There was a time when friends and family in the UK would be deeply envious when we mentioned the daily temperature here, and start planning their next vacation away from the greyness and drizzle of home. But this year, they, too, have suffered from excess heat, and are looking at ways of avoiding it. But we have the pleasure of aircon here, and the great relief it brings – at home, in restaurants, in hotels, in shopping malls. They don’t. Another reason for making a second home the first. And according to all reports, that is exactly what many people are doing, making the move from holiday home to full-time living. In this issue – our biggest yet – we’ve looked into the property market and run price comparisons across the country and also gone into the legalities of buying, which we know will be of help to those still contemplating. The extra pages in this issue mean extra content that gives us more to talk about – and shout about – to circa 50k readers. We are action packed here with so much to share, and more highly-regarded Portugal-wise writers are joining our team of contributors. Standing ovation, please, to them all. We’re also finding an increasing number of businesses that have a message to get out there are choosing us to deliver it to the right audience. All in all, these are great times for us. And a special thanks goes to Isto, a Portuguese clothing brand that has a lot to say about quality, transparency, and independent thinking. Its dining guide – page 23 – is a treat.
Beach boys’ style. Great knee-length surf poncho with roomy kangaroo pockets. 100% cotton, and quick drying. Guaranteed that partner will want one, too, and fitting all sizes it could be the share of the summer season. From Pacifique Sud, €75. pacifiquesud.pt
Beach time – we tell you where to go for the best. See page 73
Stretchy bandeau swimsuit with metal ring feature. The fact that there are removable and detachable straps add to its appeal. From a really good swimwear selection at Massimo Dutti, this one is a very reasonable €59.95. massimodutti.com
IF YOU HAVE ANYTHING YOU WOULD LIKE TO SHARE, EMAIL susi@rogol-goodkind.com
FRONT COVER:
Never settle for second best – go for a winner every time. Maria João Gomes, the amazing talent behind Palmas Douradas, has created a collection of hats, bags, necklaces and bras, each piece entirely handcrafted using palm leaves from the Algarve mountains. See it all at her studio in the Museu do Traje in São Brás, or online at facebook.com/ palmasdouradas Images in collaboration with Boom Models
Daydream is pure Dedon DNA, adding character to any setting, indoors or out. With its undulating lines, Viennese cane-weaving pattern and generous proportions, the four-poster canopy daybed is perfect for laying about, solo or with loved ones, reading a book, sipping a glass, conversing, having a splash or drifting in and out of dreams. From Dunas in Almancil. dunas-living.com
Isto is an independent Portuguese brand that focuses on quality (always superb) and the best every day essentials, organic materials and pricing transparency. This is all about classics at their coolest; linen is a summer time favourite – ditto spring and autumn! Love the relaxed fit, buttonless collar, and custom bio resin buttons. €115. isto.pt
Okay okay, so you recognise the distinct handwriting of Porches Pottery – but have you seen these charming little teacups that are now being used to serve speciality artisan coffee in the café which boasts a new look, a new concept, a new team, a new menu, and a new name... O Café da Olaria. The menu of more-ish dishes includes vegan-friendly options and gluten-free choices. porchespottery
LIGHTEN UP
Luz Editions consistently delivers great styling and a very individual approach. Its pendant lights are a treat for your home. Art Decoinspired Viana is made in earthenware with a ceramic finish. In yellow, beige, ochre or cracked white. €245. luzeditions.com
BAGGING IT
Favourite boutique hotel Casa Amor in Olhão has been providing its guests with oversized baskets to take to the beach or rooftop. Very boho-chic, they were such a success that they are now selling the bags in the coffee shop. Reckon this could become an icon. €42. casaamor-olhao.com
Tips to reduce f ire risk and what to do in the event of fire
ATHE INTENSE HEAT OF SUMMER CAN, AND DOES, LEAD TO RAGING FIRES THAT CAN DESTROY LAND, PROPERTY AND LIVES. IT IS VITAL THAT YOU ARE AWARE OF THE FIRE RISKS – NEVER
ASSUME
IT WON ’ T HAPPEN TO YOU. FIRE HAS NO FRIENDS OR PREFERENCES
Words: DEBBY BURTON OF ALERTA
LERTA, WITH its team of volunteers, shares the weekly fire risks and updates daily during the summer months as well as information on current fires in the Algarve and lower Alentejo. Download Restrictions_RuralFireRiskIndex.pdf for detailed information of restrictions.
Things you can do around your home
Keep your land clear
Remove any overgrown weeds and grasses. Trim trees around the house and touching the house.
Clear guttering.
Remove flammables that are close to the house – anything that can potentially burn, like wood stores.
If clearing land, do not use a metal blade as this can spark on stones causing a fire. Helicopters do use pool water to help put fires out, but cannot put the scoop in if there are objects bobbing in the water .
Keeping safe away from home
Do not park cars over long dry grass, the heat of the exhaust can cause a fire. Glass bottles and foil are all capable of magnifying and reflecting the sun, and create a heat source.
Do not use a disposable BBQ, even on bare cleaned land. The temperature beneath a BBQ can reach 200° to 230°C and the ground remains searingly hot for hours after it has been removed.
Only barbeque in designated areas, not in the countryside.
Only camp in designated campsites, not wild camping with open fires.
How to prepare, just in case
For any potential emergency, it pays to have an exit plan, and rehearse it. Allocate who will do what. Keep dogs leads and cat baskets in the same place, close to your exit.
If you have cats and will need to catch them, do it sooner rather than at the last minute. Have a grab bag, ready by the door.
What to put in a grab bag
Essential documents – passports and medical alerts.
Insurance documents
Pet papers, pet passports, and insurance. Medication, both human and animal.
Pet food.
Torch and spare batteries.
Laptops, phones tablets and chargers.
Charged power packs.
Precious items, things that are irreplaceable to you like photographs and jewellery.
A change of clothes and nightwear.
Wash bag.
Water, drinks and snacks.
First aid kit.
Money.
And finally
Make sure there is fuel in the car
Reverse your car onto your drive or into your garage so you can drive out safely. Do not leave it till the last minute if you have to evacuate – smoke can affect your engine.
If you have electric gates, have an override key ready just in case the power has failed. The more information you can give the 112 operators the better. Know your GPS coordinates, any landmarks or road markers.
Let someone know you have left the property to save emergency services looking for you.
OUT AND ABOUT IN
LAGOS
THERE’S SOMETHING UNDENIABLY ROMANTIC ABOUT ARRIVING IN A TOWN BY TRAIN. NO AIRPORT CHAOS, NO HIGHWAY MONOTONY – JUST THE GENTLE CLATTER OF WHEELS ON RAILS AND THE STEADY REVEAL OF PORTUGAL’S COASTLINE, INCH BY INCH, AS YOU APPROACH ONE OF THE ALGARVE’S MOST CHARISMATIC TOWNS: LAGOS
Words: NICK ROBINSON, ALGARVE ADDICTS
IT WAS MID-MORNING when I stepped off the train at Lagos station, the sunlight already sharp, bouncing off the cobblestones and whitewashed walls like it had business to attend to. The air had that warm Atlantic tang, the kind that wakes up memories of salty skin, sun-warmed towels, and beachside cervejas.
The station itself is modest and modern in comparison to the previous 20 stations on the Algarve’s only trainline. From there, it’s a short and satisfying walk around the Marina and over a pedestrian bridge to Lagos proper. As I crossed over the rivermouth, I marvelled at all the cranes and modern apartment blocks, rising up and filling the area.
Whether you like it or not, internationals are moving in and those apartments aren’t cheap. Palm trees line the pedestrian promenade, sailboats gently bob in the harbour, and kiosks tempt you with brochures offering Cave Tours, Kayak Adventures, and Sunset Champagne Cruises. Lagos knows what it’s good at, and it’s not shy about showing it off.
A
walk through time
The old town rises ahead like a mosaic of red roofs and ochretoned walls, all wrapped in a tangle of narrow streets. But before diving into the day’s pleasures, I made a deliberate detour – to a place that tempers the lightness of Lagos with something heavier.
Just around the corner from the Mercado de Escravos square is the Slave Market Museum (Mercado de Escravos) – the site of what
is believed to be Europe’s first slave market, dating back to 1444. It’s a small building with a big weight. Inside, I found artefacts, stories, and harrowing truths told plainly. The first enslaved Africans brought to Portugal were sold here by Henry the Navigator’s men, many of them captured from what is now Mauritania and Senegal.
One inscription stayed with me all day: a quote from an anonymous enslaved man, who said: “I do not know where I am. I only know that I am not free.” In a town so gleaming with leisure and good times, this place serves as a quiet moral compass, reminding us that the beauty of a place must also acknowledge the darkness of its past.
Coffee, friends and boards
I needed a moment to reflect, so I strolled a little further and perched myself outside Abigail’s Café. This, my friends, is where Lagos really started to shine. The café scene here is subtly international – not overwhelmed by chains, but brimming with independent coffee houses that take their flat whites very seriously.
At Abigail’s, the beans are lovingly sourced, the oat milk is always perfectly textured, and you’re as likely to hear Australian accents or Dutch being spoken as you are Portuguese. It’s a meeting ground for digital nomads, solo travellers, surf instructors and the odd local artist sipping a double espresso.
As I savoured what may have been the best flat white I’d had in weeks (nutty, creamy, and sharp), I waited for some friends –fellow wave chasers who were driving up from Luz.
When they arrived, grinning and sun-streaked, boards strapped to the roof, I knew where the day was headed. We bundled into
This page, below, top left clockwise: The famous green-tiled building in Luis de Camões Square in the old town; fortified walls surrounding the inner city; the Fortress of Ponta da Bandeira, now a museum; entrance to the Slave Market museum, an essential place to visit and learn from
the car and made our way southwest – zigzagging down through the countryside toward Praia da Ingrina, one of those quietly spectacular little surf beaches tucked away near Raposeira.
The waves weren’t massive, but they were clean and consistent. Just enough to have fun and get the blood pumping. Lagos is a brilliant base for both exploration and relaxation, with something for every kind of traveller.
Get out there
One of the most popular draws is, of course, the kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding tours around the Ponta da Piedade headland. These golden cliffs and sea caves are straight out of a dream, and gliding through narrow rock arches and hidden grottoes is a surreal experience – especially early in the morning when the water is glassy and the crowds haven’t yet stirred.
Prefer a slower pace? You can walk the wooden boardwalks from Ponta da Piedade all the way down toward Praia do Camilo and Praia Dona Ana, pausing for jaw-dropping photo ops and a breath of salty sea air. It’s especially stunning at sunrise or in the golden hour – just you, the cliffs, and the Atlantic stretching endlessly into the blue.
Boat trips are another crowd-pleaser – ranging from mellow sailing cruises to adrenaline-packed speedboat rides. You can even book dolphin-watching excursions further out into the ocean. And if you fancy a bit of island-hopping, there are water taxis and tours heading east toward the Ria Formosa and the
Want peace? There’s history, beaches, and coffee shops. Want adventure? There’s surfing, paddling and cliff hikes. Want a bit of chaos? Lagos has it all
sandbar islands near Faro. Those are worthwhile trips.
And you’ll find plenty of surf schools offering lessons, gear rentals and the classic ‘learn to surf’ day out where they pick you up from your hotel and take care of everything (lunch included).
History buffs can dive into museums and monuments that tell the story of Lagos’ maritime past, from the days of Henry the Navigator and the Age of Discoveries to its more complex involvement in the Atlantic slave trade.
And let’s not forget the food scene – from beachside shacks serving grilled fish with ocean views, to cool little vegan cafés, craft burger joints, and traditional tasca-style restaurants dishing up octopus salad, cataplana, and pastéis de nata that’ll ruin all others for you.
Back to town, Twin Fin and garden vibes
Surfed out and smiling, we rolled back into Lagos mid-afternoon, salt still crusting our eyebrows and stomachs beginning to rumble. But first – another coffee. This time we hit Twin Fin, a cool little surf café tucked behind the beach road, offering everything from cold brews and smoothie bowls to banana bread so good it should be illegal. There’s a kind of soft Bali vibe going on there – palm fronds, good tunes, and staff who know your name by your second visit.
Fuelled and freshened up, we headed to Restaurante The Garden, a place that lives up to its name. Set beneath a canopy of trees and colourful hanging lamps, The Garden is a Lagos classic. Touristy? A bit. But the food? Properly satisfying. I had grilled sardines – charred, lemony and tasty – with a big, messy salad and a side of new potatoes.
My friends went in on a chicken piri-piri and a vegan Buddha bowl, and everyone left full and happy.
Wandering, beach lounging, and sunset shenanigans
From there, it was a classic Lagos afternoon: ambling through tiled laneways, ducking in and out of boutiques, sniffing soaps, admiring azulejos, and pausing occasionally to listen to a busker strumming Ain’t No Sunshine on an acoustic guitar. The atmosphere in Lagos is relaxed but never boring – always just a few beats away from something spontaneous.
Eventually, we drifted down to Praia da Batata, one of the more accessible beaches right near the town centre. It’s small but charming, with rugged rock formations framing the bay. We lay back in the sand, watching local kids do flips off the rocks and couples clink rosé over a portable speaker soundtracking the sunset.
Night owls and bon vivant revelry
Now, if Lagos has a secret weapon, it’s that when the sun goes down, it doesn’t go to sleep – it turns up. Hard.
The town is famous – some would say infamous – for its nightlife, and with good reason. There are more bars per capita here than almost anywhere else in Portugal, and they cater to all vibes.
Want something chilled? Head to Three Monkeys Bar for craft beer and a game of pool. Feeling tropical? Joe’s Garage will sort you out with a caipirinha in a plastic bucket. Live music more your thing? Stevie Ray’s Blues Bar often has a live band grooving in a corner that feels like it hasn’t changed since the 70s.
And what about us? We made our way to an all-time favourite: Bon Vivant. Housed in a striking pink building with a rooftop that
opens to the stars, Bon Vivant is a Lagos institution. We arrived as the golden hour gave way to indigo skies, and the place was already humming. Cocktails were flowing, laughter spilled out over the balconies, and the upstairs bar was easing into DJ territory.
I ordered something dangerously fruity – rum, passionfruit, something spicy. Perfect. The kind of drink that says, “Don’t make too many plans for tomorrow morning.”
Festivals, music and that Lagos feeling
Beyond the bar scene, Lagos also hosts some cracking festivals and events. From the Lagos World Music Festival, this year 3-11 August, that pulses with Afrobeat, reggae, and Portuguese fusion, to local saint celebrations, pop-up food trucks, and art exhibitions, there’s nearly always something going on.
It’s not just about beach bumming and bar crawling (though those are very much part of the appeal). Lagos has a certain magnetic energy. Maybe it’s the international mix – surfers from South Africa, yoga instructors from Finland, digital nomads from Berlin. Maybe it’s the old town walls that seem to hold centuries of secrets. Maybe it’s the sea caves and cliff trails, or the way the breeze carries the scent of grilled fish down every alley. Whatever it is, it keeps calling me back.
Final thoughts
Lagos is not Portugal’s best-kept secret – far from it. But despite the summer crowds and the obvious tourist trade, it still manages to feel personal. Maybe because you can shape it to your mood. Want peace and reflection? There’s history, beaches, and coffee shops for that. Want adventure? There’s surfing, paddling, cliff hiking. Want chaos and dancing on tables? Don’t worry. Lagos has your number.
This page, top left, clockwise: the narrow backstreets of the old town; Looking down of the cool scene from the rooftop of Bon Vivant, a real favourite; Lagos Harbour, where the boats park up; the famous Praia dos Estudantes, with its Roman bridge
ArtCatto Gallery in Loulé . Vila Vita Parc in Porches
Kaftan Cool
THE ALGARVE’S ENDLESS COASTLINE, GOLDEN SANDS, AND SHIMMERING POOLS CALL FOR SUMMER STYLE THAT’S AS BREEZY AS THE ATLANTIC WINDS. ENTER THE KAFTAN: THE SUMMER ESSENTIAL FOR ANYONE WHO WANTS TO COMBINE COMFORT AND GLAMOUR
Words: PIPPA O ’ KEEFE
DESIGN BY LALANI
One-of-a-kind handcrafted designs, where timeless elegance fuses with modern artistry in natural fabrics like silk, cotton, and chiffon. See the collection at The Hut in Almancil, Pine Cliffs and Concept Store Segredos de Camille, or make an appointment to visit the Vale Judeu studio. ash@designbylalani.com Insta:design_by_lalani
FLOWYWHITE DRESS
NABRU O I D
Light as air, this is the perfect cover-up after a swim or for lounging at a beach café. The relaxed fit lets the sea breeze in, while the floral-print is easy to pair with colourful swimwear or bold summer accessories. urbanoid.pt
KAFTAN BY MOO
Richly coloured embroidered linen that makes its own style statement. There are lots to choose from in El Corte Ingles, in Lisbon, and many, like Moo’s, are chic enough to wear out, away from the beach. elcorteingles.pt
KAFTAN
A vibrant citrus print and flowing fabric echo the region’s lively spirit and lush orange groves. This kaftan is ideal for slipping on after a swim, offering coverage without sacrificing style. greenkiss-concept.com
KLEED GADISAR BLUE KAFTAN
Inspired by the blues of the Atlantic and the Algarve sky, the Gadisar Blue Kaftan by Kleed is a showstopper. Handcrafted using ancient weaving techniques, it is lightweight and dries quickly, and provides just the right amount of coverage from the midday sun. kleed.com
ALGARVE KAFTAN STYLING TIPS
Accessorise Lightly: Pair your kaftan with flip-flops, espadrilles, or go barefoot on the sand. Add a woven beach bag and oversized sunglasses for instant glamour.
Sun Smart: Use your kaftan as a stylish shield against the midday sun – just add a wide-brimmed hat and SPF.
Easy Transitions: Kaftans are perfect for going from the pool to the bar – just slip on some jewellery or a belt to dress up your look.
Mix and Match: Layer your kaftan over swimsuits in bright colours or fun prints for a playful Algarve vibe.
AT THE BEACH
DERRICK OFOSU BOATENG
NUNO CERA
CHRISTIAN CHAIZE
KRISTIAN SCHULLER
DAVID YARROW
ALBERT WATSON
David Yarrow, “The Amalfi Coast“, 2024
Dining out
THE ALGARVE MIGHT BE FAMOUS FOR ITS BEACHES — BUT TRUST US, THE FOOD DESERVES JUST AS MUCH LOVE. HERE, SEAFOOD IS A STANDARD REQUEST: THINK CLAMS COOKED IN GARLIC AND WHITE WINE, FRESHLY GRILLED FISH STRAIGHT OFF THE BOAT, AND CATAPLANAS BUBBLING WITH FLAVOUR. FROM LOW-KEY TO FINE
DINING DESTINATIONS, HERE ARE SOME FAVOURITE PLACES IN THE REGION, RECOMMENDED BY THE TEAM AT ISTO
ARTE BIANCA
Aljezur: R. 25 de Abril
T: 965 880 497
Arrifana: Urbanização Vale da Telha sector B
T: 966 774 462
Sagres: Rua da Mareta
T: 282 014 022
W: artebianca.pt Neapolitan pizza, Algarve edition. Proper dough, proper oven, proper flavour. When you’ve have enough of fish (it happens), this is where you go to carb up and cool down.
Open: 12h00–23h00
A TIA BIA
Barranco do Velho, 8100-159
Salir
T: 289 846 425
W: atiabia.com
Not in the tourist brochures, and all the better for it. Expect generous servings, warm service and a family ambiance.
Open: Tuesday to Saturday
Lunch, 12h00–15h00
Dinner, 19h00–21h30
Sunday, 12h00–18h00
Closed Monday
AUSTA
Rua Cristóvão Pires Norte, Almancil
T: 965 896 278
I: @austa_resta
Small and quietly cool, with a focus on honest eating, thinking and drinking, the best trio. Also big hosts to a curated selection of events with special partners.
Open: Tuesday to Saturday
Breakfast and Lunch
09h30–14h00
Apéro drinks and snacks
17h00
Dinner, from 19h00
RESTAURANTE CARLOS
Av. Comandante Matoso, Sagres
T: 282 624 228
W: facebook.com/ restaurantecarlos
Tucked away near the Sagres fortress, this is where Sagres locals go for real-deal seafood. Generous portions, grilled to perfection and the freshest catch in town.
As local as it gets. Homemade dishes with church bells in the background. Trust the kitchen, but also trust us and try the oysters.
Open: 16h30–22h00
GIGI’S
Praia da Quinta do Lago
T: 964 045 178
W: quintadolago.com/pt/ restaurantes/gigis/
A beach shack of legends. Gigi serves grilled fish like no one else, and does it in the best way, with the Atlantic on the side. Every dish is delicious.
Open: Daily, 10h00–18h00
JARDIM DAS OLIVEIRAS
Sitio do Porto Escuro 8550-204 Monchique T: 282 912 874
W: jardimdasoliveiras.com
Up in the hills, down-toearth in spirit. A place where time slows and pork speeds up. Rustic, open fire, and mountain views worth the wait.
Open: Lunch, 12h00–16h00 Dinner, 19h00–23h00 Sundays and holidays, 12h00–16h00
A new-school fine-dining spot with roots in local produce and tradition. Tasting menus that surprise and ingredients that sing. This is the region’s answer to modern Algarve cuisine and something of an experience.
Open: Tuesday to Saturday, 19h00–22h00
Closed: Sunday and Monday
NOELIA E JERONIMO
Av. Ria Formosa 2, 8800-591 Cabanas
T: 281 370 649 F: facebook.com/ noeliaejeronimorestaurante Every foodie in Portugal has been there. For the best reasons. Creative takes on Algarve classics, with one foot in the sea and the other in Noelia’s genius.
Two Michelin Stars. Ocean views. Food that looks like art. Go for a special occasion, or make it one.
Open: Wednesday to Sunday, 19h00–21h00
O GOLFINHO
Praia do Barranco das Belharucas em Albufeira
T: 289 502 249 W: ogolfinho.com
No frills, just fresh fish, grilled simply and served with a smile. A classic beachside joint with honest cooking and big portions. Get there early – it fills up fast.
Open: Daily, 10h00–21h30
2 PASSOS
Praia do Ancão, 8135-033 Almancil
T: 289 396 435
W: restaurante2passos.com
Outside balcony, golden sands, and grilled fish that tastes like summer. The kind of place you go to for lunch and leave at sunset. Bonus points for the freshly poured cocktails.
Open: June to August 12h30–18h00
September 12h30– 17h30
RUI MARISQUEIRA
Rua Comendador Vilarinho
27, 8300-128 Silves
T: 282 442 682
W: marisqueirarui.pt
Rui is a seafood institution.
Packed with tanks, coastal classic, legendary rice stews, and the unmistakable sound of hammers cracking crab claws. Loud, fast and fresh –just the way we like it.
Open: Lunch, 12h00–16h00
Dinner, 18h00–23h00
From June to September, closed Tuesday
TASCA
Porto da Baleeira, 8650-357 Sagres
T: 282 624 177
F: facebook.com/ AtascaBaleeira/ Cosy, casual, and consistently excellent. Petiscos with personality, wine with no pretension. A local favourite.
Open: Lunch, 12h30–15h00
Dinner, 18h30–22h00
Closed Wednesday
VILA LISA
Rua Francisco Bivar, 8500132, Mexilhoeira Grande
T: 282 968 478
W: adegavilalisa.com
A slow food kind of place. Choose from lagoon, sea or earth (or all mixed up). One of those hidden gems you only hear about from locals. And now us.
Open: For dinner, every day between July and September, 19h30–23h00
From October to the following June, open Fridays and Saturdays for dinner.
ZÉ MORGADINHO
Largo da Ribeira, Alvor, 8500-018 Portimão
T: 922 284 193
F: facebook.com/taberna. zemorgadinho
A neighbourhood spot with a seaside spirit. Fish is grilled to perfection, and the prices make you double-check the bill. A winning combo.
Open: 12h00–22h00
Closed Monday
MUSEUM MAGIC
VISIT A MUSEUM AND YOU COME AWAY WITH TWO KEY THINGS – A VALUABLE INSIGHT INTO THE HISTORY AND CULTURE OF YOUR CHOSEN DESTINATION, AND A KNOWLEDGE OF THE RECOGNISED MASTERS OF THEIR INDIVIDUAL FIELDS. TIME TO TAKE IN PORTUGAL ’ S PAST AND PRESENT...
Words: BEN AUSTIN
IN TERMS of public museums, there is no shortage of historical and modern work to be found in Lisbon, with the capital just having been given a cultural lift with the recentlyopened MACAM museum (Museu de Arte Contemporânea Armando Martins) together with the hotel in the Palace of the Counts of Ribeira Grande. The permanent collection has been built up by Armando Martins who, from humble beginnings in 1974, has now established one of the best private art collections in Portugal. It ranges from the late 19th century to the present day and comprises over 600 pieces of diverse artworks. The addition of the hotel reflects the art-as-lifestyle experience, a model that fashion brands are emulating.
From the bright new shiny museum of MACAM, there is in contrast the National Museum of Ancient Art. Here one can get lost in religious artwork, series of saints and horrific crucifixion scenes. There are a few standout pieces, such as the St. Vincent Panels attributed to Nuno Gonçalves. A remarkable
group portrait of 58 people, a solemn and monumental representation of the Court and Portuguese society. The other highlight in the collection is the bonkers Bosch triptych Temptations of St. Antony. This work brings together the four elements of the universe – air, earth, water and fire –and within this setting, all kinds of horrors are revealed in a nightmarish phantasmagoria. In terms of objects, one can not help but be enthralled by the craftsmanship of pieces like the Reliquary of Queen Leonor, made entirely of gold, coloured with vibrant enamels and further enriched with the addition of two emeralds, three rubies and a diamond.
Gulbenkian Museum
Of course, you can’t talk about Lisbon museums without referring to the Gulbenkian. Set within a garden and housed behind brutalist walls is one of the best private collections in the world. I am always blown away by the range and depth of what is on offer. Over a thousand pieces divided into groups corresponding to Egyptian art, Greco/Roman art, Mesopotamia, the Islamic Orient, Armenia, the Far East and Western art
including a fabulous collection of works by René Lalique.
There are a few personal favourites in the collection, including a cracking Rembrandt, Old Man with a Stick, and a gorgeous Rubens, Portrait of Helena Fourment, and not forgetting a typically tempestuous Turner. I am less impressed by the 20th century collection, although there is a marvellous David Hockney entitled Renaissance Head to be found there. The museum has recently opened a redesign of the CAM building by Japanese architect Kenjo Kuma working alongside landscape architect Vladimir Djourovic to perfectly integrate architecture and nature.
Award-winners
In terms of architecture, nothing compares to the elegant lines and curves of the MAAT (Museum of Art, Architecture and Technology), designed by Levete Architects studio
Above: The MAAT museum on the banks of the river, white and silver during the day, gold and glowing at sunset. Left: David Hockney’s Renaissance Head
that sits on the banks of the Tejo River next to the old Central Tejo Power station. The current exhibitions include the incredible photographic work of Jeff Wall – Time Stands Still. This exhibition brings together over 60 large scale pieces from throughout his career, highlighting his concerns over the tensions and dramas inherent to modern societies. Themes of loneliness, poverty, alienation, urban violence, abandonment and social exclusion are all present in the work. Also, currently on at MAAT is the 15th edition of the EDP Foundation New Artists Awards.
A hidden gem of a museum in Lisbon is the National Tile Museum, set in Madre de Deus Convent. The museum received the Best Museum World Award in 2023 and covers the production of glazed tiles from the second half of the 15th century to the present day. In addition to the tiles, the collection includes ceramics, porcelain and faïence from the 16th to 21st centuries. A couple of highlights include the Caça ao Leopardo panels and the monumental Grande Panorama de Lisboa attributed to Gabriel del Barco.
Another special museum to be found in Cascais is The Paula Rego Museum, a red building designed by Pritzker Prize architect Eduardo Souto de Moura. Paula Rego is considered by many to be one of the most important Portuguese artists in recent years, having
I am always blown away by the range and depth of what is on offer at the Gulbenkian; over a thousand pieces, divided into groups, are on permanent show
established her international reputation in London, where she lived for most of her life.
Up in Porto
One of the outstanding glories in what is regarded as the northern capital of Portugal is the Serralves Museum in Porto. A real treasure of contemporary art space, it is sited in the grounds of the Serralves Estate, which also comprises a park and a villa.
The current exhibition is a retrospective of the art world’s prankster, Maurizo Cattelan, entitled Sussurro. Cattelan captured the public attention a few years ago when he displayed his infamous banana stuck to the wall with duct tape. The piece entitled Comedian was recently sold at Sotheby’s for a staggering US$6.25m and is emblematic of the artist’s conceptual practice, using humour and irony to provoke and challenge the limits of contemporary value systems. The exhibition is being showcased at the Serralves Villa, a 1930s Art Deco house. In addition, there will be sculptural work by the artist installed throughout the park.
In the Algarve
As we head back south to the Algarve, we have contemporary galleries, cultural centres, museums and Municipal art incentives. Faro has an artist open studio event as well as gallery, Trem, located in the old town, near to the beer factory. Also in Faro is the Gama Rama gallery, which stages interesting contemporary exhibitions and hosts workshops.
The Museu Municipal de Faro (see page 55) has recently undergone a refurbishment and is housed in the 16th century Convento de Nossa Senhora da Assunção. Highlights include the Roman mosaic of the sea god Oceanus and a tiny painting in the collection, entitled Tower of Babel from 17th century Flemish school. This painting is part of the Novo Banco collection and is a little treasure in terms of detail and use of aerial perspective.
Towards the west, the Centro de Artes Visuais / LAC in Lagos is worth a visit. This space occupies a former prison and now operates as a vibrant arts centre with exhibitions, artists residencies, performances and workshops. The centre has a strong following with
urban and street artists, giving it a raw, experimental edge. Elsewhere in Lagos, there is the Museu de Lagos, which was founded by Dr. José Formosinho. A proverbial cabinet of curiosities, it mixes archaeology, sacred art, natural history and local ethnography.
The Museu de Portimão, which was once a bustling fish cannery, now preserves and interprets the industrial and maritime heritage of the Algarve. The museum also hosts temporary contemporary art exhibitions.
And in São Brás, the Museu do Traje likewise draws upon Algarvean customs. The building, an early 20th-century mansion, houses collections of handmade garments, tools and photographs, gathered from local sources; the museum’s social programme includes concerts, classes, art and photography exhibitions.
Loulé has a strong cultural offering, with the Convento in the old town staging engaging contemporary exhibitions and Alfaia also promoting emerging Portuguese talent. In The Pink gallery is a beautiful building and space in the centre, giving a dedicated platform to photography and showcasing
big international names such as David Yarrow and Albert Watson, as well as exhibiting young emerging Portuguese photographers.
Dig a little deeper into the Algarve spirit, beyond the golf courses and beaches, and one will find cultural offerings that are both educational and thought-provoking. The Algarve is home to a range of talented artists and designers, in particular Vanessa Barragão, and other crafts-based artisans, such as Miguel Martins who works in reclaimed wood and ceramics.
The cultural scene in Portugal is diverse and exciting if one knows where to look. The galleries and museums may not be able to produce the blockbuster shows that one find in capitals around the world, but the country has a proud and historic cultural legacy. From 15th-century altarpieces to modern urban art murals, Portugal constantly punches above its weight. For many, the story is constantly evolving and developing. The museums and cultural centres around the country draw upon this legacy, underpinning the importance of Portuguese global influence from the age of discovery to the present day.
Opposite page, top: Lisbon’s new MACAM museum; below: The grounds of the Museu do Traje in São Brás; bottom: Bosch’s triptych, Temptations of St. Anthony at MACAM. This page, above: The award-winning Tile Museum in Lisbon; below: Comedian, by Maurizo Cattelan at the current exhibition at the Serralves Museum in Porto
THE ALGARVE’S BEST
THE 17TH EDITION OF THE ALGARVE WINE COMPETITION, HELD IN 2025 AND ORGANIZED BY THE ALGARVE WINE COMMISSION WITH SUPPORT FROM THE LAGOA CITY COUNCIL, ONCE AGAIN CELEBRATED THE REGION ’ S FINEST WINEMAKING TALENTS
Words: LÍVIA MOKRI
THIS YEAR’S standout was the 2018 vintage Despedida from Casa Santos Lima – Companhia de Vinhas, S.A., which earned the prestigious Grand Gold Medal and was named Best Wine of the Algarve 2025. Crafted solely from the Cabernet Sauvignon grape, this red wine impressed with its robust structure and remarkable aromatic depth. It showcases rich layers of ripe black fruit and spice notes, brought together in a refined and lingering harmony. avotetewineshop.pt/products/ despedida-tinto-cabernetsauvignon-2018?_pos=6&_ sid=edb52bbe4&_ss=r
Alongside this exceptional winner, a range of outstanding wines received gold and silver medals, reflecting the diversity and quality of the Algarve’s wine production. Discover these amazing local wines and what makes each of them noteworthy.
GOLD MEDAL
Dialog Tinto 2015 by Quinta dos Vales
Crafted only in exceptional years, this blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Petit Verdot embodies excellence. Aromas of spices, intense black berries and notes of chocolate and tobacco leaf. In the mouth, this blend presents freshness and a remarkable and elegant structure, with a memorable and pleasant finish. It goes well with red meats, sausages, and roast pork loin with chestnuts. shop.quintadosvales.pt/Dialog-Red2015-p750181104
Al-Ria Tinto 2022 by Casa Santos Lima
Al-Ria red is a wine with a deep, violet hue, with good concentration on the nose. It has a rich aroma, with notes of ripe black fruit, jam and flowers. On
the palate, it presents soft and velvety notes of the same fruits, chocolate and vanilla. It has a long and balanced aftertaste, with tannins showing its potential longevity. Goes well with game dishes, red meats and stews. portugalvineyards.com/en/ algarve/16679-al-ria-reservered-2022-5604424345300.html
Quinta dos Capinhas Tinto 2021 by Quinta dos Capinhas
Fine and elegant wine from the Alfrocheiro, Alicante Bouschet, and Cabernet Sauvignon grapes. Aromas of black fruit and a slight smokiness. On the palate, intense wine with good volume and juiciness, with notes of plum, mocha, coffee and spices. Fine tannins appear in a long finish. quintadoscapinhas.com/pt/
Falésia Reserva Branco 2023 by Falésia Wine
This wine from the Sauvignon Blanc and Arinto grape varieties contains aromas of mango, papaya, pear and peach. The palate is dense and fresh, with notes of vanilla and light toast. A white wine with character and a fine, velvety texture. The very close influence of the sea provides sensations of salinity, aromatic fruits and balanced acidity. Perfect with fatty fish (salmon or sardines), wellseasoned pastas, and salads. avotetewineshop.pt/products/ falesia-branco-reserva-2022?_ pos=1&_sid=61363212a&_ss=r
Despedida Negra Mole Tinto 2022 by Casa Santos Lima
With a beautiful light ruby colour, this wine has a complex aromatic profile with floral and cherry notes. On the palate, it is elegant, fresh, and full of red fruit flavours. https://www.garrafeirasoares.pt/ pt/portugal/vinhos/vinho-tintodespedida-negra-mole-75-cl/ item_13166.html?id=36&cat=0&pc=1
Arivat Tinto 2022 by Casa Santos Lima
Very elegant and extremely fresh, single-varietal wine from the Algarve’s native grape of Negra Mole. Aromas of red fruits, cherry and raspberries, earthy notes, and herbs. On the palate, deep flavour and very smooth acidity. Long and elegant finish. Beautiful to accompany mushrooms sautéed with bacon and garlic. grandesescolhas.com/pesquisa-devinhos/arivat/
Herdade Barranco do Vale Reserva Branco 2021 by Herdade Barranco do Vale
This citrus-coloured Chardonnay wine showcases aromas of soft citrus and spicy notes, quince and peach. The palate is marked by an excellent, natural acidity, good and structured volume, with creamy notes. Persistent and vibrant finish. Goes well with meat or poultry dishes and intensely flavoured fish. hbv.pt/herdade-barranco-do-valechardonnay-reserva-20201/
SILVER MEDAL
Monte Da Ria Red 2021 by ArtemisProjetos e Desenvolvimento Agrário, Lda
Wine with lively young red fruits, made from Syrah, Touriga Nacional and Baga grapes. The fruity character stands out which, together with sweet aromas resulting from a short ageing in wood, gives it a certain modernity. In the mouth, it is full-bodied, with a persistent, smooth finish, showing a good balance between acidity and structure. Some salinity due to the proximity of the sea is present. domvicente.shop/pt/produto/monteda-ria-estate-blend-tinto/
Arvad Reserva 2022 by Arvad Wines
The Arvad Reserva 2022 is a red wine known for its robust and complex profile. It is crafted from a blend of grapes including Cabernet Sauvignon, Alicante Bouschet, and Touriga Nacional, with manual harvesting and selection followed by fermentation and ageing in French oak barrels. It has the aromas of cassis and ripe raspberries, complemented by tobacco and spice notes. In the mouth, vibrant, full, and enveloping with well-structured tannins, promising longevity. cavelusa. pt/en/store/wine/portuguese/arvadreserva-red/
Morgado da Serra de Monchique
Negra Mole Tinto 2022 by Abegoaria Wines, S.A.
Intense aroma of red berries and pine needles. Youthful, cheerful and inviting. Structured, with present and polished tannins. Smooth, elegant and spicy wine, with notes of fresh red fruit. portugalvineyards.com/en/ algarve/24408-morgado-daserra-de-monchique-negra-molered-2022-5600781952939.html
Arvad Negra Mole Rosé 2023 by Arvad Wines
Light pink coloured wine from the Negra Mole grape. With a discreet and very elegant aroma, it shows different characteristics throughout the tasting. At first, it is dominated by cherries and wild berries followed by charming clay notes in the background, which give this wine a unique character. With a rare elegance, it is a vibrant but very smooth wine with a medium-long finish. Ideal with appetizers or with
salads, Asian food, or grilled fish. garrafeiraestadodalma.pt/pt/ rose/14018-5600190255874.html
Sentidos Tato Branco 2023 by Quinta dos Sentidos
A distinctly gastronomic white wine. Serious, precise, and very dry, vinified and aged in American and French oak. Intense aromas of tropical fruit, flowers, citrus fruits, oak and vanilla. Fresh and crisp, where natural acidity is perfectly integrated. winesandco.eu/product/sentidosvisao-white-2/
Terras de Loulé Reserva Red 2019 by Mundo do Vinho – Comércio de Bebidas, Lda
This excellent wine is produced with Alicante Bouschet, Petit Verdot, Touriga Nacional and Castelão grapes. Exuberant aromas of ripe red fruits. On the palate, it is a full-bodied, velvety and fresh wine. Balanced acidity and elegant tannins that give it a long and persistent finish. Pairing perfectly with sausages, hams, soft cheeses, red meats, game, fatty fish, and cataplana. mundodovinho.com/vinho/vinhoterras-de-loule-reserva-tinto-75cl/
Quinta do Rogel Tinto 2023 by Quinta do Rogel
This red wine is a blend of the Syrah, Touriga Nacional and Aragonez grape varieties. Good concentration in colour, ruby with garnet nuances. Intense aromatic profile of ripe fruit, notes of blackberries and aromatic herbs. The maritime influence and limestone soils of the Barrocal enhanced the long ripening of the grapes, producing an aromatic wine, very full-bodied, but with polished tannins. It has an alcohol content of 17%. avotetewineshop.pt/products/quintado-rogel-tinto-2023
Quinta do Barradas Reserva Tinto 2021 by Rotas Seculares
This red wine from the Syrah grape reveals complex aromas with notes of red fruits, floral notes and spices from the oak where the wine was aged. On the palate, it is smooth, with a rounded flavour, body and soft tannins, with a long and persistent finish. https://grandesescolhas.com/pesquisade-vinhos/quinta-das-barradas/
THE ALGARVE ’ S CAPITAL OFFERS VISITORS A PERFECT MIX OF ELEGANT HISTORY, STUNNING ARCHITECTURE AND VIBRANT CULTURE, WITH A LOVE FOR LIFE. IF YOU HAD JUST 24 HOURS TO SPEND IN THE CITY, HERE ’ S WHAT WE SUGGEST YOU DO TO MAKE THE
Words: LAURA SHEA
06h30 Sunrise. Begin your day at Faro beach where you will have unspoilt views of the most stunning sunrise, and the soothing sounds of the waves. This strip of beach is easy to get to, offers ample parking and a selection of cafés and bars. You will probably find a handful of young holiday makers also marvelling at the vista and then partaking in a spot of beach yoga. Once you’ve had a walk in the surf to fully appreciate the moment, it’s time to head to the town.
08h30 You will need a light and refreshing breakfast before your morning in Faro, and there is no shortage of fantastic cafes to choose from. Order yourself an abatanado, fresh orange juice and a plate of torrada pão de forma, very Portuguese and totally delicious. Astor Café, located on Rua General Teófilo da Trinidade, has a fantastic menu and offers great quality dishes in an airy and bright setting.
FARO
09h30 Get your steps in and begin to wander the smooth cobbled streets and winding back alleys of Faro. It doesn’t matter where you go as every turn reveals an ornate façade or iron balcony with tumbling vines and flowers. The architecture of Faro offers the typical Portuguese beauty of patterned tiles and different colours of pastel and jewel tones, but you will also find modern buildings squeezed in where space allows where metal and glass dominate.
You enter the Old Town through the Arco da Vila, the incredible neoclassic gateway to the streets beyond. You can visit Faro Cathedral here, and climb to the top of the bell tower for some breathtaking views of the city. However, I would suggest a visit to the Igreja do Carmo as well, if time allows. This can also be done on a return visit as the church is a bit of a longer walk away than the old town, nearer to the municipal market, but is so worth a trip. The famous Capela dos Ossos, or bone chapel, is here, and is truly an incredible experience. Located at the back of the church itself, this chapel is small but absolutely beautiful. I found a serene and comforting feeling here, there is no dark or imposing nature as you will sometimes find in crypts.
If you don’t fancy the climb of the bell tower at the cathedral, use your time instead to visit the Municipal Museum of Faro. Located in the Convent of the Assumption of Mary, the museum offers shade and a cool breeze to escape the summer heat, so an ideal way to spend the midday hours. The incredible architecture of the convent itself is worth seeing, where a lush, green courtyard sits surrounded by idyllic arches and wooden ceilings. The Roman mosaic floor is the showstopper, but for me the seamless blend of a modern walkway winding through ancient pillars and then the discovery of the stately room of immense artwork was my favourite part.
13h00 You will be ready for lunch after your educational morning, and you are spoilt for choice in Faro. Shaded terraces are hidden around corners and you always know you have found the best spot when there is hardly a table free. To make the most of your lunchtime, I always opt for one of the many excellent restaurants which offer a prato do dia, or dish of the day. Often times these come as a set menu, including a beer, wine or soft drink, bread and olives or soup to start, a main dish and then dessert of the house and an espresso. Main dishes will likely include fried or grilled fish, piri piri chicken or seafood rice, all served with salad and potatoes. Desserts will be rice pudding, fruit salad or sometimes the delicious bolo de bolacha, each one made to the families’ own recipe.
Opposite page, top: the narrow streets into the old town; below: The Municipal Museum of Faro, in the old town. This page, top left, clockwise: Arco da Vila, the entrance to the historic centre; Faro Harbour; Igreja do Carmo with its famous bone chapel; view out to sea from the Cathedral tower. Centre: the cake you have to try
14h30 After lunch you will need a good dose of fresh sea air to wake you up and power you through for the rest of the day. Walk to the marina and jump onto a boat tour to make this truly a day to remember. You will have plenty of options here, from fast-paced rides just for sightseeing to longer trips for birdwatching and dolphin spotting. Take advantage of Faro’s perfect location and explore the Ria Formosa Natural Park from the water. You can go with Ria Formosa Eco Boat Tours if you want to keep your carbon footprint down, as they use solar powered vessels and provide a more tranquil experience. Or use Ria Formosa Island Tours and jump off the boat at various stops. Ilha Deserta is great for unforgettable photos, and the water is calm and cool so make sure to have a paddle! There is a plethora of choice for tours, so make sure to do your research on what you really want, and take your time to talk to each tour provider before booking. I enjoyed a small group tour, only eight people on the boat and felt looked after throughout.
18h30 A few steps across the road from where the boat will drop you off is the Faro Hotel which offers a trendy rooftop bar overlooking the water you have just travelled. For a bit of a further walk, you can visit LAB Terrace bar which sits on the outskirts of the Old Town wall and provides you with an unspoilt view of the sea. Further in is Varandas Bar, a very cool and hip hang out, again serving up roof terrace views and chill out vibes. All are ideal for drinks, and scenery and sunset viewing. Epicur Wine bar is nearby and definitely worth a visit for the boutique style and funky tapas.
left: Take a ferry to the islands – there are countless operators and frequent crossings. Or choose a water taxi; the drivers are always happy to share insights;
20h00 The choice is now yours. Do you stay in one of the bars you have found and enjoy the sunset with a light meal of tapas or do you head to one of the culinary hotspots Faro has to offer? Restaurant Céu is a unique and mostly gluten free fusion menu which blends the flavours of South America with some Asian flare. Order a selection of the small plates and enjoy the journey. A Do Pinto offers outside seating which is great for people watching, and serves traditional Portuguese food using top notch ingredients. Share the Cataplana a Pinto and a bottle of red wine for a 10/10 meal.
Into the evening After dinner you can head to the Theatre Lethes to catch an evening show (usually beginning at 21h00 but check the schedule online teatrolethespt.wordpress.com/ ) or stop in and listen to some live music playing at a number of bars. LAB Terrace and Rooftop EVA often have local bands or musicians playing and both offer a relaxed and comfortable location. Rua do Prior is the hottest spot once the sun goes down as it offers a glut of great places for drinks and people. From Faro Hotel head past McDonalds and follow the noise to find the fun! Bar ChesSenta is fun, lively and has great bands playing most nights. Grab a drink and head upstairs and soak up the atmosphere.
To continue the fun into the early hours of the morning, Baxaria is the way to end the night and greet the dawn. Easily missed, this hidden club on the backstreets of downtown Faro is a welcoming, inclusive and friendly bar. Live acts or a DJ means that you will not want to leave the dancefloor. Once your legs can take no more, you will exit to the first rays of the sun and gentle birdsong, knowing that you have lived the last 24 hours to the max!
And there’s so much more to discover, including the Faro Story Spot multimedia museum and restaurant. One to check out.
Above
right: Ria Formosa Natural Park. Below: the glorious Teatro Lethes
loulé
OFF MARKET ALGARVE
IT ’ S A GOOD THING THAT DAVID CAMPUS OF AUSTA HAS A REAL APPETITE FOR FOOD WITH FLAVOUR AND SERVICE WITH A SMILE. AS A RESULT HE ’ S ALWAYS DISCOVERING – AND SHARING – LESSER-KNOWN PLACES THAT CAN BECOME OUR NEW FAVOURITES FOOD
flatbread brushed with fragrant za’atar, lined with creamy halloumi that melted just so, and finished off with a squeeze of lemon for brightness.
JUST packing up after a long, lazy day at Galé beach. Skin sun-warmed, lips salty, and stomachs starting to grumble. Before heading home, we were craving something tasty but laid-back, and, scrolling through my internal map of our route home I suddenly remembered Off Market, the outdoor food truck court tucked off the N125.
Close to Quarteira, it’s a spot that’s wedged just off that main road connecting the central Algarve towns – a stretch better known for garden centres and roundabouts than hidden gems. It’s not somewhere you’d expect to find much... That is unless you know where to look.
The second we walked in, the roundabouts disappeared to make way for a cool gravel park, decked with wooden benches, shady spots, twinkling festoon lights and brightly coloured food trucks. Soft reggae rolls out from the speakers
as the two-man team spark up the guitars, and the smell of street food fills the air.
There’s a cozy, almost backyard feel to the place – a hum of people happily gathering to eat and drink.
First stop: the bar. We grab icecold bottles of Two Corvos, a beer from a Lisbon-based craft brewery, and let them work their magic. After a full day under the sun, those first sips were exactly what we needed – crisp, hoppy, refreshing. Then we moved on to caipirinhas.
Appetites whetted, it’s time to fill our tums. And this time in particular, a brand new addition to the market had lured me here, a truck by Beirut Bites and their freshly wrapped manakish, straight from the oven.
Lebanese cuisine isn’t something you come across often in the Algarve, so we were curious and, after that day of the beach, we were hungry.
Tucking into our warm flatbreads with just the right chew, we started with the za’atar and halloumi manakish – a mouthwatering
With a court of trucks, the choice of cuisines is impressive, as are the cocktails
Then there was the spiced lamb version: minced lamb seasoned with sumac and warm spices, paired with tangy pickles and fresh herbs, all wrapped in pillowy dough.
Each hand-held perfection. Fresh, flavourful, and different in the best way – hearty enough to satisfy, but light enough to go back for seconds. Which (obviously) we did.
Oh, and for dessert? We couldn’t resist trying a smash burger from another truck run by Off Market themselves – soft brioche cosied around a double patty with crispy edges, gooey cheese, and properly seasoned. It won’t disappoint.
Twinkling lights, benches that invite, and a great atmosphere, with real music
And that’s just it – Off Market nails the essentials: good food, good drinks, good vibes. Now especially, in the thick of the Algarvian summer, when our place is heaving with summer crowds and every restaurant is packed to the brim, this place will feel like a breath of fresh air.
No reservations, no pressure – just a casual, open-air spot where you can roll in straight off the beach, grab a beer, and settle in with friends for a long, lazy evening.
This defines laid back, and no question, this will become a firm favourite from the start.
A TRUE DESIGN ESCAPE ISN’T ABOUT DESIGN, EXPENSE OR LUXURY. IT’S ABOUT THOUGHTFUL INTENTION. IT’S A CAREFULLY-CRAFTED
EXPERIENCE WHERE DESIGN SERVES A PURPOSE: TO CONNECT YOU MORE DEEPLY TO PLACE, TO NATURE, AND TO YOURSELF
Words: EMMA CAMPUS, DESIGN ESCAPES PORTUGAL
What makes a Design escape?
OVER FIVE YEARS spent visiting some of Portugal’s most beautiful hidden hideaways, independent guesthouses, remote stays and hotels to share with travellers from near and far, I’ve discovered that a Design Escape is about so much more than just a beautiful place to stay. When architecture, landscape, and hospitality come together with meaning, it creates something lasting – something that resonates.
Spaces that feel considered, grounded, and human. Places that stay with you long after you’ve left, not because they were perfect, but because they made you feel something intrinsically linked to our design as humans – connection.
Interesting locations that speak to the soul
Be drawn to locations that are enriching: dramatic landscapes that shroud you in the beauty of nature or a city, remote hideaways where you can reflect amongst the quiet, authentic towns and villages that carry and tell the tales of local life, or enriching environments – whether beside a lake, deep in the forest, right on the sand, along a river or tucked down a cobbled street. Last issue’s hideaway, Travassos 11, is a perfect example of where being in a town doesn’t limit your integration into your surroundings.
DO’S AND DON’TS
Guests: Seek out escapes in locations that resonate with your desire for connection, culture, or peace. Look beyond convenience to find places with real spirit rather than booking properties just because they look pretty or are trendy.
Hosts: Choose sites that have a unique sense of place and a story worth sharing rather than considering properties based solely on popularity or ease of access if they lack authentic character. Help guests feel immersed in the location from the moment they arrive.
Design that honours the history and character of the place
I love design that embraces the original features and stories of a place. Spaces that feel highly considered or lived in, layered with meaning either through architecture or objects, and that combine the best of original craftsmanship with unique, found objects. I love spaces that reveal themselves slowly. A candle holder with a story, ceramics or art made by local hands, books that invite you to explore the place’s culture – these curated moments make a hotel or house feel alive and personal. They reward a keen eye and add layers to the experience just like how rooms in São Lourenço do Barrocal in Alentejo are filled with local ceramics and pottery, whereas Casa do São Lourenço in the Serra da Estrela have even revived the local textile factory as a community project, ‘weaving’ their tapestries into the design of the hotel.
DO’S AND DON’TS
bathtubs and big inviting sofas for added cosy-factor!
Guests: Spend time looking at available pictures on the property’s website, Google and social media. Choose escapes that offer a sense of personality that connect with your personal taste but also to the local culture. Don’t settle for generic interiors that could be anywhere, missing the chance to truly connect with your destination. Hosts: Mix contemporary design with antiques or ceramics from local artisans to add warmth and authenticity. Create curated corners with books or objects that tell the story of the house or the region. It’s those small, thoughtful details that invite a deeper connection for your guests. Avoid resorting to Ikea, Zara Home or shopping online for furnishings that create the feeling of a space void of soul.
A home that works in every season: cosy and fresh
Hosts: It’s key not to overlook seasonal adaptability, leaving guests feeling cold, too hot, or cramped. Creating inviting spaces both in and outside means maximising your revenue year round and not just in high season, so make an effort to design your property to adapt to all seasons – consider heating solutions, air conditioning, and versatile spaces for indoor and outdoor intrigue.
Interesting features: The unexpected that makes all the difference
What truly elevates a design escape is the presence of fun, unexpected features that guests wouldn’t typically find in their own homes – elements that surprise and delight, adding an extra layer of magic to the stay. Whether it’s a hidden skate park where guests can tap into their inner child like Casa Utspan, a serene bio-pool blending eco-conscious luxury with nature like Casa Brava, or retaining a historic room or building that offers a unique insight into the story of the place, like the dining room and chapel at Travassos 11, these special touches transform a simple getaway into a one-of-a-kind experience.
With travel becoming less seasonal in Portugal, I’m obsessed with finding design escapes that feel inviting year-round. I want spaces that are cosy and snug in winter, with soft textures and warm lighting, yet fresh and airy in summer, where open-air living invites you outdoors and you feel at ease regardless of the weather. Amaria in Odeceixe is a perfect example, where bathtubs, log burners and a wooden sauna ooze inspiration for winter retreats while floor to ceiling windows and billowing light linen curtains, air/con and a dramatic outdoor pool are perfect for hot summery holidays.
DO’S AND DON’TS
Guests: Look for escapes that offer comfort no matter the season. Look for listings of things like aircon/heating, whether the pool is heated or not, and scour pictures for working fireplaces (either in or outdoor),
Wellness features are also important: yoga decks overlooking rolling hills (see Casa da Volta!), unwinding in a traditional hammam after a day of exploration (the only one is at Companhia das Culturas in Algarve), or soaking under the stars in an outdoor bathtub surrounded by nature’s tranquility (Casa do Javali in the Douro). These features invite guests to slow down, indulge their curiosity, and immerse themselves fully in the place – creating memories that linger long after departure.
Page 40: Cabin on the Lake, Santa Clara Barragem. Page 41, left: Sauna at Amaria; right: Creating a feature, Pa.te.os, Melides;.
This page, above, left: Javalina in the Douro; right: intricate detailing in Travassos 11, in the centre of Elvas
DO’S AND DON’TS
Guests: Seek out escapes that offer unique amenities or experiences beyond the ordinary and make sure to take time to fully explore the property you are staying in. These little surprises often become the highlight of your stay.
Hosts: Think about incorporating distinctive features that reflect your property’s personality and environment, providing guests with joyful moments they can’t get anywhere else.
Easy and thoughtful check-Ins
Many guests today - especially younger travellers - want to drop their bags and start enjoying their escape immediately. After long journeys, they may not have the energy for a full chat or tour. Others love a warm welcome and appreciate being shown around. The most considered design escapes recognise that both are valid, and offer flexible check-in styles that match guest expectations. Equally important is what guests find on arrival. Instead of a generic bottle of wine, Design Escapes consider what time they’re arriving and where they’re coming from. If they’re landing late with no time to shop, a welcome basket with milk, eggs, coffee, and a loaf of local sourdough is far more useful than a bottle of cheap wine (Casa da Ria do this perfectly). Details like these are where that personalised hospitality truly shines.
DO’S AND DON’TS
Guests: Share your ETA and travel details honestly so your host can tailor the welcome. If you’re arriving late, don’t be shy to ask what will be available on arrivalyou’ll thank yourself later. If travel plans change, keep your host updated so they can adjust their teams with
notice particularly in remote locations.
Hosts: It’s nice to give guests the option before their arrival of whether they would like a full introduction or a quick check-in. Then they can choose. Some design escapes even have buttons on booking and places to input estimated arrival times and departure destinations.
Considered comfort and thoughtful amenities
Speaking of amenities, I believe comfort is key. Little details matter and show thoughtful care, like showers with strong water pressure, comfy beds with pillow choices, and calming natural linens. Amenities should feel authentic to the location, like organic toiletries or local artisanal products. Places like Âmago – Uma Casa Lenta, who work with local bakeries, local natural winemakers and cosmetic makers understand that design escapes aren’t about global brands but about meaningful, local touches. Minibars or honesty bars stocked with local drinks that support the community can deepen the guest’s sense of place rather than home to sad and solitary bottles of coca-cola and peanuts.
DO’S AND DON’TS
Guests: Expect and request thoughtful amenities that enhance comfort and connect you to the locale. Don’t accept minimal or generic amenities as the norm and give feedback where you think it could be helpful.
Hosts: Do your research into local brands, and have fun curating amenities and comforts that reflect local culture and offer genuine quality, from toiletries to refreshments. Try different options and choose something that fits with your brand. Also, always include conditioner in your bathroom amenities.
Above, left: São Lourenço do Barrocal uses its finest hand loomed blankets and bed coverings, made locally; right: cosy areas at Casas da Quinta de Cima provide the perfect environment for relaxing time out. Bring a book or borrow theirs
Curated local experiences
These days, a design escape extends beyond the house to what guests do while there. I love when hosts share insider tips and thoughtfully curated experiences that ideally relate to the property – from visits to local craftspeople and wineries to secret beaches and flea markets. Beautiful printed guides with maps and personal recommendations, like those I’ve admired at Pensão Agrícola and The Modernist in Faro add authenticity and invite guests to explore like locals.
DO’S AND DON’TS
Guests: Seek hosts who provide curated local insights and recommendations that feel authentic and personal. You can often find some recommendations at least on their website or Instagram that will give you an idea of their understanding of the local area.
Hosts: Make efforts to build an original and compelling brand that weaves together your property, the location, and local culture across all platforms. If you don’t have the website budget for a graphic designer, using platforms like Squarespace or Canva can help provide branding templates to fit your style.
Communication
Hosts: Develop genuine relationships in your community and create bespoke guides that highlight authentic local experience rather than offering generic recommendations without personal experience. Include things that relate to your place, like local guides – Pensão includes a flea market listing which relates to the fact that their hotel is designed using vintage objects.
Create a brand for your property
Good communication sets the tone for a great stay. As a guest, I’ve found that the more communicative and kind I am before a stay, the better the experience. Many of the best hotels, homes and guesthouses are independently owned, created with care by people who’ve poured their hearts into the place and often wear many hats. A little respect and warmth goes a long way. For hosts, I love a thoughtful and welltimed message with key information like directions, check-in details, and a packing list (especially important for rental houses) – all this helps guests feel supported and prepared. Mention anything that isn’t provided, such as olive oil, beach towels, or basic cooking ingredients, to avoid those frustrating first-night surprises.
DO’S AND DON’TS
A beautiful website and consistent branding go a long way. Let the story you tell online extend into your physical space - through welcome packs, guides, and social media.
Instagram, for example, should tell stories, not just showcase pretty pictures of rooms. Inspire potential guests with tales of local markets or artisans, giving them a reason to visit beyond just the accommodation. Casa Stephanie in Aljezur does this wonderfully.
DO’S AND DON’TS
Guests: Engage with a property’s story online to understand its unique appeal before booking and try not to judge a home or hotel solely on staged photos without exploring its broader story.
Guests: Be kind and communicative – these places are often labours of love – and take a moment to check in with your host ahead of time. Ask for a contact number (and save it!), share your estimated arrival time, and if you have doubts, double check what’s provided to avoid last-minute supermarket runs or missing essentials.
Hosts: Don’t underestimate the value of simple, clear information with a well-timed delivery. A short, kind message and a bit of planning help guests feel confident and looked after before they even arrive. Providing a WhatsApp number adds a personal, responsive touch. It makes it easy for guests to ask quick questions, get local tips, or troubleshoot small issues without fuss. Two-way communication during a stay can make a guest feel not just accommodated, but genuinely cared for. And that will have them coming back again and again.
Above, left to right: Locally-made products, like toiletries for guests’ use will always be welcomed; Casa Stephanie introduces artisan pieces to the decor; the welcome pack in Faro’s The Modernist is a delight
The finest art in the Algarve is now available in two fabulous locations
Tavira Gallery: Travessa Jacques Pessoa 8, Tavira, 8800-374, Algarve Email: taviradartes@gmail.com Vale do Lobo Gallery: Vale do Lobo, Resort Turístico de Luxo, S.A, 8135-864 Faro Email: VDLdartes@gmail.com Call: 962 012 111 Website: taviradartes.com
PROPERTY PRI E RIGHT
THE ALGARVE, BUSY, EXPENSIVE AND BEAUTIFUL, SUITS MANY INTERNATIONAL AND NATIONAL BUYERS WHO ARE AFTER THAT BIT OF PRESTIGE AS WELL AS THE LOVELY WEATHER. THE CENTRAL REGION SUITS THOSE WHO WANT MORE FOR THEIR MONEY AND ARE LOOKING FOR A QUIETER LIFESTYLE IN A SPECTACULAR COUNTRYSIDE OF HILLS, MOUNTAINS, FORESTS AND RIVERS. LET ’ S COMPARE
Words: PAUL REES
THE PROPERTY market in Portugal has developed a reputation of defying economic gravity with even seasoned pundits continuing to ask when will the bubble burst.
The underlying factors that continue to influence the market are clear: there are too few properties for sale; there is an increasing number of people moving here; building new properties is an expensive, slow and time-consuming business; and builders need to cater for the luxury end of the market to make a profit.
Successive governments have been successful in promoting and positioning Portugal as a safe destination with a low cost of living, sunshine and outstanding beaches and countryside. International buyers long have been targeted and, as these promotional claims are true, have bought homes here. The Non-Habitual Resident and Golden Visa programmes increased incoming numbers further still.
The Algarve, Lisbon and Porto have been the three key areas
that have attracted the most international buyers, making these the highest priced zones in the country. This success means many in the current wave of incomers no longer can afford their ‘dream home’ in the area they wanted and are now looking outside of these hotspots where prices are relatively low, despite steady increases.
The Algarve is well known for its promotion of sea-view villas, golf resort properties, apartments, private estates and quintas in the hills. The luxury market is well served, especially in the Golden Triangle where anything that gets built, gets sold.
Better value can be found in the east and the west of the region but even here, due to the ripple effect from price inflation in the central Algarve, new builds and resales are achieving previously unimagined prices.
Further afield
An increasing number of Algarve, Lisbon and Porto residents are joining incomers and looking at Central Portugal, a region that includes Coimbra, Pedrógão Grande, Sertã, Castelo Branco, Tomar, Leiria and the beautiful Serra da Estrela and Serra da Lousã mountain ranges.
WHAT YOUR MONEY WILL BUY
Let’s look at what can be purchased for between €700,000 and €750,000 in the Algarve and in the Central Region.
€750,000 in Porto can secure a highend 2–3 bedroom apartment, often in a refurbished heritage building, some overlooking the Douro River and generally with more space for your money than in the capital.
In central Lisbon, there are 3-bedroom apartments of 120-140m² but many locations, including Chiado, Baixa and Avenida da Liberdade have reached record highs with some top quality properties easily achieving €10,000 per m².
In the Algarve, for €730,000 in Loulé, there is a good value 220m² fivebedroom family villa for sale through Azul Properties (€3,318 per m²). Due south from Loulé and a 15-minute walk to the beach, €750,000 will buy a 95m², one-bedroom duplex apartment (€7,894 per m²) with private parking, pool and garden at the Victory Village condominium at Pinheiros Altos, Quinta do Lago through JLL Residential. Luxury villas in the area cost up to €16million.
Out west in the Algarve region, in Sagres and Aljezur, €750k can still buy a 250m² to 350m² villa but prices in the area are averaging €4,000 per m² as buyers look for better prices than in the central Algarve.
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The Alentejo city of Évora looks cheap in comparison as this historic inland location typically has properties at €2,000 to €3,000m², so €750k could buy a decent-sized townhouse, or in the surrounding countryside, a family home with land.
The east and west of the Algarve used to be cheaper options but prices are rising across the region, making many incomers rethink location and causing long-term residents to look at releasing capital through a sale and a move north to less expensive areas. Companies such as Carvoeiro Branco, based in Lagoa and run by Dutch businessman Erik de Vlieger, has an extensive programme of buying stalled and abandoned property development sites as well as more standard ones to create additional capacity, aiming at middle market price point, but the demand for property continues to overwhelm the capacity of developers to build more.
In the east of the region, Olhão has been transformed by private investment over the past decade and now commands price levels of €3,000 to €8,000m² for heritage properties in the historic centre, causing buyers to look at outlying country homes as a more affordable alternative. The Council’s desire to increase tourism allowed hotel and apartment buildings to be built on reclaimed land to the west of the town and it recently has approved a substantial mixed development on a two-hectare industrial site overlooking the commercial port to the east.
This marked increase in those buying properties in the centre of the country has impacted the underlying market dynamics. The exodus of the rural population from the 1960s onwards led to the abandonment of tens of thousands of properties, left empty and now in ruins, abandoned or owned by heirs with no interest or funds to renovate. This poor stock has not hampered the demand from incomers who either want to buy a property to renovate or are seeking properties that already have been upgraded.
The increase in demand, and the lack of supply of ready-touse properties, has pushed prices up across this region with ruined farmhouses costing double what they did only five years ago. Completed rural renovations are in high demand as the purchase, paperwork, legalisation, permissions and renovation processes rightly deter those unfamiliar with the planning and construction processes.
Far from the villas and apartments of the Algarve, the central region abounds with traditional stone farmhouses, village homes, townhouses in historic city centres and old mansions with land. Buying ‘doer-uppers’ is not for the faint-hearted and fully renovated properties are commanding good prices, but in a narrow price range that seldom exceeds €2,000m² for completed homes.
The Central region is slower paced than the south but has a stronger sense of community, almost zero resort-type tourism and offers a more authentic experience. Local services are not crowded, the road system is first class and Lisbon and Porto airports each less than two hours’ drive.
The same buying warnings should be heeded in rural areas; get a good lawyer and check all documentation as there is an abundance of unregistered construction with many rural homes having extensions and outbuildings built without permits. I only occasionally find a property where the documents match the reality.
Understanding the possibilities
Before reaching for the cheque book, it is essential to talk to the local Council’s planning department to find out what is possible and what is not. There are various agricultural, forestry and fire protected zones where building may be restricted. Other key points include the costs and legalities for mains water, wells, electricity, and sewage. Access roads may be shared, and some remote properties may lack proper road access and need a formal right of way issued to cross another’s land. 99% of issues are resolvable.
For those buying large areas just because land is cheap, remember the cost each year of land clearance to comply with the fire regulations and always have a topographical survey done when buying land; local neighbours may deploy ‘boundary-bendiness’ with newcomers.
Even though Councils in the central region operate quicker than their southern counterparts, many incomers who are looking to renovate an old farmhouse, village cottage or townhouse realise the good sense and cost-effectiveness of buying one that already has been upgraded.
WHAT TO BE WARY OF
Some incomers may be tempted to buy on price alone and forget the essential steps in ensuring their dream does not turn into a nightmare.
The most important safeguard any buyer can adopt is, find a lawyer who understands property as even in the Algarve there are unlicensed builds, coastal properties that face environmental zoning restrictions, boundary issues and disputes, limitations on rental licenses, and diverse land categories which restrict what can and cannot be done.
The essential safeguards when buying property remain the same as always with some Algarve properties lacking licenses for extensions, terraces and pools. This can affect resale, insurance, and mortgage eligibility. The local municipality can issue fines or demolition orders to a new owner for unregistered structures, but a lawyer will check that everything is correct and analyse any discrepancies.
Coastal properties may be subject to public maritime domain rules and homes built illegally on the Ria Formosa islands on protected land already have been demolished.
Central Portugal
In the central region, beautifully renovated properties are starting to command higher prices but still are way below levels found in the south. Picking one town, Pedrógão Grande in the Leiria district, roughly halfway between Lisbon and Porto, there are several substantial properties for sale at enviable prices.
For example, there’s a seven-bedroom, 455m² stone-built country property and annexes that have been fully restored and is for sale for €750,000 through iad.pt. The farmhouse, five minutes to town and set in spectacular countryside, includes a main house and three fully independent living spaces, each with private entrances, outdoor areas, and kitchens allowing for both privacy and connection, whether to host guests, rent out or accommodate extended family.
And through the same agents, there is a ten-bedroom 720m² property set in 4,000m² of garden, for sale at €795,000, which includes extensive stabling.
One of the town’s historic properties, dating back to the 1500s, was a convent and latterly a manor house. Fully renovated and with 836m² of usable space, this 11-bedroom property has a walled south-facing garden and a wealth of original features. For sale at €1.45 million through Rural Properties, it comes in at €1,742m²
Paul Rees is the director of Rural Properties (ruralproperties.com) based in Portugal’s Central Region. The company buys, renovates and sells its own properties and works with owners of estates and historic buildings to find buyers in this specialist market. info@rural-properties.com
Playing the markets
WHO DOESN ’ T LOVE A MARKET? AND THERE ARE SO MANY TO CHOOSE FROM HERE. THE GYPSY MARKETS ABOUND WITH CLOTHING, ACCESSORIES AND LEATHER GOODS, JEWELLERY AND HOMEWARES, WHILE THE FARMERS ’ MARKETS OFFER FRESH FRUIT AND VEG, PLANTS AND HERBS, CHEESES, CURED MEATS AND LOCAL SAUSAGES. AND AT THE CAR BOOT SALES AND FLEA MARKETS YOU MAY JUST FIND THE PERFECT ITEM THAT FITS YOUR LIFESTYLE AND DECOR
ALBUFEIRA
Calicos 2nd and 3rd Saturdays
Olhos de Água 1st Sunday
ALJEZUR 1st Sunday
ALMANCIL 2nd, 3rd and 5th Sundays
FERRAGUDO 2nd Sunday
FUZETA 1st Sunday
LAGOA 4th Sunday
LAGOS 1st Sunday
MONCHIQUE 4th Sunday
MONTE GORDO 4th Saturday
PORCHES 3rd Sunday
PORTIMÃO 1st and 3rd Sundays
QUELFES 4th and 5th Sundays
SÃO BRÁS 3rd Sunday
SILVES 3rd Saturday
TAVIRA 1st and 5th Sundays
VILA REAL DE SANTO ANTÓNIO 2nd Saturday
And there are many more! Check out the listing at myguidealgarve.com and also at the tourist offices of any particular area.
MARKETS
GYPSY & FARMERS
ALBUFEIRA
In town 1st and 2nd Tuesdays
Ferreira 2nd and 4th Tuesdays
Guia 3rd Friday
ALCOUTIM
Pereiro 4th Sunday
Vaqueiros 3rd Friday
ALMANCIL
In town 3rd Monday
Rogil 4th Sunday
ALTE 3rd Thursday
AMEIXIAL 1st Thursday
BOLIQUEIME Last Thursday
CASTRO MARIM 2nd Saturday
ESTOI 2nd Sunday
FARO 2nd Sunday
FUZETA 1st Thursday
LAGOA 2nd Sunday (not Aug)
LAGOS
In town 1st Saturday
Odiaxere 4th Monday
LOULÉ
In town Every Saturday
MONCARAPACHO First Sunday
MONCHIQUE 2nd Friday
MONTE GORDO 4th Saturday
OLHÃO Every Saturday
PADERNE 1st Saturday
PORTIMÃO
In town 1st Monday (not Aug or Nov)
Alvor Every Sunday
QUARTEIRA Every Wednesday
QUERENÇA Last Sunday
QUINTA SHOPPING 1st Sunday
SAGRES 1st Friday
SÃO BARTOLOMEU DE MESSINES 4th Monday
SÃO BRÁS Every Saturday
SILVES 3rd Monday Every Saturday (fruit and veg
TAVIRA 3rd Saturday
VILA REAL DE SANTO ANTÓNIO 1st Sunday
CARLOS GINER
Famous for its beaches, Valencia is also a city filled with culture where Carlos Giner is reputed to be one of Catalonia’s most accomplished impressionist artists. It is early morning on La Garrofera, a beach with an elevated position where Carlos is ready to represent the scene that will soon unfold before him. Every day a different set of circumstances is reproduced with oil paints and layered brushstrokes that are built into complex, hazy pictures. The midday sun increases and by mid-afternoon the Levant wind is fierce. Returning to his studio he contemplates the exact details of the people, foliage, sea and sky; once the paintings are completed they record blissful moments.
IN THE QUIET OF THE COUNTRYSIDE, CÔRTE-REAL GALLERY IS AN AUTHENTIC RURAL QUINTA FILLED WITH GLORIOUS PAINTINGS, UNIQUE SCULPTURES AND HANDMADE CERAMICS. CELEBRATING ITS 20TH ANNIVERSARY, THE GALLERY HAS OPENED AN ADDITIONAL SHOWROOM – IN OLH Ã O ’ S BOUTIQUE HOTEL, CASA AMOR. FROM ITS PORTFOLIO OF 18 INTERNATIONAL ARTISTS, THESE FOUR ARE PART OF THE CURRENT SPECIAL EXHIBITION OF BEACH PAINTINGS
An anniversary of
Words: CAROLYN KAIN
ANDREW ALANSON
Always on the lookout for beaches with tides that leave behind wide reflective stretches, artist Andrew Alanson creates images that seem to ride upon the liquid surface. His technique –best described as ‘magic realism’ – is to mix the properties of water with the colours of the sky. Just beyond the Algarve’s border in the Alentejo, he recently discovered the estuary and beach at Vila Nova de Milfontes. Offering a tidal flow with mirror glass reflections, a new series of his paintings imitate these unique conditions.
art
ANDRES MORENO
The sun is low in the sky on the Playa de Matalascañas on Spain’s Costa de la Luz. It could be dawn or dusk and in the half light a single silhouette of Andres Moreno is working on a canvas. With a fauvist’s palette, he picks out the brilliant tones of daybreak or sunset as he sees them imprinted on the sand. The vast beach, four and a half kilometres of flat sand, seems never-ending with distant horizons and exotic blends of colour that are reproduced in his paintings.
DAVID SMITH
Sheltering the Algarve village of Carrapateira from the sea there are countless lines of sand dunes forming an impressive backdrop to the beaches of Bordeira and Armado, providing endless possibilities for David Smith to locate an impromptu ‘plein-air’ studio where he observes the sea and its formations. He works freely and expressively with brush and palette knife, creating the movements of head on waves, merging currents and the light qualities of froth and foam.
Scallops with brulée of goat’s cheese, asparagus and apple chicory salad
THINK OF THE INGREDIENTS. THINK OF THE TEXTURES. THINK OF THE FLAVOURS. THIS IS A DISH CREATED BY VINCENT, OWNER AND MASTER CHEF OF LE MARQUIS RESTAURANT, THAT EXEMPLIFIES FINE DINING. HIS EVER-CHANGING MENU FOLLOWS A DISTINCT THEME, BRINGING TOGETHER THE VERY BEST AND SERVING THEM IN STYLISH COMBINATIONS. WE THANK VINCENT FOR CREATING THIS SPECIAL DISH FOR ALGARVEPLUS
SERVES 4 25 MINUTES+COOLING TIME
INGREDIENTS
100g soya cream
100g goat’s cheese
1g agar agar
2 chicory
1 Granny Smith apple, peeled
1tbs mayonnaise
salt and pepper, to taste
8 slices smoked ham
8 green asparagus
1 tbs sugar
8 scallops
edible flowers, to taste
mini herbs, such as pea shoots and sorrel, to taste
Mustard oil
METHOD
1 Heat the cream, goats cheese and agar agar in a saucepan, stirring until it forms a thick, consistent cream. Pour into round moulds and cool down in the fridge.
2 Put eight leaves of chicory in ice waterand set on one side for later use. Chop the rest of the chicory into brunoise type pieces - 3mm – and then do the same with the apple. Mix with the mayonnaise and add salt and pepper to taste.
3 Stuff the eight chicory leaves with the apple salad and wrap around with the smoked ham slices, so there are two for each person.
4 Blanch the asparagus for one minute in boiling water and cool them in ice water.
5 Remove the goat’s cheese from the moulds and sprinkle over the sugar. Using a blow torch, blast the sugar until golden.
6 Pan fry the scallops in a piping hot pan, in good quality olive oil until golden brown, roughly two minutes on each side.
7 Serve the goat’s cheese, apple salad, asparagus and scallop on a plate and finish with mini leaves and edible flower. Sprinkle some mustard oil around the plate.
ABOUT THE CHEF
In the year 2000, Vincent and Helma sold their brasserie in Bergen op Zoom in Holland and moved to Portugal for a more relaxed life! They worked for eight years in various restaurants in the Algarve learning the language and the culture. In September 2008 they established Le Marquis in Monte da Palhagueira, and have developed an amazing reputation, not just across Portugal, but also in Spain, for their dishes, their hospitality, and the atmosphere they have created.
Take me to church
NOT FOR THE REASONS THAT HOZIER MENTIONS IN HIS INTERNATIONALLY CHARTTOPPING SINGLE, BUT BECAUSE THESE FIVE PORTUGUESE CHURCHES, VERY DIFFERENT IN STYLE, HISTORY AND MOOD, DESERVE A VISIT
Words: SANDRA GATO
YOU DON’T have to be a deeply religious person to feel a unique sense of peace when entering a church. In such an agitated environment that we live in today, going to a church – we all have one or several nearby wherever we are in the country – is stepping into a safe space where there’s enough silence to allow us to think or just be.
With Catholicism the prevalent religion in Portugal, churches are more than temples, they are historical monuments that display relevant pieces of art and reflect social movements throughout the times.
These five churches, located from south to north, are absolute must-goes when living here in Portugal, or visiting the country, each for specific reasons that go far beyond religious rituals.
IGREJA MATRIZ DE SANTA MARIA DE VÁLEGA, OVAR
IGREJA DE SÃO DOMINGOS, LISBON
There are many beautiful churches in downtown Lisbon, so what makes this one so special? Well, it certainly isn’t the view – it is located in a square behind Rossio – but it is the story that changed it. Once part of a convent (now a luxury hotel, right next door), what makes it unique is a tragic event: a massive fire that took place in 1959 and completely destroyed its golden rich interior. After some works were done, it reopened in 1994 but the fire marks were kept. And that is what gives it its dark beauty, making it one of the most visited churches in Lisbon. Inside, instead of the usual oppulence, you are faced with grey to black walls and minimal decoration. The lack of the usual sumptuousness is almost symbolic, making us think of the way life can change in a minute and, yes, our own limitations. The decision to leave the fire marks – like scars on its walls – turned this holy place into a more human space, if that makes any sense. It’s almost like we feel its pain and empathize with the tragedy and that, in a strange but organic way, makes us feel closer to the superior entity many of us call God.
Largo de São Domingos, Lisboa
CAPELA DOS OSSOS
IGREJA DE SÃO FRANCISCO, ÉVORA
“We, bones that here stay, for yours we wait”. This is the creepy message that one can read when entering the bone chapel in Évora (right next to Igreja de São Franciso). No wonder this was always a much talked about school trip when we were kids – and invariably all kids in this country end up visiting the bone chapel. With all its inside covered in human bones and skulls, it was built in the 17th century by three monks as a place to reflect on the fragility and the transience of human life. It was not meant to spook people out but, well, it kind of does... especially children.
But as rational adults we can’t help but admire the work put into the meditative space that was always meant to be a place where you worship god by reflecting on the temporality of human existence... it reminds us of our smallness in a radical but original way.
Praça 1º de Maio, Évora
IGREJA MATRIZ DE SANTA MARIA DE VÁLEGA, OVAR
In this social media era that we are living in, this is probably one of the most ‘instagrammable’ churches in the country. Válega’s main church façade, covered in multicoloured tiles, is the perfect background for the pic that will get you plenty of ‘likes’!
Válega is a small village in the Aveiro region, close to Ovar, and it calls for a detour so you can visit this church. Although its construction started in the 18th century, the policromatic tiles (that can be seen both in the interior and exterior) – produced in the Aleluia factory – were only added in 1960. So this church, as it stands today, is fairly new. Inside, besides the coloured tiles, there are also impressive stained glass windows, made in Madrid and donated to the church in 1960.
What is so striking here is not the fact that the façade is covered in tiles – we have several other churches in the country like that – but their vibrant colours! Portugal is known for its blue and white tiles (also used in churches and chapels) but coloured tiles in sacred places are not common. The flash of colour you get when staring at Válega’s church translates into a feeling of joy and, yes, fun rarely associated with holy sanctuaries. It feels like a happy church, all due to a simple splash of colour that lifts the religious weight that many old churches still carry. And that is exactly what makes it so special. You don’t visit Válaga’s main church for the history, or the value of the pieces it displays, but for this lightness given by the use of bold tile hues.
Rua da Igreja Matriz, Válega
CAPELA DO SENHOR DA PEDRA, VILA NOVA DE GAIA
The vision of this chapel is probably one of my favourite sights in Portugal. Just imagine a white chapel built on a big rock by the sea in the middle of Miramar beach (Vila Nova de Gaia, not far from Porto). I had seen a lot of pictures before but the first time I got to see it live I could not believe my eyes.
Senhor da Pedra feels like a mirage, like your brain just made it up and, as soon as a cloud passes, it will vanish. But it won’t. It’s been there since 1763 – legend says it was built to be the stage of some pagan naturalist rituals – and not even the constant exposure to sea, salt, sand and sun made it less beautiful throughout the years. From a distance, it gives the impression that, when the tide is high, it can turn into an island but it never does. It just stays there, like a mermaid, rocked by the atlantic waves.
To protect it from the natural elements but also vandalism, the chapel is usually closed. It gets opened in special ocasions namely, in the middle of every June when its famous procession takes place along the beach until reaching the chapel... an image that will stay embedded in your mind forever, for all the good reasons. When you are planning you 2026 calendar, include a visit.
Alameda do Senhor da Pedra, Vila Nova de Gaia
LAPA DE SANTA MARGARIDA, ARRÁBIDA
There is no specific address for this tiny chapel in the Arrábida area – we can only say that it’s close to Portinho da Arrábida, between Praia de Alpertuche and Praia dos Pilotos. And to visit it, you need to be in good shape because there are a lot of stairs (around 200), and hiking through bushes is required. But all that physical effort is worth it as soon as you reach the chapel, built inside a big rock facing the sea. The feeling is magical, like arriving in a pirate’s cave – with the chapel being the treasure. Built in the 17th and 18th centuries, its purpose was to be a catholic refuge, and it was used for different rituals.
It is considered a feminine haven – Santa Margarida is the protector of pregnant women, hence the name. The saint’s image used to be there but was transported to Convento da Arrábida to avoid vandalism – it’s difficult to comprehend why anyone would choose to spoil this man-made beauty, but unfortunately it is the case. However, many people visit to leave gifts for the saint. It is possible to visit the chapel by boat but only someone who knows the area really well (some local boat companies do it) is able to get close. A little hidden treasure not to be visited when the sea is rough as it can be dangerous.
GREAT READS
BEN FRAMPTON, NOW IN HIS SECOND YEAR STUDYING ENGLISH AT THE UNIVERSITY OF EXETER, HAS BEEN A REGULAR VISITOR TO THE ALGARVE SINCE CHILDHOOD. AND ON EVERY HOLIDAY HE NEVER FAILS TO EXPLORE LITERATURE IN ALL ITS FORMS, DRIVEN BY A GROWING INTEREST IN CRITICAL THEORY, THE SHIFTING WAYS STORIES SHAPE OUR UNDERSTANDING OF THE WORLD, AND A NEW-FOUND PASSION FOR WRITING HIS OWN
MY LOVE OF LITERATURE began in childhood, when my parents and I would take turns reading aloud to each other. We ventured through the worlds of Michael Morpurgo, James Dashner, and JK Rowling – stories that allowed me to escape the pressures of normality and lose myself in fictional realms. That same feeling still lies at the heart of why I read. I gained a deeper appreciation for literature and critical thinking at Wellington College, where we were encouraged to expand our understanding of every subject through related reading. Choosing English at A-Level was instinctive; I was eager to delve into the Western Canon Reading List and refine my writing and analytical voice. Under the guidance of Dr Gavin Surgeon, I developed a shared love for romantic poetry, alongside a fascination with historically-charged works such as Conrad’s Heart of Darkness and Stoker’s Dracula.
In the Algarve for the summer, I took time to revisit lasting favourites, and examine what has made them important to me.
THE ALCHEMIST
By Paulo Coelho
Published by Harper Collins
A short and beautiful tale, The Alchemist follows Santiago, an Andalusian shepherd boy who embarks on a journey in search of worldly treasure. First published in Portuguese, the novel has since been translated into more than 65 languages and sold over 65 million copies worldwide.
I attribute this reach to Coelho’s use of elegant simplicity to articulate profound meaning. This clarity runs through the characters – namely Santiago, who despite living a ‘simple’ shepherd’s life, narrates with a captivating humility, perceiving and responding to the world without the egotism that often clouds our vision.
The novel reinvigorated my desire for adventure – a quality that often fades with age, but remains essential. Adventure, Coelho suggests, lies at the core of all human experience, shaping the decisions
we make. After all, why live if not to relish the journey?
Coelho distills this idea and offers it to us in its purest form – a kind of spiritual elixir. In this way, simplicity becomes a vessel for deeper metaphysical truths: true alchemy, in this story, is not the transformation of metal, but of one’s soul. Readers will interpret the tale differently, yet most will finish with a renewed appreciation for their own path, in which everything can be alchemised into fulfilment.
DUNE
By Frank Herbert
Published
by Ace
In one of the greatest exhibits of worldbuilding, Herbert constructs a complete ecosystem of advanced human civilisation, transcending the confines of our solar system and the ideas that reside within it. Dune blends epic intergalactic conflict with eerily familiar political struggle, all conveyed through a deeply introspective narrative style; Herbert captures the essence of humanity and launches it thousands of light-years into the future, allowing us to see our own cultures, systems, and moral codes from a starkly new perspective.
I found this novel permanently exhilarating – its intense action seamlessly balanced with intricate detail and visually striking description. I’d recommend Dune to fantasy and science fiction enthusiasts without hesitation. Yet, even for readers more inclined to nonfiction, this novel offers a powerful opportunity to push beyond genre boundaries. Its core themes – family, survival, power, and nature –resonate universally, meaning every reader, regardless of preference, can find something profound within the shifting sands of Arrakis.
FRANKENSTEIN OR THE MODERN PROMETHEUS
By Mary Shelley
Published by Dodd, Mead & Company
A classic that not only stands, but exceeds the test of time. Written for a ghost story competition alongside her husband Percy Bysshe Shelley, and Lord Byron, Mary Shelley was just 19 when she began this novel. Frankenstein encapsulates the archetypal human ambition to ‘play God’ –an act which, in all cases, meets with hellfirelike retribution.
Often considered the birth of science fiction, the novel articulates the fear permeating 18th-century thought. Darwinism and religion clashed in constant and monumental conflict, creating widespread anxiety over the human condition.
Shelley channels this tension through the subversion of creation – granting humanity the ultimate autonomy: the power to create life. Moreover, Frankenstein’s treatment of his creation explores the idea of nurture –and the destructive potential that comes from being forcefully and irrevocably cut off from society. This finds a compelling binary in the concept of nature, which becomes the creature’s purest teacher, allowing him to develop moral reasoning and even a sense of virtue.
The novel reads like a warning – one that feels eerily prescient in the 21st century. As we continue to chase god-like powers through artificial intelligence, Shelley reminds us of the dangers of unchecked ambition. If that seems like too much weight for one novel to bear, fear not: her rich epistolary narration and sublime depictions of nature are just as rewarding as any grand philosophical meaning.
SUNRISE ON THE REAPING
By Suzanne Collins
Published by Scholastic
Fifteen years after concluding The Hunger Games trilogy, Suzanne Collins returns to Panem with The Sunrise on the Reaping – a haunting and finely-crafted prequel that reaffirms her mastery of dystopian storytelling.
Set 25 years before the original series, the novel traces the fractured, tragic life of a central figure, Haymitch Abernathy, unearthing the psychological and political forces that shaped him.
Though targeted at a younger audience, I found Collins’ writing style and character interactions to far surpass expectations. This is not a book limited by its demographic – it’s a richly layered
narrative that earns its place among literary masterpieces.
Collins reintroduces her singular firstperson narration, drawing the reader into a proximity with the protagonist that feels almost claustrophobic in its emotional intensity. As ever, she balances riveting action with profound philosophical undertones. The binary of love and death runs like a thread through the novel, culminating in moments of eerie beauty –beauty which, like all things in Panem, is subverted and weaponised. Yet, beneath the violence lies a deeper meditation on power, fear, and resistance.
This is a novel that speaks of the universal and very real tension between oppression and hope. It reminds us that it only takes one act of courage to confront tyranny.
COSMOS
By Carl Sagan
Published by Random House
Carl Sagan’s Cosmos is, without doubt, the most illuminating introduction to cosmology I have ever encountered. With an affable, almost poetic voice, Sagan takes the vast complexity of the universe and renders it comprehensible –sometimes even intimate – for readers of all backgrounds. He condenses an astonishing range of knowledge: from ancient stargazing tribes and the revolutionary ideas of Copernicus, Kepler, and Galileo, to the scientific frontiers of the 1980s, when the book was first published. That it still feels relevant nearly half a century later is testament to Sagan’s timeless insight.
Reading Cosmos was a genuinely humbling experience. It opened my eyes not only to the terrifying immensity of the universe, but to the miracle of our own consciousness within it. Sagan somehow balances awe-inspiring fact with existential reflection, allowing science to become a gateway to wonder. His prose is graceful and expansive, shifting fluidly between grounded explanation and the kind of star-drenched philosophy that leaves you speechless.
Though rooted in science, this book made me feel more connected to life than many novels ever have. Sagan reminds us that we are made of ‘star stuff,’ and that our attempt to understand the cosmos is one of the most human things we do. I would recommend Cosmos to anyone – not just science lovers. It transcends genre, offering not just information, but perspective. It is a book about space, yes – but more than that, it is a book about us.
For Coffee Lovers
Discover bean17 in Loulé Market! Savour house-roasted Speciality Coffees like espresso or cappuccino, indulge in organic kombucha, and treat yourself to heavenly homemade cakes. Take the magic home with freshly-roasted organic Arabica beans from Peru and Ethiopia. Craving more? There are healthy breakfasts, light lunches, and a curated selection of premium products, including Portuguese olive oil, flor de sal, and more. Come for the coffee, stay for the joy!
MAKERS
STATEMENT
PORTUGAL’S LUXURY FURNITURE INDUSTRY STANDS OUT FOR ITS DEEP-ROOTED CRAFTSMANSHIP, INNOVATIVE SPIRIT, AND COMMITMENT TO QUALITY. WHAT SETS IT APART IS THE METICULOUS ATTENTION TO DETAIL AND THE USE OF PREMIUM MATERIALS, OFTEN SHAPED BY HAND USING TECHNIQUES PASSED DOWN
Words: CHRISTINA MORENO
IN THE wake of all-white interiors, people around the world are now eager to bring their homes alive as extensions of their personality, embracing the ‘anti-trend’ and placing together things that hold stories but don’t necessarily match. In furniture, this might mean choosing bold statement pieces, blending timeless craftsmanship with artistic innovation, and mixing different kinds – and tones – of woods and metals. The goal is to make a space feel lived in and layered, as though it has come together organically over time. We look at the luxury sector, where price is unimportant, but style is everything.
Bold, artful and unexpected
Boca do Lobo is renowned for reinterpreting centuries-old craftsmanship through a contemporary lens, resulting in pieces that are as much sculptural statements as they are functional design. Each creation is meticulously handcrafted by skilled artisans who blend traditional techniques – like marquetry, metalwork, and gilding – with modern innovation, ensuring every detail is thoughtfully executed. Boca do Lobo’s collections are celebrated worldwide for their bold mix of materials, irreverent forms, and playful sophistication, gracing luxury homes, iconic hotels, and prestigious department stores such as Harrods and Printemps. bocadolobo.com
CIRCU
On the power of nature
If you’re drawn to furniture that channels the energy and textures of the natural world, wander through BRABBU. Inspired by the raw power and rhythms of nature, this collection spans furniture, lighting, and accessories that are bold and expressive. Each piece is designed to evoke memories and stories, drawing on everything from the strength of oceans and volcanoes to the subtlety of scents and colours found in the wild. With over 200 materials and finishes to choose from, this brand offers extensive customization, ensuring every design feels personal and impactful. Their pieces not only stand out for their fierce aesthetics and contemporary edge, but also for their ability to bring a sense of adventure and sophistication to any space, whether it’s a table inspired by koi fish scales or a breathtaking console that echoes the grandeur of the Grand Canyon. brabbu.com
Luxury for kids
CIRCU creates a world of imagination with magical, handcrafted furniture designed to bring children’s dreams to life. From airplane beds and rocket armchairs to whimsical hot air balloon cribs, each piece is made with the finest materials and meticulous attention to detail. With a focus on customization, CIRCU allows families to tailor pieces to their child’s unique fantasy, creating spaces where the line between reality and imagination disappears. circu.net
CAFFE LATTE
Less that is truly more
This luxury brand is all about interiors that feel serene, warm, and effortlessly sophisticated. Specializing in minimalist luxury, Caffe Latte’s collection of furniture, lighting, and accessories is all about creating calm, cohesive spaces that celebrate the beauty of simplicity. Their palette of soft whites, beiges, and gentle browns brings a sense of tranquility to any room, while high-quality materials and thoughtful craftsmanship ensure every piece feels inviting and timeless. What sets Caffe Latte apart is its remarkable versatility –these neutral, modern designs fit seamlessly into a wide range of interiors, whether you lean to the contemporary, classic, or somewhere in between.
caffelattehome.com
Retro charm with a twist
Essential Home is a standout brand for mid-century modern furniture with a luxurious twist, known for blending historical and cinematic influences from the 1930s to the 1960s into truly unique pieces that feel both nostalgic and fresh. Their collections draw inspiration from the glamour of old Hollywood, resulting in designs that effortlessly combine retro charm with contemporary sophistication. With more than 1,000 textiles and materials to choose from, Essential Home offers nearly endless possibilities, from iconic bestsellers like the Monocles Sideboard and Kelly Bar Chair to collaborations with renowned studios like Carlo Donati and Studiopepe. This is a brand that continues to push the boundaries of design, even introducing outdoor collections that bring mid-century flair and a special lushness to your outdoor spaces. essentialhome.eu
Dramatic statement pieces
Originally celebrated for its bold, sculptural lighting, LUXXU has, over the past decade, evolved into a full lifestyle brand, now offering everything from dramatic chandeliers to sophisticated furniture and upholstery. This is where rare handcraft techniques meet modern creativity, resulting in pieces that are both timeless and daring. Each design is brilliantly crafted, often with exquisite materials like brass, crystal, marble, and velvet, and can be customized to suit individual tastes. luxe.net
DID YOU KNOW: If you’ve watched the Netflix series I am Georgina, then you have already seen what LUXXU’s design pieces look like in Georgina Rodriguez and Cristiano Ronaldo’s Turim house.
RILUC
Contemporary sculptural furniture
Riluc is celebrated for its bold, avant-garde pieces – often in limited editions – that transform stainless steel, titanium, and marble into unexpectedly fluid and elegant forms. Each piece is handcrafted, balancing cutting-edge technology with artisanal skill to achieve flawless finishes and technical precision. Riluc’s signature works, like the Bibendum Armchair and Vibe Table, are as much conversation makers as they are functional objects, often blurring the line between furniture and art. The brand’s commitment to sustainability is reflected in its use of durable, recyclable materials, and every piece is designed and finished in-house to ensure uniqueness and quality. riluc.com
MAISON VALENTINA
Luxury bathroom retreats Maison Valentina will help you transform a bathroom into a luxurious retreat. Based in Porto, this brand is known for its handcrafted, high-end bathroom furniture and accessories, using premium materials like marble, brass, and wood. Each piece is designed for both elegance and functionality, with a wide range of finishes to suit any space. maisonvalentina.net
PULLCAST FURNITURE JEWELLERY
Elevate your interiors with hardware that feels like jewellery for your furniture. PullCast transforms everyday elements like handles, pulls, and knobs into sculptural statement pieces inspired by art, nature, and culture. Their collections range from bold, organic shapes drawn from ocean life to sleek, architectural forms, all exquisitely crafted using fine materials such as brass, marble, and crystal. This brand’s dedication to artistry is matched by its commitment to sustainability, with eco-conscious production and responsibly sourced materials. Each piece offers a wide array of finishes and bespoke options, allowing designers and homeowners to tailor hardware to any vision – from minimalist to ornate. pullcast.eu
COVET HOUSE
All together
If you’re looking for a one-stop shop where you can explore a curated selection of luxury brands all in one place, we suggest you browse around Covet House. With a portfolio that brings together over 2,000 products from 12 distinct design brands, Covet House makes it easy to find inspiration and the perfect pieces for any space. Whether you’re drawn to bold statement furniture, elegant lighting, or unique accessories, their collection covers a wide range of styles, materials, and finishes. Each client is paired with an account manager who guides you through everything from selection to delivery, whether you need something ready to ship or a custom creation. covethouse.eu
‘To the munna and back’ This is both this brand’s signature phrase and a tribute to their philosophy: creating furniture that goes well beyond function, crafted with a sense of wonder and enduring affection for the art of making. Munna is celebrated for its exquisite, handmade upholstery that bridges Portugal’s rich craft heritage with timeless modern design. Drawing inspiration from influential artistic eras, their collections result in ‘new classics’ that feel both refined and expressive. With a focus on meaningful design and lasting quality, Munna has become an international reference for high-end upholstery, gracing prestigious hotels, boutiques, and private homes worldwide. munnadesign.com
DELIGHTFULL
Lighting that has something to say
Lighting is the unsung hero of interior design, setting the mood and helping transform ordinary spaces into something memorable. If you’re searching for lighting that brings a fresh twist to classic design, look no further. DelightFULL is celebrated for its bold, mid-century modern lighting, handcrafted by skilled artisans who blend vintage inspiration from the 1940s to the 1970s with contemporary materials and a range of colours. delightfull.eu
Often called the “Oscar of European Design”, the A' Design Award is one of the world’s most prestigious design industry accolades. Its highest honour, the Platinum A' Design Award, is reserved for the top one percent of entries, celebrating exceptional innovation and excellence. Included among its winners is Portuguese furniture designer Alexandre Caldas, recognised for his Portuguese Roots Lounge Chair, famous for its minimalist design and sustainable craftsmanship. aroundthetree.eu/
BEACHY KEEN
WITH OVER 100 BEACHES LINING PORTUGAL ’ S SUNDRENCHED SOUTHERN COAST, CHOOSING THE ‘ BEST ’ ONE IN THE ALGARVE IS NOT EASY. BUT IF ANYONE KNOWS WHERE TO GO, IT’S VERITY, THE ENERGETIC FOUNDER BEHIND MY ALGARVE LIFE AND CO-FOUNDER OF CORE ALGARVE, A BESPOKE CONCIERGE SERVICE MAKING WAVES WITH INTHE-KNOW TRAVELLERS AND WELLNESS-SEEKERS ALIKE
Words: SALLY DIXON
I’M NOT sure how I stumbled upon My Algarve Life Instagram page, but I was instantly drawn in by the clean, calming, lifestyle-driven aesthetic. I’ve hit save on many of founder Verity’s reels, adding them to my ever-growing ‘vision board’ folder. Safely stashed away for the day I finally move to the sunny shores of Portugal full time and can explore the country in all its magic. If you’re craving some inspiration for where to go and what to do this summer, you’ll find some gems on My Algarve Life Instagram page. It seemed fitting then that Verity should be tasked with imparting her best beach knowledge. Since moving from London to the Algarve in 2022 with her husband and two children, she has turned her curiosity into a career. From Pilates sessions on private terraces to in-villa chefs and hidden beach guides, her insider knowledge of Portugal’s places and people is now helping others experience the region beyond the obvious. “I started sharing tips on Instagram because I couldn’t find the information I needed when we moved here,” she says. “It felt like there were all these incredible places, but they were hidden behind word of mouth. I just wanted to make them easier to find.”
Previous page: Praia do Carvalho, Carvoeiro. This page, left: Praia do Camilo, in Lagos. Below: the stunning Benagil caves – take a trip there, camera at the ready
Her passion project has since grown into a fully-fledged business. With a unique blend of local insight and luxury service, Verity and her co-founder Lucinda now offer curated wellness and retreat experiences throughout the region, as well as customised health and wellness treatments in the privacy of your own home. “We do everything from healthy hen parties to 50th birthday retreats,” she says. “If someone wants a private chef, massage, yoga instructor, we make it happen.” And while the business may be young, only launching formally in 2023, its impact is growing.
“A lot of it has been word of mouth,” Verity says. “We’re finding our niche with people who want that extra touch of luxury but also connection.” When she’s not scouting the best café spots, organising private dining or facials, she’s hunting out the Algarve’s best beaches. The bonus for us is that she kindly agreed to share her ultimate shortlist.
“I broke them down by vibe,” Verity
explains with a smile. “Because different people want different things from a beach day. Whether it’s a chilled surf vibe or somewhere with clear water or a beach that’s safe for kids, the Algarve has it all.”
FOR LAID BACK SURFERS VIBES
If you’re looking to unplug and embrace a more bohemian beach day, Verity recommends heading west of Sagres. “Anything along the coast of Aljezur. It’s quieter, more alternative – think yoga, van life, laid-back cafés. You feel like you’re on a real adventure.”
Top Picks
Praia da Arrifana: “Not exactly a secret, but it has that relaxed surfer atmosphere and killer sunset views.” This is one of the Algarve’s Blue Flag beaches – find out what constitutes that special label on page 76. Praia do Bordeira: With its wild setting, often tipped as one of the most beautiful
People want different things from a beach day. Whether it’s a chilled surf vibe or somewhere with clear water or a beach that’s safe for kids, the Algarve has it all.
beaches in the Algarve, it stretches for a glorious three kilometres.
Praia de Odeceixe: Where the river meets the sea – ideal for a dip and a nap on the dunes. Plus, younger children can paddle river side, which is really enjoyable. Blue Flag beach.
Burgau: This sleepy fishing town turned beach retreat between Sagres and Lagos is a real delight, and the village has a special charm, too. It is great for a low-key day. Blue Flag beach.
Praia do Martinhal: Located near a big hotel, there are many food options available. Blue Flag beach.
TOURIST FAVOURITES
For those who love beach bars, shops, and people-watching, the central Algarve’s buzzing coastline really does deliver. “These
beaches are great for people who like being around things – restaurants, activities, all that,” says Verity.
Top Picks:
Praia do Peneco (Albufeira): Right in the heart of it all. Blue Flag beach.
Praia da Falésia: This runs from Vilamoura to Albufeira, a whole six kilometres, and is known for its dramatic red cliffs. There are loads of beachside amenities. Blue Flag beach.
Praia do Garrão Nascente, Vale do Lobo: Home to the famous beach restaurants like Julia’s and Izzy’s, this is a real in-the-heart-of-it hotspot! Great for sunset drinks and some fabulous music. Blue Flag beach.
Praia da Rocha, Portimão: Long stretch of sandy beach with plenty of amenities nearby. Blue Flag beach.
DRAMATIC ROCKS & COASTAL WALKS
For Instagram-worthy landscapes and exploring nature’s artwork, Verity says the area around Carvoeiro is unmissable. “The best coastline in my opinion is from Carvoeiro to Lagos (Carvoeiro, Lagoa and Portimão to Luz). The cliffs, caves, the Benagil sea cave – it’s all stunning.”
Top Picks:
Benagil Cave (by boat or kayak): More of an experience than a day at the beach. Peak times can be very busy. Swimming to the cave from a nearby beach is strictly prohibited and a hefty fine may await you!
Praia da Marinha: Ranked as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, no less. It’s one of Verity’s favourites: “It has everything - beauty, drama, clear water.”
Praia do Camilo: Lagos’s pride, reached via a stairway of around 200 steps, an absolutely worthy journey.
Praia da Rocha: Portimão is only a 20-minute walk away. Explore the scenic footpaths along the coast.
Praia da Dona Ana: If you fancy a walk, it’s around 20 minutes from Lagos and accessed via steps down to the beach. Very popular in summer. Blue Flag beach.
Praia dos Três Irmãos (Three Brothers beach): Impressive rock formations make it great for exploring (and Instagramming!). Blue Flag beach.
FAMILY-FRIENDLY SPOTS
As a mum of two little ones, Verity understands the appeal of calm waters and hassle-free beach access.
Top Picks:
Praia da Fuseta: “Shallow, flat, and easy to get to. This one is winner with kids of all ages.
Praia do Barril: “You ride a little train to get there, a bit like a fairground – kids love it,” says Verity. Check out the unusual sight of rows and rows of rusting anchors known as the Cemitério das Âncoras (Cemetery of Anchors). Blue Flag beach.
Praia Grande de Ferragudo: It’s sheltered by the harbour, so the waves are minimal here. Look out for the impressive Fort of São João de Arade. Low tide reveals a scenic walk around the fort to Praia da Angrinha, another favourite.
CLEAREST WATER
Head to the offshore islands. “The beaches are calm and shallow, perfect for a swim or snorkeling. If you don’t want to wait for the next ferry, take a water taxi.
Top Picks
Ilha da Culatra or Ilha da Armona (via ferry from Olhão or Faro): “Quiet, calm, just stunning.” Two Blue Flag beaches – Praia da Armona Mar and Praia da Armona Ria.
Praia do Carvalho (Carvoeiro): Flanked by high cliffs, it’s worth noting that the beach goes into shadow quite early. “A secret-feeling cove you reach through a tunnel in the rocks – gorgeous.”
What makes a Blue Flag beach?
The Blue Flag is an international certification awarded annually by the Foundation for Environmental Education. It doesn’t just mean clean water for swimming. Blue Flag beaches have 32 other criteria that need to be met. “It’s basically a gold star for beaches,” Verity says. “If you see the flag, you know you’re in good hands.”
In Portugal, it guarantees Excellent water quality for safe swimming.
Cleanliness and environmental care, with facilities for waste and recycling. Safety services, including lifeguards and accessible amenities. Educational efforts to promote eco-awareness among visitors.
The Algarve has so many sides to discover. The magic is in knowing which one to explore, and when, whether you’re a surfer chasing waves, a parent looking for calm waters, or a couple wanting sunset wine on a hidden beach.
Above: Praia da Rocha. Below: Praia da Fuseta
Back to the future
NEW GARDEN? ITCHING TO OBTAIN THE TREES OR THE SHRUBS NEEDED TO FILL THE EMPTY SPACE? THE EASIEST AND QUICKEST WAY FORWARD IS TO GRAB A PLANT CATALOGUE OR VISIT A LOCAL NURSERY AND START BUYING. HOWEVER, IT PAYS TO BE BOTH PATIENT AND SELECTIVE Words: BURFORD HURRY
BEING SELECTIVE is particularly important when choosing trees as they will grow big and tall and their roots – either superficial or with a tap root – will search for nutrients. In addition, because trees will provide shade, smaller plants around or underneath them will either suffer or enjoy the changes. As a result, future as well as the present needs should be considered when planting a tree.
Your subsequent choice of a suitable plant might be made based simply on the flowers or the look of the plant without reading the fine print that comes with her. Any plant comes with a schema. How will she grow? What height will she reach ? What kind of root will she have? Will she like company?
So your choice of a plant simply based on a lovely flower might be dangerous. The Silk Floss tree (Ceiba speciosa) is a case in point. Her large orchid-like pink flowers are drop-dead gorgeous but she needs more space than the average garden can provide as she can grow up to 15 meters and more. She has other features: her trunk has conical thorns and in the Algarve she tends to be deciduous. These qualities are not necessarily negative. They may in fact be just what you are looking for, but overall will they be right for your space?
Some years back, with the future in mind, an MGAP group of gardeners were taken to see Lindsey and Andrew’s garden on the other side of Purgatório. It was not an ordinary one. Lindsey and Andrew arrived in the Algarve in 1970 to farm citrus and
with Andrew’s enthusiasm and energy the business grew dramatically. At the start, theirs was a small garden, but over the years it has increased to two and a half hectares so there was lots of space for both trees and shrubs which, planted in the early seventies, were now decades old.
Lessons to learn
On the day of the visit, Lindsey met us at the car park and before showing around she gave us a short history of the garden. From England, they were new to gardening in a Mediterranean climate. But they were gardeners, and faced the challenges. Being in the countryside and being a large garden, a lot of plants were needed. Nurseries on the Algarve were almost nonexistent at the time so initially Lindsey bought plants from a nursery in Porto. Later, armed and guided by an early edition of the Californian Sunset Western Garden Book, Lindsey bought seeds from Australia and South Africa and other places and started to plant and develop their garden. In 1980, Andrew and Lindsey started a nursery to sell citrus trees to the farmers. A few years later they started growing trees, shrubs and climbers to sell through local plant centres and landscape gardeners.
A source for plants was not the only challenge faced by Lindsey. The soil was barrocal and they had begun to experience our hot dry summers. However, first things first. Almost at once a borehole was sunk to solve the problem of
availability of water. With that sorted, a farm and garden were born. Over the years there were successes and failures but Lindsey persevered. Her lovely and impressive garden is a testament to that.
Armed with that background information, our visit started with a walk through a grove of towering avocado (Persea americana) trees. They were over five metres high each with a substantial trunk and were impressive. Just as impressive was a nearby grove of pecan nuts (Carya illinoinensis). They bore nuts well, too. There were hundreds of nuts on the ground and the trees looked far happier in their dry growing area than a walnut would.
Apparently, pecan nut trees do well in the Algarve and I wonder why not more pecans are planted here. In Spain there is an area near Malaga where they are successfully grown. Certainly, this is a tree to plant if you have a large space.
Next to the house, and planted several metres away from it, was the tree mentioned earlier, a pink
Previous spread: left hand page: The Silk Floss tree. Right hand page, clockwise from top left: bottle brush (Callistemon citrinus); avocado tree (Persea americana); the Bush Violet (Barleria repens). This page, top left clockwise: Rubber plant (Ficus elastic); Cockspur coral tree (Erythrina crista-galli); pecan tree (Carya illinoinensis); Ginger tree (Tetradenia riparia)
Floss silk tree (Ceiba speciosa) with its strange thorny trunk. Deciduous, it can grow into a very tall tree and is gloriously floriferous. She makes a definite statement in September. There are also three on a traffic island just outside Estoi which are worth seeing when in flower, and really huge ones in the park in Lisbon.
Down to the roots
Paula in central Loulé has one at least ten metres tall but she had planted it at the edge of a large garden so it had lots of space. Interestingly, although large, Lindsey mentioned that the tree’s roots have not interfered with the foundation of the house – unlike the roots of three enormous rubber trees (Ficus elastic) planted on a pavement in a street near me. Their roots are above ground near the trunk and extend for metres into the road. All figs are hungry feeders so you should think carefully before planting one. That includes the Weeping fig (Ficus benjamina), which often starts life as a decorative indoor plant and is then planted willy-nilly outside. It is worth remembering that some trees as well as palms have roots that can crack swimming pool surrounds and pavements
Not all roots are destructive. I have a carob for shade in my garden. Carobs have deep tap roots, but her surface roots have invaded my shrubbery. Not that these roots bother the Bush Violet (Barleria repens) or the Butchers’ Broom (Ruscus aculeatus). A carob is certainly worth having for deep shade. This is encouraged by giving her a trim every year. In addition, lateral branches are cut back to avoid the danger of them snapping off suddenly with their weight. She regularly drops leaves, none of which are wasted as they are put on my compost heap or swept up and put back on top of the soil under the tree.
And there’s more
Apart from trees, Lindsey’s garden is rich in different shrubs. Among which she had a ginger bush (Tetradenia riparia) with its soft gingery smelling leaves and smokey mauve flowers and a Sagewood (Buddleia salviifolia). There was a huge bottle brush (Callistemon citrinus) which reminded us how big they can grow. As did a very large and handsome mature Cockspur coral tree (Erythrina crista-galli) which is quite close to the house. Seeing that trub and observing how many of Lindsey’s shrubs have grown they reminded us that they also grow sideways. This can be used to advantage when planting hedges or filling in spaces.
Lindsey had used this sideways growth to good effect along the borders of the garden so her ‘hedge’ is created by the juxtaposition of different shrubs, their leaves and branches forming a continuity of exciting, uneven splashes of different leaves and flowers.
During our visit, we learnt a lot. We had the chance to see what happens to a plant following decades of growth. You may not have an opportunity for a similar visit but if you live near a garden, look over the fence or through the gate and see what plants grow there and how they grow.
Tom Lehrer wrote: Plagiarize that’s why God made your eyes. Follow that dictum and it will help to guide you in your selection of plants that will fit and prosper now and more importantly in your future garden.
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WHAT WAS ONCE A FUTURISTIC BUZZWORD, ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI) IS NOW EMBEDDED INTO OUR DAILY LIVES WHETHER WE LIKE IT OR NOT. AND AI IS REVOLUTIONISING FITNESS, TOO. BUT WHAT DOES THAT MEAN FOR YOUR BODY AND MIND?
Words: SALLY DIXON
Is your new workout partner an algorithm?
I’M WRITING this on a Word document that now offers me ‘Copilot’ assistance should my writing be not all that. I have WhatsApp on my phone that all of a sudden has a strange little rainbow-coloured circle looming ominously in the corner – encouraging me to ‘Ask Meta AI anything’. I didn’t ask for these things but with the obligatory upgrades to keep apps and systems up and running, I can’t avoid them.
Full disclosure, AI scares the hell out of me. But then maybe I’m just reminiscing the good ol’ days of the 90s where none of this stuff was even remotely on our radar. Fast forward to 2025, and we’ve got apps that adjust your reps based on your heart rate, a smart mirror that gives real-time feedback on your fitness form, and wearables that tell you when to train and rest. AI is reshaping wellness from the ground up.
The new Oura ring I mentioned in the last issue has now turned into a bit of an obsession. It’s telling me when I’m stressed out and for how long; which then has me overthinking,
“Was I really that stressed? Didn’t feel like it. What was I doing?”
Getting a daily score above 95 on my sleep goal (if you know, you know) has turned into a military operation – in bed by 9.30pm, check – blackout blinds, check – sleep mask, check – earplugs to drown out the cat, check – room at 18 degrees, check. Exhausting, right? So, is AI really helping?
Smarter
training, safer recovery
Unlike standard fitness apps, AI programs and wearables learn from your data. The fancy term is adaptive intelligence, the ability to take your data and make informed, real-time decisions to guide your training; adapting duration, intensity, and style of training to your recovery status. By tracking things like heart rate variability, recovery, and sleep, AI can detect signs of fatigue before you feel them, helping to reduce the risk of injury and overtraining. For people balancing careers, commutes, and childcare, this kind of tech offers real structure with a side of empathy. For women especially, personalisation is invaluable
l
when performance and energy levels fluctuate throughout the menstrual cycle.
Mirror, mirror on the wall
Magic AI Mirror has just been listed in Entrepreneur UK’s London100 List as “a mirror that uses cutting-edge holographic technology to create an immersive fitness experience.” It claims to have form correction and rep count abilities driven by intelligent tracking, all with a reflective mirror so you can check your posture and form against the ‘trainer’s’. It will even tell you when to change weight. Listed as one of Time Magazine’s best inventions 2024, it will set you back €1,166,plus €699 fr the bench ad dumbells. magic.fit ships to Portugal.
Struggling with your Chaturanga Dandasana?
Yoganotch is a smart yoga system that pairs wearable motion sensors with an interactive app to provide 3D motion capture-based real-time feedback on your yoga postures. Bringing new meaning to the term hands-off adjustment.
Do we still need personal trainers?
AI excels at efficiency and convenience. But human trainers bring real empathy, encouragement, and the ability to adjust based on real-world variables. It’s why many fitness professionals now use AI tools as part of their services, rather than seeing them as competition.
Niko Algieri is a personal trainer and founder of the Embrace Impossible workout app. He says: “If you’re a great personal trainer, people come to you for your knowledge, your experience, your eye, your personality.” He points out that AI can only really use standardised cues at the moment. Cues being the
By tracking things like heart rate, AI can detect signs of fatigue before you feel it, helping reduce the risk of injury and overtraining.
words trainers use to help clients execute exercise moves correctly and safely. “Different personalities need different cues; some might need more serious explanations while others are happy with a bit of cheeky banter,” Niko smiles.
Accountability
Accountability helps bridge what is known in behaviour change circles as the intention-action gap. When it comes to exercise, accountability is the gamechanger between a fleeting resolution and lasting results. It’s not just about having a workout plan, it’s about sticking to it, showing up on the tough days, and owning your progress (or lack of it!). You may well have the intention to work out but what’s going to motivate you into action? If you’re relying on AI for your workout, are you going to show up when you say you will? As Niko says: “With a personal trainer, if you don’t show up you get charged for it. Meaning you’re more inclined to stick to your workout plan!”
Too good to be true?
AI today isn’t sentient (thank goodness), it’s currently an accumulator of all the knowledge on the internet relayed back to you in a matter of seconds. As Niko says: “AI can’t read emotions. If my client is having a bad day, I can adapt that workout to them and understand when they might not be able to do an intense session.” There’s also the privacy issue; wearable devices and platforms are collecting huge amounts of detailed health data from us (including how stressed I am with my university degree assignments!). Not all companies are transparent with how it’s stored or shared so it’s always a good idea to read the privacy policy and opt for apps that offer data control.
The bottom line is that AI won’t do the squats for you, but it can help you do them in a way that supports your body’s rhythms and your time schedule. It’s like having a trainer, a scientist, and a cheerleader all in one app. I’m still not sold though, give me human interaction any day of the week.
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THE HOT SUMMER OF 1975
FIVE HUNDRED YEARS SINCE THE PORTUGUESE FIRST STEPPED ON AFRICAN SOIL, QUITE SUDDENLY IT WAS OVER. 25 APRIL 1974 MARKED THE CARNATION REVOLUTION AND THE COLLAPSE OF PORTUGAL’S COLONIAL EMPIRE
Words: CAROLYN KAIN
AT THE TIME of the Carnation Revolution, the last remaining colonies of Portugal, including Angola, Mozambique and Portuguese Guinea, were referred to as ‘Overseas Territories’, and once they had gained their independence, most people with Portuguese ancestry were either expelled or felt under pressure to leave.
Imagine the impact of around 800,000 people arriving in Portugal in relatively quick succession.
Most of them had left their homes hastily with few possessions and little money, and unless they had family or other direct connections in Portugal they were reliant on the government to help them to resettle.
Large numbers had been encouraged and sponsored to go to Africa on government emigration schemes; they had been given superior status and the ability to develop and, in some cases, exploit the African people and their land. Those physically in Portugal were referred to as retornados or returnees, many classing themselves instead as refugees. Some had never lived in Portugal, being second and third generation born and raised in Africa. Unhelpfully, they were not offered assistance by the United Nations High Commission for Refugees – the organisation simply deeming them to be ‘citizens of the country of their destination’. The burden of finding homes and support for these masses was more than a politically unstable country could handle.
Any hope of retornados going back to the countries they had left was quickly dashed. In Angola, almost immediately after gaining independence in January 1975, a bitterly destructive Civil War broke out between communist forces (MPLA) and the anti-communist (UNITA) movement. Both sides contributed to the 73 million square metres of Angolan land being contaminated by minefields. During a three-year lull in the fighting, the visit of Princess Diana in 1997 highlighted the serious nature of the landmines.
The situation in Mozambique was no better. Of the 300,000 who left during the first two weeks of independence, Mozambique lost most of its educated professionals and trades people. The country’s infrastructure quickly collapsed and advisors from Cuba and the Soviet Union stepped in to fill the gap. Supporters of FRELIMO, who had fought for freedom against the Portuguese, were soon in conflict with RENAMO, a political party and radical group supplied with military support by Rhodesia and South Africa.
faction of the military and Major Otelo Saraiva de Carvalho, popularly known by his first name, Otelo. Álvaro Cunhal was the spokesperson for the group, and speaking on television, radio and through the national press he expanded on the Communist Party plans.
It was not enough that after the Carnation Revolution the secret police had been dispersed and censorship was lifted; Otelo, Cunhal and their radical followers were calling into question privately owned business as a means of production. Their overall aim was to nationalize firms and services, to set up huge communal farms that would benefit the peasants rather than individual landowners. Changes that would create a communist society
Between April 1974 and November 1975 there were continuous protests - hundreds of thousands of workers went on strike; for months on end some workplaces were taken over and run by workers; land was illegally occupied by peasant farmers; more than three million people showed their support by attending demonstrations and occupations.
In The White House, led by President Gerald Ford and Secretary of State Henry Kissinger, anxiety was building. Was Portugal on the brink of becoming a Communist Dictatorship?
A NATO exercise that included the mighty US Navy’s 6th Fleet and ships from several other countries, including Britain, made a significant show of strength.
Some 800,000 people arrived in PortugalUS P. Most of them had left their homes hastily with few possessions and little money
Late in 1974 and early in ‘75, arrivals from Portuguese Guinea were the first to make the journey to Portugal. Having gained independence as Guinea-Bissau five months after the Carnation Revolution, the retornados paved the way for the inevitable influx that was to come. It had been the least important of Portugal’s ‘Overseas Territories’ with little in the way of natural resources and an unhealthy climate. The few Portuguese who had settled there showed no desire to go back!
Although in Portugal the Carnation Revolution had resulted in the welcome return of thousands of soldiers from the wars, around one third of the country’s population yearned for far reaching domestic reforms. Their views were echoed by an extreme left-wing
The Forrestal Class aircraft carrier USS Saratoga entered the Tagus River delta and anchored in front of the Presidential Palace of Belém. Intending to contain the influence of the Portuguese Communist Party, the Fleet consisted of a total of 40 ships including helicopter carriers, landing craft and US Marines. Allegedly, in a further clandestine operation, the US secretly provided support to a group of liberal-thinking members of the Portuguese armed forces. Under the leadership of General Romalho Eanes and referred to as ‘the group of nine’ they were given military aid. If necessary they and their supporters were to stage a series of surprise attacks on Communist forces.
On the night of 24 November, when the situation became more serious, Otelo and platoons of left-wing paratroopers seized key military establishments in Lisbon and elsewhere. The Monsanto airbase, the Air Force School and five other airbases were taken. Under the umbrella and instructions of ‘the group of nine’ many other moderate soldiers successfully arrested Otelo and his troops. Imprisoning their dissident colleagues, there was huge relief that a blood bath had been avoided. At a critical moment, Cunhal, to his credit, directed that Otelo and his men were to surrender.
Today, those events are rarely discussed or referred to. The facts are hazy and the exact roles of those involved, unclear. Later the US provided Portugal with a massive loan, some of it to be used to liberalize workers who had been radicalized by communist propaganda.
It was exactly two years after the Carnation Revolution that elections were held. With 61 percent of the vote, Eanes became President and the moderate socialist leader Mário Soares, Prime Minister. The tasks before them were immense. There were many domestic issues to address, including the needs of the retornados who had been living in the chaos of an unruly motherland!
travelling light
GLYN PARRY
BUS STOP
Vilamoura, June 2025
Camera: Nikon D850
DS: “The stone sidewalk introduces a sense of movement that makes the composition feel dynamic and the man in the background adds an intriguing story element. The bag’s colour competes with the overall composition, and converting the image to black and white could bring out textures and tonal contrast in a way that feels more refined.”
1st place
Dan Sandy, a former board member of the Cleveland Photographic Society whose work has earned numerous first-place awards and been widely published, believes that anything can be beautiful with the right lighting and angle. His work focuses on visually striking imagery, particularly in wideangle landscapes and dynamic compositions across multiple genres
ROGER FULLER TRAVELLING LIGHT
Rossio, Lisbon, May 2025
Camera: iPhone 16 Pro
DS: “The emotional weight of travel is powerfully conveyed through the subject’s posture and expression, reinforcing a deep sense of exhaustion. While the viewpoint and leading lines draw the viewer in, creating a strong visual flow that enhances the storytelling, the composition succeeds in conveying a powerful narrative.”
2nd place
INA TANZER
WALKING
Casével, Alentejo, May 2025
Camera: Sony 7IV
DS: “Visually compelling, the composition evokes a strong narrative about survival and the harsh realities of life on the road. The mood and subject align beautifully, reinforcing the emotional weight of the story. The placement of the subject is wellconsidered, though the reed merging with their arm and leg subtly disrupts the composition.”
3rd place
JAN CHAPMAN
BEACH BABY
Fuzeta, June 2025
Camera: Apple Iphone11ISO 32 / f.1.8 / 1/1898s
DS: “A technically strong execution, with spot-on exposure, sharp focus, and well-controlled depth of field. But it does lack a compelling story, feeling more like a staged still life rather than an organic, naturally unfolding scene. The elements are well-placed but don’t evoke a clear narrative, leaving the viewer searching for deeper meaning.”
4th place
DARYL GABIN
JUST THE ONE
Quinta do Lago, June 2025
Camera: Canon R6 II with RF 24-70mm f2.8L
DS: “Focus is sharp throughout the frame, complementing the textures of the stone tiles and other detailed surfaces. The person’s leading toe pointing toward the bottom corner, along with the leading lines formed by the darker tiles, helps create a natural sense of movement and flow. The hand in the top right corner is distracting, though.”
5th place
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Ditch your printer;
it’s
time to use
online and public printing services
MULTIFUNCTION PRINTERS USED TO BE THE STARS OF THE HOME OFFICE, CHURNING OUT PROFESSIONAL QUALITY DOCUMENTS AND PHOTOGRAPHS ON DEMAND ALL DAY, EVERY DAY. BUT THEIR DAYS ARE NUMBERED NOW THAT EVERYTHING WE CREATE IS SENT OUT ELECTRONICALLY.
Words: CHRIS PARTRIDGE
THE PRINTER seems doomed to be sent to the Cupboard of Dead Technology along with the CD player and the fax machine. Inkjet printers in particular don’t suffer neglect very well. If you don’t print frequently, ink can dry out and need replacing before you even use it.
Printers also tend to fail or jam at the worst possible moments. And, of course, people whose second home is in the Algarve need two printers, one there and one here, both of which are unused for several months in the year.
With the rise of online services and the increasing availability of public printing options in shops and libraries, keeping a printer at home is often more trouble than it’s worth.
Here are the key reasons why you should consider getting rid of your printer and switching to print-on-demand options available online or in public spaces.
At first glance, a basic home printer might seem cheap. But what catches people out is the
ongoing cost of ink (or toner), paper and maintenance. Inkjet cartridges, in particular, are notoriously overpriced –sometimes costing more than the printer itself. By contrast, using an online print service or heading to a local specialist or shop means you only pay for what you print, with no overhead or waste.
Whether you’re printing business documents or family photos, online printing services usually offer better results than a consumer-grade printer can achieve. They use professional equipment calibrated for high-quality output, including advanced colour management and finishing options.
Need binding, lamination, or glossy photo prints? That’s all easily available. Many online services deliver to your door within a day or two.
Even the scanner in a multifunction printer is now obsolete, as the function can be done by your smartphone’s camera.
If you really need to print something out right now, most office supply shops, and even some supermarkets or pharmacies offer print and copy services. Many now support cloud printing, letting you upload documents via an app or website and collect them in-store. With these resources becoming more accessible, it’s less and less necessary to maintain a personal printer at home.
Printers, especially multi-function versions, are bulky and take up valuable desk or shelf space. They come with cables, paper trays, and spare cartridges, all adding to home office clutter. Getting rid of your printer frees up space and simplifies your setup.
Home printers often encourage overprinting and lead to waste – from unused printouts and discarded test pages to expired cartridges and broken machines that end up in landfill. Online and public print services tend to be more efficient and eco-conscious. Many use recycled paper, vegetable-based inks, or print-ondemand models that reduce excess production.
Printers are infamous for causing stress: whether it’s a stubborn paper jam, a Wi-Fi connection that mysteriously drops, or an error message you can’t decipher. Printing from smartphones or tablets is particularly infuriating as many of the features that are standard on desktop computers are lacking in mobile operating systems. By offloading your printing to someone else – whether that’s a shop assistant or an automated online platform – you avoid all of this hassle.
Some people worry about security when using external print services, especially with sensitive documents. But most professional providers take data privacy seriously, using secure uploads and deleting files after printing. Libraries and shops that offer cloud printing often include authentication steps like QR codes or PINs to protect your files. As long as you’re cautious and choose reputable services, security need not be a concern.
Finding local printing services is very easy – just enter “printing services” in Google maps and you may be surprised at the number of nearby locations where you can get stuff printed.
Footnote: I have just consigned my printer to the Shed of Dead Technology.
Print services in the Algarve
BRICKS AND MORTAR PRINT SERVICES IN THE ALGARVE
MULTICÓPIAS – CENTRO DE CÓPIAS multicopias.com
Available at: Rua de São Luís 34, 8000-285 Faro
Best for: General document printing, photocopies, laminating, binding.
Features: Walk-in or USB drop-off, scanning, friendly English-speaking staff.
Standout: Excellent price–quality ratio and speedy service.
ACERTO DIGITAL acertodigital.pt Available at: EN 125 nº273, Vale da Venda, 8135-032 Almancil
Best for: Colour and B/W copies, scanning, binding, laminating, business print jobs.
Features: Same-day local delivery, offset/digital printing, full service copy centre.
Standout: Professionalgrade centre with quick turnaround.
ARTE NOBRE – NOBRE ARTES GRÁFICAS nobreartesgraficas.pt/
Available at: Estômbar, Lagoa
Best for: Menus, flyers, business stationery, A4/A3 documents.
Features: Offers fine substrates (Couché, IOR, CLA, PVC), digital printing, finishing.
Standout: Premium paper choices and design support for polished business needs.
MAIL BOXES ETC mbe.pt
With 1700 locations globally, Mailboxes Etc is in Quarteira and Faro.
ONLINE PRINTING SERVICES IN THE ALGARVE
DOP – GRÁFICA DIGITAL dop.pt
Available in: Entire Algarve region
Best for: Brochures, flyers, business cards, booklets, menus, posters.
Features: Upload files online, choose materials and finishes, local delivery. Standout: High-end print quality with professionalgrade digital presses.
LITOGRÁFIS
www.litografis.pt
Available at: Vale Paraíso, Albufeira
Best for: Business stationery, restaurant menus, folded leaflets, posters.
Features: Online order requests, custom design support.
Standout: Combines design, pre-press, and digital/offset printing for a one-stop solution.
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To date, Sir Steve Redgrave is the only British Olympian to have won Gold at five consecutive Olympic Games, beginning in 1984. He has also triumphed in several Commonwealth Games and World Rowing Championships – a true superstar. Born in Marlow in Buckinghamshire, he took up rowing at the age of 16. His greatest successes came alongside his rowing partner Sir Matthew Pinsent, and there were times when the pair seemed unbeatable.
In 1988, Sir Steve married fellow rower Ann Callaway and the couple have two daughters and a son. Sir Steve was awarded an OBE in 1987 and knighted by Queen Elizabeth II in 2001. He also enjoys skiing and is a qualified ski instructor, and also competes in the London Marathon. He achieved another record there, raising a magnificent and record-breaking £1,800,000 for charities, including the Crohn’s and Colitis UK charity, after he was diagnosed with Ulcerative Colitis in 1992. This year, he accepted another challenge, appearing in TV’s Dancing on Ice in March – joking that he was the “oldest, tallest and heaviest contestant” to be invited to take part by his friends, Jayne Torvill and Christopher Dean. He lives with his family in Marlow, and was Chair of the nearby Henley Royal Regatta until 2023.
Where are they now?
WE ’ RE INTO SPORTS THIS MONTH, WITH SOME OF THE GREAT NAMES THAT HAVE STAYED IN THE SPOTLIGHT SINCE FIRST WALKING AWAY WITH THE PRIZE TROPHIES. MANY KEY PLAYERS GO ON TO COMMENTATE ON THE NEW GENERATION IN THEIR CHOSEN FIELD
Words: JILL ECKERSLEY
TIGER WOODS
California-born Tiger Woods, often described as one of the ‘greatest golfers of all time’, is the son of a US Army officer and Vietnam veteran; his ‘Tiger’ nickname was in honour of his father’s commanding officer. It was his father who introduced him to golf when he was just two years old and he was spotted on TV as a young child, winning the World Junior Championship no fewer than six times. He became US Junior Amateur Champion aged just 15 and won that title twice more, the only young golfer ever to do so. He attended Stanford University on a golf scholarship but left after two years, in 1996, to become a professional golfer. He first won the Masters in 1997, aged just 21. In the early part of the new century he was overtaken in the rankings by Vijay Singh, but still managed a win in the US Open in 2008. Injuries, and problems in his private life, seemed to affect his form after that, but he still became one of the highest paid athletes in the world and has won a total of 15 Majors during his career. In 2007 he was inducted into the California Hall of Fame by Arnold Schwarzenegger. There is also a wax figure of him in London’s Madame Tussauds. In the ‘90s he founded the TGR Foundation, alongside his father, which provides golf for inner-city children, and the Tiger Woods Learning Centre that offers youngsters golf scholarships.
In 2004 he married Swedish model Elin Nordegren. The couple have a son and a daughter - their son Charlie is said to be a promising young golfer – but divorced in 2010. In 2019 Tiger was presented with the Presidential Medal of Freedom by Donald Trump, and is currently based in Florida.
2600 bc
BOARD GAMES
Board games have a 5,000-year plus history… but surely in these days of complex video and computer games, they have outlived their usefulness? Well, perhaps not. According to The Guinness Book of Records, the 20thcentury favourite, Monopoly, is still played by 500 million people worldwide.
Replicas of some of the most ancient board games are available for sale from the British Museum’s online shop. Among them are The Royal Game of Ur, which is related to backgammon and hails from Mesopotamia in around 2600BC. And there is also a game called Senet, evidence of which was found in Pharaohs’ tombs. The Ancient Greeks and Romans enjoyed Tabula – another game similar to backgammon – and Latrones, which resembles chess. The Chinese game Go remains popular after 2500 years.
Checkers and dominoes became popular in the Middle Ages, and ‘racing’ games such as Snakes and Ladders in the 19th century. Monopoly and Scrabble were marketed commercially in the next century.
Many of the more traditional games have been adapted for computer screens in the belief that today’s gamers don’t need the human contact and rivalry of sitting round a table with their opponents.
So, have computer games taken over?
The Internet says no – “there will always be board-game geeks” as one gamer put it.
1990s
SERENA WILLIAMS
Serena Williams, who won an astonishing 23 major titles during her playing career, is often credited with bringing power and athleticism back to women’s tennis. She was born in Michigan and was coached by her parents alongside her sister Venus, also a superstar of the tennis world. Both girls were brought up in California and home-schooled in tennis from the age of four. Serena’s first professional singles title came in France in 1999. Shortly after that she defeated the great Steffi Graf and was on her way!
To date, Serena has won 19 matches against her sister, with Venus beating Serena in an impressive 12. Serena turned professional in 1995 and by the 2002/3 season she had won all four of the major singles titles. This success was followed by a slight dip in form but by 2007 she was back at Number One in the rankings. She won Wimbledon seven times, Olympic Gold in London 2012 and also, of course, many doubles titles alongside Venus. By 2016 she was already the highest-paid female athlete of all time. She took a break from tennis while pregnant with her elder daughter, but in 2020 won her first singles title as a mother. She has been voted World Tennis Association Player of the Year several times.
In addition to her tennis triumphs, Serena also runs the Serena Williams Foundation, focusing on community development, has funded the building of schools in Kenya and Jamaica, raised funds for the victims of the 2010 earthquake in Haiti, and spoken out against domestic abuse and in support of the Black Lives movement. Serena owns several properties including homes in Beverly Hills, Florida and Paris.
Your money
RICARDO CHAVES OF ALL FINANCE MATTERS IS HERE TO HELP PEOPLE UNDERSTAND WHAT IS ALLOWABLE – AND NOT – WHEN IT COMES TO FINANCIAL MATTERS IN PORTUGAL. AFM EXPERTS CAN ADVISE YOU ON THE BEST WAYS OF DEALING WITH BOTH BUSINESS AND PERSONAL TAX MATTERS TO ENSURE YOU ARE IN THE BEST POSSIBLE POSITION
QIf I rent my house out to a friend for a month, surely this is a between friends arrangement and the rental he pays me is a matter between us, and nothing formal. So, surely I do not have to pay tax on that cash agreement. Also, who do I need to inform if a friend is staying in my property?
Yes, even if it’s an arrangement between friends, any payment you receive for allowing someone to use your property is considered rental income under Portuguese tax law. The Portuguese Tax Authority requires that all rental income be declared, regardless of whether there is a formal contract or not.
This income is typically taxed under Category F of the Personal Income Tax (IRS) and is taxed at 25%, unless you opt for aggregation with your other income (which may or may not be beneficial depending on your tax bracket). If money changes hands, you are legally required to declare it and pay tax accordingly.
Also, as most home insurance policies require you to inform the insurer if someone other than the policyholder is staying in the property, even temporarily, you should inform the insurance company to ensure coverage in case of damage or liability. If the property has an alarm system or monitored access, letting them know avoids false alarms and ensures your friend isn’t identified as an intruder.
QCan you explain please what the changes in NHR are and how they will affect me?
I have been here for eight years and do consultancy work with a few clients to keep my brain and bank balance in good order.
The original NHR – Non Habitual Residency special tax regime was closed to new applicants as of December 31st 2024. Those who became tax residents before that date could have applied for the NHR status before 31 March 2025. Those who failed to meet the deadline to apply for the NHR can still apply for this out of date, and will benefit from this status in the remaining years (ie anyone who became resident in 2024 and applies now will have NHR for nine tax years instead of ten).
Send
These changes do not impact any previous NHR status holders – if you’ve held this status for the past eight years, you can continue to benefit from it for another two years. If you plan to keep doing consultancy work after your NHR expires, you might want to explore alternative ways of doing business that could be more tax-efficient after your tax benefit ends.
Please speak to a lawyer before making any decision.
QI need to have a bathroom re-modelled.
I have been to several builders and my preferred one wants 50% upfront, in cash. Is this acceptable, is it advisable, and if so what documentation should I expect from him?
Although it’s not illegal to pay in cash, Portuguese law limits cash payments for transactions involving businesses to €3,000 (or €10,000 if both parties are private individuals and not acting in a professional capacity). If the builder is a registered business, paying more than €3,000 in cash is not compliant with anti-money laundering regulations.
As a business practice, a 50% deposit is commonly accepted in Portugal, especially for small contractors; however, it should always be accompanied by proper documentation. You should have a written quote or budget that includes a breakdown of materials, labour, VAT, and time frames. Please be aware that by law, budget or pro-forma invoices should also be issued in tax-certified software, so make sure that the document given to you is fully legal and includes the tax number, address, and full name of the contractor or entity you are planning to do business with.
Request invoices and receipts for all payments, including those made in cash. Remember that if you sell this property, any refurbishments made in the previous 12 years can be deducted for capital gains tax purposes. However, to claim this deduction, you will need to have a legal invoice that includes the works done and the property’s address. If the property is jointly owned, please consider requesting two separate invoices, in the name of of each of the owners.
REMOVALS
REMOVALS
• Weekly removal service to and from the UK, Portugal and Malaga, Spain
STORAGE
• Weekly removal service to and from the UK, Portugal and Malaga, Spain
• Full or part packing and wrapping service
STORAGE
• Storage warehouses located in the UK, Algarve, Lisbon and Malaga, Spain
• Storage warehouses located in the UK, Algarve, Lisbon and Malaga, Spain
• Shop online with any furniture retailer and have your items delivered the following week
• Shop online with any furniture retailer have your items delivered the following
• Full or part packing and wrapping service
• Fully insured, secure and alarmed
• Fully insured, secure and alarmed
• One/multiple items of furniture
• One/multiple items of furniture
• One box to full house removals
• One box to full house removals
• Villa to villa moves within the Algarve
• Storage available for long or short term
• Villa to villa moves within the Algarve
• Storage available for long or short term
• All customs paperwork and procedures taken care by our in house customs experts
QI heard that there were new changes to the rules that govern the acquisition of Portuguese citizenship, and residency, and some of them might be applied to applications already filled? Can you explain.
AYes, the rules of residence and nationality seem to be among the favourite legal changes of politicians, sometimes, in our opinion, more motivated by political ideology than the real needs of the country.
One of the most relevant changes involves how the residency period is calculated for individuals applying for Portuguese nationality. Under the revised interpretation, first introduced in 2024 and reaffirmed now, the start date for legal residence is no longer the date the residence card was issued, but rather the date when the application for residence was approved (deferimento). This change benefits applicants who had long delays between approval and issuance due to administrative backlog.
Importantly, the Council of Ministers clarified that this updated rule applies only to new applications submitted after the new decree takes effect. This provides legal certainty and avoids unfairly penalizing applicants already in the system.
The new rules also address late paternity recognition, and the route to citizenship for descendants of Portuguese Sephardic Jews – descendants of Jewish Communities who lived in the Iberian Peninsula until their expulsion in the 15th century.
For those who establish paternity after
GOING LEGAL
LEGAL EXPERTS NELSON RAMOS AND ROBERTA RAMOS WHO, TOGETHER WITH THEIR SPECIALIST TEAM AT RAMOS & ASSOCIADOS IN ALMANCIL, ADVISE CLIENTS ON VARIOUS ISSUES. THIS MONTH, THEY LOOK AT THE CHANGES IN RULINGS REGARDING CITIZENSHIP APPLICATIONS
reaching adulthood, the law upholds a transition period of three years (from the date the 2024 law came into force) during which they may apply for citizenship under the previous regime.
For Sephardic descendants, the new rule imposes a minimum of three years of legal residence in Portugal as a condition for naturalization, but those who submitted applications before this change are subject to the previous, less restrictive rules.
A central element of the 24 June decision is that these new rules do not apply retroactively. Applications submitted before the new decree enters into force will continue to be assessed under the previous legal framework.
This is essential from both a legal and constitutional standpoint and prevents unfair treatment of applicants who relied in good faith on the law as it existed at the time of their application.
According to the Portuguese Constitution, changes to nationality laws must be made through an organic law. Regulations or executive decrees cannot validly change core aspects, such as when the clock starts ticking for legal residence or the eligibility criteria for citizenship.
In 2024, the Portuguese Constitutional Court (TC) declared Article 56(1) of Decree-Law unconstitutional for precisely this reason. That provision attempted to alter the legal timeline for opposition by the Public Prosecutor in nationality cases, even though such matters are governed by organic law, not regulations. Applying a similar change retroactively to existing applicants would violate this same
constitutional principle.
The Constitution also upholds the principle of legal certainty and the protection of legitimate expectations. This means that individuals have the right to rely on the law in force at the time when submitting their citizenship or residence application. Changing the rules midway through the process would breach this constitutional protection. If you submitted your application before 24 June 2025, your case will continue under the previous rules.
If you plan to submit a new application, be aware that the new legal standards will apply, especially regarding when residence time begins, or if you are applying as a descendant of Sephardic Jews or under late paternity.
The changes introduced by the Council of Ministers in June represent a continuation of recent reforms in Portuguese nationality law. However, they were implemented with clear respect for constitutional boundaries, especially regarding non-retroactivity.
By ensuring that only new applications are subject to the updated rules, the government upholds the principles of legal certainty, legitimate expectation, and constitutional legality. For current applicants, this provides reassurance that their rights under the former system will be respected.
If you’re unsure which version of the law applies to you, consulting a legal professional or checking the date your application was officially submitted is highly recommended.
Email questions for Ramos Associados to martin@algarveplusmagazine.com
The Algarve’s premier Italian restaurant — and your local reference for tasteful living, in collaboration with our interiors and lifestyle shop.
In her latest series, Symbols, Halina’s abstract flags, filled with words like ‘breathe’, ‘love’, or ‘cherish’,, and gestural forms, become the vehicle for a personal and silent grammar. Rather than stating fixed meanings, these signs evoke maps, roots, and organic flows, composing a visual and poetic language that inhabits the invisible.
IN
THE PINK
Praça da República 69-75, Loulé, in-the-pink.com
At the Beach features works by David Yarrow, Nuno Cera, Kristian Schuller, Derrick Ofosu Boateng, Christian Chaize, Albert Watson, and Teresa Freitas that explore the universal joy of being near the sea where sand, sunshine and water serve as powerful symbols of beauty, freedom, and escape.
Here, The Rules of Golf 2025 by David Yarrow.
BJÖRN HEYN
Gama Rama
Rua do Prior 13, Faro 961 371 891
gamaramagallery@gmail.com
Until 23 August
In his collages, paintings and installations, Heyn recreates every day life in an irreverent way, using a vibrant colour palette and humorous elements that transform the ordinary into something extraordinary.
CHRISTINA ARVIDSSON 915 515 711
hi@christinaarvidsson.com christinaarvidsson.art/ Vibrant Tide, acrylic on water colour paper, 21x29.7cm. Make an appointment to see work inspired by breath, stillness, and inner peace.
ALGARVE ARTISTS NETWORK (AAN)
Portimão Museum algarveartistsnetwork.com
5 July–28 September
Planeta Azul - Blue Planet explores the beauty and the vulnerability of our Earth and the need to protect and preserve its resources, especially the oceans, rivers, and lakes – without water no life is possible. Here, The Matriarch, acrylic on canvas, by BJ Boulter, 100x100cm.
THE CONNOR BROTHERS
ArtCatto Pop Up Gallery
Vila Vita Parc, Porches 289 419 447 info@artcatto.com artcatto.com
The Truth, oil on canvas, 80x55x6cm.
Visit the V-Life shops in Vila Vita Parc to see the new ArtCatto showpieces.
ALFAIA
Rua Brites de Almeida 18 Loulé
On until 30 August
Works by Maria Capelo, Maria Trabulo, Inês Mendes Leal and João Mariano. Absolutely worth a visit.
TAVIRA D ’A RTES 962 012 111 taviradartes@gmail.com taviradartes.com
Color Somnia by Stela Barreto, acrylic on canvas, 60x60cm
ARTE36
Santa Catarina da Fonte do Bispo 915 741 378 info.arte36@gmail.com
Open Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday, 10h00–13h00 and 16h00–18h00 and by appointment
At this new gallery, the Natural exhibition features a selection of oils and watercolours from 12 artists including a ceramicist, all living and working in The Algarve. Alexandra G, Arina Fokina, Billy Wagstaff, Brenda Woods, Carola Colley, Dianna Goedman, Frank Martin, Frina Cama, Ines Rosa Martins, Jane Ann Ribeiro, Lucas Martins, Taran Flaten.
Art Takeover in Tavira
The historic centre of TAVIRA has been transformed into an open-air gallery with the exhibition Olhar o Centro – Tavira, by renowned photographers Augusto Brázio and Nelson D’Aires. The works will be on display until 31 August, distributed across the windows of multiple shops and commercial establishments in the historic centre, promoting an exhibition circuit accessible to all and boosting local commerce.
Augusto Brázio and Nelson D’Aires are developing this documentary style project in several Portuguese cities, offering a close look at public spaces and the gestures, faces and daily practices that unfold within them. In Tavira, the result is a sensitive and critical visual narrative, made up of fragments that capture the present and suggest the future.
WORKSHOPS
Loulé Criativo
E: loulecriativo@cm-loule.pt, FB: @loulecriativo
IN: @loule_criato, W: loulecriativo.pt
Email for full details of these appointment-only workshops
Gastronomic workshop in which you’ll create three recipes: Fig cheese – a pastry made with figs and toasted almonds and ground with spices; dried fig with a rich almond and spice filling; and star-shaped fig with almonds.
SERÔDIO, BY PALMAS DOURADAS
Museu do Traje, São Brás Until 15 September
The palm weavings — once a utilitarian craft, now an artistic material — are reinvented through a contemporary language, without breaking from their ancestral body. The pieces presented are handmade, using palm fronds from the Algarve mountains, in a continuity that does not copy the past, but shifts it — into the present and toward the future.
WORKING THE PALM: WEAVE THE BRAID
Palácio Gama Lobo, Loulé By appointment, 10h00-13h00
Partner: Craftswomen from Casa da Empreita Registration: loulecriativo@cm-loule.pt €35
EXPERIENTIAL HANDLOOM WORKSHOP
Oficina do Barro, Loulé By appointment, 10h00-13h30
R. Infante Dom Henrique 126, 8500-639 Portimão 917 937 564 meinke-flesseman.com
23 August, 16h00–19h00
A social and laid back drawing class at the Gallery, €25 per person, drinks and materials included.
República 14, Olhão
republica14.pt
Reservations: linktr.ee/republica_14
2 August, 20h00–22h00
RODA DE SAMBA
Nani Medeiros and her band return to República for another lively night full of energy. Get ready for a vibrant evening featuring delicious Brazilian food to match the occasion.
9 August, 21h00
TERRASUL Ricardo Martins and Vitor Bacalhau bring together Fado and traditional Portuguese music, Ricardo on the Portuguese guitar and Vitor on the electric guitar. What emerges is an unexpected blend of identitydriven music that evokes the soul’s lament and has deep roots in the people’s hearts.
16 August, 21h00
PLASTICINE - The fusion that breaks boundaries
Acording to Nuno Rogério from Sic Notícias, “Plasticine are Probably the best Portuguese Funk Orchestra!” Formed in 2018, the band is a world/jazz fusion that defies labels and musical genres. Their unique sound blends progressive rock, funk, jazz, and soul, while also crossing sonic geographies with influences of afrobeat, Latin rhythms, and eastern elements. The result? A vibrant, bold, and absolutely contagious sound.
23 August, 21h00
SUSANA TRAVASSOS TRIO
With the amazing voice of Susana Travassos there will be Gonçalo Filipe de Sousa at the chromatic harmonica, and Simon Seidl on piano, in a hot and intimate concert.
30 August, 21h00
BRATIA - Balkan Pompe Ignition
Four musicians from the iconic Barcelona Gipsy Balkan Orchestra, driven by the need to explore new musical horizons, join forces with an artist shaped by the legacy of Django Reinhardt, the highly influential Romani jazz guitarist and composer. Catalan Pere Nolasc Turu, Franco-Canadian Victor Paradis, Frenchman Julien Chanal, Serbian Ivan Kovacevic, and Greek Stelios Togias have captured the blend of the sounds of the Balkans and the energy, finesse, and precision of gypsy jazz.
MELCHIOR SESSIONS
Galeria Meinke Flesseman R. Infante Dom Henrique 126, 8500-639 Portimão 917 937 564 galeria.meinkeflesseman@ gmail.com meinke-flesseman.com
24 August, 17h00–20h00 3rd edition — a very intimate concert with wonderful Tiago Saga. Expect a carefully curated musical experience, bringing together exceptional artists. Prices from €25 for early birds; appetizers and drinks included. Email to book.
ANA LAÍNS: FADO
WITH SOUL
Vale do Lobo Tennis Academy eventbrite.pt/ 2 August, from 20h30
Renowned fado singer Ana Laíns will take to the stage at sunset for an unforgettable performance of contemporary fado, rich in emotion and cultural identity. Offering more than just music, she brings a legacy, a unique vision, and a rare depth of feeling – inviting the audience to see and hear Portugal in a new and inspiring way. Tickets: €30
THE BUZZ Museu do Traje, São Brás 966 329 073 amigosdomuseu.com
2 August, 19h00, in the courtyard
This five-piece cover band is one of the Algarve’s most popular. Zoe Page on lead vocals, Gary Collins on guitar, Rob Lane on keyboard and vocals, Alan L on bass and vocals, and Gary Bristol on drums. Pop, rock, blues and country. Refreshments available through from the café and vendors. Tickets €12 (Amigos €10). Reserve by phone or email.
THE BEATLES TRIBUTE
Vale do Lobo, Parque do Golfe, eventbrite.pt/ 16 August, from 20h00
Open-air concert on the golf course, featuring the sensational band The Bestbeat, set to be one of the resort’s most popular events. Established in 2005 in Belgrade, the band is renowned for their meticulous attention to detail. Each member fully embodies their respective Beatle, performing with authentic instruments and wearing era-specific costumes that perfectly capture the magic of The Beatles’ music.
Don’t forget, there’s live music at the Vale do Lobo Praça every night until 13 September, from 19h00h to 22h30. As well as live performances spanning a variety of musical genres, there are cultural displays celebrating tradition through violin recitals and folkloric dance shows.
The Praça also hosts stalls featuring traditional crafts and local products, showcasing the region’s talent and authenticity, while caricature artists add a creative and humorous touch to the visit. valedolobo.com/en/resort/services-facilities/praca/
FATACIL 2025
Municipal Festival Grounds, Lagoa, 22-31 August, 18h00–01h00
This huge annual fair is an adventure with something for all ages and interests. Showcasing Portuguese crafts, regional products and local gastronomy, it includes concerts, exhibitions, and a big food court. The kids will love the livestock area with indigenous breeds of sheep and goats. Tickets: €5; €16 for family of four (ages 12+); free for children under 12.
SUMMER JUNIOR GOLF ACADEMY
Vale do Lobo Golf Club valedolobo.com/en/activities/ event-experience/summer-juniorgolf-academy-4/ Until 29 August, 17h00–19h00
For children aged five to 12, this fun and engaging golf academy helps young players develop their technique and confidence on the course. Led by Vale do Lobo’s resident golf expert, the sessions focus on key skills including swing, putting, chipping, bunker play, rules, competitions and on-course experience.
Each week / course costs €150 per child for the five days. Pre-registration is required. Classes will take a maximum of ten children.
MUST BE THERE
NOSSA SENORA DOS NAVEGANTES
Faro / 3 August
RIA FORMOSA FESTIVAL
Faro / Until 10 August
NOITES MODO MIRANTE Monchique / 8-9 August
SILVES MEDIEVAL FAIR
Silves / 8–16 August
OLH Ã O SEAFOOD FESTIVAL
Olhão / 9-14 August
ALCOUTIM SUMMER FAIR
Alcoutim / 17 August
FOLKFARO
Faro / 17-23 August
SARDINE FESTIVAL
Portimão/ 5-10 August
WHITE NIGHT
Loulé / 30 August
For detailed information, go to eventos.visitalgarve.pt
DON ’ T MISS
And finally
FANCY A FACE JOB? SOMETHING SIMPLE LIKE FILLERS TO SMOOTH THOSE LAUGH LINES? ANTHONY MARTIN HAS BEEN LOOKING IN THE MIRROR AT HIS TODAY SELF, AND WONDERING IF HIS APPEAL COULD BE IMPROVED
WATCH OUT George
Clooney and Brad Pitt, you’re about to gain competition for, as reported in the UK press last month, we men are now spending more than women on facial ‘tweakments’, or as we know it ‘plastic surgery.’ And as I’ve got a few bob put away for emergencies, that fact, coupled with the disgruntled shar-pei that stared back at me this morning from the shaving mirror, has convinced me that the emergency has arrived. Not that I’m vain, because I’m not, but a tweak or two, here and there – okay there rather than here, would give me at least a couple of subjects to write about when I’m stuck for ideas.
I’ve done it before, when I put myself through various procedures or, if you prefer, alternative health fads. But never the knife. Well, not yet.
It was for a magazine directed at the 50+ market, the UK version of an American title, and I went through Shiatsu, vibration plates, lymphatic drainage, acupuncture, the Bowens technique and a host of other weird and wonderful life enhancing (so I was promised) procedures.
another as the recipient is never satisfied with the final look. We’ve all seen examples of this on personalities who are now barely recognisable.
“So, what’s it to be then, are you going to go under the knife” asked the shar-pei in the shaving mirror the following day. “If it were me I wouldn’t, as I look fairly good for my age, why should I change that? Although, Tony, I can see what you’re worried about – the eyelids, the jowls, the crepe paper-like skin on your arms and the turkey neck, but what the hell, you’re not exactly a puppy anymore, are you?”
“You’re right of course,” I said to my alter ego in the mirror, as I considered growing a Zapata moustache to cover what I used to call my laugh lines.
We men are now spending more than women on facial ‘tweakments’. We could start with ‘Brotox’ as it is called for the male of the species
The only one I flatly refused to try was colonic irrigation; I’m not having anyone inserting anything into my orifices – even if the technician in question is a five-foot ten redhead, wearing a black basque.
But enough of that. This months subject is tweakments for blokes, and how far we men should allow our vanity to take us. We could perhaps start with a few fillers or as it’s called for the male of the species, Brotox. We could then follow with hair transplants and gradually progress through liposuction and eyelid trimming to the more hardcore procedures of jawline sculpting and rhinoplasty.
I have been told by those in the know, that like having a tattoo, it’s very more ‘ish – one procedure leading to
And then I stepped back and considered things: do I really want to change my appearance – as we grow from children to young adults our personalities are formed, and they are formed by both our image of ourselves and also how we believe others see us.
Listen to a comedian being interviewed and talking about their bullied childhood and you’ll hear how many of them used comedy to protect themselves or the short person who had to make themselves stand out to be noticeable.
They became their present-day self because of the image they believed they presented. Take the original image of self away and replace it with another and their personality will, whether they like it or not, change to complement the new persona.
So, would a neck and arms with fitted skin alter my personality? Would the lack of vertical creases on each side of my mouth turn me into a more gregarious alpha male, and would wide-open eyes open my eyes to a newer and more exciting life? I don’t think so, and apart from anything else, I’d miss my regular morning meetings with the shar-pei.
