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Situated about 4 km (2 miles) north of town, the hostel – which is spacious and inviting – makes up for its lack of proximity to the beach and sights with a tennis court and pool. There is also an indoor billiards and table tennis area.

Nearby lagoon beaches make the Sines hostel an attractive option, though it does have its own pool set in grounds of trim lawn and dwarf palms.

Set in a quiet street off Praça Marquês de Pombal, this is a cosy and homely place to stay. There’s a small bar area, where guests can get plenty of information about nearby sights and activities, including river cruises along the Guadiana.

The yellow shutters of this hotel sparkle over the quiet town of São Brás de Alportel. Most rooms overlook a hinterland of olive and cork trees, while the pool, tennis facilities and regional cuisine completes the picture.

This refurbished family-run farmhouse is set in wonderful gardens on a tranquil, 3-hectare site. There’s a swimming pool, an outdoor jacuzzi and a children’s play area. Dinner can be provided on request.

Cattle roam the track leading up to this attractive estate of converted barns and outhouses. Perfect for those seeking privacy, rural air and rustic food.

Peacefully located on the lake’s edge, the quinta has rooms and self-catering units. There’s sailing, wind-surfing and some lovely walks.

Set in a pretty valley, this site offers all necessary facilities – toilets, hot showers, laundry rooms, shops and restaurant. There are studios and apartments for rent too, and there’s even a separate area for naturists!

This agency features quality properties to rent in the Algarve resorts of Carvoeiro, Tavira and Albufeira, among other locations. Also has villas in the pretty inland village of Alte.