Portugal occupies the western part of the Iberian Peninsula. Due in part to the maritime explorations of Vasco da Gama, Magellan, Bartolomeu Dias and Cabral, Portugal is a country with an astonishing history.

Beaches in the Algarve, in spite of mass tourism and large holiday resorts on the seafront, remain some of the most beautiful in Europe. Faro beach offers miles of golden sand and boats can be hired from the harbours for sight seeing or fishing.

Estoi is the nearest village; five minutes drive away from Casa Miguel. Sao Bras de Alportal is also close by. Sao Bras has an interesting ethnographic museum; a large parish church in the square called Largo da Igreja and the pavement in front is flagged with tombstones. Bars, banks some shops and many restaurants are also located in Sao Bras.

Travelling west brings you to Loule, with its gothic church protected on two sides by the remains of the towns Moorish walls. The waterfall at Alte and the caves of Rocha da Pena and Rochados Soidos are all a short drive away.

Olhao is a fishing port, which has an excellent fish and vegetable market. A street market taken place every month and you can barter your way to a bargain.

Faro has a fine marina, many shops, cafes and restaurants where fine food is available and the chance to sample some of the country’s port and fine wines.

There are three water parks Aqualand, Aquashow, Slide & Splash with in easy driving distance and if you want to swim with dolphins Zoo Marine is worth visiting.