Location & Area
Quinta Sao Jose is located in the southern region of Portugal known as The Algarve, and is only 2 minutes’ drive from Quinta do Lago and 20 minutes from Faro International Airport. (Perfect for children and adults who don’t enjoy a long drive from the airport to their final destination).
The Algarve region is renowned for its long, hot, dry, sunny summers whilst the winter is short and usually mild.
The Algarve coastline actually stretches for approximately 200 km and as you travel along its length you will find it to be both beautiful and varied. Whilst at Quinta do Lago you will find the beach has golden sand and dunes, further along the coast you will find golden sand, terracotta coloured cliffs, caves and coves.
Ria Formosa Natural Park
Quinta Sao Jose is situated in a conservation area that forms part of the Ria Formosa Natural Park. The Ria Formosa area is a haven of natural beauty including a beautiful tidal estuary famous for its fauna, flora and large number of migrating birds including flamingos. (Migrating birds travelling between Europe and Africa use the area as a temporary resting place). The estuary is bounded by the sparkling golden sand and beautiful dunes of Quinta do Lago beach.
Quinta do Lago beach is only a 10 minute drive or 20/25 minute cycle ride from the house.
Sport & Leisure (Golf, tennis, water sports, cycling, walking, sightseeing)
Quinta do Lago has a high concentration of beautifully kept, lush green golf courses including the Quinta do Lago South Course which is a championship golf course that has been used for the Portuguese Open on eight occasions. Five of the golf courses, (namely Quinta do Lago Laranjal, Quinta do Lago North & South courses, Pinheiros Altos and San Lorenzo are only a 5-15 minute drive from the house).
Water sports such as wind-surfing and sailing can be enjoyed on the inland lake at Lakeside which is only a 5 minute drive from Quinta do Lago beach. There is also an excellent tennis academy about 10 minutes’ drive from the house in neighbouring Vale do Lobo. Keen cyclists wishing to explore the surrounding countryside and hills, or simply wanting to cycle along to the beach, estuary or shops, can hire bikes in the nearby town of Almancil.
Restaurants & Cuisine
The area has numerous restaurants to suit all budgets, ranging from beach restaurants to 5-star restaurants offering fine dining.
Shopping
Quinta do Lago has two smart neighbouring shopping boulevards known as Quinta Shopping and Bougainvillea Plaza. There you will find shops selling tops brands, boutiques and other small shops selling artisan crafts. These are interspersed with a small supermarket, bank, and choice of popular cafes, bars and restaurants. An area perfect for people watching and relaxing. Large supermarkets can be found in the nearby town of Almancil, (about a 10/15 minute drive from the house).
With such a wide choice of sport, leisure activities and pastimes available in Quinta do Lago and the surrounding area, it is not surprising that happy holidaymakers and families return year after year.
