We find ourselves in unprecedented times. It has been disconcerting and saddening to see empty squares and shuttered streets around the world, and our hearts go out to all those affected, wherever they are.

For a while, we may all need to stay grounded. One day, piazzas will fill with selfie-takers again and bistros will brim with animated chatter.

While we wait, we reflect on what draws us to the places we love.

When you think of the Algarve, places like Quinta do Lago and Vale do Lobo instantly spring to mind. Tree-lined driveways leading to some of the most spectacular homes. People up early, on their way for a round of golf at any one of the 43 courses before the day heats up. What’s not to like?

For me, there are a couple of spots, in particular, which I think make the Algarve truly very special.

Vila Joya Sea Beach Bar is the place to go if you want to impress. Hugging the sandy coastline of Albufeira, it is the perfect spot to watch the sun go down after a lazy day on the beach. The restaurant is part of the Vila Joya Hotel and has laid-back glamour in spades. Expect perfectly pressed white linen-covered tables in the lantern-lit dining room. Order the tiramisu. 

For those days when you just want to slope up from the beach to dinner without any fanfare then Evaristo Restaurant is the one. There will be a queue but it is well worth the wait. Plates piled high with fresh line-caught fish from that morning, bright pink prawns, shimmering mussel shells and hunks of baked bread for mopping up the sauce. All of this coupled with an ice cold rosé and endless views over the Atlantic Ocean make it somewhere I always look forward to going back to. 

Finally, if you haven’t been already, I highly recommend visiting Loulé, which is a beautiful market town with sun-bleached churches, cobbled streets and a wonderful farmers' market. At the end of August they celebrate Noite Branca (White Night) where dinner, served at trestle tables along the street, runs late into the night. Everyone looks very glamorous, dressed all in white, perfectly showcasing many months of a gradually built-up suntan. A date in my diary for summers to come.

Further information

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• Rod and the global residential team are available remotely for any questions about the market or to simply share stories about their beloved locations.