Why is it that the run-up to Christmas gets busier every year? We know exactly when the festive season is coming and yet we never seem to be fully prepared. Replenishing the food cupboard is one task – stocking up on herbs and spices (yes, we still have last year’s left overs but who knows if we have enough to cover all the things we think we might make). And, when it comes to it, will we actually make them? Time to chuck out the half tin of English mustard powder (can’t actually remember having used the missing half). And what about those little extras that have sat at the back of a shelf for the past year? Sense says if they weren’t used, they weren’t needed. A sensible approach is called for. And a large rubbish bag. But then... all those ‘what ifs’ come to mind. We can’t afford to be caught without the not-so-essentials. But we have cans of stout and packs of shredded suet for the Christmas puds we didn’t make, packs of star anise with an elderly use-by date, leaves of gelatin hiding in a drawer.
However, what we have that is thoroughly up-to-date is our end-of-year content. This is our best December issue yet, packed wth a mix of fun, thought-provoking ideas, exclusive features, great products and, we hope, inspired thinking. It is thanks to our merry band of contributors who take up the challenge and get out there researching to come up with material that makes a difference. Our focus, as always, is on Portugal, which means that everything we do is accessible to you, right here, right now.
Our best to you for a very merry Christmas and a cracking 2026.
Apolonia is known for its holiday hampers. This one is the perfect gift, with Impérial Brut Champagne, Möet & Chandon, 75cl, assorted chocolate bonbons, Godiva Gold Collection, and Pitmaster Smoked Almonds & Peanuts. Great tastes, and it can be delivered nationwide. €99.95. apolonia.com
Beautiful ceramics, perfect for your festive table from the Costa Nova Collection Cristal Nacar. Discover this and so much more in the two Espaço Luzitano stores in Faro’s walking streets. insta: espacoluzitano
FRONT COVER: Plenty to celebrate, and so much to decorate. Enjoy the festivities.
Now this is a real statementmaker, from the brilliant Vera Manzoni, who does her own thing and never fails to stun. This braided and fringed necklace sits in place with a gleaming golden pin. €60. veramanzoni.com
Another reason to celebrate. Casa Amor in Olhão opens its new boutique on 10 December where you’ll find a selection of gourmet and artisanal goodies: wines and Champagnes, craft and even wool blankets, all from fine Portuguese brands. casaamor-olhao.com
Go for the flow, and the bow detail, the perfect present for yourself. Long Birdsong viscose shirt by Greenkiss, the digital print designed and handpainted by Portuguese artists. From Casa Vostra Home, in Almancil. €155 casavostrahome.com
Arcadia, founded back in 1933, is known for its macarons, sweets, ice cream, and chocolates. With 45 stores in 16 cities across Portugal, this is a company that knows how to satisfy a sweet tooth and its Christmas products are a real treat. Love these simple holly chocs. €9.50. arcadiachocolates.com
SWEET D REAMS
Produced in north Portugal by specialised seamstresses, this collection puts comfort and style as key. From Undersleepwear, comes shortie jamas, Kismet Pink, in 60% cotton 40% Modal, with wooden buttons. €95 undersleepwear.com
Torres Novas’s first collection of flannel bedding, Serra da Estrela, is in 100% cotton flannel, which offers breathability and warmth without overheating, and an extra-soft touch ideal for cosy nights. Minimalist striped and checkered patterns, in white and grey, in a duvet cover, top sheet, fitted sheet and pillowcases. €52.99–€214.99. torresnovas.com
Now this is the gift every woman wants.
A collectable from the Merry Mikado collection by the amazing fine jewellery designer Tamara Comolli who uses gemstones that glow, diamonds that shimmer, designs that delight. Her skilfully composed holiday collection for 2025 showcases her expertise working with ultrarare gemstones, 18K gold, and exceptional one-of-a-kind designs. You’ll be dazzled at her elegant shop in Vila Vita Parc. tamaracomolli.com
Swatch shops in Portugal; sales are limited to one unit per person, per day per store. €385. swatch.com
Assouline’s Travel Series takes readers on a journey to the most sought-after cities, sharing the stories and celebrating the hot spots and the figures who have turned each location into a must-see. Recently published Lisboa Luz is the perfect gift for all lovers of Portugal. From Dunas Living in Almancil. €105. dunas-living.com
Staying warm, and looking cool. Striped Alentejana overcoat – for him and for her (Christmas is about sharing, after all). €393. burelfactory.com
FROM 28.11
Nuno Cera, “A Room with a View #11, Puerta America, Madrid”, 2009
Giving back with purpose
A QUIET REVOLUTION IS RESHAPING HOW A COMMUNITY THINKS ABOUT FOOD, WASTE, AND BELONGING. REFOOD, A 100% VOLUNTEER-DRIVEN CHARITY, HAS A SIMPLE MISSION: “TO COLLECT SURPLUS FOOD TO FEED PEOPLE IN NEED.” REFOOD HAS 60 CENTRES ACROSS PORTUGAL, INCLUDING IN ALBUFEIRA, FARO, PORTIMÃO, LAGOS, TAVIRA, AND VILA REAL DE SANTO ANTÓNIO
IT’S AN IDEA so simple it sounds dumb, the team at Refood Portimão admits with a laugh. “But that’s why it works,” they say. What began as a modest local effort has become a lifeline for families in need and represents a symbol of social connection.
Each year, the Portimão group rescues six to eight tons of perfectly good food from supermarkets, restaurants, and cafés – food that would otherwise end up in landfills –and redirects it to households struggling to make ends meet.
But the work doesn’t stop with hunger relief. Refood combats exclusion and solitude by challenging everyone to be a part of it. As one volunteer explains the charity’s ethos: “We have many stories, but our favourites are the ones where some families can find their ground and no longer need the support we provide. Many of them are immigrants.”
These moments – when support becomes self-sufficiency – are among the charity’s proudest achievements.
Powered Entirely by Volunteers
Refood Portimão runs entirely on volunteer power. “Since our organisation is 100% volunteer, we rely on them totally. Without volunteers, there is no Refood,” the team says.
Dozens of people give their time to collect food, organise baskets and deliver supplies, while others handle coordination, outreach, and social media.
The team includes professionals, students, and retirees – each contributing a few hours whenever they can. Some help once a week; others have become part of the charity’s backbone.
One volunteer, now 86, has been involved since the beginning. “He’s available to do administrative work, to drive someone, or simply to be there with a nice word for anyone who needs it. That’s a true volunteer!” the team says fondly.
A micro-local mission with a global impact
While Refood chapters operate throughout the Algarve, each adapts to its own environment. “We all have the same end mission and, in general, work in similar ways,” the Portimão team notes, adding: “However, this is a micro-local project, and therefore it’s adapted to our reality here in
Portimão – which is very different from Faro, for example.”
It is this very flexibility that allows each hub to meet the specific needs of its neighbourhood while staying true to the core idea of saving food and feeding people.
The result is a win-win for society and the planet. “Since we save several tons of food from the landfill every year, the community would be missing a project that serves us all environmentally, socially, and economically,” the team says when asked what would happen if Refood didn’t exist.
They are justly proud that reducing food waste helps cut greenhouse gas emissions and landfill use, while redirecting food provides immediate relief for families navigating economic strain.
Transformative for volunteers, too
Purpose and belonging lie at the heart of Refood’s volunteer experience. “Refood is for everyone – you might see a ten-year-old working beside a retiree with the same goal. It builds community and purpose,” they say, recognising the huge value.
The work also sharpens practical skills, another special benefit to those involved. “Our teams must be resourceful, creative, and quick – those are skills worth cultivating,” they add. Volunteers leave with confidence, friendships, and a renewed sense of meaning.
Getting started couldn’t be easier. “If you think you know how much food is wasted each day, come see for yourself. Try one twohour shift,” they urge. “You’ll see how much difference two hours can make – for the community, and also for yourself.”
Quiet
impact, lasting warmth
Refood remains refreshingly unpretentious. “Our operation is basic and mostly logistic, so there’s no fancy moments or big recognitions,” the team says. “We do what we believe is the right thing for our city and our people, and I can assure you that after one shift you’ll have a big smile and a fuzzy feeling in your heart.”
Refood reminds us that true richness lies in connection – neighbours helping neighbours, strangers becoming friends, and simple acts keeping families fed and hope alive. For those seeking to give back, the invitation is clear: come for two hours, and you might just leave with something priceless.
MONCHIQUE
THE ALGARVE’S MOUNTAIN SOUL
THE ROAD TO MONCHIQUE CLIMBS STEADILY THROUGH FORESTED SLOPES AND TIGHT BENDS, UNTIL SUDDENLY YOU’RE IN A COMPLETELY DIFFERENT LANDSCAPE — COOL, MISTY, AND THICK WITH THE SMELL OF EUCALYPTUS AND PINE. THIS IS THE SERRA DE MONCHIQUE, THE MOUNTAIN RANGE THAT GIVES THE TOWN ITS NAME
Words: NICK ROBINSON, ALGARVE ADDICTS
GOOD MORNING. Today, I’m heading up to Monchique – or as the locals pronounce it, Monsheek. I’ve just picked up my cousin Chris, and we’re off to see what we can find up there in the mountains. I’ve always heard about this lush green world that rises above the golden coast, and I’m curious to see whether it’s as special as people say.
Monchique is only about an hour from Faro Airport, but the moment you start driving, you feel like you’re leaving the Algarve you thought you knew behind.
The village itself lies nestled between two peaks: Picota and Fóia, the latter being the highest point in the Algarve at just over 900 metres – that’s around 2,959 feet. It’s an incredible feeling when you realise you’re standing higher than anywhere else in southern Portugal, looking down toward the Atlantic glimmering in the distance. But before we get to the top, let’s start in the heart of the town.
A town between peaks
It’s important not to confuse Monchique with Caldas de Monchique, the spa village about 15 minutes further south. Caldas is where the famous thermal springs are found – a peaceful, tree-shaded enclave of hotels and old fountains, built on ancient Roman discoveries. Monchique proper, however, is the main town higher up the mountain, home to roughly 2,300 people, with about
6,000 in the wider municipality.
That small population gives it a quiet, close-knit feeling. Seventeen percent of residents are foreigners – mostly Europeans seeking cooler summers and slower living – and you’ll find that English is widely understood, even if the rhythms of daily life remain distinctly Portuguese. Interestingly, Monchique ranks 13th out of 308 municipalities in Portugal for the age of its locals, which says something about its pace: gentle, content, unhurried.
As we pull into town, Chris and I stop for a coffee at a little café near the square. There’s a hum of conversation, the clink of espresso cups, and a sculpture of a fish spouting water into a fountain – one of the playful pieces made by local artists Sylvain and Tara Bongard, whose studio we’d visit later.
A place shaped by nature and time
Monchique is often described as “the garden of the Algarve,” and for good reason. It rains more here than anywhere else in the region, which means everything grows. Ferns line the roadsides, moss clings to stone walls, and chestnut and cork-oak forests ripple across the hillsides.
Evidence suggests people have lived here for over 5,000 years, but Monchique truly rose to prominence during Roman times, when the thermal springs at Caldas were discovered and prized for their restorative powers. King Dom João II even came here in his final years, seeking relief in the warm, mineral-rich waters before his death in 1495.
The town’s name likely comes from the Islamic Munt Sakhir or perhaps the Latin Mon Sakur, meaning sacred mountains. Whatever its root, the name fits. There’s a quiet sanctity to this
Page 13, top left clockwise: charming little cobbled alleyways; stone stock at the top of Fóia; Convent of Our Lady in Exile, a few minutes from the heart of the town; Monchique’s Parish Church. Opposite page, left clockwise: wonderful elephant, by Sylvain and Tara Bongard; narrow backstreets filled with colour; healthy waters of Caldas de Monchique; at the top of Fóia. This page: the breathtaking view down to the ocean
place – something that feels older than its cobbled lanes and tiled façades. Little is known about Monchique’s early centuries, partly because of the devastating 1755 earthquake that wiped out records across southern Portugal.
What we do know is that by the 18th century, Monchique had become a thriving craft and agricultural town, known for weaving, basketry, and carpentry – especially for its two-piece folding scissor chairs, still made and sold here today.
Exploring Monchique
The town itself is small enough to explore on foot. We wander the narrow, cobbled streets, their white-washed walls framed by pink bougainvillea and blue doors. At the heart of it all lies the main square, Largo dos Chorões, watched over by the Bongards’ whimsical sculptures of wildlife, plants and foods.
We find the Bongard studio nearby – a wonderland of clay, metal, and colour. Sylvain and Tara show us how their massive kiln works, explaining how it can reach 1,300 degrees Celsius in the main chamber and 1,000 degrees in the upper oven, allowing two firing techniques at once. The space is filled with cats, coral forms, fish, and fantastical chameleons – the kind of art that feels alive in the mountain air. Art and craftsmanship have long been Monchique’s lifeblood. Locals still work with cork, chestnut, and ceramic; and you’ll find small galleries and craft stores dotted around the streets. It’s the opposite of mass-produced –everything here has a story, a maker, a lineage.
From springs to peaks
After a coffee and a quick stroll through Caldas de Monchique earlier that morning, Chris and I had already seen the spa side of the region – but the real adventure begins when you head upward. Just ten minutes north of Caldas (about six kilometres) the road
winds toward Monchique and eventually to Fóia.
Along the way, we pass Miradouro da Fonte Santa, a viewpoint with a small natural spring where locals still fill water bottles, swearing by its purity and health benefits. It’s one of those classic Portuguese roadside moments: no big sign, no ticket booth, just a simple act of everyday ritual surrounded by beauty.
Continuing up to Fóia, the view is staggering. You can see the whole sweep of the Algarve coast, from Cape St. Vincent to Faro, the plains of the Alentejo beyond, and on clear days even the shimmer of the Atlantic. There’s a small café and a chapel at the top — and often a crowd of cyclists resting after the climb.
For hikers, the area offers countless trails. One of the most striking is Barranco do Demo, a forested gorge with a wooden boardwalk and a suspension bridge. You can do it as a short 15-minute stroll or a full-day loop. For mountain bikers, there are downhill trails that snake all the way to Portimão or Lagos – and you barely need to pedal once gravity takes over.
Life and living in Monchique
For such a small town, Monchique has a surprisingly good infrastructure – perhaps a reflection of how self-sufficient mountain life must be. On the left as you drive in, there’s a large Intermarché supermarket, handy for stocking up before heading further into the hills. In the centre, smaller grocery shops and cafés line the streets, including one called Velochique.
The main public school is Escola Básica Manuel Nascimento, and there are a few smaller schools scattered around the municipality, including one in Marmelete. There are two kindergartens, and for healthcare, three pharmacies that rotate being open overnight, plus a small private clinic – MedChique – run by the HPA Group. For anything major, it’s a 35-minute drive to Portimão.
Even a dental clinic sits right in town. It’s the kind of place
l
where you could live comfortably, quietly and contentedly, with the Algarvian coast still within easy reach.
Food, flavours, and Sunday rituals
Lunch is almost a sacred act in Monchique. The town is famous among Algarvian families as a Sunday destination – a place to drive up for a long meal surrounded by green hills and cool breezes.
Tara Bongard recommends Restaurante Luar Da Fóia, one of the mountain’s best-known eateries, and after hearing that, we decide to check it out. The dishes here are hearty, comforting, and full of mountain flavour – slow-cooked black pig, roasted chicken, and the inevitable star of the menu: bochechas de porco, or pork cheeks, stewed until tender enough to fall apart at the touch of a fork. Served with potatoes and a glass of red wine, it’s the kind of meal that feels like a reward for making the climb.
For dessert, there’s bolo de tacho, a dark, sticky cake made from cornmeal, honey, cacao, and coffee. It’s dense, rich, and spiced with cinnamon and fennel – an echo of the earth and the chestnut woods around you. And if you’re feeling brave (or curious), you can finish with a shot of medronho, the local firewater distilled from the wild strawberry tree that grows throughout the hills. It’s strong, fiery, and completely authentic – a liquid expression of Monchique’s rugged character.
A brief history hidden in the hills
As we explore further, we come across hints of Monchique’s layered history. When King Sancho conquered nearby Silves in 1189, records mentioned two castles – Monchique and Montegut. The remains of these might correspond to ruins found near Castelão Novo (about seven minutes southwest of town) or Alferce, a small village 12 minutes northeast. These are sleepy little spots today, but they whisper of a time when this range was a defensive high ground between Christian and Moorish territories.
That sense of the past lingers everywhere – in the stone walls, the hand-carved doors, the sound of church bells echoing through mist. You can feel it even without seeing it.
A practical escape
For travellers used to the Algarve’s coastal pulse – the resorts, the beach bars, the hum of tourism – Monchique offers a refreshing contrast. It’s quieter, greener, and more introspective. You come here to exhale, and to be enchanted by the natural surroundings.
A few tips
Bring a jacket. Even in summer, the evenings can get cool.
Drive carefully. The roads are winding and steep, but the views are worth the journey.
Stay overnight if you can. Caldas de Monchique has some lovely spa hotels where you can soak up the mineral waters and mountain calm.
Bring cash. Most places do accept cards, but smaller artisan shops will usually prefer cash.
Why Monchique matters
What makes Monchique special isn’t just its scenery – though that’s reason enough to go. It’s the way it rebalances you. Down on the coast, life moves quickly; up here, time seems to loosen its grip. Conversations stretch longer. Meals last an extra glass of wine. You find yourself noticing small details again – the way mist wraps around a tree trunk, or how the sun breaks through clouds and turns the valley gold.
There’s an authenticity here that’s hard to fake. Monchique hasn’t bent itself to mass tourism; it’s just continued being what it’s always been – a working town, a place of craft and nature, where people still greet you with bom dia as you walk past.
As Chris and I head back down the mountain, the road unwinds before us, the air grows warmer, and the blue line of the ocean comes back into view. But something about Monchique lingers –maybe it’s the calm, maybe it’s the air, or maybe it’s just the feeling that for a few hours, we touched the Algarve’s quieter heart.
Monchique doesn’t shout. It hums softly, inviting you to listen. And once you do, you’ll understand why so many people come here – not just for the view, but for the peace that comes with it.
The village of Monchique is small, giving it a real community feel, and all around there is space, quiet, and glorious views of hillsides and valleys
PORTUGAL BOASTS MANY FINE HOME-GROWN DESIGNER KNITWEAR HOUSES, AND A GOOD NUMBER OF EUROPEAN BRANDS OPT TO HAVE THEIR COLLECTIONS MADE BY THE SPECIALISTS HERE WHO ARE RECOGNISED AS AMONG THE BEST. OUR FAVOURITE RETAILERS TAKE THEIR PICK OF COLOURS, TEXTURES AND LUXURIOUS FABRICS
Handmade Marlen cardigan in alpaca from Martina in Loulé, €239. martina-loule.com
LANIDOR
Drop shoulder, rib trimmed sweater in acrylic/polyamide/ viscose and wool mixture, €79.90. lanidor.com
MASSIMO DUTTI
Cable knit cardigan in 60% certifed recycled wool and polyamide, €89.95. massimodutti.com
ACCORDING TO STATISTA, PORTUGAL IS ONE OF EUROPE ’ S TOP DOG-OWNING NATIONS, WITH 39% OF HOMES HAVING AT LEAST ONE DOG IN 2023. AS A RESULT, THERE HAS BEEN AN INCREASE IN THE AVAILABILITY OF PET-FRIENDLY HOTELS, SERVICES, AND PROFESSIONALS.
THAT ’ S BARKING GOOD NEWS
Words: LUIZ MOREIRA
WHAT TO CHOOSE from? In the Algarve, there is the new petfriendly à la carte brunch offered by the Kimpton Atlantico hotel in Albufeira. Available to hotel guests and the general public, the experience takes place every Saturday, from 12h30 to 14h30 at the hotel’s Marés restaurant, located next to São Rafael Beach. They offer a special selection of snacks for the pets, making this a truly inclusive experience for everyone!
Not far from there, you’ll find Dungle, a dog-and-human social club in Quarteira that blends a canine park, relaxed lounge/bar atmosphere, and community events into a member-friendly space. They focus on play and socialization, and their regular events are designed to bring together
pet owners and friends. Entry costs €10 and includes a drink (just make sure you bring the vaccination card and a leash). dungleclub.com
For those seeking an alternative travel experience over Christmas, take a look at the platform called Kindred. It’s a members-only home-swapping community that offers many pet-friendly features in their listings, such as homes with secure yards, pet-proofed interiors, and proximity to parks or nature. Registration is required to fully explore the cities offered, and as of now, Lisbon seems to be the option in Portugal. livekindred.com
Going adventuring
But what if your plan includes taking your pooch on a trip? While airlines have facilitated some in-cabin pet processes, the weight/size caps keep many dogs out of the
cabin. The solution? Airline pet cargo/checked transport, ground or sea travel alternatives, or using professional pet relocation services that coordinate transportation. Regardless of your choice, there are very important things to consider, and the EU Pet Travel Scheme –europa.eu – is the starting point; it created standardized requirements (microchip, rabies vaccination, documentation) and simplified cross-border movement inside the EU. You’ll need these items sorted:
1. EU Pet Passport issued by an authorized veterinarian. 2. When entering the EU from a non-EU country, an EU Animal Health Certificate (AHC) issued by an official vet in the country of origin within ten days before arrival is required, accompanied by a written declaration of noncommercial movement.
O GREGO, ALMANCIL
R. Primeiro de Dezembro 2
Atmospheric Greek meze house with a beautiful terrace. Dogs are welcome in the outdoor seating area – advance booking for pets is recommended.
I: ogrego.almancil
CAFÉ FORMOSA, TAVIRA
R. José Pires Padinha 180 Specialty coffee shop serving breakfast and light bites. Dogs are warmly welcomed inside and out.
I: cafeformosatavira
RESTAURANTE DOS ARTISTAS, LAGOS
R. Cândido dos Reis 68, 8600-681 Lagos
Elegant fine-dining spot with a courtyard. Dogs allowed inside and outside, making it a true pet-friendly upscale choice.
W: artistasrestaurant.com
OFF MARKET STREET FOOD
Quarteira N125 395
Open air food court with multiple trucks and shaded seating; explicitly states pets are welcome on leash.
I: offmarketn125
LOS LOCOS, FARO
Tv. das Cocheiras 6
Cosy, candlelit bistro in the old town serving creative European Portuguese small plates and wines; pets are welcome, especially on the terrace.
W: loslocos.eatbu.com
On a visit to Iron Dog in Almancil, my Italian greyhound was taught to swim –something I never believed was possible.
3. Microchip identification is essential and must match the number in the passport.
4. Rabies vaccine A pet must be at least 12 weeks old for this vaccine, and you must wait 21 days after the primary shot before travel.
5. Tapeworm treatment is mandatory for a few countries. Check official websites for info.
6. Be aware that the owner or an authorized person must travel with the pet or commercial rules might apply.
For more detailed information, visit commission. europa.eu/news-and-media/news/travellingyour-pets-europe-2025-08-06_en
The stay-at-home plan
What’s better than the comfort of your own home?
A familiar spot will go a long way in ensuring your pet is calm and happy, and that’s where a pet sitter comes in. They stay in your home, providing one-onone care while you’re away.
For finding qualified professionals, I recommend checking online providers like Trusted House Sitters. Using a dedicated pet-sitting platform offers verified identities and reviews, safe messaging, larger sitter pools with filters to match skills/ dates, and more standardized service expectations. trustedhousesitters.com
Other leading pet-sitting platforms used in Portugal are PetBacker – petbacker.com and Rover – rover.com – but if leaving your pet with a sitter is not an option, and you’ll be away for a shorter period of time, there are many interesting things you can do to help them cope with your absence.
Having had more than five dogs in my life already, I must say I’ve learned a thing or two. And when it comes to dog training, Victoria Stillwell is a favourite. Born in Wimbledon, UK and based in Atlanta, Georgia, she’s dedicated her life to teaching positive reinforcement methods for training dogs, and I love the fact her approach is very much science-based.
According to her, the most important thing is to create a safe, stress-free environment when leaving or traveling. This can be achieved by:
Designating a safe zone: Confine your dog in a small room or pen with a bed/crate, water, and favourite toys. Puppy-proof by removing hazards at your pet’s eye level.
Desensitizing departure cues: Practice picking up keys or putting your shoes on without leaving. This breaks the link between these actions and your exit. Start with very short absences, gradually extending the duration to build confidence.
Providing enrichment: Offer interactive toys, such as treat-stuffed rubber toys or puzzle balls. Mental stimulation reduces anxiety better than physical exhaustion.
Using calming aids: Leave a light on and play calming music to soften the absence of house noises created by your presence.
Eliminating hazards: Secure medications, cleaning products, chocolate, grapes, alcohol, and nicotine out of reach.
Curious to learn more? Head over to positively.com for some very interesting content. I also recommend her books, especially It’s Me or the Dog, which focuses on correcting persistent bad behaviours.
Professional boarding kennels
If leaving your dog at home is not possible, then finding them a place that will genuinely care for their wellbeing is a must. There are plenty of options out there in the Algarve, and even though they can’t guarantee a saudade-free experience (saudade is a Portuguese word for missing/longing for someone or something), they will help you enjoy your break with peace of mind.
Professional kennels are probably my favourite option. Why? They provide all the care your pet needs, in a safe, controlled environment. Many also have a vet in-house for emergencies, and dog trainers who can teach your pooch some nice skills! Another plus? Lots of socializing and play with other furry friends.
There is a place in Almancil that I love. It’s called Iron Dog. I have been taking my Italian greyhound, Monalisa, there for the past three years and she loves it! During one of her visits over summer, they taught her to swim – something I never believed was possible due to her skinny profile with almost zero fat. The business is personally overseen by Sara Alves who, beyond her competitive experience, has taken several courses in the animal field, the most recent and in-depth being a certification as a dog trainer and a postgraduate degree in Animal Welfare.
Alongside a team of more than ten members and the certified trainer João Paulino (with over 20 years’ experience and national competition titles), they are comfortably placed among the best in Portugal. Be sure to pay them a visit! irondog.pt
In the right environment your pet will thrive and could develop new interests that will keep them physically active and mentally stimulated. Thankfully, there is much on offer
CHRISTMAS WISHLIST
Finally, what is Christmas without a gift list? Dogs certainly behave like kids, and that shows when they get a new toy or treat. For those looking to pamper your pet while supporting Portuguese businesses, here are my top recommendations:
BAKE MY DOG HAPPY ADVENT CALENDAR
(€36.50)
Can’t get any more local than this! Science graduates Tiago Braga and Luísa Custódio founded Bake My Dog Happy to transform fish-factory byproducts into zero-waste, nutrient-rich canine snacks. Their limitededition Advent Calendar features 24 days of dehydrated treats – from lamb trachea and duck gizzards to salmon tails and DIY cookie kits – each batch crafted weekly in Faro to promote dental health, coat shine, and gut wellness. bakemydoghappy.com
MALÜ BED X CREATIVE AFRICA (€49.99–€149.99)
Treat your pup to luxury and purpose with the 100% handmade Malü Pet Wear x Creative Africa bed. Woven by Mozambican artisans, it uses sustainable materials, has dual-layer fabrics, and a waterproof, cotton-filled insert you can zip off for easy washing. Malü products are handmade in their atelier in Lisbon. malupetwear.pt
BARKYN+ MEMBERSHIP (€22.90 per month)
Surprise your dog this Christmas with a Barkyn membership for custom meals, round-the-clock vet care, delicious treats, and effortless monthly delivery. Founded in Porto in 2017, the startup stands out by merging science-backed nutrition with telemedicine and digital convenience. barkyn.com
FINDSTER DUO+ (€22.90 per month)
Never miss a single step of your pooch! Findster is a subscription-free GPS tracker that includes two rugged, waterproof modules—one for your pet’s collar and one for you—delivering real-time location and activity data through the Findster mobile app. Founded in Porto in 2015, its headquarters are now in San Francisco. getfindster.com
TATA’S CONCEPT PUPPY LOVER (€24.90)
This comfy, adjustable everyday harness has a soft feel and a cute love-themed look so your pup will rock every walk. Tata’s Concept is a Portuguese pet brand from 2022 that makes fun, ‘matchy-matchy’ gear like raincoats, capes, hoodies, pullovers, and walk essentials. Everything’s made in northern Portugal using factory surplus and ecominded fibers to cut waste. tatasconcept.pt
Sparklers
FOR MANY PEOPLE, SPARKLING WINES REPRESENT CELEBRATION AND LUXURY. BUT WE MUST NOT FORGET HOW VERSATILE THIS DRINK CAN BE ON SPECIAL OCCASIONS AND ALSO IN OUR EVERYDAY LIVES. IT ’ S A NOBLE DRINK THAT SHOULD BE CONSUMED IN A NOBLE MANNER...
Words: LÍVIA MOKRI
WE OPEN a bottle of sparkling when we want to share our joy with others over something special – good news or an exciting event. We drink these wines on New Year’s Eve, at family celebrations, and at weddings, but we also enjoy watching Formula 1 drivers spray each other in their victory euphoria.
Bubble lovers can visit Champagne bars to indulge in their pleasures, the most famous of which in the Algarve is perhaps the Mirador Champagne Bar, a unique terrace bar located at the top of the cliffs of Falésia Beach.
There are unwritten rules for drinking sparkling wine that are definitely worth following. The first and most important of these is that it should be served cold, at a temperature of 6–8°C. When chilling, don’t shake the bottle and never put a bottle at room temperature in the freezer, because the sudden cooling will make the bubbles more aggressive. The most ideal way to chill sparkling wines is in an ice bucket filled with a mixture of ice and water. It is also worth exercising a little caution when opening the bottle. Popping and shooting out the cork is only appropriate in exceptional cases, but fortunately, more and more people today appreciate the quiet but intense hissing sound of opening a bottle. If we hold a Champagne bottle by its base and cork and twist the bottle itself instead of the cork, we can open our sparkling with less effort.
Flute instead of goblet
Like most drinks, sparkling wine has its own special glass. Champagne glasses are flute-shaped or tulip-shaped, allowing
the bubbles to sparkle beautifully. In good-quality sparklings, the bubbles are small and the effervescence is long-lasting.
Key is that glasses should only be filled to two-thirds capacity. According to legend, Madame Pompadour had her court craftsmen model the first Champagne glass on her own breasts (obviously, this was before flutes became fashionable!).
The rim of a true Champagne glass curves slightly inward so that the delicate aroma of the drink is concentrated in the glass. The most professional Champagne glasses have a tiny, invisible Mousseux point engraved in the bottom. This creates a slight surface tension, causing the bubbles to concentrate there and burst onto the surface of the glass in a spectacular cascade.
Teaspoon – just a myth
A teaspoon in an opened bottle to help preserve the sparkling freshness of the drink? Unfortunately, I have to disappoint everyone, because this trick only works in the very short term. A teaspoon cannot work miracles. To properly reseal sparkling wine bottles and preserve the carbon dioxide, a Champagne stopper is the most suitable option.
Don’t swirl it!
Tasting sparkling wines is very similar to tasting still wines, with the main difference being that you should not swirl the drink in the glass too much, as this will cause the bubbles to dissipate more easily. When tasting, pay attention to the colour, the bubbles, the aroma, and the taste. The bubbles are revealing: the smaller and rounder they are in the mouth, the more mature the sparkling is. It is recommended to taste sparkling wine slowly, in small sips, so that the bubbles do not overwhelm you. Champagne glasses should be held by the stem, not the bowl.
THERE IS A SPARKLING WINE FOR EVERY OCCASION
It is worth considering carefully what occasion you will be drinking the sparkling wine on before purchasing it. For friendly conversations and lighter, more relaxed occasions, a tankfermented sparkling or one that has been aged in the bottle for a shorter period of time is perfect. For an aperitif or to accompany a meal, or for large celebrations, it is worth choosing a more characterful sparkling, such as a vintage bottle-fermented one.
SPARKLING PYRAMID AND OTHER INTERESTING FACTS
As far as foaming is concerned, the colder the wine, the less it foams. If you tilt the bottle when opening it, you can avoid excessive foaming.
It is worth knowing that there is a pressure of approximately 5–6 bar in the bottle when it is opened, which, compared to the 2.5 bar in car tires, gives a good indication of the forces released when the cork is removed.
Sparkling wine with a cork should not be stored for more than five years, because after that time, the cork ages and the drink loses its carbonation.
This wine was long known as the coronation wine because it was exclusively available to the French royalty.
At formal events glasses are often stacked in a pyramid shape and the drink poured from the top glass down, filling all the glasses level by level. This custom dates back to the time of Napoleon, when the famous military leader returned from his trip to Egypt and was celebrated with a Champagne pyramid.
MY RECOMMENDATIONS FOR TASTING PORTUGUESE SPARKLINGS:
DOM PONCIANO GRANDE
RESERVA NATURAL BRUTO
BY DOM PONCIANO
This espumante from the Vinho Verde region presents with fine bubbles and a persistent cord. Its age is revealed in its golden colour and deep aroma, with notes of cooked apple, dried flowers, and a light touch of walnut. Full body supported by fine acidity, creamy palate, and a
long, classy finish. Ideal with roasts, red meats, suckling pig and cheeses. winehouseportugal.com/pt/ brilhante/9069-dom-ponciano-grandereserva-natural-bruto-sparkling-whitewine-5600263406233.html
GIZ CUVÉE DE NOIRS LATE
RELEASE BRUT BY LUÍS GOMES
An excellent sparkling wine that reflects the unique quality of Bairrada, produced from the emblematic Baga grape variety. On the nose, it stands out with captivating aromas of cottage cheese pie, apple pie, and toasted almonds, accompanied by a subtle touch of sweet fruits. On the palate, it shines with its creamy texture and pronounced freshness. It is ideal for special occasions, but pairs perfectly with lighter dishes, such as seafood, cheese, and grilled fish. grandesescolhas.com/pesquisa-devinhos/giz-cuvee-de-noirs-late-release/
the 48 months in the bottle. Perfect as an aperitif and to accompany seafood dishes. garrafeiranacional.com/2017espumante-picowines-blanc-de-blancbruto-natural.html
MONTE CASCAS FROM CASCA WINES
This citrus-coloured espumante from the TávoraVarosa region was produced mostly from Touriga Nacional and Malvasia Fina, with a bit of Cerceal. Rich and complex aromas on the nose, with notes of brioche and peanuts, cereal, and apple. On the palate, the wine presents a medium level mouthfeel, consistent mousse, good creaminess, and a long finish. grandesescolhas.com/pesquisa-devinhos/monte-cascas-31/
NINFA BLANC DE NOIRS RESERVA BY JOÃO M. BARBOSA VINHOS
The wine’s slightly salmon colour comes from the Pinot Noir grape grown in the Tejo region, in a Mediterranean climate with Atlantic influence. This is a complex and elegant sparkling wine, with very fine bubbles and enveloping mousse. Excellent with light meals, roasts, or even desserts. portugalvineyards.com/pt/tejo/16043ninfa-blanc-de-noirs-reservesparkling-2015-5606823000996.html
MILÉSIME BRUT NATURE BY QUINTA D’AGUIEIRA
ILHA DO PICO BRUT NATURE BLANC DE BLANCS BY ADEGA VITIVINÍCOLA DA ILHA DO PICO
A great sparkling wine from the Azores, produced with the local Arinto dos Açores grape. Very fine and persistent bubbles. Notes of seaweed, iodine, and salty air mingle with some breadiness resulting from the long ageing with free yeasts during
This sparkling wine from the Bairrada region presents citrine colour with golden reflections. On the nose, it reveals an aromatic complexity marked by notes of dried fruits, brioche and toasted bread. On the palate, it is equally complex, with a pleasant volume and distinct freshness. It is an excellent choice for light dishes, from scallops to lobster. But also pairs perfectly with duck breast or sweet desserts such as the much-loved panna cotta. aveledashop.pt/produto/espumantequinta-daguieira-millesime/
EAT, DRINK and be very merry
THERE ARE TIMES WHEN YOU WANT TO PULL OUT ALL THE STOPS AT HOME FOR THE FESTIVE SEASON AND OTHERS WHEN HAVING SOMEONE ELSE DO ALL THE WORK IS DELICIOUSLY DECADENT. IF YOU’RE IN MIND FOR THE LATTER, HERE’S SOME OF THE BEST ALGARVE HOTEL CHOICES
Words: DEBBIE REYNOLDS
PORCHES
Where: Vila Vita Parc
This luxury resort perched on a hilltop overlooking the Atlantic Ocean is pulling out all the stops for a memorable season. The highlight is the New Year’s Eve Grand Gala ‘Celebration of Life’, where “for one night, paradise finds its place on earth... the sky lights up and magic unfolds”. Sounds just wonderful.
The Grand Gala starts with a welcome drink at Bar Oasis and then, from 20h30, guests will be treated to live music and performance throughout dinner – a set menu of six moments. At midnight, there will be a fireworks display in the gardens of the resort, and for those who wish to continue the party, the V-Club disco will be open until 04h00 with the resident DJ spinning the dance tunes. Cost: €420pp for the full Gala experience or €365pp for the after party for a table of five inclusive of a bottle of Dom Perignon and snacks.
For those with stamina – or those who had a quieter end to 2025 – the New Year’s Brunch on 1 January should be a treat. The resort’s Clubhouse with its inspirational sea view is inviting guests, family and friends to enjoy a three-hour slapup brunch offered at various food stations, as well as live music.
Cost: €130pp and €65 for children aged between four and 12.
RESERVATIONS (AND MENU)
Call 282 310 100 or email fb@vilavitaparc.com
QUINTA DO LAGO
Where: The Conrad Algarve Christmas at The Conrad will be celebrated at The Nest. On Christmas Eve from 19h00, delight in a festive menu served in a family-stye setting with “exquisite flavours artfully created” by the culinary team, and entertainment throughout the evening. Cost: €95pp plus €65 wine pairing, €60 per child aged 6 to 12.
The Nest will be serving a special Christmas lunch on December 25 from 12h30. The lunch includes a flute of sparkling wine per person and festive entertainment.
On December 31, the legendary Night at the Palace returns. The gates of the Palace will open to welcome both cherished guests and local residents to immerse themselves in extraordinary experiences.
The Ballroom transforms into the magnificent ‘Palace Gardens’ setting the scene for a night of splendour and sophistication on New Year’s Eve from 19h00 to 01h00.
It kicks off with a welcome cocktail in the main lobby and family/friends photo. Then indulge in a lavish buffet menu, curated by executive chef Benjamin Painset, perfectly paired with selected wines by the sommelier.
Live music will add to the festive
spirit, helped along at midnight with a bottle of Laurrent-Perrier Champagne per couple to enjoy the fireworks from the Nest terrace. The buffet includes seafood, premium meats, live cooking stations and lavish desserts.
Cost: €325pp and €95 per child aged six to 12.
If exclusivity is your pleasure, then the Gusto Michelin-star restaurant will rise to the occasion on New Year’s Eve with an eight-course celebration menu, premier wine pairing and a bottle of Laurent-Perrier Champagne per couple. The evening also includes entertainment and fireworks at The Nest Terrace.
Cost: €515pp, and €350 per child aged six to 12.
There’s the exclusive Night at the Little C Palace event, specially designed for children aged four to 12. Hosted by the Little C team, this magical night promises a blend of excitement, adventure, and delightful surprises. It includes dinner buffet and soft drinks. A sleeping area is provided at the Palace where Princesses and Princes can rest.
Cost: €125 per child.
RESERVATIONS (AND MENU) Call 289 350 700 or email experiences.algarve@conradhotels.com
TAVIRA
Where: AP Maria Nova Lounge Hotel
The hotel in the historic Old Town has prepared a special Christmas at the elegant Balsa restaurant. The hotel invites guests to celebrate with a Christmas Eve Dinner and a Christmas Day Lunch. Both set menus are designed to offer a unique gastronomic experience, with traditional flavours with a contemporary twist. The cosy and refined setting, with detailed décor and a festive atmosphere is perfect for sharing unforgettable moments.
The Christmas Eve dinner menu includes cream of coastal prawns; semi-cured cod with sweet potatoes, winter roots, cornbread flavoured with bulhão pato broth; Roast suckling pig with root vegetables and chestnuts; Christmas yule log with sweet fritters and Portuguese doughnuts.
Cost: €90pp which includes a selection of wines, water, soft drinks, beer and coffee.
The Christmas Day lunch includes goat’s cheese puff pastry, pumpkin jam and walnuts; King codfish confit with crushed sweet potatoes and sautéed vegetables; Algarve orange tart with almond and dulce de leche.
Cost: €45pp drinks not included.
The Balsa restaurant at the Maria Nova Lounge will be back in full swing on December 31 with a special dinner menu and party. It promises “a refined gastronomic experience in a sophisticated and festive atmosphere”.
The event includes an open bar and live music, with the traditional fireworks on the rooftop at midnight.
The New Year’s Eve dinner is a treat and includes tartlet of tiger prawns; pan-seared scallop with tomato chutney, crispy leek; Ria clam velouté; granita of red berries and Champagne; beef loin with foie gras, truffled potato and cognac jus; lemon mousse with pistachio and chocolate.
Cost: €195pp drinks included
RESERVATIONS
Call 281 001 200 or email rec.marianova@ap-hotelsresorts.com
ALBUFEIRA
Where: Kimpton Atlântico Algarve Living up to the saying that Christmas is the most magical time of the year, the Kimpton Atlântico is presenting a Christmas Eve dinner and Christmas day lunch and dinner at the stunning Marés Restaurant, inspired by traditional flavours of the season and accompanied by live music. With the ocean as a backdrop, guests are in for a great experience.
The Christmas Eve menu includes: fish and shrimp cream soup; charcoalgrilled Tavira octopus, fondant potatoes and glazed blinis; cabrito leg with smoked sausages and braised vegetables; Christmas log and Bolo Rei Christmas cake.
Cost: €65pp and €36 per child aged four to 11 drinks not included
The Christmas Day lunch and dinner menu includes slow-cooked duck pie with mushrooms and quince; cod with Portuguese corn bread, turnip greens and Aljezur sweet potatoes; turkey loin marinated in port wine and spices; caramelized French toast brioche, port wine and yoghurt ice cream.
Cost: €65pp drinks not included.
On New Year’s Eve, step into the Roaring 20s and sparkle like never before in a night of elegance and timeless celebration where the glamour of the 1920s meets the soul of the Algarve.
There are two options, the first being welcome cocktails at Sombra Restaurant, New Year’s Eve dinner at Marés Restaurant with beverages included, and access to the party at Zénite Rooftop Bar.
The special menu offers Ria Formosa oyster croquette with yuzu dip and balm; tuna Algarve avocado and seaweed cracker; oxtail buckwheat tartlet, persimmon and shrimp mayonnaise; madeleine Portuguese sausage and cured coastal prawns; dinner bread puff pastry; Madeira miso and banana sorbet; matured beef tenderloin, pumpkin and cheese agnolottis; Pavlova custard, lemon kombucha, meringue and cinnamon.
Cost: €260 per adult, €80 per child.
If you just want to party, from 23h30 the rooftop comes alive with jazz-inspired beats, sparkle, and the unmistakable energy of a night to remember. At midnight, raise your glass with a complimentary flute of sparkling wine and grapes as the Albufeira fireworks light up the sky. Drinks include three wine options, draft beer, vodka, gin, whisky, rum, tequila, various liqueurs and sparkling wine. The party ends at 01h00.
Cost: €120pp, including €50 in consumable credit.
RESERVATIONS
965 065 109 or email fb@kimptonatlantico.com
VALE DO LOBO
Where: Hotel Dona Filipa
The iconic hotel invites you to celebrate the festive season with elegance, breathtaking ocean views and unique gastronomic delights, from the magic of Christmas to the arrival of 2026 in the cosy ambience of the Kamal Restaurant.
Christmas Eve dinner promises a night of traditional flavours with a modern treatment with dishes that include roasted pumpkin soup; cod loin confit with mashed chickpeas, sautéed turnip greens and herb olive oil; lemon sorbet with mint and sparkling wine; pork tenderloin stuffed with Portuguese sausage and chestnuts served with rosti potatoes, all followed up by an Algarve duo of regional tortas.
Cost: €95pp, including selected wines, water and soft drinks.
Christmas Day at Kamal is an invitation to celebrate with family and friends in a refined setting and a true festive spirit. You’ll delight in Portobello mushroom cream with a hint of balsamic; corvina fillet inspirited by the traditional caldeirada; tangerine sorbet with sparkling wine; Portuguese-style turkey roll with potato gratin and rosemary red wine sauce. Tarte tatin with vanilla ice cream and red fruit tops the menu. Cost: €95pp, including selected wines and soft drinks.
On New Year’s Eve, the set-menu dinner is followed at midnight with fireworks and live music at the pool deck until 02h00.
Sit back and enjoy lobster bisque served with garlic and coriander toast; sole rolls with prawns and lime risotto; raspberry sorbet with champagne and mint; braised beef loin with rosemary, potato gratin and glazed baby vegetables; hazelnut chocolate namelaka topped with pistachio crumble and strawberry coulis.
Cost: €220pp including selected wines and soft drinks.
RESERVATIONS
289 100 980 or email
FARO
Where: AP Eva Senses Hotel Situated on the Faro marina and overlooking the Ria Formosa, this much-loved landmark hotel celebrates the season with Christmas Eve Dinner and Christmas Day lunch buffets, carefully crafted by the hotel’s chefs.
It’s all happening at the elegant Harune restaurant which boasts stunning views all around, so plan to take lots of snaps.
The Christmas Eve menu includes: Assorted salads, baked codfish, garlic shrimp, baked salmon, pork tenderloin with clams, roasted turkey, vegetable lasagna, seasonal fruit and a selection of traditional Christmas desserts. Cost: €79pp drinks included.
On Christmas Day, the lunch is comprised of assorted salad selection, roast lamb, Algarvian braised chicken, codfish with bread crust, seafood paella, pumpkin ravioli, seasonal fruits and selection of typical Christmas desserts.
Cost: €50pp drinks included.
The hotel invites guests to say farewell to 2025 and welcome to 2026 with a New Year’s Eve Dinner and a New Year’s Day Lunch, both set menus designed to deliver an elegant and memorable dining experience.
Expect a sophisticated atmosphere, exceptional flavours, and inspiring views make this the perfect way to celebrate the arrival of the New Year. The dinner will feature live music and an open bar.
The New Year’s Eve dinner includes crispy pastry with codfish; poached sea bass; prawn, mussel gnocchi with cataplana sauce; Green apple sorbet shot; smoked roast beef loin with potato gratin and chimichurri sauce; chocolate fondant with salted caramel and berries; Portuguese kale soup, mini beef sandwiches and assorted regional sweets.
Cost: €185pp drinks included.
And for lunch on the 1st, there’ll be assorted salads; breads; baked butter fish fillet; steamed salmon with pistachio sauce; roast suckling pig; roast duck; ricotta and chard ravioli; seasonal fruit and a great Portuguese sweets selection.
Cost: €50pp drinks included.
RESERVATIONS: Call 289 001 000 or email rec.eva@ap-hotelsresorts.com
OLHÃO
Where: Real Marina Hotel and Spa Step into the new year with class, mystery and elegance with a James Bond-themed New Year’s Eve.
With Martinis, sparkle and intrigue, the five-star hotel overlooking the Ria Formosa invites guests to enjoy an unforgettable night in true 007 style where “nothing is left to chance and luxury is the ultimate code of entry”.
It all starts at 19h30 with a welcome cocktail, canapés and DJ, followed by a gala dinner, a musical duo with theme-related songs and then a cover band bringing in 2026 with music and a countdown. For the late owls there’s a DJ and light supper.
The menu is adventurous. Take your choice from a tiger prawn medallion, coconut and citrus curry cream, crispy papadum; sea bass with roasted cauliflower textures and spices, sugar snap peas, and beurre blanc with orange tobiko; citrus surprise; Argentine tournedos with Algarve almond crust; Secret Mission sweets operation, with a selection of white and red wines, beer, soft drinks, juices, water and coffee.
From 00h10 there’s an open bar and a supper snack spread, including cheeseboards, savouries and sweets.
Cost: From €210pp. Children’s prices and entertainment are available on request.
On New Year’s Day, the hotel is offering a special brunch from 12h30 where guests can sit back, relax and enjoy the first day of the new year. The buffet offers many favourites, including pastries, breads, cheese, charcuterie, various egg dishes, salads, swordfish, roast pork, risotto, desserts and a selection of beverages.
Cost: From €48.
RESERVATIONS:
Call 289 091 300 or email eventos.olhao@realhotelsgroup.com
BOOK EARLY
To ensure your day, or night, of delight book as soon as you can to avoid disappointment, especially if you are going as a family or friend group. Special occasions are celebrated big time in Portugal, with some people making reservations many months in advance. The same applies to local restaurants, so get your name and number on their list now.
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New Year gems
WHETHER IT ’ S WITH FRIENDS, FAMILY, OR SIMPLY YOURSELF, THESE SPECIAL PLACES ARE WHERE YOU CAN WELCOME THE NEW YEAR, IN STYLE OR IN SILENCE. SOME ARE MADE FOR CELEBRATION, OTHERS FOR REFLECTION – BUT ALL FOR RECONNECTION
Words: EMMA CAMPUS, DESIGN ESCAPES PORTUGAL
A The dreamiest
S THE year exhales its final breath, Portugal glows. From the rose-gold cliffs of the Algarve to the cloud-brushed peaks of Serra da Estrela, this is a country that knows how to do an ending – and a beginning – beautifully. Here, glistening hotels from bygone eras and cool city escapes mingle with architectural hideaways made for long tables and late-night feasts, and homes where interiors are the perfect stage for a Réveillon done right. Whether you crave someone else to take care of every detail, the hush of the wild, a house full of laughter, a night that never quite ends, or a soft adventure with the little ones, Portugal has the perfect hideaway for your New Year’s Eve story. As we look towards the close of 2025 (how are we here already?!) I’ve curated my top picks for magic, meaning, and a touch of design-led delight this Passagem do ano.
LAGO MAGGIORE
FOR THE INDULGENT ESCAPIST
Where everything is taken care of... including you.
There’s something delicious about handing yourself over to a place, letting it hold you, feed you, and remind you what rest really feels like.
At Praia do Canal Nature Retreat, on the edge of the Alentejo’s wild coastline, New Year’s Eve unfolds as a long, luxurious evening that seems to glow from within. Last year’s celebration set the tone perfectly: a cocktail reception with drinks and canapés, followed by a luxury gala dinner with wine pairings, then a party with DJ and open bar until 3am. The next morning? A lazy breakfast and 20% off all spa treatments to greet the year renewed. They even offered 20% off early arrival dates from 26-29 December – a gentle invitation to stretch out the celebration.
Up north, Ventozelo Hotel & Quinta folds you into the Douro’s vine-draped hills, where mornings begin with mist and orange blossom, and evenings drift into quiet indulgence.
Then there’s Reid’s Palace, the grand dame of Madeira – a cliffside legend that has been hosting the world’s most glamorous guests for over a century. Here, New Year’s celebrations shimmer with island magic.
The festivities begin on December 30, when revellers fill Funchal’s balmy streets in tuxedos and cocktail gowns, dining in style before dancing the night away. A second spectacle unfolds on New Year’s Eve, when Reid’s hosts its cocktail and Michelin-starred Gala Dinner. As the clock strikes midnight, I can imagine gathering on the terrace to watch Funchal’s world-famous fireworks display – an eight-minute spectacle once named the largest in the world. It’s pure Slim Arrons Madeira magic – glitz, grace, and golden champagne reflected on the Atlantic.
FOR THE SEEKER OF STILLNESS
Where the only fireworks are the stars. If, like me, you’d rather wake to a golden sunrise than stumble out of a party at dawn on New Year’s Day, let silence become its own celebration and allow the new year to take on a gentler kind of glow. Lucky for us, this is what Portugal does best, places for those who prefer to forgo the hangover in favour of renewed energy, spaces where rest feels like ritual.
In the Alentejo, Terra Cabins by Terra May feel as though they’ve been gently placed by the wind – timber, glass, and endless golden fields in quiet conversation.
In the highlands of Serra da Estrela, Casa de São Lourenço invites you to cocoon above the clouds in the mountains, where a lucky dusting of festive snow glows blue at dusk and time seems to pause.
See New Year in from your outdoor stone bathtub overlooking the UNESCO vistas of the Douro at Javalina, a masterclass in meditative minimalism –stone, light, and the hush of the valley.
In my very own dream world I’ll be heading to Pa.te.os in Melides, an architectural dream that redefines stillness with its sculptural serenity and poetic sense of space designed by Aires Mateus. Here, midnight isn’t about countdowns, but clarity – a slow exhale before the year begins anew.
Previous page, left: Casa no Tempo and Casa na Terra, in the heart of the Alentejo; right: Sublime Comporta. This page, top: Pa.te.os, in Melides; left: Casa da Ria, on the Ria Formosa in the Algarve. Opposite page, top left clockwise: Casa da Volta, Grândola, half way up to Lisbon; glamorous The Ivens, in the capital; Casa no Tempo and Casa na Terra; Palacete Soares Mendes, in Amarantes
FOR THE FESTIVE GATHERER
Where every room is a dance floor and the kitchen’s always full.
It’s no secret that the spirit of Portugal is built around togetherness – for friends cooking shoulder to shoulder, for long tables and easy laughter. Casa no Tempo and Casa na Terra, the poetic masterpieces by Silent Living, set the tone perfectly: earthy, architectural, deeply soulful, and most importantly, so isolated that your friend with the loud bellow won’t disturb the neighbours.
Back down south, I’ve always imagined New Year’s eve at Casa da Ria in the Algarve. The modernist house sits right on the Ria Formosa lagoon – connected to a dreamscape of light, water, and reflection with four bedrooms and a big dining table to squeeze your nearest and dearest around.
Another is the Palacete Soares Mendes in Amarantes, a secret palace that turns gorgeous grandeur into colourful intimacy – a faded palace reborn for good times and slow mornings that jump right off the pages of World of Interiors.
In Grândola, in the rolling hills of coastal Alentejo, Casa da Volta offers a cosy sunlit courtyard, olive groves, and that endless horizon where every toast feels eternal.
FOR THE VIBE CHASER
If you want to dance your way into the new year
For somewhere that hums with charm, head to Portugal’s biggest cities. In Lisbon, The Ivens wraps you in jungle prints, jazz notes, and golden light – a playful and vibey escape right in the city’s heart of Chiado so you can step out into the celebrations before returning to the elegant Rocco bar for cocktails and a late night truffle pasta.
In Porto, The Largo brings a fresh, art-led pulse to the historic centre. I’m there to book a table at Nuno Mendes Cozinha das Flores below, the best restaurant in the city.
Across the river The Rebello, perched amongst the old port houses blends industrial design with candlelit cool. This is a place where you’ll find yourself toasting strangers, losing track of time, and watching the first sunrise of the year.
FOR THE LITTLE ADVENTURERS
Because the new year should sparkle for all ages
For a real family celebration, I’d head to Sublime Comporta with my nephews. Here, families can welcome 2026 surrounded by pine forest, sand, and stars – the perfect blend of barefoot ease and celebration. Their New Year’s Eve package makes it blissfully simple: a one-night stay, cocktails at the bar for mum and dad, and a cosy dinner delivered straight to your villa at 18h00 –ideal for little ones with early bedtimes so mum and dad can continue the revelry or simply gather in the living room with a line up of good wine.
When midnight comes, adults can join the Champagne and twelve raisins tradition, with live music, a DJ, and an open bar at resident restaurant Canalha. There’s even early check-in and late check-out to ease the sore heads.
In the Alentejo, São Lourenço do Barrocal awaits with horses to ride, orchards to wander, and wide skies to wish upon. Perfect for nature-led adventures with little ones.
And along the golden stretch of Costa da Caparica, I’ve just discovered the beach cabins like Cabana Azul – I can imagine family gatherings that trade fireworks for waves, midnight for marshmallows, and resolutions for sea air. Here, memories at the foot of the Atlantic replace countdown mania.
So here’s to quiet mornings, glittering nights, and everything in between. Choose your hideaway wisely, pour something fizzy, and let this little country show you how beautifully a new beginning can unfold.
Right and far right: The Rebello, overlooking the river in Porto. Below: inside and out, at São Lourenço do Barrocal in the Alentejo
CHESTNUT TART
FROM SANDRA BARATA, OWNER OF THE RESTAURANT GIRASSOL IN MONTIJO, COMES
THIS WONDERFUL DESSERT THAT IS THE PERFECT CHRISTMAS DAY TREAT. CHESTNUT PASTE, AN ESSENTIAL INGREDIENT, IS AVAILABLE IN SPECIALTY STORES
SERVES 12
INGREDIENTS
TART BASE
590g shortcrust pastry
PASTRY CREAM
7g powdered gelatin
300ml milk
75g cream
1 vanilla pod
60g sugar
18g cornstarch
18g flour
60g egg yolks
20g cocoa butter
35g butter
20g mascarpone
CHESTNUT CREAM
4g gelatin
240g cream (85% fat)
100g egg yolks
50g sugar
500g mascarpone
400g chestnut paste
ALMOND AND CHESTNUT CREAM
75g butter
75g sugar
75g almond powder
75g whole egg
75g chestnut paste
5g candied chestnuts
25g whole candied chestnuts
50g milk chocolate shavings
200g hazelnut praline
CANDIED CHESTNUTS
1kg chestnuts
500g sugar
600ml water
HAZELNUT PRALINE *
150g sugar
48ml water
6g fleur de sel
300g hazelnuts with skin
PREPARATION TIME: 2 DAYS INC REFRIGERATION
METHOD
1 TO PREPARE THE PASTRY CREAM
S oak the gelatin in ice water until soft. In a saucepan, bring the cream, milk, and vanilla pod to a boil and infuse for 30 minutes.
2 I n a separate bowl, mix the sugar, egg yolks, flour, and cornstarch, whisking until pale. Add the milk mixture to this. Cook over heat until the cream thickens. Off the heat, add both butters, the softened gelatin, and finally the mascarpone. Blend everything with an immersion blender, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 12 hours.
3 FOR THE CHESTNUT CREAM
S oak the gelatin in cold water until soft. Heat the cream to 83°C. Whisk the egg yolks with the sugar and pour over the hot cream. Add the gelatin, then the mascarpone. Blend until smooth and refrigerate for two hours.
4 FOR THE ALMOND AND CHESTNUT CREAM
C ream the butter with the sugar and almond powder, in a stand mixer with a paddle attachment. Gradually add the egg until smooth. Then mix in the chestnut paste and chopped candied chestnuts.
5 TO CANDY THE CHESTNUTS
Make a dry caramel with the sugar and, when it reaches an amber colour, add the hot water carefully. Cook the chestnuts in this syrup and set aside.
6 FOR THE HAZELNUT PRALINE
Preheat the oven to 150°C and roast the hazelnuts for 30 minutes. Cook the sugar with the water to 110°C to make a syrup, then add the hazelnuts. Allow to caramelize well and spread onto a silicone mat. Blend in a food processor until a smooth praline paste forms. Finally, add the fleur de sel. *Also available in specialty stores
7 TO ASSEMBLE
Line a tart pan with the shortcrust pastry and prick it with a fork. Using a piping bag, fill with the almond and chestnut cream and bake at 160°C for 20 minutes. Once cooled, fill the tart with chestnut cream. Add halves of candied chestnut. Then decorate with a little praline and chocolate shavings.
Girassol restaurant was founded over 50 years ago by Sandra’s mother, Dona Arminda. Amid the hustle and bustle of the dining room and the aromas of the kitchen Sandra discovered her vocation and brings contemporary cuisine to the table, reinventing traditional recipes and creating new dishes that celebrate Portuguese culture.
Visit. Taste. Experience. Shop.
An award-winning taste of the Algarve.
Quinta dos Capinhas is a boutique, family-run vineyard where you can enjoy exclusive dinners, curated tastings, and wines crafted in harmony with the land.
Your hosts, Horst and Inês, share their expertise and stories to make every visit memorable.
Planning something special? We cater for private gatherings of up to 30 guests. Whatever today calls for - a tasting, a visit, or simply a browse through our range - come by or call us. We deliver door-to-door across the Algarve.
Estrada da Carrasqueira, 8400-458 Porches +351
quintadoscapinhas
HOME MAKER
LLOYD BOOKER, MASTERMIND BEHIND BY OLIVEIRA D É COR, THE EXCEPTIONAL INTERIOR DESIGN HOUSE IN TAVIRA, HAS DRESSED MANY A FINE HOME WITH ADVENTUROUS DESIGN AND THE PRODUCTS THAT BRING IT TO LIFE. WHEN WE GOT HIM TALKING, HIS PASSION, HIS KNOWLEDGE AND HIS SHEER ENTHUSIASM MAKE THEIR OWN STATEMENT
Words: EDUARDO LEANDRO
Where are you from, where did you grow up, did you study anything art and design related?
I was born in the UK and lived most of my life in Manchester. It was there that I studied design and advertising and I went on there to start my own design agency soon after graduating.
Was interior design part of that?
I have always had a passion for all things art and design together with a love of art photography. I also had a keen interest in furniture renovation, interiors and product design. This translated into a business designing and manufacturing home products, and a pastime teaching myself renovation techniques and interior styling.
When did you arrive in Portugal and what brought you here?
Having created an online business meant I could work anywhere with just my laptop so I decided to take the plunge and try life in a new pasture. Having spent vacations in the East Algarve over the years, I decided to follow my dream and I moved to Portugal in January 2020.
Was the plan to go into interiors right from the start?
Not at all. And when I chose to move, the world went into the dreaded lockdown. My online business suffered terminal supply issues and I was forced to close it.
So, a new life in Portugal but with a major challenge ahead… what was I going to do to secure my life here? Having had passion for furniture and interior design I decided to test my skills, and, in collaboration with a successful Gallerist, Karen D’Oliveira, Oliveira Décor was born.
When investigating the market here, did you have a defined target audience in mind from the start?
Understanding the market potential was
the key to developing the Oliveira Décor personality, and researching what the competition was doing proved to be vital in creating the best profile for the business. There was an obvious opportunity in the East Algarve focused around the beautiful city of Tavira. Although there were many large multinational retailers, I felt there was little choice for customers – both for locals and newly-arriving residents to the area – looking for more style and quality.
Your first store in Tavira – what did you specialise in there?
We took a small retail space and began by offering furniture that I had lovingly renovated, together with a small selection of new furniture. I also started to offer Interior Design services to help customers who needed that injection of creativity and style. Very quickly, however, it became clear that the business had potential to grow but was being held back by the size of the space we were operating in.
The big move to current premises – what was the vision behind that?
For more than a year, I tried to find a bigger, betterlocated retail space. Then destiny played its part. Two of my customers, recognising the potential in the business, generously offered to invest in its growth. When a massive property – 3,000m² –became available, fantastically located and large enough to expand the business on a big scale, we grabbed the opportunity and, following extensive renovations, we started trading from the new premises in July 2023.
Explain your process from the first meeting with a client.
The initial stages are all about listening, understanding who our client is, how they like to live, how they will use the property, any design styles they like... and those they dislike. The more we know about their tastes and wants, the more in tune we are with them about how their home should look. From then we produce mood boards, space plans and high quality 3D visualisations so the customer can see exactly what we are proposing. We have become friends with many clients and the joy we see when presenting the final installations is the very best thing about what we do.
With many thousands of furnishing options to consider, Oliveira Décor consultants are there to make suggestions, give advice and guide clients to establish the solution that is right for them. And as well as designing complete homes, from start to finish, they also help when it comes to basics, such as decisions about paint colours, window coverings and wall hangings
The more we know about a client’s tastes and wants, the more in tune we are with them about how their home should look. The initial stages are all about listening.
Yes we are business, but we are business that has a huge input into a customer’s individual lifestyle and we take this responsibility very, very seriously.
What nationalities make up your customer base and how many want everything from initial vision to full completion?
We have a fantastic mix of Portuguese clients and foreigners making their new life here. Around a third use our full interior design services and the figure is growing fast. We also offer a free service to customers who don’t need the complete service, providing them with space plans and furnishing suggestions that will complement their existing interior.
Do many want to retain favourite pieces, and is that manageable from your standpoint?
There is always a solution. We do have customers who ship furniture from their home country, or from a previous home here, and we help them finish the look with essential items that are still required and adding special accents from our extensive portfolio of objets d’art, wall coverings, artworks, tableware and soft furnishings.
Are today’s clients trend-driven?
Not as many as you would think. We ourselves are not obsessed with latest trends, either. Yes, we keep up to date, but we also focus on giving our customers a wide choice of styles. From beach rustic to contemporary industrial, and everything in between!
Do you get to realise your vision for a particular property and are there mind changes ongoing?
I believe our success to date is actually not realising our vision as such, it is much more getting to know our customers well, really well, and then realising their visions, and turning them into reality.
Are you very trend-led yourself?
I keep up to date with latest trends and visit many of the international exhibitions but I am not governed by new trends and fashions, for the very reason that some new trends and fashions become dated. So we keep a core of popular existing styles and accent with new trends.
What is key to today’s interiors fashions?
We see customers choosing more natural styles, solid woods, stone, etc. There is also a growing popularity for artistic wall coverings and textiles.
If a client’s available budget is restricting, how do you deal with that?
Being a very large store with a wide selection of styles and price points, it is simple to create beautiful interiors for any budget.
What does your product offering cover and what, specifically, is most in demand?
I detest the term ‘One stop shop’, however, it is the best description of our business. We continue to expand our ranges of furniture and decoration and now offer many different options at different price points.
Sofas, dining tables and beds remain ever popular but our in house services are in huge demand at the moment – through them we can create beautiful made-tomeasure curtains, voiles, bespoke cushions and throws quickly and at competitive prices.
Our renovation department is also seeing considerable growth. With many customers having had problems previously with building and renovation works, our service – where we manage projects from start to finish – is proving very popular.
What about fixtures and fittings, lighting, etc, how do those things come into the equation?
We sell a large range of lighting and fixtures and also offer installations.
If a client wants to make a statement about their own sense of style - what is your starting point?
It is lovely working with clients who have their own vision. Yes, we still give our own humble suggestions but also work closely to realise their own style projections.
Do clients, once a plan is agreed, tend to add more in as things progress?
This does happen but it is usually additional items that are outside the original brief.
Do you work with your own team of builders/ decorators or do clients get their own contacts together?
We can work either way. With our clients’ tradespeople, or, using our own.
How does the timing work – from initial client meeting to presentation of interior design recommendations?
This very much depends on the size and scale of the property and level of our involvement. But on average, we create a project in under four weeks.
If bespoke furnishings are requested, can you take them on and where do you start?
Many of our carefully chosen manufacturers do offer bespoke options and we also work with suppliers who can create bespoke items to a client’s brief.
We continue to expand our ranges of furniture and decoration and now offer many different options at different price points.
In store, how many items do you carry at any one time?
We currently have on display or in stock more than 3,000 different items of furniture and decoration. However, the full portfolio of each supplier means we offer more than 40,000 different pieces.
Where do you buy from – do you have a big supplier base?
We buy predominantly from European manufacturers but also source from Indonesia and certain parts of Asia.
Do you design, style and furnish outdoor spaces?
We are very much a whole house business and have superb ranges for both indoors and outdoors. We also work with trusted partner firms for items such as bespoke outdoor kitchens, high quality parasols and bioclimatic pergolas, all of which are in demand.
What about kitchen and bathroom design – do you handle that or call in specialists?
We work with a carefully chosen kitchen supplier who has created some fantastic kitchen installations for our clients. This is also a service where we project manage the process ensuring there are no delays and the project comes in on budget.
What is the largest property you have worked on… and the smallest?
The largest was a ten-bedroom property in a rural area of Quinta do Lago, and the smallest, an ancient one bedroom townhouse. Both delightful to work on.
Your own favourite colours?
Probably the most difficult question of all! I love colour, all colour. But, if I am pushed, I love blues, aquas and greens but also natural neutrals, blacks and burnt oranges.
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
CREATING WONDERFUL DRAMATIC EFFECTS, THE TECHNIQUE KNOWN AS ABSTRACT EXPRESSIONISM HAS BEEN ADOPTED BY FRENCH ARTIST HERV É LENOUVEL AND PORTUGUESE LOCAL FLORBELA MENDES TO DEPICT THE ALENTEJO’S WINTER WEATHER
Words: CAROLYN KAIN
Abstract
AN ARTIST’S expression of intensity can be transferred into pictorial writing. This is a form of Abstract Expressionism developed by the New York School in the 1940s and 50s. It is a post Second World War art movement that developed to depict strong emotions rather than a literal translation of brutal reality, death and destruction. Promoted by the famous art dealer and collector Peggy Guggenheim, it has not lost its popularity. There is no clear focal point and no intention to create an image – the painter’s action and application of colour is an emotional response to their chosen subject.
Florbela was born in the quaint community of Santa Clara-aNova but spent her early life in Germany. Now back home in the surroundings where she feels that she belongs, she acknowledges that the Alentejo is more famous for its fiery heat of July and August than its winter frosts and rainfall.
As an artist, on many occasions she has responded to the sweltering conditions of summer using confident brushstrokes and a colour field of ochre and yellow sand. This is a combination that would be inappropriate to represent December, a time of year when most rain falls and nights can ice the fields with frost. Circular forms and interlocking patterns illustrate the rhythms of nature as winter drives her to paint an entirely different set of feelings.
Hervé Lenouvel, who lives in the temperate climate of Brittany
in France, has experienced the Alentejo’s heat and cold. His paintings are not seascapes, cloudscapes or landscapes. They are instead reflective of his frame of mind. His winter compositions are filled with zest where arrangements of shapes, edges and light are placed in counterpoint to each other.
Looking for variety and repetition, if you allow your imagination to wander it is possible within the spaces of his paintings to find a single purely abstract point. Use the harmony or discord of colours as a means of guidance. Hervé does not intend to be prescriptive, so it is unlikely that everyone will reach the same spot or necessarily find a resting place at all!
Both artists have exhibited their paintings throughout Europe and have been commissioned to create works of art.
For the first time, magnificent large paintings by Florbela and Hervé are displayed at Galeria Côrte-Real in Paderne. A true celebration of Abstract Expressionism.
Galeria Côrte Real will be closed during the holiday season, 21 November–15 January
THOUGHTS TO PONDER
“There was a reviewer a while back who wrote that my pictures didn’t have a beginning or any end. He didn’t mean it as a compliment, but it was.”
Jackson Pollock – better known as Jack the Dripper! “Abstract understanding takes time and patience”
Robert Genn
GALERIA CÔRTE REAL in Paderne is signposted from Boliqueime, Ferreiras and Paderne. OPEN: Thursday to Sunday, 11h30–17h00 / T: 961 528 679 / W: corterealarte.com
HERV É LENOUVEL
TOP OF THE GIFT LIST
EVERY YEAR, AS DECEMBER ARRIVES, WE RUSH TO FIND THE PERFECT GIFTS FOR EVERYONE WE LOVE — FAMILY, FRIENDS, COLLEAGUES. BUT SO OFTEN, WE FORGET THE ONE PERSON WHO ALSO DESERVES A BEAUTIFUL PRESENT... YES, WE ARE TALKING ABOUT YOU
YOUR FACE tells your own story – every smile, every emotion, every experience. And what could be more meaningful this Christmas than to give yourself the gift of confidence, radiance, and rejuvenated skin? Glowing skin is not a luxury; it’s an act of self-love and self-care.
After more than 30 years in the beauty industry, I have learned one simple truth: your skin can be transformed at any age, with the right technology, the right hands, and the right care.
At Magic Beauty, we combine science with sensibility, using the most advanced anti-ageing technologies in the world to reveal your skin’s natural potential. Our clients often say that visiting the salon feels like pressing ‘reset’ – not only for the skin, but for the mind. The reason is simple: every treatment is designed to work on a cellular level, stimulating your skin’s ability to regenerate itself.
LAYER BY LAYER
For those looking for a non-surgical lift, the Signature 4-Layer Lift is a true star – a unique combination of four synergistic technologies that work together to lift, firm, and deeply rejuvenate the skin from the inside out.
The first layer uses HIFU (High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound), a medical-grade lifting technology that reaches deep into the SMAS layer – the same layer targeted in surgical facelifts – to tighten and remodel collagen naturally, without needles or downtime.
The second layer applies MMFU (Micro- and Macro-Focused Ultrasound), delivering precise energy at different depths to enhance facial contouring, giving the skin a lifted, youthful structure.
The third layer is DEP (Deep Electroporation) – a revolutionary, needlefree system that infuses high-quality serums deep into the skin, where moisture and nutrients are most needed. This layer delivers intense hydration and tailored active ingredients, restoring volume, plumpness, and radiance from within.
The final layer – Microneedling – triggers a powerful natural healing process. It remodels collagen, tightens the skin, refines pores, reduces fine wrinkles, and improves overall texture, leaving the complexion smoother.
Together, these exceptional four technologies make the 4-Layer Lift one of the most advanced non-invasive facial rejuvenation treatments available – a real alternative to surgical procedures.
A DIFFERENT CHOICE
For those who prefer a natural approach, we also offer the SQT Spongilla Peeling, an advanced herbal peeling using microscopic spicules that activate cell renewal and reduce imperfections and leave the complexion crystal clear and silky soft.
And because oxygen is the essence of
life and beauty, our Oxygen & Aqua Facials infuse pure oxygen and active serums into the skin, improving hydration, brightness, and overall radiance – perfect before Christmas parties or special occasions.
All of these technologies work hand in hand with the philosophy that beauty should feel good – never forced, never artificial. The goal is always natural rejuvenation: to look like yourself, only fresher, smoother, and more luminous.
This Christmas season, I invite you to make your own skin the priority gift. Between the 1st and the 24th of December, Magic Beauty offers an exclusive 10% discount on all gift vouchers, which can be used within the next six months. It’s the perfect way to surprise someone you love – or to treat yourself to the ultimate beauty experience. Because the truth is: your skin deserves the same care and attention you so lovingly give to others.
So when you’re wrapping gifts this December, remember that the most magical present may not fit under the tree. It might simply be waiting for you in the mirror, with a glow that spells out a special message –“This Christmas, I chose myself”.
Words: MANUELA OLIVEIRA OF MAGIC BEAUTY
THE STORY begins with Horst Lieberwirth, who arrived in Portugal in 2012 and quickly fell in love with his neighbour’s daughter, Inês Capinha. Together, their passion for country life, fine food, and outstanding wines is woven into their love of the land.
In 2013, they revived the centuriesold terraced vineyards, which now yields roughly 35,000 bottles per year.
Today, their vines – stretching across eight hectares – include eleven grape varieties: Arinto, Verdelho, Antão Vaz, Touriga Nacional, Moscatel, Alfrocheiro, Negra Mole, Alicante Bouschet, Cabernet Sauvignon, and notably Pinot Noir which is a rarity in the Algarve.
In 2025, the estate will celebrate its first official vintage of both Pinot Noir and Negra Mole wines.
Visitors can discover Quinta dos Capinhas by appointment, where wine tastings, guided tours, and seasonal vineyard dinners (from May to October) invite guests to slow down and
experience the finest in Algarve hospitality. There are also romantic picnics, intimate celebrations, and even buggy safaris where each stop is paired with a sip of something special.
A classic tasting begins with a stroll through the scenic vineyard, where guests learn about the winemaking process from vine to bottle, before settling in for a curated tasting of five wines – three current releases and two premium selections – paired with a gourmet cheese and charcuterie board. Fresh bread and easy conversation complete the experience, leaving guests with a lingering sense of warmth and connection.
For those who wish to stay longer and enjoy more, Quinta dos Capinhas offers three villas that capture the essence of Portuguese living. Plans are underway to expand the estate with a 600m² guesthouse, a 500m² Adega, and a restored farmhouse that will serve as a gourmet restaurant. When finished, the venue will welcome up to 120 guests.
Beyond the beauty of its wines, Quinta dos Capinhas stands out for its commitment to sustainability. The estate follows organic principles, eschewing chemicals in favour of natural soil enrichment and cover crops that protect biodiversity. The surrounding landscape hums with life: olive, almond, cork oak, and carob trees frame the vineyards, while wild vegetation and small wildlife thrive undisturbed in the 30-hectare estate. The estate’s chameleon emblem perfectly captures this spirit, and every bottle reflects this ethos: wines born from the land, shaped by the sea, and crafted with care.
Being only two kilometres from the Atlantic gives Quinta dos Capinhas an enviable edge. The ocean’s influence moderates grape temperatures, preserving acidity, while mineral-rich soils add a subtle, signature salinity. The result is wine that’s fresh, aromatic, and elegantly vibrant – a true expression of coastal Portugal.
For a truly memorable Christmas gift, look to the estate’s forthcoming fortified wine. Discovered in historic barrels at Adega Única in Lagoa, and estimated to be around 40 years old, this rare, limited-edition treasure showcases the pinnacle of Portuguese winemaking – a collector’s dream and a perfect Christmas gift for those who appreciate the rare and the refined. Its packaging is being perfected and the wine will soon be available for purchase.
Whether you’re visiting for a tasting or staying among the vines, Quinta dos Capinhas invites you to experience the Algarve. It’s more than a vineyard – it’s a love story, sanctuary, and a celebration of the land itself. So, sip, savour and discover your perfect bottle – at the estate, online, or through local retailers (visit quintadoscapinhas.com for a retailer list).
How diVINE
JUST BEYOND THE GOLDEN BEACHES OF THE ALGARVE LIES A DIFFERENT KIND OF PARADISE. TUCKED AWAY IN THE TRANQUIL VALE DE OLIVAL, PORCHES, QUINTA DOS CAPINHAS IS A PLACE WHERE ROMANCE, NATURE, AND FINE WINE INTERTWINE – A FAMILY-RUN ESTATE QUIETLY MAKING ITS MARK AS ONE OF PORTUGAL’S MOST ENCHANTING VINEYARDS
GREAT BOOKS
AND HERE ’ S THE NEXT ROUND. CERTAINLY DIVERSE CHOICES YOU ’ LL LOVE... OR POSSIBLY NOT. BUT THIS MONTH ’ S CONTRIBUTORS TO THIS COLUMN WERE SINGING THE PRAISES OF THEIR CHOSEN TITLES. GOT ONE YOU ’ D CARE TO SHARE? DROP US AN EMAIL WITH ‘ BOOK REVIEW ’ IN THE SUBJECT LINE AND WE ’ LL BE IN TOUCH
DAWN ANNANDALE CHOSE THIS:
WHERE DEATH DELIGHTS
By Bernard Knight
Published by Severn House
Think ‘Silent Witness’ – 1955 edition! A complete whodunit-style tale of murder and mystery but without the aid of modern day technology. That in itself is relative, I suppose, when one compares the excitement of the discovery of using fingerprints to the advent of DNA testing. An interesting, ongoing back story combined with a murder, forensic science and a specialist pathologist all combine to produce a fascinating book. The author is himself is a retired pathologist so the expertly written text, along with the social conventions of the time, all give value to a clever story line.
JUDY CLAYTON PICKED THIS ONE
A WOMAN OF NO IMPORTANCE
By Sonia Purnell
Published by Virago
Since my early teens, growing up in rural Somersest, I have been a lover of historical novels – fact or fiction. In those carefree days, I would delve into the fascinating times and events of other ages contained in a lengthy tome by Jean Plaidy, Catherine Cookson, Emile Zola or Thomas Hardy, to name a few.
Now what seems like a hundred years later, as a busy working woman, I am still drawn to books that relate to history or real lives past or present with intriguing stories.
A forensic pathologist and a former Home Office scientist set up practice together in the Wye Valley. This is the first book in the series and investigates how two women both believe remains found in a reservoir are those of their relative, and the ensuing investigation. The social commentary of 1955 adds to the interest and gives an insight into the behaviour of the establishment. Despite the advances of modern medicine by 1955, one must remember that many senior figures associated with both medicine and science were born in the Victorian era and therefore embraced change cautiously. An excellent read, highly recommended.
This book got me interested just by the title. In an age where women around the world are creating waves bigger than ever before, I was drawn to this Second World War spy story of an unknown American French Resistance heroine.
Having suffered the loss of a leg in a hunting accident, Virginia Hall made a courageous decision to go to France in 1941 to help spark the resistance to Nazi Germany. Her determination and guile became crucial to the French Resitance. At a time when there were no mobile phones, GPS mapping, internet chat lines and a distinct male view that women were best kept in the home, Virginia battled both her injury and discrimination to perform daring acts of subterfuge, and almost impossible rescues of prisoners of war from Nazi prison camps.
A true life story of a woman’s ability to perform with courage, under the most tryannical conditions.
DAPHNE BURNETT SHARED VIEWS
GO AS A RIVER
By Shelley Read
Published by Doubleday
I quote Susan Fletcher, author of The Night in Question, because she praises Go As A River perfectly and reflects how I feel about this book.
Her views are: “Go As a River swept me away. It is gorgeously written; longing, passion and heartbreak are all set down with such a beauty and restraint that I had to set the book down amazed. Every page was a joy to read.“
The Sunday Times best seller list is my go-to for inspiration and the choice rarely disappoints; it simply states “spellbinding.”
When I read a book like this, uplifting and completely compelling, I find myself rereading pages or paragraphs for the pure joy of the moment.
I make a point of passing the book on. Sometimes, with a book I love, I will buy more copies to give to friends.
Go as A River is set in 1940s Colorado. It is more than a love story, giving the reader a sense of life ebbs and flows and the importance of accepting that there is no better way to grow than life experiences.
The description of a small town in Colorado where peaches grow in abundance is a delight. But when tragedy strikes, it is nothing short of heartbreaking.
PHILIPPA TAYOR COULDN’T PUT DOWN:
WHERE THE CRAWDADS SING
By Delia Owens
Published by Corsair
This novel completely transported me. From the very first chapter, I was drawn into the stillness of the North Carolina marshes, a place so vividly described I could almost hear the rustle of reeds, the hum of insects, and the distant cry of herons. Owens writes with such grace and ease. I’m not keen on overly descriptive narratives that go on for pages detailing the underside of a leaf, but this strikes the perfect balance, immersive without ever being author-indulgent. Her prose pulls you in quietly, until you’re lost in the haunting wild and completely submerged in Kya Clark’s world, the ‘Marsh Girl’. Abandoned as a child and left to fend for herself, Kya grows up in isolation, her deep connection to the natural world becoming
both her solace and her saviour. The story intertwines her coming-of-age journey with a murder mystery, the death of a young man from the nearby town, and through it explores loneliness, prejudice, resilience, and the human instinct to belong.
When I read fiction, even if it’s not based on a true story, it has to feel real. I need to believe that, in the character’s shoes, I might have acted the same way. Owens doesn’t falter here; every emotion, every choice Kya makes feels believable, which is what makes this story so powerful.
For me, Where the Crawdads Sing is a rare novel, part mystery, part love story, part ode to the natural world, and entirely unforgettable
JILL ECKERSLEY IS DELIGHTED WITH: DEAR MRS BIRD
by AJ Pearce
Published by Picador
My favourite read in years - it’s funny, charming, poignant and sometimes desperately sad, all at the same time. Set in 1940, it’s the story of secretary Emmy Lake, who longs to ‘Do her Bit’ by becoming a Lady War Correspondent. However, the job she gets through an ad in a newspaper involves working with the battle-axe advice columnist on Woman’s Friend magazine –who won’t answer problems if they involve unpleasantness.
Emmy, however, desperately wants to help. Readers’ problems remain much the same as ever and they write requesting ‘exercises for ankles’, advice when one’s young man looks at other girls in the street, and wanting to know what to do about menopausal hot flushes.
The wartime atmosphere is brilliantly done and there’s absolutely no feeling that the author is writing with the benefit of hindsight. Modern readers might be aware that a well-known London nightclub received a direct hit in 1941 – but the characters we have come to know and care about don’t, and I found myself thinking: “Oh, don’t go there, don’t go, it’s much too dangerous…” because I was already deeply involved with all these people.
And the best part is, if you are desperate to find out what happened next – and you will be – there are no less than three sequels, the last of which was published in summer 2025.
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!
PINETREES
Christmas and birthday present vouchers make lovely gifts for tuition or rides out in the forest, from €40 to €400. Riding gear, insurance and tax are all included in the prices.
Pinetrees from €25 polos or eeces, to €35
CHRISTMAS (DE)LIGHTS
IT IS THAT TIME OF YEAR AGAIN – LIKE YOU HADN ’ T NOTICED. GET INTO THE HOLIDAY SPIRIT BY CHECKING OUT THE MOST AMAZING FESTIVE LIGHTS FROM SOUTH TO NORTH OF THE COUNTRY
Words: SANDRA GATO
AS BILLY MACK (Bill Nighy’s character) sang in the most christmassy films of all times, Love Actually, “Christmas is all Around” and festive celebrations seem to start earlier and earlier each year. With the sparkling lights and street decorations on for a good month and a half, the spirit of the season comes into its own. Am I the only one to feel a sadness in January when the Christmas lights are switched off and the glittery baubles are packed up to go into storage for another year?
Everywhere – although in city centres it gets more intense – the brightness of angels, reindeers and shiny bells makes us all feel warmer – and, yes, more willing to buy (way too many) gifts.
Checking out the Christmas lights can be a family treat (it was always a highly anticipated one for me when I was a child, a tradition that, to this day, I still keep with my kids hoping they will carry it on with their own children one day in the future).
Getting more amazing and technologically sophisticated every year, here are some of the Christmas spots that, more than beautiful lights and decorations, have the warm vibes that we all look for during the festive season.
ÁGUEDA
The world’s biggest Santa Claus Largo 1º de Maio
An hour’s drive from Porto and close to Aveiro, Águeda gets really famous during the Christmas season for a huge reason: the biggest Father Christmas in the world (attested by the Guiness Book of Records). Since 2016, the 21-metre high figure seats brightly in the middle of the city turning Águeda into one of the most visited towns during the holidays.
As big as seven-story building and covered in 250,000 lights, it is impossible to miss. A vast and impressive installation, it fully justifies the journey (and the many photos taken!).
Christmas is more and more about moments: with family, friends, as a couple. And the building up to 25 December as important as the date itself. So planning a weekend away, with the excuse to go check the biggest Father Christmas in the planet, is as good a reason as any other to enjoy a couple of days away from home. And while there, don’t forget to buy Ovos Moles, the local egg and sugar sweet that will make the Christmas table even more tempting.
15 November–11 January
CASTRO MARIM
Salt Navity
Casa do Sal
Located in the Faro district but near the border with Spain, Castro Marim is mostly known for its incredible salt flats, those beautiful white surfaces where different kinds of salt are produced.
Not surprising, then, that Castro Marim’s main Christmas attraction is a navity made entirely of salt – tons of it, in fact. Like cities made of sand in summertime or even hotels made of ice in arctic regions, this is temporary art, to be enjoyed during a limited period of time. That provisional aspect makes it unique, you know that even if the concept is the same, the end result will be always different.
Obviously depicting religious scenes from the Bible, this salt navity also focuses on traditional local arts and crafts, such as weaving. Even those who claim they have already seen all kinds of navities will be surprised by how much can be done with what is called the ‘white gold’ of the region. And don’t leave without a pack or two of the best sea salt (there are seasoned ones, perfect for all kinds of Christmas recipes).
1 December–6 January
Previous page: the World’s biggest Santa, the star of Águeda. This page, below: Vigo, in Spain, absolutely worth a visit. Opposite page: Lisbon’s Wonderland, the big Christmas market in the capital with so much going on, and some superb shopping experiences to enjoy
LISBON
Wonderland
Parque Eduardo VII
Few would argue that for the past nine years Wonderland has been the main and most visited Christmas market in Lisbon.
Now in its tenth edition, its famous big wheel (you get great views over the city when you’re up there!) is well awaited by locals and tourists alike.
Visited by more than a million people each year, it is the place to go to enjoy the holiday attractions – the eco ice rink, Santa Claus’s house, the giant Christmas tree – to go shopping for presents in the arts and crafts market or to grab something to eat: there’s the usual winter treats, like hot chocolate and cookies, but also burgers, pizzas and the ever-present Portuguese snack, pão com chouriço.
Staged in central Lisbon, close to Marquês de Pombal, the city’s main square, Wonderland is also like a Christmas meeting point for locals, a “see you at five next to the big wheel” kind of place, a pit stop between shopping or a happy way to wrap up a day’s work.
28 November–4 January
ÓBIDOS
Vila Natal
Óbidos, one of the most visited villages in Portugal, is known to ‘dress up’ for Christmas. Built inside ancient walls – the village has a rich historical past that goes back to the celts, around 300BC, and today is a gem of small white houses and no-traffic cobbled streets.
Throughout the year, it holds several famous events including a medieval fair, a chocolate festival and Vila Natal. As the name implies, the whole village turns into a Christmas scenario, perfect for a day out.
Advice: go early and be ready for crowds. As it happens in all small Christmas villages in Europe, what makes them beautiful –being historic and tiny – is also what makes them less accessible. Cars are not allowed inside the village, but there is a big parking lot outside; just brace yourself for the time that will be needed to get inside.
But once in, it will all be worthwhile: Christmas magic all around that makes everyone feel like a tiny child again. Not recommended for children but very much for the (grand)parents is ginginha, the tradicional liquor made of cherries. Cheers!
28 November–4 January
With the sparkling lights and street decorations on for a good month and a half, the spirit of the season comes into its own; the brightness of angels, reindeers and shiny bells makes us all feel warmer
VIGO
Just across the border on the top north of the country, this city in neighbour Galiza has recently become a Christmas destination, especially for Portuguese people since it is little more than two hours away by train from Porto.
The setting up of the lights started back in August so everything is ready by mid-November. And the town’s numbers are impressive: 460 beautifully-decorated streets with an astonishing 12 million LED lights. The city’s historic centre comes to light with bright tunnels and figures. The most visited element is the Christmas tree (in Plaza Puerta del Sol), which is an unbelievable 45 metres high, and surrounded by several small ones – by small we mean ten metres high.
Christmas is as good a reason to visit the Vigo region, taste its gastronomy (excellent oysters, Padrón chillies, Galiza Style octopus) and take some time do enjoy its splendid sea views. Gentle reminder: there are two long weekends to be enjoyed this December...
From 15 November to on or around
6 January
CAFÉ FORMOSA, Tavira
WANT A SUPERB CUP OF COFFEE? FANCY A PASTRY STILL WARM FROM THE OVEN, A FOCACCIA OR A SLICE OF BANANA BREAD? THIS CAFÉ IN TAVIRA OFFERS SOME SERIOUS CHOICES AND DAVID CAMPUS OF AUSTA IN ALMANCIL KEEPS GOING BACK FOR MORE. THE COMMUNITY THAT HAS BEEN BUILT IS SOMETHING VERY SPECIAL
YOU KNOW those buildings you walk past in Portugal and think, “Someone should really do something with that place”?
For me, there’s a building in Tavira that has always been the one. Right on the river –big old windows, tiles catching the sun. It was once a beloved Italian restaurant until it closed a couple of years ago. Since then it’s just been begging to be turned into something special... and someone has finally done it.
On a sunny Saturday in October, freshly off the monthly flea market, arms laden with antique treasures, we skipped towards Café Formosa for a caffeine fix.
One of a few recently popped up coffee shops in the Algarve’s prettiest fishing town, this is a spot that is run by the delightful Dutch export Daniella (who you might know from her travel and
photography page @living_the_ salty_life) and her partner.
They packed up their lives, travelled the world, and ended up here, turning a long-held dream into reality. Stepping inside, it’s all calm tones, concrete floors, soft light and the hum of the Marzocco espresso machine. Locals wander in, digital nomads set up their laptops, and travellers pause mid-adventure for a pour over. I’ve immediately relaxed into my weekend.
Their new café is right on the Gilão River, in one of Tavira’s most beautiful old buildings – white walls, tall ceilings, huge light-filled windows that make your coffee look extra Instagram-worthy.
After ordering at the bar we grabbed a wooden pew on the terrace to watch the rhythm of Tavira unfold. Fishermen passing, boats drifting, gulls swooping, locals greeting each other across the bridge, that Autumn light cast across the water. Tavira at its dreamiest.
Formosa’s coffee menu is
FOOD
Well, it’s got to be coffee, hasn’t it, and freshly-baked treats
DECOR
Cool, relaxed, plenty of spaces for digital nomads
€10 to €15 for breakfast and coffee €
PRICE
beautifully simple: espresso, flat white, filter. They rotate their beans, featuring roasters like nearby Seville’s Ineffable, which means you’ll rarely have the same cup twice.
I ordered a pour-over that tasted like dark chocolate and stone fruit –scrumptious. If coffee’s not your thing, they also serve Tranquilo Matcha. I watched Daniella whisk one up behind the counter and I was almost converted, that perfect green froth against the white ceramic.
To go with our beans it was a difficult choice from everything on the counter, made in-house: yogurt pots with granola and soft banana bread or whatever’s come out of the oven that morning. All simple, but particularly delicious when dipped into one of Formosa’s frothy flat white.
If you follow their Instagram you’ll see that Café Formosa isn’t standing still. Their concept goes beyond that to include social activities that allow locals to connect, like a wonderfully aesthetic running club for you to work off that cinnamon roll, which meets for early jogs before that first espresso.And, for the more sedentary, there are occasional pop-up dinners and events that turn the space into something quietly alive after hours –with candlelight, food and laughter. It’s easy to make a café look good these days; it’s harder to make one feel good. Café Formosa does both. So, run, or walk, to check it out.
CAFÉ FORMOSA , R. José Pires Padinha 180, 8800-354 Tavira / Open Wednesday to Friday 09h00–14h00; Saturday and Sunday. 09h00–16h00; closed Monday and Tuesday
HAIR ARTIST
IT’S A WRAP
A CREATIVE APPROACH TO GIFT GIVING CAN TURN EVEN THE SIMPLEST OF PRESENTS INTO A MINI, BUT MEMORABLE, WORK OF ART. JUST GATHER ALL THE INGREDIENTS TOGETHER BEFORE YOU START, FOLLOW INSTRUCTIONS CAREFULLY, AND EXERCISE PATIENCE TO GET THE BEST RESULT. YES, THE SUPERMARKETS OFFER A FREE-FOR-ALL-OPTION, BUT WHY SETTLE FOR SECOND BEST?
Words: ELLI TOWNSEND
ANGLED-POCKET WRAP
1
Use a ruler and measure the size of your gift to determine how much wrapping paper you’ll need. You’ll need enough paper to wrap the gift and create an angled pocket at the front.
3
Place your gift box in the centre of the wrapping paper to determine layout.
IHAVE A CONFESSION: I have always been a little envious of people who can wrap gifts beautifully. While I don’t consider myself a master gift wrapper – gift bags with cascades of tissue paper have long been my go-to – I now appreciate that decorative wrapping is truly an art form. Search ‘easy gift wrapping’ on YouTube and you’ll discover endless inspiration: inventive box folds, origami-inspired paper bags, and simple packages finished with graceful garlands. And here’s the secret... double-sided tape is your new best friend.
With Christmas just around the corner, we’ll walk you through how to wrap a basic rectangular box with a simple angled fold and a round cylinder; how to repurpose an empty toilet paper roll into charming packaging; and even how to make a humble gift card envelope look too beautiful to open.
Prefer to skip the wrapping paper or don’t have any available for that lastminute gift? Problem solved – we’ll share easy alternatives, like using a scarf as a stylish wrap or transforming plain printer paper or newspaper into something simple yet effortlessly chic.
5
2
Cut a square or rectangle of wrapping paper large enough to wrap your gift. For the angled pocket, you want the paper to be wide enough to allow for an extra fold at the front.
4
Wrap the left side so it covers the front and the side. Create a crease and then unfold.
6 7
To make the angled pocket, fold the right edge of the wrapping paper diagonally, creating an angled flap. Wrap the left side and fasten to the box with tape. Wrap the right side over the top.
Flip over box and seal the loose end of the wrapping paper with tape. Fold the ends to create a neat finish. Decorate with a card, bow, or anything that enhances the finished look.
HOW TO WRAP A CYLINDRICAL GIFT
Place round container in the middle of the wrapping paper. Fold up the wrapping paper so it covers half way up each side of the container.
Create a crease or mark with pencil on both sides of the container.
Measure the height of the container and mark these lines on the paper.
Cut small slits on each side to the lines (you may need to have something heavy to weigh down the paper).
Wrap the container in the wrapping paper and seal with tape. Place one side down (remember which way is up!) and fold in the slits. Secure with tape and repeat on the other side.
Decorate with ribbon, a Christmas ornament, and any festive touches.
The simple black and white wrap
Don’t have any gift wrap on hand? No problem!
White printer paper or black and white newspaper will work. Simply wrap your gift, tie with any colour ribbon, and add anything that will complete the story – from berries, to fresh olive or bay leaves to cinnamon sticks.
The fabric wrap Simply use a scarf, tea towel, or any fabric to wrap the gift (in a gift box). Scarves or tea towels are great because they can be used after, so that’s a double gift.
HOW TO PERFECT THE TOILET PAPER ROLL WRAP
1 Measure the height of the toilet paper roll and then use the height and add half a centimetre for each the top and bottom. (For example, if the height is 9cm, then measure 10cm). Measure enough width so that the wrapping paper will cover the toilet roll holder (15cm should be enough).
2 Secure wrapping paper to toilet roll holder with tape (or double-sided tape).
3 Place gift in pouch (of course!).
4 Fold in the ends so they look like crescents.
5 Tape can be used to seal the ends, but it’s not necessary.
6 Decorate with ribbon, a Christmas ornament, and anything that completes the picture.
In concert
WITH THE INAUGURAL FESTIVAL MÚSICA DE CÂMARA DO ALGARVE, 9 JANUARY AT THE CINE-TEATRO LOULETANO, THE QUALITY OF MUSIC AND TALENT AVAILABLE TO AUDIENCES IN THE ALGARVE IS ANTICIPATED TO ACHIEVE NEW LEVELS OF EXCELLENCE
Words: STEPH TOFT
MUSIC is a very personal thing. It’s a relationship that develops through life, experiences, and exposure to as wide a range of opportunities as possible. There is nothing quite so delightful as listening to extraordinary music in beautiful locations, and fortunately the Algarve offers both.
Born from the coming together of musicians and music lovers, and with the support of the local câmara, this new festival brings the best of the world’s Chamber musicians to Loulé.
The highly-anticipated festival answers a request from music lovers for a seasonal offering, with January chosen as there are fewer cultural events for audiences then compared with the spring and autumn months. It is planned that the Festival of Chamber Music will become an annual fixture on the classical music calendar, with the guarantee of musical excellence for visitors and residents alike for years to come.
One of several aspects that set the Festival Música de Câmara do Algarve apart from others is the experience of those involved in creating it. Besides finding joy in chamber music, pianist Wu Qian – Artistic Director of the festival – loves the Algarve and had a distinct vision of bringing a new event series to the region based on her successful experience with the Surrey Hills festival in England.
It is difficult to mobilise musicians of this calibre as they are often booked up for one to two years in advance. It is thanks to Qian’s expansive network that the organisers have been able to gather together highly-regarded musicians for what promises to be an outstanding event.
What makes this festival particularly special is its inclusivity and, most importantly, its ability to develop a relationship with local residents. It is open to all, providing an opportunity to broaden the appeal of chamber music, introducing it to wider audience.
Appreciating chamber music
For those who may not know, chamber music is typically composed for a small ensemble, performed in smaller venues without a conductor, allowing for a more intimate musical experience. Being in January, it is the hope of the association that more residents will be able to attend the festival and as a result, possibly discovering the joy of classical chamber music for the first time.
It is hoped that the impact of the concert on 9 January will be far reaching. This is a non-profit undertaking with profits from ticket sales and donations going to the Conservatório of Loulé and other local music-teaching institutions. This collaboration with the Festival of Chamber Music provides the chance for young musicians to interact with world class professionals through master classes and other training opportunities.
There is nothing quite as inspiring for the young as working with professional musicians, to hear the first notes played from their instruments, to glimpse a peek into their world, and receive tuition beyond imagination. It provides a brief insight into a magical world, an opportunity to ask questions, learn technical tips and gain a greater understanding that, with practice and patience, it is a world they, too, can access. This is a once in a lifetime opportunity that few young musicians are lucky enough to experience.
On Sunday, 11 January there will be a concert at Igreja Matriz purely for the Conservatório music students.
So, to the musicians
Owing to the hard work and committment of the Associação Festival Música de Câmara do Algarve, those musicians who promise to perform, excite and enthral the audience on 9 January are among the best chamber musicians from across the world, each with their own area of expertise:
Pianist Wu Qian has performed extensively as a solo artist collaborating with orchestras including the Brussels Philharmonic at venues such as Wigmore Hall. Wu Qian is a founding member of the award-winning Sitovsky Piano Trio, and her recordings have received critical praise, as well as being awarded the BBC Music Magazine Chamber Recording of the Year in 2022.
Juho Pohjonen is a versatile Finnish pianist who has performed with many of the world’s finest orchestras, including the San Francisco Symphony, in esteemed venues including Carnegie Hall. Most recently, he has received acclaim in his work bridging the worlds of classical music and technology by creating the MyPianist app, thereby bringing music to a wider audience.
Isang Enders is a dedicated chamber musician, established as a dynamic cellist. He is the co-founder of the annual Gohrisch Shostakovich Festival in Switzerland. Besides being Germany’s youngest section leader during his time at Dresden Staatskapelle, he has travelled extensively to collaborate with orchestras including the Seoul Philharmonic with whom he performed the Korean debut of Dutilleux’s Cello Concerto.
Finally, trained at the Seville Conservatoire, clarinettist Pablo Barragan is recognised for his stage charisma and high skill of craftsmanship. He is one of the most sought-after clarinettists, particularly with regards to chamber music performances. Pablo Barragan will be opening Cologne’s Chamber Orchestra Season in 2026 and has previously performed at venues such as Wigmore Hall alongside orchestras including the Barcelona Symphony.
As you can see from these brief biographies, the festival is not only drawing together outstanding musicians, but each is also experienced in founding successful music festivals, bringing their love of classical music to wider audiences across the world. It is with great excitement that they are bringing their collective experience to us in the Algarve.
Whilst not finalised, the inaugural programme will include the music of Mozart, Clara Schumann, Robert Schumann and Beethoven, offering the perfect introduction to chamber music. Each of these composers is recognised for their contribution to the sector, pushing the boundaries between form and expression, and for developing the interplay between instruments. With the combination of composers and musicians, it is certain that there will be something for everyone to enjoy, further enhancing the key objective of the organisers to introduce this form of music to as broad an audience as possible
As the Festival Música de Câmara do Algarve will be an annual feature on the music calendar here, relationships will continue to be developed with residents, established audiences and those at the beginning of their musical journey. It is hoped that the festival will grow to draw visitors from around the globe, further expanding the appeal of the Algarve as a musical destination.
This is quite possibly the most enthralling development in classical music in the Algarve in recent years. For a young musician to know that relationships with such high-calibre musicians are going to be developed year on year is possibly the most exciting aspect of this venture. That in itself is reason enough to embrace this new festival and to plan to attend the inaugural concert next month. There is so much to celebrate.
For tickets, cineteatro.cm-loule.pt
For more informtion: festivalmusicacamaraalgarve.com
Above top left, clockwise: Juho Pohjonen, pianist; Islang Enders, cellist; Wu Qian, pianist and Artistic Director of the festival; Pablo Barragán, clarinettist
CelebratingNatal
LOOKING BACK ON CLOSE TO 40 YEARS SINCE ARRIVING HERE FROM SOUTH AFRICA TO START A NEW LIFE CHAPTER, OUR MAN OF THE GARDEN REMEMBERS HOW LOUL É WAS FOUR DECADES AGO – ITS MARKETS, ITS PEOPLE, AND HIS FAVOURITE PLANTINGS, MANY OF WHICH ARE STILL FLOURISHING TODAY
Words: BURFORD HURRY
CHRISTMAS, which we all know as Natal in the Algarve, usually has some blue skies, some rain, and some cold, but is often warm enough for some of us to have a swim on the 25th. Not me, I hasten to add. It’s a time of the year for turkey or ham and presents but also for poinsettias (Euphorbia pulcherrima), the Latin name reminding us that she is the most beautiful of all euphorbias. Strange how a Mexican beauty has come to dominate the international Christmas market; she bursts and cascades in scarlet drifts into shops and markets and also to be found in a range of yellow and white and pink.
I have been given or bought a few poinsettia plants over the years and tried to keep them alive in the garden with little success. However, poinsettias do grow in gardens here. I know at least four in central Loulé. They live to a ripe old age but they are hardier than the Christmas gifts. These poinsettias are at least three meters tall, are woodier and less floriferous but worth growing, and grow reasonably easily from cuttings
Richard and I arrived to live permanently in Loulé in September of 1986 so our first Christmas lay ahead of us. Our new home was in a paint-fresh brand new apartment in lower Loulé, which had been discovered accidentally a couple of years earlier while on holiday from Zimbabwe. We had accompanied Gordon, a friend, who came to pay taxes to the Loulé câmara and had parked in a scruffy parking area in front of a construction site.
Once parked, I looked up and over the new building with interest and noticed that the top floor apartment had a large L-shaped terrace which would be ideal for a terrace garden and our two dogs.
Discovering Loulé
We had been thinking of an apartment in Faro as our first home and hadn’t given a thought to Loulé. This all changed when we looked over the apartment under construction and fell in love with it. That and the overall ambience and energy of the town made up our minds, and much against the advice of Gordon, who thought we were making a bad decision, we bought it.
We arrived in Portugal in September. In September 500 years earlier, Christmas was not on the mind of Vasco da Gama. An explorer and navigator from Sines in the Alentejo, Da Gama had set sail from Lisbon in July in a four-masted carrack, bound for India. His boat was still making its way through the Atlantic. We had arrived on a jet; he and his 50-man crew with just the wind to rely on still had months to sail before landfall.
September is a good month to arrive here; the weather is perfect and the Algarve is at her most pleasant. Once furniture, sculptures and paintings were in place and the dogs settled, it was time to breathe more easily.
We soon got our bearings in the town. The dogs helped as they needed to have their walks and their food. It was time to plant up the seedlings and sow the seeds I had brought with me. I had already discovered a good source of wonderful leafy compost under carob trees along the sides of a path where we walked the dogs. In those days, potting soil was sold in the market but I preferred the richness of the leafy compost.
The planting begins
What I first planted was a tray of pawpaw seeds (Carica papaya). Their response was almost immediate and enthusiastic. I had so many I had no room on the terrace for them all so I asked Helena, an estate agent, if she knew of anyone who would like to plant them. Fortunately, there was a cousin who was interested, and I was rewarded a couple of years later with a knock on my door and presented with a rugby ball sized papaya. Although large, it was sweet and tasty into the bargain. I had also arrived with a small plastic yoghurt cup which contained a tiny hybrid Bird of Paradise (Strelitzia reginae). When adult she was larger than the usual Bird of Paradise and had been bred in Zimbabwe by a friend. I planted her in a fairly large clay pot. Fortunately, there was a reasonable selection of good clay pots as well as plastic ones to be found in the market. She romped away.
So far so good. The next challenge was to find a suitable compost for the cymbidium that I had brought with me. At the time, a commercial orchid potting mix was not available so I improvised. On my trips to the beach I had noticed a fallen pine tree so I prised off sufficient large pieces of bark, cut these to a smaller size, added some of ‘my’ local compost and chopped up bracken leaves plus a few small pieces of charcoal to keep the mix ‘sweet’ and planted her in a largish clay pot. Helped by the winter rains the orchid and my terrace garden grew.
In those days of escudos, the market was principally divided into
Previous page: The season’s favourite, the classic poinsettia. This page, top left clockwise: Cymbidium orchids blush with pink-spotted lip; Carica papaya that grows from seed and delivers super-sized fruit; a Burford favourite, Bauhinia natalensis; Bird of Paradise (Strelitzia reginae)
two halves; a fish section and a fresh fruit and vegetables section. Much of the produce was homegrown. Vitalina had begun to preside over the vegetable and fruit area and your purchases from her came with a smile and the gift of a small bunch of coriander or salsa.
Like today, there were butcheries and shops with ceramic items, as well as a couple of stalls selling leather and metal goods or cotton merchandise. There was also a stall selling pot plants.
On Saturdays, the farmers’ market hugged three sides of the building and was filled with local produce. And when the All Saints weekend arrived (11 November), the flower sellers did much the same and the streets were filled to overflowing with flowers – mostly chrysanthemums – sold as cut flowers in large bunches, or in pots.
The avalanche of flowers surprised us. We were familiar with Halloween but not All Saints. In many ways it was as if the strangely cheerful drifts of flowers, so colourful and fresh, were introducing us to Natal.
St Martin’s summer followed hard on the heels of All Saints and there were roasted chestnuts sold in newspaper cones on street corners. We still had to savour Natal as did Vasco da Gama, as in November he had only just made landfall at the Cape of Good Hope, the southernmost tip of Africa. He was still sailing up the east coast of South Africa.
Christmas is coming
December. It was time to make garlands by weaving sprays of leafy olive, holm oak and red berries and coloured pistacia twigs around a small circle of baling wire. My black and white Christmas cards had mostly been sent. Time to have meals with friends and talk.
Christmas day was fairly simple for us. As the sun was shining Richard and Enrica, an Australian girlfriend of ours here on holiday, decided they should go for a swim. So, with no people on the beach – understandably as it was early and as far as I was concerned not a time for a swim – they skinny-dipped at Vale Do Garrão. Their swim was relatively short but they seemed to enjoy it. A semitraditional Christmas lunch of turkey with a pudding and brandy sauce followed.
Vasco da Gama had other things on his mind as on Christmas Day he had reached a strip of coast, the edge of the kingdom of the Zulus, and celebrated the birth of Christ by giving it the name Natal. Incredible to think a single person in a simple act could take a Portuguese word and label a province three times the size of Belgium without the say so of its people. The irony is that the name stuck and it became international – on maps and in print. The difference today is that it’s now known officially as KwaZulu-Natal and is an acknowledgement of its historical roots.
With my first Christmas celebrated I was looking forward to warmer weather and the next 38 years in Loulé that still lay ahead of me. Vasco da Gama had yet to collect a ship load of spices and sail back to Portugal to achieve fame and wealth. Perhaps what I will do this year is plant one of my favourite bauhinias, a Bauhinia natalensis to commemorate both our voyages. They grow extremely well here in the Algarve.
Merry Christmas and Feliz Natal!
TAKE A
BREATHER
BREATHING IS LIFE’S FIRST AND LAST ACT, YET MOST OF US NEVER STOP TO THINK ABOUT HOW WE DO IT. BREATHWORK HAS BECOME A BUZZ WORD IN THE WORLD OF HEALTH AND WELLBEING; FROM IMPROVING SLEEP TO REDUCING ANXIETY, THE HUMBLE BREATH IS EMERGING AS ONE OF THE MOST ACCESSIBLE TOOLS FOR WELLBEING
Words: SALLY DIXON
THE OTHER night I was chatting with a Somatic and Breathwork practitioner (shout out to Arras Healing in East Yorkshire!) when she mentioned that the ideal breath is a 5.5 second inhale and a 5.5 second exhale. It got me thinking how the simple act of breathing might be one of the most useful tools to have in our wellness kit. Taking a moment out of a busy day to stop and reconnect with your breath is the quickest, easiest (and cheapest!) way to calm your nervous system, reset, and
refocus. So, what’s the science behind breathing and how do you start to transform it?
We breathe around 22,000 times a day. It’s the quiet background rhythm that keeps us alive; so automatic we rarely notice it, that is until we can’t catch it. A 2025 McKinsey & Company report indicated that almost 30% of US-based Gen Z and millennials are prioritising wellness more this year. A priority us older generations would do well to get on board with.
Why breathwork matters
An ever-growing network of breathwork practitioners and
facilitators, both online and in person, are enabling us to explore a simple truth – how we breathe matters. The reality is that most of us are over-breathing, taking shallow, fast breaths through the mouth, keeping the body in a low-level stress state. When we breathe rapidly from the chest, the body signals the nervous system to stay on high alert, triggering stress hormones like cortisol. Slow, controlled breathing (hello 5.5 second breath), on the other hand, activates the parasympathetic nervous system – the body’s ‘rest and digest’ mode. Letting the body know, ‘I am safe’.
Dominik Foerster, a certified breathwork facilitator and mindful leadership coach based in Aljezeur, knows this firsthand. His path to the breath began eight years ago, during a mindfulness retreat with the Zen master Thich Nhat Hanh. “It was there that I realised the breath isn’t just something that keeps us alive, it’s a portal to the present moment,” he recalls.
A personal journey to breath
At the time, Dominik was living what looked like a successful life in Berlin with a good job, a beautiful apartment, and plenty of outward success. But when a relationship ended, unprocessed grief from his mother’s death by suicide years earlier began to surface. “I didn’t even realise how much sadness and tension I was carrying,” he shares. “On the outside everything looked perfect, but inside I was disconnected.” That retreat, and the simple act of breathing mindfully, became the beginning of an inner journey that would change his life.
Over the years that followed, Dominik began to understand that his constant striving and proving were signs of deeper disconnection, from his body, his emotions, and a sense of inner worth. “I began with simple breath awareness meditations,” he recalls. “Focusing on the breath helped me notice how shallow my breathing had become, especially during stressful times. It was very soothing and grounding. The breath became my teacher,” he says. “It showed me that peace isn’t something we chase, it’s something we breathe into.” Dominik adds, “The breath is special. It’s automatic, you don’t have to think about it, but you can also control it consciously. That makes it a bridge between the body and the mind.”
Ancient roots, modern science
The idea that the way you breathe affects the body and mind isn’t new. Yogic pranayama, Taoist Qigong, and indigenous healing traditions have long viewed the breath as a bridge between the physical and the spiritual. Modern science is finally cottoning on to this. Researchers at Stanford, Harvard, and the University of California have found that specific breathing techniques can help reduce anxiety, improve focus, and boost resilience.
A 2023 study in Cell Reports Medicine found that just five minutes of breathwork daily was more effective at reducing stress than mindfulness meditation.
One of the reasons breathwork is so powerful, as Dominik explains, is because it connects two systems, the autonomic nervous system and the conscious mind.
Start small: two to five minutes a day. Pick a technique that feels ]natural, and habit stack it with something you already do, like making your morning coffee or winding down before bed.
This means that when stress makes our breathing shallow, the effect goes both ways; not only does stress change our breath, but by changing our breath, we can also change our state of mind. “The channel goes in both directions,” he says. “If we breathe a certain way, we can calm the nervous system, relax, or even energise ourselves when we feel tired.”
Beyond relaxation
While many people turn to breathwork to relieve stress, its benefits extend beyond those of feeling calmer. Breathwork can be activating or soothing, depending on what the body needs. In the morning, Dominik recommends more energising practices such as Kapala Bhati or ‘Breath of Fire’ (if you’re a Kundalini yoga fan you’ll know what I’m talking about!), quick rhythmic breaths that wake up the body and stimulate circulation. “If someone feels a bit lethargic, this kind of breathing helps to bring energy into the system,” he explains. For calming the mind before a presentation, a difficult conversation, or simply after a long day, Dominik suggests ‘box breathing’ – see page 80 for details.
Breath as a workout for the nervous system
Exercise is another go-to that people think of when it comes to managing stress. Dominik understands this instinct, he’s no stranger to a gym workout, but suggests that breathwork offers something equally vital. “I like to think of breathwork as taking my nervous system to the gym,” he says with a smile. “We train our physical muscles, but we can also strengthen the nervous system’s ability to handle stress.” In a typical breathwork session, the breathing pattern alternates between phases of activation and relaxation.
This “pendulation,” as Dominik calls it, expands what psychologists refer to as the Window of Tolerance (a term coined by Dr Daniel J. Siegel) the body’s capacity to stay balanced under pressure. I don’t know about you, but I think we could all do with expanding our Window of Tolerance given the challenging nature of the world today! “By moving between activation and calm, the nervous system learns that it’s safe to experience intensity,” Dominik goes on to explain. “That’s how we build resilience.”
The doorway to deeper healing
While many people use short breathing exercises as part of a daily mindfulness routine, Dominik’s sessions go a little further. He specialises in transformational breathwork, a deeper practice that can guide participants into what he calls non-ordinary states of consciousness. “When we use what’s called ‘conscious connected breathing’, a circular breath without pauses between inhale and exhale, something shifts,” he explains. “After a while, the analytical mind quiets down, time fades, and people enter a different state of awareness. It’s like a deep inner journey.”
In these sessions, people often reconnect with buried emotions or memories. “Sometimes participants say they met their younger self,” Dominik shares. “They might feel sadness, joy, or anger – emotions that have been
suppressed for years. The breath opens the door to feeling them again, without judgment.”
An invitation to breathe
Dominik runs one-to-one breathwork sessions and small group gatherings near Aljezur. Sessions typically last around two hours, including grounding exercises, a one-hour breathing journey, and integration time after. “One session can be powerful,” he says, “but deeper transformation usually comes with repeated sessions. It’s like learning any new skill, consistency helps it really take root.”
For anyone new to breathwork, Dominik’s advice is simple, start with awareness. “Just notice how you’re breathing right now,” he says. “Where is your breath going, to your chest, your belly? Is it fast or slow? Even that awareness begins to change something. When we reconnect with our breath, we reconnect with life itself.”
Have a go at home
Try these simple breathing techniques at home to increase awareness in the body and calm the mind. Like any wellness habit, consistency matters more than intensity. Start small: two to five minutes a day. Pick a technique that feels natural, and habit stack it with something you already do, like making your morning coffee or winding down before bed. There are also plenty of free apps and online classes that can guide you through short breathing sessions.
Box Breathing (4-4-4-4): Inhale for four counts, hold for four, exhale for four, hold again for four. A powerful technique for calming nerves and sharpening focus. If it’s good enough for calming Navy SEALs (I’m not joking!) then it’s sure to help you through a stressful day!
Diaphragmatic Breathing: Lie down or sit upright, place a hand on your belly, and breathe deeply so you feel your stomach rise and fall with each breath. This strengthens the diaphragm and reduces tension in the shoulders and chest.
4-7-8 Breathing: Inhale for four counts, hold for seven, exhale for eight. Developed by Dr. Andrew Weil, this pattern slows the heart rate and is often recommended for easing anxiety or drifting off to sleep.
Guided Breathwork in the Algarve
IN PERSON
Breath Immersion
Based in Aljezur, Dominik offers in-person and online 1:1 breathwork sessions together with retreats in the Algarve and Central Portugal. breath-immersion.com
Breathing Space Portugal
From his retreat space set in 19 hectares of private land in Vale das Canas, Jan Buis offers individual breathwork sessions as well as group sessions, workshops, retreats, and online sessions via Zoom. Live sessions take place in a purpose-built ceremonial yurt. breathing-space.eu
Vital Path Retreat May 24 – May 30, 2026
Set in the serene hills of the Algarve, just 25 minutes from the sea, the Vital Path Retreat by Taming the Walrus invites women to restore balance while reconnecting to their energy, and inner wisdom. Through yoga, conscious breathwork, meditation, and rest, this weeklong journey helps you release what no longer serves and embrace midlife with renewed vitality. Experience the transformative power of breathwork with a group of like-minded women. From €850. tamingthewalrus.com
Yoga Taio
Certified yoga teacher and breathwork practitioner, Giulia offers in person breathwork and meditation sessions in Sagres to help calm the nervous system and tap into a state of calm. yogataio.com
ONLINE thebreathspace.co.uk
Expert breathwork coach Jamie Clements offers Your Breath Space, an online membership community with an extensive library of breathwork recordings. He has facilitated breathwork retreats in the Algarve in the past, so check out his website for upcoming inperson events.
Luxury Retirement Village and English Nursing and Care Home
The tranquil village of Monte da Palhagueira in the sun-dappled Portuguese hills has elevated luxury retirement living to new heights.
A traditional development of beautiful villas, houses and apartments, Monte da Palhagueira offers luxury independent retirement living with the added reassurance of qualified medical assistance on hand should it ever be required.
Our English Nursing and Care Home offers a wide range of professional services. From convalescent and respite to full residential care with 24/7 Nursing safety. We offer tailored Person-centric holistic care: it is all about you and your needs.
Contact: Alexandre Neves
mdpmanager@amesburyabbey.com
montedapalhagueira.pt
Tel.: +351 289 990 900
KING MANUEL and the medieval master builders
Top right: The monastery of Alcobaça. top left, clockwise: window of a manor house in Évora; the world-famous Charter House window at the Convent of Tomar; the Jerónimo Monastery in Lisbon; neo-Manueline style façade of Rossio railway station in the central historic area of Lisbon
MOST
AND
PEOPLE ARE UNABLE TO
DIFFERENTIATE A DORIC FROM A CORINTHIAN COLUMN,
A RENAISSANCE FROM A BAROQUE ARCHWAY. FORTUNATELY, FOR THOSE OF US WHO LIVE IN PORTUGAL, THERE IS ONE STYLE THAT EASILY ENABLES US TO SHOW SOME ARCHITECTURAL KNOWLEDGE: MANUELINE
Words: CAROLYN KAIN
TO IDENTIFY the uniqueness that is Manueline and the master builders who designed the style, read on and gather the knowledge.
Created late in the 15th and early in the 16th centuries, Manueline design is mostly composed of maritime motifs. That’s to say the building is decorated with shells, corals, seaweeds, anchors, and ropes. In fact, typically it involves ropes of all shapes and sizes – twisted, knotted, double-knotted, straightened, wrapped and curved, framing doors and windows of religious, military and palatial buildings.
Why are ropes so prominent, you might ask? There is an obvious explanation. Stonemasons and their counterparts were under instructions to celebrate Portugal’s Golden Age of Discoveries. That’s to say discoveries made by epic voyages across the sea and, since ships relied entirely upon ropes, they were the most important items of technology at the time – to raise and lower the sails, to moor and anchor the ships, and to carry out virtually every other task on board.
As a stonemason, probably sculpting ropes was a relatively manageable challenge – even a sea shell might have been quite simple to construct from stone. But other more intricate objects – such as compass roses, spheres and globes – will have required enormous skill. They have survived for more than 500 years and are as awe-inspiring today as they must have been at the time.
More unusual items from nature that had never been seen in Portugal before were incorporated into the architecture of buildings. Exotic plants, acanthus leaves, pineapples and vines were added: these additional decorative items and the ability to depict them gave the artisans great status.
apprenticeships and professional qualifications were introduced as essentials into the building trade.
Diogo de Arruda was the most senior member of a family that contributed more examples to Manueline architecture than any other. Diogo’s younger brother Francisco designed the country’s most iconic fortification, the Belém Tower on the River Tagus. This served as a point of embarkation and disembarkation for ships leaving and entering Lisbon, often those on a journey of discoveries. Later commissioned by the King, the two brothers travelled together to Morocco to work on the colonial settlement and fortifications being built on the Atlantic coast at Mazagão. Francisco’s son Miguel had similar designing skills to his father and his uncle and with a growing reputation he joined them on the same prestigious building project. At that time Mazagão was an important Portuguese stronghold so no expense was spared to create buildings in the most lavish Manueline style. Considered to be one of the ‘Seven Wonders of Portuguese Origin in the World’, later it was incorporated into the town of El Jadida. In 2004 it was given the status of a UNESCO World Heritage Site and listed as an outstanding merger of European and Moroccan cultures. Later the great Orson Welles featured aspects of the architecture he had discovered in his award-winning film version of Shakespeare’s Othello.
Created late in the 15th and early in the 16th centuries, Manueline design is mostly composed of maritime motifs.
One of the most impressive of these craftsmen created the Chapter House Window at the magnificent Convent of Tomar. Although we do not know his name, we do know that the designer was Diogo de Arruda. It is regarded as the country’s most famous window; a stone tapestry formed into a grill and surrounded by sea motifs and symbols representing King Manuel I.
The Convent was constructed in phases. Diogo would have been responsible for the selection of the stone to be used, but probably did not supervise the project from day to day. A Master Stonemason would have been in overall charge with engineers, additional stonemasons and trainees working as journeymen, and all collaborating together as a team.
Learning from each other, the roles sometimes overlapped, each artisan developing his talent while working on the job. It was not until centuries later that
As a young man, Miguel de Arruda was already a prolific architect and, following a long career, his fine and adventurous work can be seen throughout Portugal. Examples closest to the Algarve are in Évora; the Convent of the Order of Saint Augustine and the Church of Senhora da Graça.
As mentioned in last month’s article Lisbon’s Jerónimos Monastery, begun by the architect Diogo de Boitaca, is regarded as one of the finest buildings in the country. He worked during the late Gothic period when sweeping height could be achieved by creating ceilings from ribs and pointed arches. Coinciding with what is known as the Early Manueline (1495) period, Portuguese architecture then went through further stages into the High Manueline and Late Manueline periods to be replaced by the Early Renaissance (1530).
Throughout this timespan there was no specific word used to sum up the style. Thereafter, for another 300 years, it was not distinguished as a recognisable form. It was only in 1842 that a Brazilian historian and diplomat, Francisco Adolfo Varnhagen, felt it was worthy of an overall description to be entered into a glossary of architectural terms.
He hit upon ‘arquitectura manuelina’ named after Manuel I. Appropriately, he chose the King who had acquired the vast new wealth that enabled the style to develop.
christmas
A DIFFERENT
NIGEL CHAPMAN
BAUBLES IN THE SUN
Tavira, October 2025
Camera: iPhone 16pro
1/3226 sec, f1/78, ISO 100
AH: “This image nails the theme beautifully. Christmas ornaments — symbols of tradition — are reimagined in a summery, sunlit environment, hanging from a tropical palm frond instead of a pine tree. The concept is instantly clear and fresh; the fan-like symmetry of the palm leaf draws the eye to the ornaments, and the saturated blue sky adds vibrant contrast.”
1st place
It’s not always about turkey and Christmas pud. Portfolio entries this month were judged by Avery Holt who is based between Lisbon and Melbourne. A curator and visual culture critic with a background in documentary photography and environmental design, Holt has served on juries for international exhibitions and competitions celebrating creative reinterpretations of culture and tradition
PASTÉIS DE NATA
Tavira, October 2025
Camera: iPhone 16 Pro
1/700sec, f/1,8, ISO 100
AH: “A creative and charming blend of Christmas and local culture. The angel perched atop a tree of Portuguese tarts is both whimsical and warm – festive but with a deliciously different twist, which brings humour and heart, while clearly saying “this is Christmas, my way.”
2nd place
JAN CHAPMAN
DARYL GABIN
GOLF XMAS
Almancil, November 2025
Camera: Canon R6m2
1/800, f/2.8, ISO160
AH: “Playful and clever – a Santa hat atop golf balls with a camera nearby connects leisure, sport, and creativity. There is a strong focus here and good use of shallow depth of field with nicely controlled outdoor light with rich colour tones.”
4th place
GLYN PARRY
A BRIT AT CHRISTMAS
Vilamoura, October 2025
Camera: Nikon D850
1/8sec, f/2.8, ISO 64
AH: “A humorous juxtaposition of Christmas treats with a sunny poolside setting – the mince pies in the foreground, the pool, and the relaxed figure in the background all tell a story. This is a relatable take on ‘A Different Christmas’ for those experiencing it abroad or in warmer climates.”
3rd place
SÉRGIO PEREIRA
NATURE’S CHRISTMAS
São Brás, January 2025
Camera: iPhone 14 Pro 1/137sec, f/2.2, ISO40
AH: “Natural and organic – the red and yellow fruit resemble ornaments, giving a subtle seasonal nod while the dense, almost chaotic foliage gives an authentic, wild feel. The lighting is nicely dappled but slightly uneven – a few hot spots and shadows compete for attention.”
5th place
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FOR THE youngest members of the family, the best gifts are those that provide physical interaction, so the top toys of 2025 are interactive companions like robotic pets or fantasy creatures powered by adaptive AI. These companions respond to a child’s voice, learn their preferences, and tell evolving, personalized stories. They can help with homework queries, offer creative drawing challenges, and even teach basic coding through play, encouraging development by growing in complexity alongside the child.
Augmented reality craft kits are a digital upgrade to traditional crafts and include materials for building a cardboard castle or a solar system mobile, for example. When the completed toy is viewed through
TECH PRESSIES
THIS IS THE TIME OF THE YEAR WHEN YOU HAVE TO CHOOSE CHRISTMAS PRESENTS FOR YOUR LOVING FAMILY. IT ’ S NO USE ASKING THEM WHAT THEY WANT. CHILDREN DON ’ T KNOW ANYTHING. TEENAGERS WANT STUFF THAT IS NOT ONLY FABULOUSLY EXPENSIVE BUT ALSO BAD FOR THEM. AND ADULTS ALREADY HAVE EVERYTHING THEY NEED. SO WE ARE HERE TO HELP...
Words: CHRIS PARTRIDGE
a tablet or AR glasses it magically comes alive. The castle might be besieged by friendly dragons in the living room, or the planets might swing round in their orbits providing an experience that bridges the tactile and the virtual.
Building blocks used to be dumb as, well, bricks. Now they include chips, sensors and motors allowing young engineers to construct a vehicle and then program its movements and lights on a tablet. These kits teach foundational STEM principles in a hands-on, rewarding way, empowering children to see the direct results of their logic and creativity.
Personalized adventure books are a classic gift with a modern twist. Using AI, you can input a child’s name, friend’s name, and favourite hobby to generate a fully illustrated, hardcover book where they are the hero of the story that may include scannable codes that unlock mini-games or animated scenes, making reading a deeply personal adventure.
JOY
FOR ALL
GOLDEN PUP ROBOTIC COMPANION PET
A lively companion that responds to voice and touch. Kids love the magic of the ‘pet’ that behaves and interacts.
Where to buy: Amazon.es
Price: €167
SIMBRIX MAKER STUDIO
Hands-on craft meets digital surprise. Build something tangible, then watch it ‘come alive’ via tablet or app.
Where to buy: joguiba.com
Price: €49.95
PERSONALISED UNDERWATER ADVENTURE BOOK
This is where the child becomes the hero of the tale. With their name and favourite things woven in, the story becomes personal. This is a thoughtful gift that still feels fun.
Where to buy: wonderbly.com/pt
From: €34.99
TEENS WILL LIKE...
The best gifts for teenagers allow them to express their creativity, and also to study at a higher level.
Holographic Content Creator Kits use portable hologram projectors allowing teens to create and display their own 3D animations, fashion designs, or music visualizations – the ultimate tool for the aspiring artist or designer.
Audio gear is always acceptable for teens. Whether for immersive gaming, focused study, or getting lost in a personalised ‘sound bath,’ highquality audio is non-negotiable. The latest wireless earbuds and headphones offer granular sound customization, seamless ecosystem switching, and ‘transparency modes’ that can selectively amplify important sounds like a parent’s voice while blocking out distracting noise.
LED lights are now cheap enough to incorporate in clothing, jackets and tote bags. LED-embedded jackets with programmable patterns are very cool right now as is interactive jewellery that lights up for notifications. Hi-tech backpacks tend to be more practical, with features such as batteries to charge phones and tracking devices to prevent theft.
For many, the ideal gift can be an experience rather than a physical object. This could be a yearly subscription to a masterclass platform focused on a specific passion like film scoring or AI animation, a curated box for a new hobby like urban gardening or tickets to a virtual reality concert of their favourite artist.
Tech aimed at improving physical and mental health has progressed by leaps and bounds recently, moving well beyond basic step-counting. The top gifts include advanced sleep systems with climate-controlled bedding that adjusts to your sleep cycle, or smart meditation headbands that provide neurofeedback.
AND FOR THE GROWN UPS...
The days when a simple diary and address book was all you needed to organise your life are now well past. The latest digital assistants are more than just voiceactivated speakers; they are central hubs that manage your schedule, filter your emails, control your smart home, and even prepare concise briefings for your day by scanning your most important apps. Integrated with a sleek digital notebook that transcribes handwritten notes into searchable text, this gift is the ultimate tool for mental clarity and productivity.
For gardeners, countertop smart gardens for growing herbs and other plants in the kitchen have become incredibly sophisticated. The 2025 models are aesthetically beautiful, resembling modern art pieces, and can automatically cultivate everything from exotic herbs and miniature vegetables to edible flowers. They connect to an app that monitors plant health, making a green thumb accessible to everyone.
Sometimes, the best gift for an adult is one that helps them rediscover the passion they had as a teenager but got lost in the stress of forging a career and bringing up a family. This could be a highquality, easy-to-use digital drawing tablet for the aspiring artist, a smart grilling system with built-in thermometers and recipe guides for the barbecue maestro, or a curated ‘craftsman’s box’ with premium tools and materials
4M HOLOGRAM PROJECTOR
For teens who want to create and show off...
Where to buy: amazon.es , worten, creative.lighting/products/ Typical price: €17–€79, depending on features.
Typical price: €152
CLICK & GROW SMART GARDEN PLANTER
Fresh herbs, vegetables or flowers grown in your kitchen – even if you don’t have a garden. This planter, with its Grow Light, cares for itself while you enjoy the harvest. And no digging involved!
Where to buy: eu.clickandgrow.com/ Typical price: From €99.95 and up to double that the more complex options.
Winter in the Algarve brings quiet beaches, early nights and time to recharge and reflect.
I am in the privileged situation to love what I do and the connection with my customers gives me energy and joy. And sometimes customers become friends.
Thank you for your support and friendship.
Wishing you a wonderful Christmas and a happy New Year.
HOMES: Rua das Lojas, Rua 5 de Outubro nº 68 .
FASHION AND ACCESSORIES: Largo Dr. Bernardo Lopes, nº5
THE FIRST officially recognised football international was played on 30 November 1872 at Hamilton Crescent, Partick, Glasgow. The match was attended by a modest total of 4,000 spectators who watched England and Scotland achieve a less-than-thrilling 0 - 0 draw. At that time, association football was seen as a working-class game – unlike Rugby, which was popular at English public schools. At the turn of the next century, a maximum wage of £4 a week was set for professional footballers. This figure went up to £5 in 1910 and £9 in 1920, about twice the average wage for a working man at the time.
Footballers’ wages rose steadily through the 1930s and 1940s, reaching £12 a week by 1947 and £20 a week ten years later. At that time, top players from Britain were obliged to
sign for European clubs to get better wages. By the early 1960s, pressure from star players like Jimmy Hill and Stanley Matthews led to the abolition of the maximum wage and after that the sky was the limit! A survey in September 2024 included a list of 20 players earning £200,000 a week.
As well as wages, attendances were rising into the stratosphere. The largest crowd ever seen at an international was the staggering 173,850 who went to the 1950 World Cup final between Brazil and Uruguay. It was held in the Maracanã Stadium in Rio and as the stadium was standing only, it is possible that there were actually more attendees. By contrast, the last World Cup final in 2022 in Qatar, between Argentina and France, was played in front of a comparatively modest 88,966 and Argentina won 4-2 on penalties.
Portuguese superstar Cristiano Ronaldo, who has multiple luxury homes across the country, is reported to have signed a two-year deal with Al-Nassr worth more than US$400 million in tax-free earnings.
NEW CHAPTERS
THOSE WHO HAVE BUILT THEIR LIVES AND REPUTATIONS OUT THERE ON THE FOOTBALL PITCH ARE HERALDED FOR EVERY SUCCESS SCORED. THE BIG NAMES REMAIN VERY MUCH IN THE PUBLIC ARENA AFTER RETIREMENT, APPEARING ON TV SHOWS, ADVERTISING CAMPAIGNS FOR INTERNATIONAL BRANDS, AND SUPPORTING THEIR ELECTED CHARITIES
Words: JILL ECKERSLEY
On 4 November this year, former Manchester United star and England captain David Beckham was knighted at Windsor Castle by King Charles III – an honour which many sports fans felt was long overdue. “This is without doubt my proudest moment,” said the man who played 115 times for England and had been a Manchester United fan for years – the team he had always followed growing up as a schoolboy footballer in Leytonstone, east London.
When asked what he wanted to do when he left school he would always say that he planned to be a footballer. As a teenager he played for his local team, Ridgeway Rovers, and was signed by Manchester United in 1991, making his senior team debut the following year.
With Manchester United he won six Premier League titles and the European Cup. He later played for Real Madrid, LA Galaxy in the USA, and briefly for Paris Saint-Germain, before retiring from football in 2013.
Married to former Spice Girl and fashion designer Victoria with whom he has four children, he has modelled for brands including H&M, Armani and Boss. He supports many charitable causes including UNICEF and the King’s Foundation, an educational charity established by King Charles. The Beckham family is based in the Cotswolds where they keep chickens and enjoy country walks with their dogs. Most recently, a new fashion brand has been launched in the name of their teenage daughter Harper.
DAVID GINOLA
Back in the 1990s, French football star David Ginola brought a bit of extra glamour to British football. He played football as a teenager for Sporting Toulon and several other French clubs including Paris SaintGermain which he joined in 1992, becoming one of their top scorers.
In 1993, he won a French Footballer of the Year award and was also much admired by Spanish fans who nicknamed him El Magnifico. However, he chose to cross the Channel to join Newcastle United in 1995. He was a popular player in the North East and also when he later played for Tottenham Hotspur, Aston Villa and Everton, while being on-call to join the French national team, for whom he made 17 appearances.
He officially retired from the professional game in 2002 and worked as a TV pundit for several channels including the BBC, Canal Plus, CNN and Sky Sports. However, he always planned to widen his career options and even took acting classes at RADA in London. His earliest appearances on TV included a stint in the French version of (called Danse avec Les Stars 2021, an appearance in British TV in Celebrity – Get me out of Here! he was placed fourth. He won parts in Anglo-French films which premiered at the Cannes Film Festival and also worked as a model in advertising campaigns for major companies like L’Oreal hair products, Renault cars and Carte Noire coffee.
While playing in a charity football match in 2016 he had a sudden cardiac arrest on the pitch. He was given CPR by a fellow player and airlifted to hospital where he had to have a six-hour operation. His surgeon said he was lucky to be alive and he made a good recovery, thanking fans for their support at the time.
David is an active supporter of the Red Cross anti-landmines campaign.
PETER SCHMEICHEL
Sometimes referred to as “The Great Dane”, Peter Schmeichel is one of the most admired goalkeepers in football history. At 6ft 4 inches tall and weighing around 220 kilos, he has the right build for his job, and in his playing days had to have special XXXL football shirts specially made for him.
Peter’s father was Polish, his mother Danish, and the family is from the Copenhagen area. He played football from the age of eight, and had a variety of jobs as a young man, including working as a cleaner in an old folks’ home.
In the 1980s he played for several Danish teams and when he was signed by Britain’s Manchester United in 1991 he was virtually unknown outside Denmark. That did not last!
By 1992/3 he was being recognised as one of the world’s best goalkeepers (and unusually, was also a goal-scorer, with 11 to his credit!). He played for the Danish national team and also for some time in Portugal, as well as periods with Aston Villa and Manchester City back in the UK.
Peter officially ‘retired’ from football in 2003 and in the same year was inducted into the English Football Hall of Fame. He became a TV pundit in Britain and also in the USA. He took part in Soccer Aid and also made Strictly Come Dancing and on British TV. In addition, as his hobby is playing the piano, he appeared onstage on Copenhagen with Robbie Williams Close Encounters tour.
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 HOW TO DEAL WITH BOTH BUSINESS AND PERSONAL TAX MATTERS TO ENSURE YOU ARE IN THE BEST POSSIBLE POSITION
QWith the new UK state budget delivering unhappy surprises, what should we be doing if we want to relocate our life and businesses to Portugal? We have private pensions in the UK and also income from property rentals, but our main source of income comes from our business which we expect to sell within the next five years and retire.
To establish Portuguese tax residency, individuals must first obtain a residency permit. Passive income sources such as property rentals or company dividends are relevant for qualifying for the D7 Visa, provided applicants can demonstrate adequate financial means to support themselves in Portugal.
Applicants who possess at least a Bachelor degree, and are employed by a Portuguese entity eligible for the new Tax Incentive for Scientific Research and Innovation (IFICI/NHR 2.0), may benefit from several tax exemptions on foreign-sourced income for up to ten years.
If both the individual and the employing Portuguese company – which may, in fact, be newly incorporated by the applicant – meet the criteria for this incentive, all UK dividends received will be exempt from taxation in both Portugal and the UK once non-resident status is established in the UK.
While global income must be reported to Portuguese tax authorities, foreign-sourced income (excluding pension income) will generally not be taxed in Portugal. This also applies to rental income from the UK.
Upon the sale of a UK company, capital gains are typically taxable in the country of residence, which would be Portugal; however, under this tax regime, complete exemption applies, resulting in no capital gains tax liability in either jurisdiction.
After retirement, State Pensions are subject to progressive tax rates in Portugal. For other pension types, the origin of the contributions is a decisive factor in determining their tax treatment.
If contributions were voluntary and have already been taxed, Portuguese law may allow, under certain conditions, an exclusion of 85% of the received income; only 15% is
taxed at progressive rates, yielding an effective tax rate between 2% and 7.2%.
In the case of alternative pension products, such as unitlinked life insurance policies, only the growth element is subject to taxation. If held for over eight years, this results in an effective tax rate of 11.2% exclusively on the capital gain. These products also offer considerable inheritance advantages, as beneficiaries are not liable for taxes upon the policyholder’s death.
During the NHR 2.0 period (which is up to ten years), capital gains derived from assets outside Portugal will remain untaxed domestically.
In summary, Portugal continues to provide attractive tax planning opportunities for retirees, and it is highly recommended that you consult a financial advisor familiar with Portuguese tax regulations in order to identify the most efficient solutions.
QI’m selling my property in Portugal and facing significant capital gains tax since it’s not my primary residence. Can I defer the tax by reinvesting in another property in Portugal, particularly under the new incentives for affordable rentals? Are there any conditions or drawbacks to this scheme? The new government incentive has not yet been published, so you will likely only benefit if you sell your property after the law takes effect.
Currently, to qualify for the reinvestment exclusion in Portugal, you must have lived in the property for 12 months before selling, it cannot have been an AL in the past 36 months, and you cannot have rented it out in any way during the past year.
If the law passes, purchasing a long-term rental property (below a yet-to-be-confirmed rent limit) may count as reinvestment even if the sold property was not your primary residence. Additionally, if the rent is deemed affordable, the personal income tax rate could drop from 25% to 10%.
We would recommend that you wait until the law is published before making decisions and postponing any sale until then if possible.
Send questions you may have to info@afm.tax for possible inclusion in AlgarvePLUS. To consult directly with the experts at AFM, email info@afm.tax
REMOVALS
REMOVALS
• Weekly removal service to and from the UK, Portugal and Malaga, Spain
STORAGE
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• 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
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• One box to full house removals
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• Storage available for long or short term
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AQWhich law actually applies to us now, and what does it say?
This question is being asked by many foreigners living or wishing to live here – understandably, after weeks of headlines about Portugal’s new Lei dos Estrangeiros (Foreigners’ Law). First it was approved, then vetoed, then approved again. Foreign applicants for residency and nationality naturally want to know which rules apply. A state of confusion is shared by thousands of foreign residents in Portugal, as the country’s immigration law has gone through months of back-and-forth between Parliament, the Constitutional Court, and the President of the Republic.
Portugal’s foreigners’ law, originally Law No. 23/2007 of 4 July, has been amended many times. But the latest reform, approved in July 2025, vetoed in August 2025, and re-approved in September 2025, marks the biggest overhaul in years. The first version passed Parliament on 16 July 2025. President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa, concerned about constitutional issues, sent it to the Constitutional Court for review.
On 8 August 2025, the Court ruled that five provisions violated fundamental rights, particularly the right to family unity and access to justice; that same day, Marcelo vetoed the law and sent it back to Parliament. Lawmakers then revised it and approved a new version on 30 September 2025, removing or changing the unconstitutional parts.
As of November 2025, the President has not yet promulgated the final text. This means the old law, the version of Law No.
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. HERE THEY DETAIL THE CURRENT SITUATION REGARDING THE PENDING LAW THAT WILL AFFECT FOREIGNERS
23/2007 is still in force as before the July amendments, and continues to apply until the President signs the new one and it is published in the Diário da República (official gazette).
The revised law tightens immigration rules, particularly around family reunification, job-seeking visas, and requirements for citizens of Community of Portuguese Speaking Countries (CPLP).
Under the new version, most foreign residents must live legally in Portugal for two years before applying to bring family members. There are exceptions for minors or dependent family members, who may be reunited earlier, and partners who have lived together for at least 18 months before the main applicant moved to Portugal; they can apply after 15 months of residency.
Previously, Portugal offered an open ‘job-seeker visa’ to anyone wishing to come and look for work. The new text limits it to “highly qualified professionals”. Applicants who fail to find a job during the visa’s validity will have to leave Portugal and face a one-year re-entry ban.
Citizens from CPLP, such as Brazil, Angola, and Cape Verde, used to enjoy a simplified path as they could enter as tourists and later apply for residency. The new rules remove that option. Now, CPLP nationals must obtain a consular visa before entering Portugal if they plan to apply for residency. The applicants for residency or family reunification must show adequate housing (owned or rented) and stable financial means, a change aimed at reducing dependency on state aid.
The Agência para a Integração, Migrações
e Asilo (AIMA) must now decide applications within specified deadlines. Parliament has also restored appeal rights that had been curtailed in the vetoed version. Lawyers say this gives migrants clearer recourse if decisions are delayed or denied.
However, legal professionals remain sceptical. The Portuguese lawyer governing body (Ordem dos Advogados) warned that new administrative restrictions “may again violate fundamental rights” and could prompt more court challenges. Some judges also criticised the rushed legislative process, noting they had only 48 hours to review complex amendments.
Until the President signs the decree, nothing changes legally. Applications for residency, renewals, or family reunification continue under the current (pre-July 2025) version of the law. Once the new law is promulgated and published, its rules will apply to new applications, while pending ones may fall under transitional provisions.
For applicants, that means patience, and close attention to official updates. The President has indicated he is “likely to promulgate” the law, as the revised version seems to meet constitutional standards. Still, he could veto it again or refer it back to the Court if new issues arise.
If promulgated, the law would take effect 30 days after publication in the Diário da República. The government is expected to issue implementing regulations for AIMA and the Ministry of Internal Administration soon after that.
Email questions for Ramos Associados to martin@algarveplusmagazine.com
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GRAÇA PAZ AND BRUNO GRILO
GAMA RAMA
Rua do Prior 13 Faro 961-371 891
Until 20 December
This exhibition, presented within the context of The Modernist Weekend and curated by José Jesus, features the vivid colour palettes and formal structures of the two artists’ works.
Municipal Museum, Faro in collaboration with Artadentro 919 328 019, artadentro.com, Until 11 January
Soluço is the name of this exhibition which brings together a series of drawings and engravings that take landscape and nature as their point of departure. Studies for a Nature of Record, executed in wax crayon, represents the sea.
SILVIO PORZIONATO
Art Catto
Vila Vita Parc Porches artcatto.com
Dreamers - Red Series A07, oil on canvas, 150x150cm
NUNO CERA
In The Pink Praça da República 69-75 Loulé in-the-pink.com
On now
A Room with a View #16, Hotel Lafayette, Paris, 2012 from one of Portugal’s leading visual artists.
What could be more appropriate right now? A workshop dedicated to creating a crochet Christmas tree, where participants will learn simple stitches and decorative techniques applied to a festive project. This is an opportunity to develop manual skills in a creative and welcoming atmosphere.
FIGS ON THE FUNCHO 912 595 539
hello@figsonthefuncho.com figsonthefuncho.com
Charity walk in the countryside with tea and home baked cake. 6 December, 10h30–14h00 Registration is mandatory
This workshop invites participants to discover the cyanotype technique through compositions inspired by Christmas. Participants will create unique prints using natural elements and festive motifs, exploring light, shadow, and colour in this artisanal photographic process.
An activity designed for children to explore the textile world in a playful and expressive way. They will create small tapestries with various colours, textures, and materials, stimulating creativity and motor coordination in a festive and relaxed setting.
FAULTY TOWERS: THE DINING EXPERIENCE
Fortaleza da Luz, Praia da Luz Early booking essential 282 789 926 info@fortalezadaluz.com 5-7 December €90pp
Back by popular demand, this wonderful two-hour show offers audiences an immersive dining experience with Basil, Sybil, and Manuel in full festive chaos, and includes a three-course 1970s dinner, with half a bottle of wine per person, and water.
MUSIC
República 14, Olhão
republica14.pt reservas@republica14.pt All peformances 19h00 and 21h30
6 December
TRIO AMAR GUITARRA
The trio creates an emotional dialogue between the acoustic guitars and the Portuguese guitar of João Cuña and Pedro Mendes, accompanied by Francis on percussion. A concert of deep musical connection between guitars, featuring original compositions and arrangements in various musical styles: Fado, Flamenco, Morna, Jazz, Gypsy Jazz, and Tango, enriched by intense and captivating rhythms.
3 December
ED LÓPEZ – JAZZ É NATAL Singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist born in Buenos Aires, Ed López presents a Christmas concert featuring jazz classics and new compositions to celebrate the festive season. Active in the music scene for over two decades, he will be joined at this performance by José Ignacio Hernández on piano, Cuni Mantilla on double bass, and Jaime Párrizas on drums.
BELLA ACAPELLA
5 December, 19h00, Loulé
Igreja Matriz de São Clemente
6 December, 19h00, Moncarapacho, Casa Do Povo
Join in creating a festive atmosphere with mulled wine, a raffle, meeting old and new friends and maybe singing along with all the favourites, like Holy Night, Hark the Herald Angels Sing, Hallelujah, It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas and more... Attendees will be asked for a donation to cover the chorus expenses and support the Loulé Foodbank which is helping 67 families with food and care.
ORQUESTRA DO ALGARVE
Concerts throughout December
Visit orquestradoalgarve.com for details, venues and individual programmes
It took José Henrique Figueiredo Cortes ten years to create his traditional nativity scene by hand. He began working on it in 2011 and every year would add to it with new figures and scenes representing an experience that he wanted to immortalise and hand down to the new generations.
CACELA VELHA
CHRISTMAS MARKET
Vila Real de Santo António 7 December, 10h30–16h00 Traditional handicrafts and new creations; regional food products such as honey, bread, cakes, jams and liqueurs; flowers; natural creams and soaps; hand-crafted toys; books and music.
THE NUTCRACKER
Antonio Pinheiro Municipal Theatre, Tavira 13 December, 21h00 To book: tm-antoniopinheiro.pt The most magical and timeless Christmas ballet.
VILA VITA
CHRISTMAS MARKET
Vila Vita Parc, Porches 19-21 December, 14h00–19h00 Explore a diverse selection of prestigious brands and delight in seasonal treats such as mulled wine and Christmas teas. Enjoy entertainment for the whole family and experience joyful moments that capture the true magic of this festive season.
Os Agostos, Santa Bárbara, amigosdemusica.org, 2 and 4 December
Dona Sévène, an acclaimed virtuoso pianist from France, laureate of prestigious international competitions and scholarships, praised for her subtle, nuanced, deeply expressive playing, will take to the stage for the two December concerts. The first will feature works by Chopin, Schubert and Liszt; the second concert with the theme ‘At the Court of Forgotten Dances’ will showcase works by Bach, Bach-Busoni, Handel, Ravel, Poulenc and Debussy. Doors open at 18h00, concerts begind 19h00. To book, email reservasconcertos@gmail.com
For more information about the Amigos de Música and concert programmes, visit the website. For membership enquiries please contact helga.hampton@gmail.com
MAKING A SPLASH FOR CHARITY
25 December and 1 January, 10h30 –12h00
Now in its 22nd year, the Festive Charity Swims in Armação de Pêra have become one of the Algarve’s most heartwarming Christmas and New Year traditions. Each year, locals, expats and visitors gather on the beach to celebrate the season with laughter, community spirit, and a bracing dip in the Atlantic.
The swims, organised by the Clube dos Veículos Clássicos do Barlavento, began more than two decades ago as a small, good-humoured gathering and have grown into a lively annual spectacle.
The beach buzzes with excitement as brave swimmers charge into the cool Atlantic, cheered on by families, friends, and onlookers wrapped in scarves and Santa hats.
Adding to the fun, participants are encouraged to dress up in Santa suits, a firm favourite on Christmas, and pyjamas for New Year’s morning. From daring divers to giggling paddlers, everyone is welcome to join in the fun –the only rule is that you must get wet!
Behind the laughter lies a serious purpose: every year, the event raises funds for local families in need. All donations collected will be given directly to the Junta de Freguesia de Armação de Pêra, ensuring that every contribution, large or small, supports the local community.
Participation is open to all ages, but swimmers take part at their own risk. Whether you brave the waves, paddle at the edge, or simply come along to cheer, it’s a wonderful way to start the day with joy – and to end the year by giving something back.
For more information, visit the Clube dos Veículos Clássicos do Barlavento Facebook page or email classicosdobarlavento@gmail.com
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BAH HUMBUG... THAT ’ S EXACLY WHAT YOU ’ D EXPECT FROM ANTHONY MARTIN. BUT THAT SAID, IT IS HARD TO ARGUE HIS THINKING THIS TIME ROUND, WHEN MANY MODERN ATTITUDES ARE STAMPING ON
TRADITION
HUMBUG, humbug and bah humbug; it’s that time again. It’s supposed to come around every 12 months and last for three days max, with the third day allowed purely to finish eating everything you didn’t eat on the second day.
But does it? No, it bloody doesn’t. It starts some time in early October when, wherever you go, you are assailed with the sound of tinkling bells and people wearing silly hats or fake reindeer horns.
The only colours in your world are red and green, and the shops are full of Ferrero Rocher and Panettone.
Yes, some people just can’t wait to see a padded-out man in a red dressing gown and wellies, wearing a false beard and wig... and we’ve only just finished Halloween. Remember Halloween, once meaningful, but today trains your children in the not-so-subtle art of extortion as in: “gimme some sweets or you’ll be sorry!”
I know I’m sounding like the human incarnation of the Grinch, but the Christmas season means different things to different people. To toddlers it’s when Santa comes down the chimney bearing pressies; to older children it means a temporary change in attitude to parents lest the pressies do not materialise; to young adults it’s “what colour socks shall I buy Dad this year?”; to the young couple it can be, “let’s do something exciting for the kids, and do your parents have to come for lunch?”
Christmas is You, you will slice both your ears off with the Swiss Army knife you were given last Christmas. Sometimes I think that the three wise men should have followed a different star.
I’m not anti-Christmas but I do feel it has been ridiculously hyped up, and I’m not alone in my feelings; I may be late but I’m not alone. For in the UK in 1647, Christmas – along with Easter and Whitsun – were abolished by the then puritanical Parliament. The abolition eventually ended by way of Charles II and the Restoration of 1660 with the lifting of the ban, which was quite possibly due to both the joint efforts of snuff box retailers whose turnovers were suffering, and Charlie’s understandable desire not to follow the family tradition and to keep his head firmly affixed to the rest of him.
In the UK in 1647, Christmas – along with Easter and Whitsun – were abolished by the the puritanical Parliament, but restored in 1660.
And so on and so forth until you reach the age when you are wondering whether to take a present to your urologist as you need to ask him if he can prescribe something that will negate the necessity of getting up from the Christmas table three times to visit the bathroom. And you are also sure that if you hear one more rendition of Maria Carey singing All I want for
But back to present day… I am getting a mite p****d off with those who think Christmas should no longer be celebrated as a religious festival and that the term Merry Christmas must not be used lest it upsets those who are not of the Christian faith, suggesting Happy Holidays is more appropriate.
Why? I would be quite happy for a Hindu to wish me Happy Diwali or a Chinese person to wish me well on Lantern Festival Day. I don’t have to believe in either Vishnu or Budda to accept their good wishes. And by pandering to these individuals’ bêtes noires just drives the wedge between us even deeper.
On the Christmas Eves of my youth, I occasionally went to midnight mass at All Souls Church in London. I didn’t go to pray or for any religious reason but purely because it is a beautiful Christopher Wren-designed church, and the choir were amazing. I also visited London’s Hindu Mosque and accepted flowers to place there. So, to you all, whoever you are, whatever your colour and whatever deity you worship – or don’t – have a happy, happy Christmas and may Santa be kind to you.
