The central and western Algarve historically have been the most popular parts of Portugal’s famous coastline amongst expat retirees, especially those who enjoy a round of golf, and property investors.

However, the Eastern Algarve should not be overlooked by British people looking for a home somewhere calmer and less touristy. The reason why there has been less development there can perhaps be put down to the fact that much of the area is separated from the Atlantic by the Rio Formosa Natural reserve – an area made up of salt-pans, marshland and lagoons. This means that rather than your typical beaches, if you want to sunbathe and have a paddle there you have to venture out onto long sandy islands and outcrops. The coastline is wild and interesting and in stark contrast with the rugged coastline found in the west.

Inland, the Eastern Algarve is far less developed too and you can expect to come across rustic countryside villages full of friendly locals. That said, small modern developments are available there too, such as this one from a leading Portugal agent and promoted through the Portugal Buying Guide.

The development benefits from wonderful views of the town, the mountains and the River Gilao. The properties are close to a wide range of waterfront restaurants and are less than five minutes away from Gran Plaza Commercial Centre and the historic centre of Tavira. There are a number of top golf courses in the surrounding area. The development is made up of different sized apartments, penthouses and medical assisted residences, which means there is something to suit everyone’s needs and budget.

We chatted to Ben Taylor who writes for the Portugal Buying Guide. As a resident of Tavira, Ben talks about what attracted him to the town: “Tavira won my wife and I over on our very first visit. The town is unspoilt because it is still relatively undiscovered. It is because of this that it has managed to retain much of its old fashioned Portuguese charm. I love exploring the old cobbled streets and the town’s old churches. It’s a pleasure to call Tavira home.”

For details of property for sale in Portugal, visit the Portuguese listings on Rightmove Overseas. One way to save money when buying property in Portugal, or retiring there, is to use a currency specialist when transferring your pounds into euros to complete the purchase of your property. For more information on this, visit the Currency Zone.

To understand the full step-by-step process to buying a property in Portugal, collect The Overseas Guides Company’s ‘Portugal Property Buying Guide’