The Algarve. Think of the Algarve and you think of sunshine breaks and relaxing holidays. You imagine golden beaches on the coast of calm sea waters, sun-kissed tourists relaxing and sampling the delights that this wonderful region of Portugal has to offer. Everywhere you go, you are surrounded by bright colours, from the golden sands, to the crystal clear waters, the clear blue skies, the vivid green grass, and the white-washed walls of the buildings in the Algarve's old towns. There is no one best way to explore this region of Portugal. The seemingly endless coastline includes some of the world's most beautiful beaches, but by venturing just a few miles inland, you can lose yourself in the heritage and history of the Algarve. Fancy a more action-packed holiday? The Algarve caters for all holiday makers with every watersport available for all tourists. The Algarve is also home to some of the world's most famous golf courses, where players of all ability are welcome. You can also try your hand at a nice relaxing game of bowling, or tennis, with the Algarve's fantastic views and sights providing the perfect backdrop.The Algarve boasts some 3,000 hours of sunshine a year – that's more than California – so whenever you take your villa, you're sure to enjoy fabulous weather. With quaint, historic villages, dramatic and rugged landscapes, super sporting activities, fabulous cuisine and a relaxed way of life, your Algarve villa holiday is sure to leave you feeling refreshed and revitalised.

Spring and Summer Breaks

The Algarve offers an unrivalled holiday destination. Famous for its wild and beautiful Atlantic coastline, with mile after mile of sun-drenched beaches, the Algarve makes a fantastic spring or summer break. Many visitors come simply to laze on the soft sands in sheltered coves, soaking up the sun and enjoying a swim in the crystal clear waters which lap the coast.

But if you fancy something more energetic, the Algarve coastline offers an amazing list of exciting pursuits: fishing, diving, windsurfing, sailing, horse-riding, tennis, squash, bowls, snorkelling and much more. For nature fans looking for peace and quiet, there are beautiful, tranquil walks through forested hills, and several nature reserves, such as Ria de Alvor, which is a paradise for bird-watchers.

And the Algarve is famous for its superb golf courses, many of which are championship level. Boasting more than 20 courses, the Algarve is the most popular golfing destination in Europe. Stay in or around Lagos, for example, and you are within striking distance of four top courses, including Boavista, Palmares and the Penina, designed by Sir Henry Cotton.

If it's history and tradition you're after, the Algarve towns and village will enchant you. Visitors can stroll through fortress-protected harbour towns, where evidence of the past can be seen at every turn. It was from Lagos harbour, for example, that Vasco de Gama set sail to discover the New World.

The quaint and traditional fishing villages which dot the coast, with their ancient winding streets and pretty flower-decked squares, have changed little for hundreds of years. And what has also not changed through the centuries is the mouth-watering local cuisine, based on just-landed fresh fish, spices from Arabic traders who used to ply the coastline, and delightful desserts made from figs and almonds.