First off, a very big thank you to our lovely host Helena who went out of her way to make our stay in her villa a most enjoyable one and responded very quickly to all emails during the booking process. She was also very friendly to us during our stay and gave us loads of advice on beaches, shops and restaurants. Top host!!
We are a family of 4, with kids aged 10 and 7 and the CASA 1 accommodation was perfect for us. The apartment is comprised of a main bedroom along with a separate kitchen, bathroom and lounge which has a double bed sleeper couch. There is a superb private outdoor area with BBQ, table and chairs and a very useful day bed which is great for relaxing in the afternoons/evenings. The pool was a big plus for the hot days and was a massive hit with our kids.
For those not wanting to be located in the middle of built up tourist areas this property is perfect. It sits on a quiet road overlooking a lagoon. A car is definitely required to make the trips to the many Algarve beaches, restaurants and shops.
If you can get across the lagoon (we brought along an inflatable kayak) you then have access to a beautiful stretch of beach with many shells, you will most likely be the only people on the beach.
A fifteen minute drive up the coast is Tavira, which is a lovely town to visit, it has loads of good restaurants and a lovely beach which you access by sea ferry from the quay near the town centre. Fifteen minutes down the coast is the less beautiful town of Olhão but from here you have access via water ferries to the amazing islands of Armona and Culatra. I would recommend a day on each of these islands.
Helena recommended the Fialho restaurant which is a short walk from the villa along the lagoon. We had a lovely meal at this very popular local spot, again I would highly recommend this restaurant.
In summary, this is an exceptional villa, ideally located to explore the Algarve and the host is very helpful and friendly. Thanks again Helena