The Algarve is no doubt one of the most popular areas of Portugal for overseas property buyers. But when it comes to prices, the sky is the limit. The good news? The Algarve is relatively compact, so you are never really far from anything, wherever you choose to buy. We suggest four more affordable towns in the region.
1-bedroom apartment in Monte Gordo, Algarve
Monte Gordo sits right on the border with Spain. In fact, you can see the neighbouring country from the beach, which is widely regarded as the most impressive stretch of sand in the eastern Algarve.
It’s a lively resort town which attracts people from all over Europe who come specifically for the magnificent golden sand beach and warm gentle waters. While it is a popular spot, it remains less hectic than some of the other coastal resorts in the Algarve.
There are an abundance of beachfront cafes, bars and restaurants in the area, or hop in your car and you can be exploring a Spanish beach in less than 10 minutes! The town is located just 40 minutes from the well-served Faro airport, so could easily be reached for weekend trips or holidays from the UK.
Property prices: Most properties in the area are villas, townhouses and beachfront apartments. Apartments start from around €140,000 and townhouses from around €225,000. Larger villas and houses tend to start from €300,000.
5-bedroom townhouse in Tavira, Algarve
Tavira is an elegant town that sits on either side of the Rio Gilão. The town lies just 3km from the coast, so is the perfect base to enjoy the gorgeous beaches of Ilha de Tavira, which can be reached by ferry or water taxi.
In Tavira itself, you’ll find an impressive Roman bridge, a ruined hilltop castle and an eclectic mix of Gothic and Renaissance architecture. The town’s pretty, cobbled streets open out onto large, café-lined squares which are the perfect place the enjoy a coffee and watch the world go by.
While Tavira is a popular tourist destination, it remains a working town, meaning there are always things open, even in the off season.
Property prices: A wide range of properties are on offer, from traditional townhouses and apartments in the centre to modern developments on the outskirts. Bargains can be found if you’re willing to do some work to the property, with renovation projects from as little as €80,000. If you’re looking for a key-ready property, townhouses and apartments start from around €150,000.
5-bedroom detached villa in Olhão, Algarve
Located just 8 miles from Faro and its airport, Olhão is a traditional fishing town in the central Algarve. It is still very much an active port—the biggest in the region.
Fans of seafood will be in heaven in Olhão. There is a large daily market showcasing the catch of the day and other fresh produce, and the town’s fish restaurants are some of the best in the country. There is also an annual shellfish festival, held in August, which is a six-day extravaganza of all things seafood.
The town has a strong Moorish influence and a unique North African feel, making it an interesting place to explore. It is also close to the Parque Natural da Ria Formosa nature reserve where you can walk a 3km trail through a diverse ecosystem of dunes, salt marshes and pine woodlands.
Property prices: Olhão has grown in popularity in recent years and several modern developments have begun to pop up. Apartments start from around €200,000 or more traditional properties from around €150,000, although some do need some TLC.
3-bedroom townhouse in Quarteira, Algarve
Known as ‘Vilamoura’s affordable neighbour’, Quarteira offers great value for money. It is just a beach away from Vilamoura, so benefits from all the glitzy amenities, without the hefty price tag.
Quarteira has been a resort for longer than Vilamoura and is a popular summer holiday destination with the Portuguese. The town boasts a gorgeous, golden sand beach and pleasant promenade lined with brilliant restaurants and bars. There is also a lovely, colourful harbour with a vibrant fish market.
Faro airport is less than 30 minutes away, so the area is very accessible from the UK.
Property prices: Property in the area tends to be high-rise, but many apartments come with a sea view. More traditional townhouses can be found if you head away from the seafront. Apartments start at around €170,000 and townhouses from €250,000.
Written by Overseas Guides Company.
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