If you are a keen golfer or want to improve your short game, there is plenty of choice. From the 9 hole par 3 at Vale do Milho to the wonderful ocean views at Palmares (near Lagos); the challenges of the Pestana Resort to the magnificent championship course at Penina, there is a course to suit all tastes and abilities.

For the explorer there are some fascinating old towns to visit including Silves, the ancient Moorish capital of the Algarve , just 15 minutes drive from Rocha Brava. Nestled in the fertile valley of the Rio Arade, this fascinating ancient town has steep, narrow streets, a colourful market,excellent fish restaurants, caf é s, ancient castle ruins and museum, all well worth exploring.

A little further away is the historic port of Lagos , one of the most attractive coastal towns on The Algarve with its marina, fishing port, churches, fort, pedestrian precinct and lots of shops. The new covered market has fantastic fresh fish, fruit and vegetables and a great view from the roof terrace!

At the western end of Portugal are the delightfully unspoilt fishing villages of Sagres, Salema and Burgau, with wide sandy beaches, welcoming bars and restaurants. Near Sagres you can visit the famous wind compass and fort and the impressive lighthouse of Cape St Vincent . The view of the towering cliffs is stunning. If you are into surfing, the magnificent beaches on the west coast are a surfer's paradise.