Today we are going to talk about one the things that make us feel most passionate about: The Algarve. Read on to know the many reasons why you should move to the Algarve in 2021 (or any time in your life).
The Algarve is a region covering about 5000 square kilometres situated on the southernmost coast of Portugal. This region is culturally rich, has a good number of English speakers, and has a relatively low crime rate compared to the rest of Europe.
In this regards, a lot of people have been looking into relocating to the Algarve in recent years for a variety of reasons. The Live and Invest Overseas Index even named the Algarve the best place to retire back in 2016.
This may come as news to some, but that’s what this blog post is meant to address. Stick with us and learn why an increasing number of people are looking to move to the Algarve in 2021.
Why move to the Algarve in 2021?
If you’re still undecided, we’ve compiled a list of seven compelling reasons you would want to move to the Algarve. Here we go:
1️⃣ Great climate
Some people claim Algarve has the best climate in Europe. While this is debatable, this area does indeed have a wonderful climate and is the sunniest place in Europe. The annual sunshine ranges between 2700 hours to above 3100 hours. Living in Algarve, you get to experience one of the warmest climates in Europe. The summer months are usually the warmest, with July providing temperatures between 29 – 30º C on the coast and 32 – 35º C further inland. The winter months are mild, with December being the wettest.
2️⃣ The perfect region for Alfresco dining
The perfect weather shouldn’t go to waste. While living in the Algarve, you should enjoy the sunshine. What better way to do that than having an outdoor grill and kitchen for alfresco dining? The spectacular views and awesome inexpensive wines will go great with the culinary delights we are sure you have planned. Take a look at this 10 Incredible Outdoor Kitchen ideas to build yours in the Algarve.
3️⃣ Low crime rates
Portugal is the fifth most peaceful country in the world. The Algarve benefits from this, and in recent years, the meagre crime rate has been on the decline.
4️⃣ Low cost of living
The cost of living is low, especially when compared to Spain, Italy, and France. Property costs are also lower than in the countries mentioned above. Over here, the rent is slightly higher than that in most of Portugal. This is because the area has been steadily becoming more popular as a holiday spot.
5️⃣ Rich history and culture
With a lot of festivals, castles, and cathedrals, Algarve has enough history of dazzling and enticing. The older architecture shows traces of Moorish ancestry, and there are enough traces of its Roman occupiers to satisfy the most stringent history buff.
6️⃣ Entertainment
This magical and culture-rich area has some of the most amazing beaches. Most of them are certified as Blue Flag beaches. The culture of Portugal is rich in art and music. Dining is also varied enough that there’s something for everyone: from simple fare to Michelin star dining. Sports are also a big part of the area, with football, surfing, tennis, and golf all playing prominent roles. Family-centred entertainment is also available with resorts and water parks littered all over.
7️⃣ Large expatriate population
Owing to its popularity as a holiday and retirement spot, the Algarve hosts a large number of expatriates. The favourable taxing laws, low property costs, friendly natives, and low crime rates all combine to make the region one that is extremely attractive to foreigners. The quality infrastructure, low cost of living, excellent and affordable healthcare all add to its allure.
More stories about Portuguese culture & cuisine
- What to do in the Algarve during summer
- Beat the summer heat! Get awnings for your place in the Algarve
- Best ever Portuguese-style grilled sardines recipe
- The Portuguese grilled codfish recipe you will love to cook!
Some notable cities in the Algarve
Besides Faro, Lagos, and Almancil there are many more towns to visit in the Algarve such as Albufeira, Portimão, and Tavira. You will fall in love with this beautiful region.
Faro
Faro is the administrative center of the Algarve. It is also the second-largest municipality with a population of about 65,000. Faro has more of a city feel than most of the other parts of the Algarve as it is also the commercial center. The city is home to the international airport, the public university (University of Algarve), and a host of other metropolitan conveniences, including a 30,000 seat capacity stadium.
If you’re out for that Portuguese beach feel, then this isn’t your spot. Not that there isn’t much to do. The city offers fine dining, a wildlife park (Rio Formosa Natural Park), and proximity to metropolitan comforts.
Lagos
This port city is located at the mouth of the Bensafrim River and borders the Atlantic. Lagos is one of the most visited cities in the Algarve and Portugal as a whole, and it isn’t difficult to see why. The area is home to some of the most stunning beaches you’ll ever see including Praia do Camilo, Praia Dona Ana and Meia Praia, the most popular tourist beach in Portugal. The vibrant night-life, restaurants, and hotels are almost an unneeded bonus. The area is also steeped in history; it was once the centre of the European slave trade and is home to the historic centre of the Portuguese Age of Discovery.
Almancil
Located in the Loulé municipality, the town of Almancil is located in what is called the Golden Triangle region of the Algarve. It is one of the most affluent towns in Portugal and is known for having the most Michelin Star restaurants of any town in the Algarve (3). The area supports the nearby residential developments: Vale do Lobo and Quinta do Lago. These areas host prime golfing terrain and have hosted the Portuguese Open and part of the PGA European Tour several times. Property rates in these areas are among the highest in Portugal.
Have a look at the many outdoor kitchens we have supplied for our clients in Quinta do Lago.
Did we convince you to move to the Algarve in 2021?
We doubt anyone needs more reasons to move to the wonderful Algarve. The multi-cultural nature of the area, low crime rates, affordable cost of living, affordable health care, history, culture, all speak for themselves. The climate and cuisine are added advantages. Why not move down to the Algarve in 2021 and experience them for yourself?
If you are lucky enough to be starting a new chapter of your life in the Algarve, be sure to take the time to explore this truly inspiring region.