Perfect Portuguese: The Best Algarve Family Resorts

The Algarve coast in southern Portugal has all the components necessary for a winning holiday-home location. Wide sandy beaches, intimate coves, beachfront tabernas and a range of leisure activities – including cycling, padel, tennis, boating, waterparks and more than 35 golf courses – should be enough to occupy even the most active family group. With several prime spots within easy reach of Faro international airport, the trick is deciding which one is right for you.

“Four of the most popular areas in the Algarve for families considering a holiday home are Quinta do Lago, Vale do Lobo, Vilamoura and Loulé,” says Iain Begg, Vale do Lobo sales manager at QP Savills. “All are within half an hour’s drive of Faro. Quinta do Lago, Vale do Lobo and Vilamoura have exceptionally well-regarded golf courses, while Loulé is only 15 minutes from the Ombria course.”

Quinta do Lago
One of the most prestigious resorts in southern Europe, Quinta do Lago started out in 1972 as an elite golfing location, attracting many retired residents, before skilfully remodelling itself as a superb destination for all ages, thanks to a determined focus on health, wellbeing and family activities. Residents have excellent facilities at The Campus, a €10 million sporting hub that is also used by international sports teams.

“Quinta do Lago is approximately three times the size of Monaco and is carefully landscaped, with a low build density,” says Begg.

“The resort is set within the Ria Formosa nature reserve and has five golf courses. At the southern end, a boardwalk leads to the beach. Accommodation consists of apartments, townhouses and large, detached villas on substantial plots.” 

Vale do Lobo
A near neighbour to Quinta do Lago, and under new management since 2023, Vale do Lobo has a loyal fanbase who love its direct beach access and easy-going, facility-filled lifestyle. The Praça, its central hub, is packed with buzzy dining and meeting places.

“Vale do Lobo has a relaxed atmosphere and plenty for families to do,” says Begg. “There are two championship golf courses and the tennis and padel centre has recently been remodelled, adding a new restaurant. Typical plots, while a good size, are on average around half as big as those in Quinta do Lago. As a result, price points are lower.”

Vilamoura
“Vilamoura is only 20 minutes down the road from Quinta do Lago and is very popular,” says Begg. “The Marina, which has recently been expanded to house superyachts, is a big draw, as are the five golf courses – six if you count Vila Sol. The resort is about 25 minutes from Faro airport and has a mix of apartments, townhouses and villas.

“The Old Town and the area around the golf courses – notably Pinhal Velho – are the most upmarket locations, offering a green residential setting. Vilamoura is also popular with the Portuguese, thanks to its beautiful beaches and restaurants.”

The resort’s new owners are investing heavily in the area to raise its profile. This includes enlarging the Marina (already the biggest in Portugal), renewing the equestrian centre and employing four-time major winner Ernie Els to redesign the Victoria golf course and create an exclusive private members’ club.

“Vilamoura has a wide appeal that includes families with children, golfers and anyone focused on sailing,” says Begg. “Its beautiful beaches include Falêsia, regularly voted one of the best in the world, and it has great restaurants and a vibrant atmosphere. Villas start at about €1 million and go into eight figures in Pinhal Velho.”

Loulé
Families wishing to immerse themselves in Portuguese culture should consider this traditional Algarve town with a medieval castle, a weekend market and nearby hiking trails. Loulé is 20 minutes from the coast, and offers an authentic taste of Algarve life. “It attracts older families and those who want more privacy and space,” says Begg. “Spacious villas on the outskirts of town typically start at €1 million.

“Head into the beautiful hills between Almancil and Loulé, and you’ll find wonderful properties in areas such as Goldra and Vale Formoso. 

“There’s serious buying power in the countryside, too, demonstrated by our recent sale of a wonderful villa on the market for €5.95 million. You get more for your money and often a good sea view, something that’s a rarity on the flatter coastline of the central Algarve.”