The Algarve is famous for its gorgeous beaches, 30 of which have been awarded Blue Flags, but many visitors fail to leave their sunloungers or resorts and explore the 'real' Algarve.

There is so much more to see away from the coastline, such as the Costa Vincentina Natural Park. Here you can walk through pathways of colourful flowers and visit ancient castles, once home to the Moors.

You can also visit Serra de Monchique (the Monchique mountains), where you can climb to Fóia, the highest point in the Algarve. In the towns and villages around the village of Monchique you can also enjoy the various regional crafts on show, ranging from palm leaf basketwork, to hand-painted earthenware. Experience the warmth of the locals and sample a glass of wine or the famous spirit made from the medronho grapes.

In these small towns and villages, away from the coastline, there are still many property bargains to be found, and homes are usually only a 30-minute drive to the popular coastal resorts, so you can still have the best of both worlds.

"There are several plans to improve the Serra de Monchique area, with the development of three new golf courses near Caldas de Monchique, and a new hotel," says Susanna Gross, from To Go For Homes, an estate agent selling properties throughout the Algarve.

"Over the coming years the region of Monchique is expected to become more explored and developed, and the area should increase in both holidaymakers and golfers. The infrastucture is also expected to improve enormously with new jobs and tourist facilities.

"With a healthy property market in the region, house prices in the Monchque area are expected to rise. Buying a property here now is a very wise investment as prices will only increase."

At the moment it is still possible to buy a nice two-bedroom spacious, rural property for around £170,000. This will include a substantial plot of land and breathtaking views.  

Visitors to the Algarve, who enjoy life on the waterways, can take a cruise up the River Guadiana from Portimão to Alcoutim, close to the Spanish border, and see the fabulous landscapes and white-washed villages which have been forgotten by time.

It is amazing how many visitors to the Algarve do not leave their resorts but there is so much more to be discovered away from the golden beaches.

 

source: homes wordlwide