Golf:
There are numerous 18 hole championship golf courses within 15 minutes drive of the villa. Pinta and Gramacho (where David Leadbetter's academy is situated) are the nearest. Penina and Alto courses are a little further away (20 mins). For those of you who are starters, there is an excellent 9 hole par 3 course at Vale de Milho, also within 15 minutes drive.
Places to Go:
Two recommendations for sightseeing are Monchique and Silves. Monchique is in the mountains 900 ft above sea level to the north of Ferragudo and is somewhat untouched by tourism invasion. One of the interesting tours is the 17th century Franciscan monastery overlooking the town where visitors can experience fantastic panoramic views of the countryside. Silves, occupied by the Moors in the 11th century was later known as the Kingdom of the Algarve. Why not take a look at Silves Castle then relax in one of the many nearby cafes with a glass of wine and a Morgados cake (made with pumpkin), a speciality of the town.
There are sightseeing tours to almost every part of the Algarve. If guests require to go further, Gibraltar and Lisbon are also on offer.
Things to Do:
There are two water splash parks in the area, Slide and Splash (10 mins) and Aqualand (25 mins). Zoomarine, where you can witness shows involving dolphins, tropical birds, birds of prey, seals and sea lions, is approx 25 mins away. You can also swim with dolphins here. There is also a zoo at Algoz, some 30 mins drive.
There are several boat tours on offer, mainly from the quayside at Portimao, taking you to various locations around the coastline (also the caves) and up the Arade River. There are dolphin watch tours, champagne cruises, deep sea fishing cruises, full day sailing cruises, something for all.
Inexpensive sightseeing flights around the Algarve are available in a light plane with up to 3 passengers, (British piloted). Please ask for details.
Other Activities:
Boat trips, Jeep Safaris, Scuba Diving Courses, Scenic Flights in Light Aircraft (British Pilot)