Casa Alegre
Guia, Portugal

QUINTA DA SAUDADE WAS FEATURED ON THE BBCs HOLIDAY HIT SQUAD IN JUNE 2006 Casa Alegre is a pretty two bedroom villa on the very popular, small and privately owned Quinta da Saudade, a mature development set within the grounds of an old Portuguese farmhouse. There are lovely views across open farmland to the beautiful sand dunes and beach of Salgados, a mile away. The nearest big town is Albufeira, where there is plenty of nightlife if needed! The Quinta is an extremely popular venue for both family holidays and quiet out of season breaks. Casa Alegre is situated on the edge of the estate yet it is only a few minutes stroll from the Quinta facilities. These include two swimming pools, a tennis court, mini golf course, petanque and children's play area with its own paddling pool. There is a poolside bar serving a selection of lunchtime snacks and an independently run restaurant and bar situated in the farmhouse that is open in the evenings. The riding stables has some fabulous horses for hacks or riding lessons for both adults and children.

The accommodation consists of two bedrooms, one with a king-size double bed, the other with twin beds and two bathrooms, one en-suite. The fully equipped kitchen has a microwave, large fridge freezer and fully automatic washing machine. In the sitting room, there is satellite television with video, a CD/cassette player and a good selection of books, games and videos (including children's). There is a wood stove for winter lets.

The villa has an upper and lower terrace with built-in barbecue, sun loungers and reclining chairs as well as a large roof terrace. The Algarve is famous for its golf courses, beautiful coastline and beaches. The nearest golf to the villa is the course at Salgados that is just a few minutes away. The choice of beaches is endless, from long sandy stretches backed with dunes to small rocky coves, some with little beach bars where you can have a leisurely lunch of barbecued sardines with a glass or two of local wine. There is a famous wetlands nature reserve nearby with an array of beautiful birds. Prices include maid service, electricity and gas, linen and towels (except beach towels). The rental of cots and hire chairs is extra. Prices for Winter lets between November and the end of February are subject to availability and length of let. Logs and electricity are charged as extras during these months.