For a number of years, my wife and I had wanted our own 'place in the sun' and, after looking at viable alternatives including France, Spain, and the Canaries, we determined that the Algarve provided our ideal setting. It's gloriously hot in summer, chilly but never cold in winter, and, being so close to the Atlantic, the sea breezes ensure that the air is clean and refreshing. The south coast of the Algarve is lined with beautiful, sandy beaches whilst the windy, western coast is a surfer's paradise. We bought our villa in 2012. It is situated on the Boavista Golf Resort, just 2 miles from both the lovely town of Lagos and the holiday resort of Praia da Luz. The semi-detached villa backs on to the first fairway of the Boavista golf course and, from the villa's balcony there are lovely views across the fairway to Lagos and the mountains of Monchique. It is furnished in a modern style and is fully equipped to support a family of six. Our guests receive complimentary membership of the resort's 'Fitness and Spa Centre', including its gym, indoor and outdoor pools, jacuzzi, sauna, and children's play area. Members receive discounts for the restaurant, golf and spa treatments.

The Western Algarve is beautiful! It is less developed, and therefore less crowded, than the central or eastern regions, yet it is only 60 minutes from Faro airport. The area is blessed with numerous blue-flag beaches and there are half a dozen lovely golf courses within a 30 minute drive from the villa. The main town in the region is the ancient walled-city of Lagos, just 2 miles from the villa. This town, whose history can be traced back for more than 2000 years, was made really famous in the 15th century when it was the centre for Henry the Navigator's voyages of discovery. (Indeed a replica of one of Henry's ships is usually on display in the harbour.) Subsequently, it became the financial centre for the Algarve until November 1st 1755, when the 'Lisbon earthquake and tsunami' devastated the town. Following this, Lagos became somewhat of a back-water until recently when tourism has really revived its fortunes. Whilst meeting the modern demand for restaurants, cafes and shops, the town has managed to retain its historical visage so that, these days, an evening stroll through the historical centre of the town is a joy.