We were two families, ten of us in all. We all had a wonderful holiday for two weeks. The pool area (with plenty of sun loungers) and covered veranda (with a large table and plenty of chairs) were ideal and we spent most of our time between these areas! The gardens were lovely with mature plants and old trees, a gorgeous environment. The kitchen was well equipped and the lounge area comfy for the kids to watch the odd movie- although, would not have been able to accommodate all 10 of us. All the beds were super comfy and meant we struggled to get our teenagers to rouse themselves in the mornings! In an ideal world, we could have done with one more bathroom.
The position of the villa is great with views over the sea and a 15 minute walk into Benagil across tracks through the protected countryside. The nearest restaurants were a very short walk down the road and the owner of ‘The Old Fashioned’ and his staff were very friendly. Apollonia supermarket in Lagoa was brilliant and a regular haunt during our stay!
We enjoyed the surrounding area and beaches there (early starts to avoid the crowds on the beaches) a must do trip is the 1hr 15min boat trip around the caves from Benagil beach. If there are 10 of you it makes sense to charter a boat privately through them and you get a drink and snacks included for €300 (2018 prices) do book.
We also enjoyed Tavira- we ate at the tres Palmieras - a local haunt, turn up early to avoid the queues and eat as much BBQ fish as you can in a refectory style setting. Our whole bill, for 10 of us including drinks came to under €100- great value and an adventure.
Silves was another highlight with ancient streets and buildings, so unspoilt.
Take a boat trip for the day from Vilamoura- enjoy a bbq on a beach and kayak around the caves, great fun.
The Algarve is a wonderful destination and Casa Milonga the perfect base camp. Thank you Raul.