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Algarve
villas are close to gorgeous
beaches, warm water and glorious sunshine year-round,
Algarve
holiday villas are a dream holiday.
Situated
on the extreme South of Portugal, this part of the territory was
the last to be conquered from the Moors by the Portuguese king Dom
Afonso III, in 1292. Traces of the Moorish presence are still seen
in its unique terraces, chimneys and whitewashed houses.
However,
the distance that was difficult to cover back in the 13th century
is no longer an obstacle thanks to the modern highway and coastal
road and Faro international airport. So why not visit this
charming region, with its idyllic temperatures (average
temperature in winter of 14°C and 24°C - 57°F and 75°F - in
summer, rarely going below 12°C - 53°F- during winter and
reaching as high as 28°C or 30°C - 82°F or 86° F - in July and
August), which are ideal for playing golf and other sports.
In
the northern part of
Algarve
, the ranges of Espinhaço de Cão, Monchique and Caldeirão
shelter the coast from strong winds. This brightly colored region,
with its fig trees, orange groves and almond trees in blossom, is
also the most verdant and fertile. The southern coastline consists
of a long stretch of fabulous sandy beaches, broken up by
extraordinary rugged red cliffs and fantastic grottoes.
Apart
from the wealth of available water sports facilities (the marinas
of Vilamoura and
Lagos
deserve special mention, amongst the various ports and harbours),
there are other alternatives, such as tennis courts, famous golf
courses, luxury hotels or quaint holiday resorts and an exciting
nightlife.
The proximity of the Mediterranean Sea greatly influences the Algarvean climate. Summers are hot and dry and winters are mild with hardly any rain (50 days with rain and 500 mm on average each year), combined with very inviting Springs and Autumns.
The sea water temperature starts at around 14ºC in January and reaches a high 22ºC in August. A pleasant sea breeze refreshes the average annual temperature of the region, which is 17,7ºC (15ºC in January and up to 28ºC or more in July and August). The Algarve can also count on around 3.000 hours of Sun during the year which makes it a favourite destination for those who fancy such a delightful climate.
As can be observed, during Summer, the temperature in the Algarve is very high (it can go over 40ºC/100ºF exceptionally) and the periods of sun are long. It is common knowledge that excess sun can cause illnesses such as skin cancer.
The safest procedure is to use plenty of high-factor sunscreen, especially on children. A hat is an indispensable accessory, as are a good pair of sunglasses. It is advisable to avoid exposure to the sun during its strongest point in the day, between midday and 3 o'clock in the afternoon. In the case of sunburns or sunstroke, do seek medical attention.
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