Quarteira

Quarteira holidays are perfectly balanced to enjoy the best of both worlds. Situated on Portugal's famous Algarvian coast, the resort is located just east of the upmarket resort of Vilamoura and therefore benefits from a delightful blend of laid back, local infrastructure and tourist attractions.

The principle draw of a holiday in Quarteira is its wonderful beach. Long, sandy and flat, the golden sands are rimmed by a lovely palm-lined promenade which is heaven sent for an evening walk and is "the" place to see and be seen. People watching is almost an art form here! Get comfortable in a snug little local bar, sip a cooling drink and just view all form of colourful human life as it passes by - a perfect pastime.

Quarteira is also famous for its weekly gypsy market where local traders come from miles around. Indulge all shopping obsessions here and haggle to get the best bargains. A marvellous array of lace tablecloths, napkins, leather goods, shoes, handbags, pottery and ceramics are on show and make the ideal souvenir or holiday gift.

Golf enthusiasts will love a holiday in Quarteira as the Royal Course at Vale de Lobo and the Old Course at Vilamoura are both only a tee shot away! The area is also great for walking as the terrain is flat and accessible. As Vilamoura is so close, a leisurely stroll to the marina is a delightful way to while away a few hours and enjoy a coffee in an outdoor cafe terrace.

The beauty of Quarteira holidays is that, year round, the town is busy, alive and full of atmosphere. Enjoying a typical "feel", the fusion of traditional and modern is virtually seamless. Visitors and locals mingle and the development of the resort from a tiny fishing hamlet to a respected tourist haunt has happened gradually. However, none of the intrinsic Portuguese charm has been lost along the way. Fishermen still mend their nets on the beach and sell their catch to the seafront restaurants.

Only a stone's throw from Faro airport and served by direct Aer Lingus flights from Ireland, a holiday in Quarteira gives a genuine glimpse of Portugal and provides lasting memories of perfectly laid back and relaxing holidays.