Want to enjoy a laid-back lifestyle where every day you can delight in guaranteed sunshine accompanied by a cooling ocean breeze? Unspoilt countryside, protected coastlines with dramatic cliff and rock formations and miles upon miles of beautiful sandy beaches are just some of the reasons why the Algarve in Portugal remains one of the most popular places to buy a holiday home, or take up permanent residence.
Waking up to enjoy breakfast on the terrace, going for a morning dip in the pool and meeting friends to have a round of golf on one of the Algarve’s 42 courses, including some of Europe’s very best, are daily activities that are enjoyed by a growing community of like-minded people looking to enjoy the benefits of a home in this region of Portugal.
“The allure of the Algarve has become so strong that it is regularly ranked in the world’s top places to retire to,” highlights Dulce Vieira, One Select Properties’ Sales Consultant, who regularly advises potential buyers on the lifestyle benefits of living in Portugal.
Why Choose the Algarve For My Second Home?
A large part of the appeal of the Algarve is the active and healthy lifestyle that residents can lead. This is partly due to the wonderful climate and the affordable standard of living. As well as the excellent golf courses, there are opportunities to hike, fish, get involved in local arts and crafts, visit markets for fresh and local produce, shop for both traditional and designer goods and take part in water sports or just relax on one of the many beaches.
The 90 miles of the Algarve includes busy towns such as Vilamoura and Albufeira where residents can enjoy cosmopolitan lifestyles in the sunshine. The western part of the region remains largely undeveloped, and the eastern Algarve is generally more rural and peaceful.
Faro airport, which is well connected to the whole of the Algarve, offers numerous low cost and regular flights to many parts of Europe. There have also been several infrastructure investments, specifically in the country’s highway network, which makes travelling within the country straightforward and stress-free.
“For the third year running, the Huffington Post has named the Algarve as the best place to retire to - A low cost of living, on average 30% lower than in any other country on the Continent, combined with plenty of ways to fill your day in an area that boasts a very low crime rate, makes the Algarve very popular for property investment.”
Dulce Vieira, One Select Properties’ Sales Consultant
For many more mature buyers, the state of a country's healthcare is crucially important when considering relocating. The algarve has been ranked above the UK in terms of healthcare and the good international standard is leading to a rise in medical tourism.
Portugal has several financial benefits for holidaymakers and retirees buying property. A recent introduction now allows foreign retirees to receive their pension income in the country tax-free, making Portugal an even more appealing country to relocate to. There are also residency and tax benefits arising from the Non-Habitual Residency and Golden Visa resident permit scheme.
An Exciting Calendar of Gastronomy, Music and Culture
In addition to year-round sun, excellent amenities including Michelin-starred restaurants and championship golf courses and an affordable cost of living, the Algarve is a centre for cultural and social activities.
Throughout the spring and summer, the region hosts food, culture, music and dance festivals that suit all interests. These include the Med Festival in Loulé that features many of the performance arts, such as dance and street theatre, outdoor cinema and the Portimão sardine festival. The social scene has options to satisfy every taste, from leisurely resort parties to all-night dancing.
Algarve Villas for Sale by Your Trusted Real Estate Partner
“Buying your dream home in the Algarve has never been easier,” concludes Dulce. “One Select Properties are passionate about the Algarve and will help you find your ideal home that suits your budget or investment goals.”
There are a huge variety of properties that you can consider, from a purpose-built luxury home in a vibrant town to a more rural retreat with acres of land. The Algarve boasts something for everyone looking for a second home, to make the very most of their vacation time and retirement years, in one of the world’s most idyllic countries.
