35 billion for single-day activities and €8.9 billion when it comes to trips with an overnight stay.

Those looking to be part of the Algarve’s ecological future can get involved for a mere €1.5 million with this wonderful ecological tourism resort. Set in the stunning Parque Natural da Costa Vicentina e Sudoeste Alentejano in the western Algarve, the resort consists of 6 hectares of land, a spacious three bedroom villa and a design project with approved tourist licence to create 16 detached villas, swimming pool, bistro, sports courts and children’s playground.

The eco-friendly design combines natural materials (ecological clay villas) with high-tech modern features to save energy (such as solar panels and a heat pump for central under floor and wall heating). The resort is ideally suited for those looking to build a rural business around walking, cycling, climbing, horse riding, swimming and surfing.

For further details call Ideal Homes Portugal on 0800 133 7644 or +351 289 513 434, email enquiries@idealhomesportugal.com or visit www.idealhomesportugal.com. You can also connect with the team at the free-to-attend Overseas Property Show (www.theoverseaspropertyshow.com) in Birmingham on 28 & 29 May and in Cheshire on 4 & 5 June 2016.

• First Algarve golf course – Penina – opened in 1966
• 2 million rounds of golf played in the Algarve in 2015 (Algarve Tourism Association)
• Stunning €4.9 million Quinta do Lago villa with pool is turning golfers’ heads (Ideal Homes Portugal)

Visitors to the Algarve are used to its golden sands and golden sunsets, but now Portugal’s most popular holiday destination is tempting tourists with another kind of gold altogether.

To celebrate 50 years since the opening of the Algarve’s first golf course (the Henry Cotton-designed Penina, in 1966), from June 2016 the region’s top courses will feature commemorative golden tee markers. Each visiting golfer will be given the opportunity to play from the specially commissioned golden tees as part of the summer’s celebrations of the role of golf in Portugal’s tourism heritage.

Golfing in Portugal has never been more popular. A record 1.2 million rounds were played in the Algarve in 2015 and 2016 has already got off to a bumper start, based on figures from the Algarve Tourism Association. Yet according to the KPMG Golf Participation Report for Europe 2016, Portugal itself is home to just 13,484 of Europe’s more than 4.1 million registered golfers. The figures show the importance of golf tourism to the Algarve’s tourist industry, as well as highlighting the popularity of the region’s courses.

Those courses are so popular that golf properties in the Algarve are some of the area’s most impressive and sought after residences. Celebrity owners rub shoulders with entrepreneurs both on the courses and off. Duncan Bannatyne, Peter Jones, Rubens Barrichello, Steven Gerrard and a whole host of other celebrities have bought houses in the area. Footballers in particular seem to have a soft spot for the region: Alan Shearer, Michael Owen, Teddy Sheringham, José Mourinho, Cristiano Ronaldo, Robbie Fowler and Gareth Southgate all own homes there.

Chris White, Founding Director of Algarve-based boutique estate agency Ideal Homes Portugal, explains,

“Portugal is unquestionably one of the world’s most beautiful golfing destinations and as such golf properties there are in huge demand. Properties with views over the region’s most famous courses – those at Quinta do Lago and Vale do Lobo – command serious price premiums due to their exclusive locations and superior finish and facilities. Golfers around the world aspire to own these villas. They are some of the Algarve’s most stunning properties.”

One such property is this delightfully presented five bedroom villa in Quinta do Lago, which is on the market for €4.9 million. The spacious, contemporary interior includes a two tiered lounge\TV snug with feature fireplace, kitchen, breakfast room, formal dining room, home cinema, games room and ample guest accommodation. Views are over Quinta do Lago’s South Course, while the south west orientation also allows for the enjoyment of the Algarve’s famous sunsets. A heated pool, Jacuzzi, landscaped gardens and outdoor dining area with built in barbecue complete the offering.

The Algarve is often seen as Portugal’s golden child due to its perennial popularity with domestic and international visitors alike. Blessed with more than 300 days of sunshine per year, the region is home to everything from gorgeous beaches and picturesque coves to rugged mountains and mile upon mile of sweet-scented orange groves. With 50 years of prestigious golfing history thrown into the mix, it’s an area that really does have it all so far as meeting the demands of modern tourism is concerned.

For further details call Ideal Homes Portugal on 0800 133 7644 or +351 289 513 434, email enquiries@idealhomesportugal.com or visit www.idealhomesportugal.com. You can also connect with the team at the free-to-attend Overseas Property Show (www.theoverseaspropertyshow.com) in Birmingham on 28 & 29 May and in Cheshire on 4 & 5 June 2016.

• Investors can achieve 80% annual rental – Ideal Homes Portugal
• Global Property Guide states 6.1% average yield in Portugal
• Blooming UK visitor numbers to Portugal with a rise of 16.7% – Institute of National Statistics.

Tourism is performing well in Portugal at present with total overnight guests increasing by 8% to 17.4 million in 2015 according to Portugal’s Institute of National Statistics.    The UK saw a 16.7% increase in visitors taking their total to 22.2% last year. This spells good news for property owners looking to let their homes in the sun out to holiday makers and secure a solid rental return in return.

Indeed according to Global Property Guide data from the end of 2015, average rental  yields across Portugal stand at a strong 6.1% ranking the Iberian national 7^th out of 35 countries worldwide with yields the greatest in the Capital Lisbon.  Their figures also confirm that apartments are currently showing greater yield increases over houses or villas.

One holiday home owner who is already reaping the benefits of a booming rental market in the Algarve is Clive Edmonds from the Forest of Dean. Clive bought a two bedroom apartment in Lagos, Portugal for €168,000 four years ago with a 100% mortgage.  Clive was able to purchase the property at below market value and was looking for a long term investment for additional pension income and somewhere they could use for holidays.

Hot off the heels of a positive 2015, 2016 is looking to be a bumper year for the Edmonds as they have already secured 40 weeks’ worth of bookings for their apartment. Lagos is a town in southern Portugal’s Algarve region. It is known for its walled old town, cliffs and Atlantic beaches.  Just over an hour from airport in Portugal, this pretty town has taken off as an affordable chic destination in the sun as savvy holiday makers looking for somewhere more affordable than the busy Golden Triangle* area and are heading for lesser known towns.

Clive explains why he chose this particular location,

“The Algarve in my perception is a high-quality desirable holiday location. The climate is good, there is lots of sunshine even outside of the summer months, the Portuguese are very friendly and eating out is never that expensive.

“The development known as Quinta Da Abrotea, caught our eye immediately. It was brand new, the swimming pool and gardens were attractive, and the build quality was very high. On top of that the size of the apartment and the huge sun terrace convinced me I wanted to buy it.”

Edmonds used local boutique agency Ideal Homes Portugal for the transaction. He had no experience of buying overseas before but as an accountant by profession, he was confident in his ability to project outgoings vs rental income.

“Ideal Homes were excellent and clearly had well-developed contacts in the Algarve and a team of highly professional staff.  At no time were we put under any pressure during our inspection trip which is undoubtedly why we felt confident in proceeding.”

He offers some advice to people considering buying a home in the Algarve,

“If you’re planning on renting your property out, consider where you are buying and is it what holiday makers will want.  I would also recommend not to scrimp on furnishings, buy the best you can for the purpose required within reason.”

Chris White, Founder of Ideal Homes Portugal responds:

“It makes our job worth while when I talk to clients such as Clive.  Customers that have taken our advice and are delighted with the outcome are exactly what we aim to accomplish. Tourism in Portugal is flying and we are expecting many of our rental properties to have a bumper year.  Holiday makers that had pursued more ‘exotic’ climes such as Egypt and Tunisia are returning in their droves to safe havens such as the Algarve.

“Mr Edmonds is a shrewd businessman, with our help he has secured a well priced apartment in a well built development which has superb facilities. It is close to a number of beautiful beaches, has a terrific choice of restaurants and the airport is only an hour away.  Portugal has great flight connections year round to many international airports including the UK.  This is exactly what holiday makers are looking for and exactly why we are looking forward to a busy but successful 2016.”

An example of a similar apartments to the one that Clive Edmonds purchased:

Impressive two bed luxury apartments with sea views, Lagos                    From €260,000

Porto de Mos Beach Apartments now for sale, built by a long established construction company, here in the Algarve. Past apartments have proven to be an exceptional and in demand choice for buyers.

These new apartments are situated close to the beach and offer wonderful sea views.

• Two Swimming Pools
• Gymnasium
• Sauna
• Air Conditioning
• Central Vacuum System
• Equipped Kitchen: Extractor, Oven, Fridge Freezer, Ceramic Hob, Dishwasher
• Solar Boiler for Hot Water
• Washing Machine
• Thermal and Acoustic Insulated
• Luxury Finish
• Parking & Storage
• Landscape Gardens

Lagos is a vibrant town full of historical interest.  Praça de Gil Eanes, the square in the middle of the town, is often the setting for evening entertainment throughout the year.  On Saturday mornings a market comes to the square with fresh fruits and vegetables, olives, honey, figs, almonds and local delicacies.

The beaches around Lagos are some of the most beautiful of the Algarve and can be reached in a 25 minutes walk from the centre of the town. However the local beach at Ponta da Piedade is a sheltered bay and has caves, rocks and wonderfully transparent waters – perfect for a day in the sun.

For more information on buying a property for rental income contact Ideal Homes: 0800 133 7644, +351 289 513 434, or www.idealhomesportugal.com email sales@idealhomesportugal.com

* The Golden Triangle refers to an area in central Algarve between Quinta do Lago, Almancil and Quarteira is often encompassing Vale De Lobo, Vilamora and Quinta da Lago.

• Safety and security is no. 1 priority for UK holiday makers this year (TravelZoo)
• Steady Portuguese housing market sees 2.5% price rise projection for 2016 (RICS/Ci)
• The Algarve is Europe’s cheapest beach resort (Post Office)
• Portugal offers wholesome family fun at low cost (Ideal Homes Portugal)

The tragic events in the resorts of Tunisia and Egypt over the past year have rocked the foundations of holidaymakers around the world, so much so that UK travellers now consider safety and security to be the most important factor when it comes to booking their holiday destination. The changing shape of holidays has been revealed by a survey from TravelZoo, where 30% of respondents rated this as their number one priority.

One of Europe’s safest and most popular summer holiday destinations is Portugal, as resident Chris White, Founding Director of Ideal Homes Portugal, explains,

“Portugal offers a real safe haven for UK holidaymakers. The country lacks the political tensions that exist between many nations and instead offers a wholesome, family environment that is perfect for those looking for sunshine, beaches, water parks and a great Mediterranean diet.”

Portugal is one of the destinations flagged up by TravelZoo as enjoying a rise in bookings as holidaymakers’ priorities shift. Of course, finances are still a big consideration for many families when it comes to holiday destinations, which is another of Portugal’s advantages – it is one of the best value destinations in Europe. In fact, the Algarve is Europe’s cheapest beach resort, according to the Post Office Worldwide Holiday Costs Barometer 2015, and the second best value destination globally.

One item that offers excellent value for money in Portugal is property. From a two bedroom apartment with sea views in Albufeira for €110,000 to a stunning three bedroom country retreat complete with swimming pool and grounds including two lakes for €650,000, the sun-kissed country offers bargains to suit every budget.

The stability of Portugal’s housing market offers further reassurance to holiday home buyers looking for a safe haven in the sunshine. The January 2016 Portuguese Housing Market Survey from RICS/Ci observes that price expectations point to steady gains over the course of 2016, with house price inflation expected to be around 2.5% in both Lisbon and the Algarve.

Portugal’s proximity to the UK is another important factor when it comes to those booking holidays or looking for a second home in a safe haven overseas. Frank Brehany of HolidayTravelWatch observes,

“Given the awful events in 2015, it is no surprise to me that UK holidaymakers will want to experience less of the exotic and more of the familiar, feeling more secure if they holiday closer to home; it’s a natural consequence of last year.”

With Portugal ticking so many boxes – safe, sunny, fabulous beaches, stunning golf courses, low cost of living and just a short flight from the UK – it’s easy to see why many holidaymakers this year will be sunning themselves on the beaches of the Algarve, rather than heading further afield.

For further details call Ideal Homes Portugal on 0800 133 7644 or +351 289 513 434, email enquiries@idealhomesportugal.com or visit www.idealhomesportugal.com