Casa Branquinha

Casa Branquinha is a two-bedroom air-conditioned villa situated on the very popular, small and privately owned Quinta da Saudade, a mature development set within the grounds of an old Portuguese farmhouse.

The Quinta da Saudade Algarve overlooks farmland and the marshes of Pera where there is a wetlands nature reserve with birds such as purple gallinule, spoonbill, flamingos and marsh harrier. The marshes separate the Quinta from the sea about a mile away.

The Quinta da Saudade Algarve Villa has two swimming pools, one large pool with a separate shallow end for smaller children and a quieter kidney-shaped pool set in beautiful gardens close to Casa Branquinha. In addition, there is a tennis court, mini golf, petanque, table tennis and a children’s play area with its own paddling pool. The original farmhouse has been converted into an independently run bar and restaurant that is open at lunchtime and in the evenings. There is also a poolside bar that serves light meals throughout the day and holds weekly barbecues during the Summer season. The riding stables at the Quinta have a fabulous selection of horses and ponies for hacks and lessons.

The accommodation consists of two bedrooms, one with twin beds and en-suite bathroom and the second with twin beds, adjoining bathroom and door leading to a private walled garden. The kitchen is fully equipped with gas cooker, microwave, washing machine and large fridge/freezer.

The villa has satellite television and video. There is a wood burning stove, heated towel rails, wall radiators and electric blankets for the cooler months. The villa has internet access.

To the side of the property is a very pretty private walled garden with built-in barbecue, sun loungers, a table and chairs. Leading from the sitting room is a small front terrace with a table and chairs overlooking the hills opposite.

The nearest beach, about 1½ miles away, has long stretches of sand bounded by dunes with a beach bar and is never crowded, even in August. Further along the coast there are pretty sandy coves, hidden amongst stunning Algarve rocks and cliffs, with clear rock pools to explore.

The fishing towns of Albufeira and Armacao de Pera are about ten minutes drive away with plenty of restaurants, shops, markets and nightlife. Close to the Quinta is the old village of Guia that has numerous inexpensive restaurants where chicken piri-piri is a mouth-watering speciality.

Prices include maid service, electricity and gas, linen and towels (not beach towels). The rental of cots and high chairs are extra.

Electricity and wood are charged as extras during the winter months