USEFUL ALGARVE INFORMATION

Electricity and time zone

In Portugal, as throughout Europe, 230 Volt alternating current is used. Plugs and sockets are 2 pin types C and F, and you will need an adaptor to use UK plugs. It can happen that the power fails for a short time, furthermore the water can stay away, this is normal. In this case please do not despair, it is rare and usually does not last long. Contact your local contact person if you have the feeling it only concerns your house, he will be at your side and determine what is going on. Western European time applies, which is the same as the UK. For Germany you have one hour shift (e.g. Germany = 15:00 o’clock / Portugal = 14:00 o’clock).

Shopping

The city of Almancil focuses mainly on the exclusive clientele of luxury resorts. You will find renowned international shops, covering all your personal and decorative shopping needs. Most resorts have their own shopping facilities, especially exclusive boutiques.

Bougainvilla Plaza, for example, is the place to see and be seen. Faro, the largest city in the Algarve, offers everything a shopping heart could want. From small boutiques, handicraft and art shops, there is something for every taste. In the historic centre there are large pedestrian zones, narrow alleys and numerous squares that invite you to stroll in a relaxed atmosphere. There are smaller supermarkets, butchers and bakers all over the city. Only in the tourist areas the shops are open 7 days a week, here you can almost always buy fresh bread every day.

Armacão de Pera and Portimão have been some of the most famous seaside resorts in the Algarve for many years and the beaches are among the most beautiful and longest in the Algarve. In Armacão de Pera the traditional fishing with the “small fishing boats” has been preserved and many of these beautiful boats can still be admired here. Remarkable on the coast near Armacão de Pera is the almost dangerous Senhora da Rocha chapel built on the high rocks, where an excursion alone is worthwhile for the view.

In the old city centre of Portimão, there are street cafés as well as many shops that invite to stroll or shop. In addition, there are still many possibilities at the newly built marina of Portimão. Larger supermarkets (Modelo & Lidl) can be found in Silves, 15 minutes away by car. Also here you can stroll very well and find many sights that invite to a detailed tour through the city.

Golf

Golf is without doubt the most popular sport in the Algarve, no wonder when you imagine the ideal climatic conditions and the indescribable beauty of the course design and its surroundings. Here you can read a small selection of excellent golf courses, made up of a total of about 25 courses that the Algarve has to offer.

Close to the town of Almancil:

Quinta do Lago

36 holes divided into Quinta Lago south course (today known as “Quinta do Lago” course, formerly “championship” course), par 72, 6488m and Quinta Lago north course (also known as Ria Formosa course, par 72, 6205m). Quinta do Lago course hosted the Portuguese Open seven times. Particularly suitable for long-distance golfers, main difficulties are the strategically placed bunkers, occasional water hazards and large uneven greens. This scenic course is a fun experience for players of all levels.

Vale do Lobo

also offers two 18-hole courses, Ocean course and Royal course. As the name suggests, the Ocean course has several holes right on the Atlantic, where white sand and deep blue water provide a wonderful backdrop. There are also park-like holes running through the Vale do Lobo course. The combination is a challenge regardless of your handicap. The Royal course is designed by Sir Henry Cotton and features the legendary seventh hole. “Rocky” Roquemore revised the original plans and created a delightful test for every golfer. The sixteenth hole is the spectacular par-3 hole with 205m over the reddish rocks that make Vale do Lobo so famous.

Around Armacao de Pera:

Pinta Course

The Monchique Mountains form the spectacular backdrop of this excellent golf course. Main features; large, partly deep bunkers and good, fast greens. 18 holes, par 71, 6151 m², with David Leadbetter Academy and chipping green.

Vale do Milho

This compact 9-hole course is the only par 3 of its kind in the Algarve. Interesting and varied holes, good to test the skills of the short game. The greens are of normal size, water hazards and bunkers are very similar to those of a full course. Extras; chipping and putting green.

Around Portimão:

Penina Golf

8 times winner of the Portuguese Open, innumerable trees, water hazards provide tension, 36 holes in total. Designer: Sir Henry Cotton.

Alto Golf

Majestic terrain overlooking the Atlantic Ocean and the Monchique Mountains, over 10,000 newly planted trees, not too difficult. 16th hole; 604 m(!), one of the longest in Europe. Designer: Sir Henry Cotton.

Physicians

Doctors of all nationalities practice in the Algarve, especially in the Central Algarve there are a large number of general practitioners, specialists and dentists. Some work with a 24-hour emergency number, home visits are also usually possible. Alvor has a private hospital with an excellent reputation, open 24 hours a day, most credit cards are accepted and there is a direct connection to several major health insurers.

Portimao offers a state hospital with a fantastic separate pediatric clinic, open 24 hours a day, there is also English speaking staff. Many common medical methods, creams, pills, etc. are easy to get in the well-equipped ‘Farmacias’ (pharmacies), dozens available in this region.

Useful addresses

British Vice Consulate Portimão

Edificio A Fábrica
Avenida Guanaré
8501-915 Portimão
Portugal

Telephone:
+351 282 490 750
+44 20 7008 5000