Those interested in buying in the Portugal property market can find a cheaper alternative in the north of the country, it has been stated.

Investors keen on Porto and the Douro valley will be able to find an emerging market which offers more than just the famous Port wine, the Financial Times reports.

Paul Symington, of Port wine producer Symingtons, told the paper there are many property bargains available in the picturesque Douro valley, stating: "The government is keen to encourage people to renovate houses in the old mountain villages such as Alijo and many inland vineyards are being depopulated, so there are opportunities if you are prepared to be pioneering."

Mr Symington also noted that the Douro valley and the city of Porto are now better connected, with direct flights from the UK, a new underground rail system in Porto itself and a forthcoming high-speed rail link that will enable travellers to get down to Lisbon in 90 minutes.

Another place in Portugal tipped to do well is Tavira on the eastern Algarve.

Those looking to buy into Algarve property should look there because apartments can start at around £136,000 and it is less busy than the central Algarve, Mary Mangan of estate agency Winksworth told the Daily Telegraph last week.

This story was brought to you by Rightmove Overseas, the UK’s leading overseas property portal and part of Rightmove.co.uk. It’s time to stop dreaming and start searching!