Dunas Douradas

Famed for its year-round sunshine and outstanding beaches, the Algarve tops holiday wish lists for good reason. Not only will you have 200 kilometres of coastline to explore, but two sandy beaches right on your doorstep. 

Praia do Ancão, situated a seven minute walk from Dunas Douradas, is perfect for holidaymakers who love a bit of privacy. Bordered by Ria Formosa Nature Reserve and backed by rolling sand dunes, there’s ample space to lay your towel and admire the picture-postcard views. 

Continue west and you’ll soon sink your toes into the soft sands of Praia do Garrão. Slightly buzzier and home to beachfront restaurants, this is a top spot for a bite to eat. The sunsets here are spectacular too – a mighty fine excuse to stick around and order another cocktail.

Stretch your legs and discover just what makes this part of Portugal so popular. History buffs should make a beeline for the medieval town of Loulé, while prestigious golf resorts like San Lorenzo and Pinheiros Altos attract putters from all over the world. Alternatively, glimpse the Algarve’s wilder side on a white-knuckle quad bike ride through unspoilt countryside. 

Ria Formosa Nature Reserve is one of the best birding hotspots anywhere in the Mediterranean. The beautiful lagoons and salt marshes can be toured by foot, bicycle or horseback. Nature-lovers flock here for a glimpse of the elusive little bittern.

As well as villas close to the beach, your holiday rental in Dunas Douradas puts you in a prime position to access the resort’s on-site perks, including a state-of-the-art gym and action-packed kids club.

The centrepiece of the lovely town of Loulé, a 20-minute drive from Dunas Douradas, is the 19th century market hall which bursts into life every Saturday morning. Shoulder-to-shoulder stalls groan under the weight of locally-grown honey and handicrafts – superb gifts to take home. 

For more serious shopping, head to the premium boutiques of Vale do Lobo and Quinta Shopping centres. Both house a selection of fashion labels, but the latter holds extra appeal thanks to its quaint village-esque atmosphere and al fresco cafes. 

A good supermarket is a must for self-catering villa holidays in Dunas Douradas. Luckily, you’re in safe hands. Pingo Doce’s well-stocked shelves provide all the ingredients you need to rustle up your very own Portuguese feast.

When it comes to eating out, the seafront restaurants close to Dunas Douradas provide a mouthwatering option. Scoffing freshly-grilled fish while overlooking the Atlantic Ocean is a pleasure. But don’t worry, if seafood isn’t your thing, versatile menus cater for every kind of appetite. 

During the day, laidback vibes abound at these eateries. Simply hop off the sands and straight into satisfying your rumbling stomachs! But when the sun goes down, the idyllic surroundings take on a romantic edge. Whenever you visit, breathtaking views are your constant companion.

The Algarve’s high-end reputation is also reflected in the impressive number of fine dining restaurants in neighbouring Quinta do Lago, Almancil and Vale do Lobo. Go on, treat yourself.

It’s easy-peasy to find family-friendly villas in Dunas Douradas. The vast majority of villa rentals benefit from private swimming pools, so there’s no need to pack your beach bags every time your clan fancies some fun in the sun. 

The beauty of Dunas Douradas is that every holiday home is different, giving you the freedom to choose what’s most important to your family. Built-in garden barbecues, games consoles, table tennis and laundry rooms (okay, that last one’s for the parents!) – there are plenty of perks to pick from.

Meanwhile, the affordable holiday apartments in Dunas Douradas rest right by the resort’s Beach Club. Next to the four sparkling swimming pools, the kids club and, of course, a wonderful beach, they’re an ideal base for smaller families.