Read today's Portuguese stories delivered to your email The Assembly of the Republic has unanimously approved, the elevation of Almancil presented in September 2024 by the socialist deputies elected by the Faro constituency was approved in general terms in the plenary in October 2024 with favourable votes from deputies from all benches The document was being analysed by the Local Power and Territorial Cohesion Commission the body responsible for analysing all the legally required requirements and opinions for classification the PS deputies claimed that "it is easily concluded that Almancil meets the criteria to be elevated to the category of city a location with more than 8,000 voters and at least half of the following facilities can be elevated to the category of city: hospital facilities preparatory and secondary education establishments pre-primary education establishments and nurseries public transport and public parks or gardens Almancil is a parish in the municipality of Loulé with an area of ​​62.30 square kilometres and 10,677 inhabitants a population increase that has almost doubled since 1981 The new city is located approximately 14 kilometres from Gago Coutinho International Airport approximately six kilometres from the cities of Loulé and Quarteira and 10 kilometres from the city of Faro The deputies highlight in the bill that Almancil “has a remarkable with a set of fundamental infrastructures for economic and financial activity of which banking institutions are the most visible part since it holds the highest proportion of banking institutions 'per capita'” We appreciate that not everyone can afford to pay for our services but if you are able to we ask you to support The Portugal News by making a contribution – no matter how small You can change how much you give or cancel your contributions at any time Send us your comments or opinion on this article Reaching over 400,000 people a week with news about Portugal This website is using a security service to protect itself from online attacks The action you just performed triggered the security solution There are several actions that could trigger this block including submitting a certain word or phrase You can email the site owner to let them know you were blocked Please include what you were doing when this page came up and the Cloudflare Ray ID found at the bottom of this page Incredible attention to detail at Almancil Loulé's an amazing home for sale in Portugal's exclusive Quinta do Lago resort Few likely predicted what the marshland that’s now Quinta do Lago The original 1,360-acre site contained the ruins of an old farmhouse a stone pine forest and the holiday resort of Vale do Lobo And the country’s politics were still unstable: 1968 marked the end of António de Oliveira Salazar’s rule (he presided over one of the longest-lived authoritarian regimes in modern Europe) but the Portuguese Colonial War was ongoing Not exactly prime building and investment conditions spoke often about how when he looked out across the parcel of largely undeveloped southern Portuguese land for the first time building golf courses and necessary infrastructure and establishing Quinta do Lago as one of Europe’s leading golf and real estate resorts he is billed as ‘the father of Portuguese tourism’ Development of the resort — now under the ownership of Irish billionaire Denis O’Brien — continues to this day including the construction of this seven-bedroom villa which has sea views and is walking distance from some of the area’s best restaurants and the beach (Image credit: John D Wood)(Image credit: John D Wood)(Image credit: John D Wood)(Image credit: John D Wood)(Image credit: John D Wood)(Image credit: John D Wood)Almancil Loulé all clean angles and floor-to-ceiling glass was designed by Jutta Hoehn — the brains behind many of Quinta do Lago’s newer properties Futuristic features of note include a floating gas fireplace an electric front door and electronically-controlled glass walls which open out onto a poolside terrace that’s perfectly set-up for alfresco dining The entire first floor is reserved for the primary bedroom with ensuite bathroom (look out for the micro cement finish) and private terrace (elevated seating firepit) — but you’ll have to divide your time between that and the sprawling rooftop one which has a 20-person jacuzzi and a mini kitchen for late-night entertaining It rains very little in the Algarve — and chiefly between November and March — but the house does come equipped with an additional indoor pool sauna and a massage area — which should keep you busy as and when the sun decides to take a day off right down to a fully-stocked kitchen (induction hob a Delonghi coffee making station) — so you can get on with holidaying in style large garage with car turntable and an infinity swimming pool with an overflow feature that runs down to the lower garden Almancil Loulé is for sale with John D Wood for €23,500,000 (about £20 million). For more information and pictures, click here. Rosie PatersonSocial Links NavigationRosie is Country Life's Digital Content Director & Travel Editor She joined the team in July 2014 — following a brief stint in the art world she edited the magazine's special Queen's Platinum Jubilee issue and coordinated Country Life's own 125 birthday celebrations She has also been invited to judge a travel media award and chaired live discussions on the London property market Rosie studied Art History at university and has written for Mr & Mrs Smith and The Gentleman's Journal The rest of the office likes to joke that she splits her time between Claridge’s The Assembly of the Republic has approved, in general terms and unanimously, the classification of Almancil to the category of city and Boliqueime to town status, both in the municipality of Loulé The two bills presented by the socialist deputies elected for the Faro constituency having received favourable votes from deputies from all benches The proposals will now be sent to the Committee on Local Government and Territorial Cohesion the body responsible for analysing whether they meet all the legally required requirements and opinions “Now it is just a matter of checking the specifics by the committee whether the proposals are in accordance with the law and then proceeding to the final overall vote” explained deputy Jorge Botelho and PS coordinator in that committee “It is now safe to say that the Algarve has one more city and one more town from today onwards” the PS deputies state that "it is easy to conclude that Almancil meets the criteria for being elevated to the category of city a locality can be elevated to the category of city if it has more than 8,000 voters and at least half of the following facilities: hospital facilities preparatory and secondary education establishment pre-primary education establishment and nurseries a locality must have more than 3,000 voters in a continuous population cluster and at least half of the following establishments: medical centre commercial or hotel establishments and a public school has an area of ​​62.30 square kilometres and 10,677 inhabitants The deputies highlight in the proposal that Almancil “has a remarkable economic dynamism with a set of infrastructures that are fundamental for economic and financial activity of which banking institutions are the most visible part since it has the highest ratio of banking institutions 'per capita'” In the bill proposing the elevation of Boliqueime to the status of town signed by the parliamentarians elected by Faro joined by the socialist MP Pedro Delgado Alves the signatories consider that the town “has all the elements both in terms of demographics and the presence of facilities identified in the law” for its elevation Located between the cities of Loulé and Albufeira Boliqueime is a parish in the municipality of Loulé with an area of ​​46.21 square kilometres and an estimated population of around 6,000 inhabitants Performances begin at 3pm.  Saturdays January 18th and 25th and February 1st a traditional English tea and a glass of ‘bubbly’ When Portugal’s last king fled to England in 1910 the monarchy ended and soon afterwards the country became a Republic finding himself as something of a celebrity in London was often seen out and about in the most fashionable spots in town the play begins at an afternoon tea dance in Selfridges Department Store Based on fact and a degree of exaggeration the story of ‘Royal Tea’ follows the couple as they encounter the ex-king’s disapproving relative Queen Mary of Teck and other famous people of the time Christabel Pankhurst and Harry Selfridge are all played as comic caricatures and served traditional English tea alongside the audience Transported by the magic of theatre the audience will discover they are dining at Selfridges instead of watching a show at a restaurant in the Algarve Entertainment is provided by Selfridge’s Orchestra an extravagant performance of modern movement by Isadora Duncan and the dulcet voice of Gaby Deslys “Forever Blowing Bubbles” Written in rhyme and directed by Carolyn Kain Performed by an international group of ‘Random Players’ Profits to ‘Algarve Families in Need’ – registered charity Pre-booking essential Quinta das Borboletas – 963 812 845 The Gym and Padel Court at the 25 de Abril Multipurpose Pavilion Although the Pavilion was inaugurated on October 6 weight training machines with guided loads and disc loads a free weights area and a functional training area the complementary Turkish bath and sauna services will start operating For more information and opening times, please contact the services by telephone (+351) 289 400 720 or email pavilhao25abril@cm-loule.pt The Coastal and Border Control Unit (UCCF) of the GNR seized 21,400 doses of hashish and eleven jerry cans on Wednesday at Praia da Quinta do Lago The National Republican Guard (GNR) said in a statement that it has intensified patrolling actions along the Algarve coast following the worsening weather and sea conditions Almancil - Apreensão de 21 400 doses de haxixe e onze jerricãsApreendemos 21 400 doses de haxixe e onze jerricãs, na Praia da Quinta do Lago, no concelho de Almancil. https://t.co/tWxXfF2ksX pic.twitter.com/t1m3H6iX1F nine packages containing 21,400 doses of hashish and eleven jerry cans were detected On Tuesday, the GNR had already announced the seizure of 93.6 kilos of hashish on the Algarve coast at the beginning of the week, on beaches in the municipalities of Vila do Bispo and Lagoa For the first time ever, Portugal has its own dedicated Michelin Guide The 2024 edition and inaugural guide launches in the country’s sun-filled south Here is our insider look at the best of those hidden gems and places to slurp oysters with your feet in the sand and your face turned to the ocean spray – the best restaurants in the Algarve right now line-caught fish and wild game are all on the table this winter Start with sourdough bread from a nearby artisanal bakery while you admire Studio Gameiro's interiors Finish with ice cream from the herbs in the flourishing garden outside Address: Austa, R. Cristóvão Pires Norte, 8135-117 Almancil, PortugalWebsite: austa.pt Try the region’s scarlet shrimps with curry and lemon caviar the duck accompanied by sweet potato flavoured with eucalyptus and piri-piri and the sweet homage to Madeira of banana Address: A Ver Tavira, Calçada da Galeria, Largo Abu-Otmane 13, 8800-303 Tavira, PortugalWebsite: avertavira.com Al SudAl SudSet high above the Bay of Lagos housed in the clubhouse of Palmares Golf Course won a Michelin star just seven months after opening at the end of 2021 Chef Luis Anjos’s passion for the rich bounty from the Algarvian coast shines out of the menu Try his delicate violet prawns with the much-loved goose barnacles with shellfish from the Rio Alvor and the essential Portuguese herb take a table on the terrace and watch the fishing lights twinkle out at sea as night falls Address: Al Sud Palmares, Campo de Golfe de Palmares, 8600-250 Odiáxere, PortugalWebsite: palmaresliving.com Acclaimed chef Heinz Beck, who runs the three Michelin-starred La Pergola in Rome has an outpost in the Algarve at the Conrad Hotel in Quinta do Lago The restaurant has an open kitchen where Beck is often to be seen at the stove devotees can get their fix of his memorably delicious Faggotelli Carbonara his signature twist on the classic carbonara Indulge and opt for the nine-course tasting menu with red mullet from Sagres and langoustine with a nduja crust and take the wine pairing for the best gastro experience Gigi’sRodrigo BimeringGigi’sThe wooden deck of Gigi’s in the Algarve’s Quinta do Lago peeps over the Ria Formosa and serves the freshest fish and seafood albeit at a price – sometimes accompanied by bursts of opera from an ageing Gigi himself replaced by various grandchildren running around The day’s catch is listed on the blackboard – try the Algarve’s famous carabinieri (scarlet prawns) Address: Gigi’s Restaurant, Quinta do Lago South Portugal, Almancil, PortugalWebsite: quintadolago.com Ask anyone in the east of the Algarve for their favourite local restaurant This self-taught chef has won the hearts of the locals and with her recent appearance as a judge on MasterChef Her family-run restaurant overlooks the sea at Cabanas de Tavira and serves the freshest fish prawn tempura with a spicy mango salad or John Dory with coriander rice Those with a sweet tooth will enjoy the Algarvian flavours of almond and orange cake or carob and almond cake Address: Restaurante Noélia, Av. Ria Formosa 2, 8800-591 Cabanas, PortugalWebsite: facebook.com Alongside dishes which dazzle both in looks and taste faultless service and impeccable wine pairing with the Atlantic Ocean shimmering in front of you Address: Ocean, R. Anneliese Pohl, 8400-450 Porches, PortugalWebsite: restauranteocean.com Morgado do QuintãoOliveira MilenarMorgado do QuintaoEating al fresco comes into its own under the branches of the 2,000-year-old olive tree that stands at the heart of this winery Founded in the early 1800s by the Count of Silves and now run by the fourth generation of the family current owner Filipe Vasconcellos and his winemaker Joana Maçanita have been instrumental in establishing a wine profile for the Algarve with their low-intervention chemical-free wines from traditional grapes such as Negramole whether a plate of regional hams and cheeses or a family recipe for the much-loved bacalhau (dried cod) Address: Morgado do Quintão, Morgado do Quintão, 8400-000 Lagoa, PortugalWebsite: morgadodoquintao.pt Our go-to to celebrate high days and holidays and for that fix of sunshine and fresh fish within the sound of the waves this charming restaurant has a loyal following You might get some oysters or typical clams with garlic sauce followed by the freshest of sole or sea bass filleted at your table (do try the cheeks) and still tasting of the sea as is the service and the views out to sea Address: Restaurante Rei das Praias, Praia dos Caneiros, 8400-272 Ferragudo, PortugalWebsite: restaurantereidaspraias.com UmamiRodrigo CostaUmamiApart from being one of the best spots to watch the sun go down in the Algarve Umami delivers pitch-perfect Asian fare from sushi and sashimi to Robatayaki where meat fish and vegetables are slowly grilled over sustainably sourced Marabú wood Start with a sake-infused cocktail and a milk bun with miso butter and edamame Try the crunchy squid with black garlic in tempura or the yellowtail tartare with fish roe and rice crackers But save room for the melt-in-the-mouth dumplings – duck and pomegranate or pork dim sum before savouring the freshest of seabass charcoal grilled in the Robata and served with a coriander beurre blanc Address: Umami, Quinta do Lago, Rua das Palmeiras Rot.6, Av. André Jordan, 8135-024, PortugalWebsite: quintadolago.com Vino by Paper MoonAndre Pires SantosVino by Paper MoonGood wine bars are surprisingly hard to find in a country that produces so much good wine which surfaces at the newish W Algarve once winter has beaten a retreat Drawing on a cellar with over 1000 references renowned sommelier Miguel Martins will treat you to a memorable journey through vineyards across eight different countries Whilst the wine commands centre stage here comes courtesy of adjoining restaurant Paper Moon Start with the yellowtail marinated with dry vermouth martini to set the tone Beautifully set in a tiny gem of a palace hotel on the edge of a cliff overlooking the golden sands of Praia da Rocha the food at one Michelin star Vista restaurant is more than a match for its surroundings weaves together the culinary highlights of the Algarve to create a memorable dinner The sound of the sea echoes through his dish of mussels and sea urchins A sun-filled garden can be tasted in his organic tomatoes Address: Vista, Av. Tomás Cabreira 1, 8500-510 Portimão, PortugalWebsite: vistarestaurante.com The OneThe OneSomewhat hidden away at the water’s edge The One delivers a sophisticated and impressively polished menu from its setting in Caroveiro’s Tivoli Hotel Open for dinner only; ask to eat al fresco as the moon dapples the limestone rocks beside you there is a choice of tasting menus (vegan is one option with an excellent cappuccino of peas) and an à la carte menu where you can expect dishes such as a fried moray eel with Algarvian carrot aioli or hook-fished hake with pureed watercress Address: The One Restaurant, Estr. do Farol 5, 8401-911 Carvoeiro, PortugalWebsite: tivolihotels.com Vasco CélioVila JoyaRun with love by owner Joy Jung whose mother Claudia created this paradise from the little cliff-top Moorish palazzo that she fell in love with decades ago food under Chef Dieter Koschina is as much a part of Vila Joya as is the sound of the waves of the sea lulling you to sleep One of the few restaurants in Portugal to have two Michelin stars Austrian Koschina impresses with signature dishes such as red mullet meaning you never have to eat anywhere else And with its view onto the sea from its sun-lit terrace seamless service and Koschina’s dazzling dishes Address: Vila Joya, Estrada da Galé, 8200-416 Albufeira, PortugalWebsite: vilajoya.com one of the best restaurants in the Algarve tucked under the shadow of the village’s ancient queues have formed outside its doors to wait for the oysters brought in from the neighbouring Ria Formosa as you can see from the many locals slurping happily on the wooden tables outside – some of whom come on horseback after riding along the beach beneath Address: Casa da Igreja, Largo da Igreja 8900 Vila Real de Santo António, PortugalWebsite: facebook.com Vila Joya SEARicardo Nascimento/Vila JoyaVilla Joya SeaThe annual opening of this white-on-glossy-white chic beach shack with its wicker and adobe light shades swinging in the sea breeze over the cocktail counter and the raw coir rope blinds dropped to partially shade the beautiful people dining marks the onset of long days and warm nights Japanese cuisine (try the wagyu beef with caviar) is served on one side of the open kitchen while the other spotlights Mexican dishes (I am still dreaming of the Aguachile) Vila Joya Sea is somewhere which manages to perfectly combine memorable food with a feet-in-the-sand Algarvian sense of place Address: Villa Joya Sea, Estrada da Galé, 8201-917 Albufeira, PortugalWebsite: vilajoya.com EstaminéRestaurante EstaminéOnly accessible by boat, this eco-centric restaurant pays homage to the crystal-clear waters of the Ria Formosa that surround it It sits in solitary splendour on the white sands of Ilha Deserta (the Deserted Island) and is the main reason that people hop aboard the 15-minute speedboat shuttle which brings you here from Faro makes up much of the menu; here grilled simply with local olive oil and the region’s salt a kind of ham from the sea or the baby cuttlefish fried in their own ink Address: Restaurante Estaminé, Ilha Deserta, 8005-554, PortugalWebsite: ilhadeserta.com Zazu Beach CafeZazuOverlooking the beach in Praia de Luz Zazu turns out nicely spicy Asian fare from classic Pad Thai to unmissable prawn croquettes with tamarind mayo and coriander sushi rolls and the best sticky chicken bao in Portugal but opt for the crispy chicken with Thai leek dumplings and Tom Kha Gai foam if no Save room for the deconstructed white chocolate cheesecake to finish and then walk it all off along the beach beneath you Address: ZaZu Beach Club, Av. dos Pescadores 130, 8600-130 Luz, PortugalWebsite: zazubeachcafe.com sitting on the unspoilt west coast of the Algarve By the time you have walked down the steep hill to the beach Praia is a tiny white-washed restaurant which hangs over the beach Dishes delight beginning with the brioche and rye bread with flower-clad the pica-pau beef strips and their twist on a hot dog as it is such a pleasure to linger here by the sea and indulge in their ‘cappuccino’ to finish Address: Restaurante da Praia Arrifana, 8670-111 Aljezur, PortugalWebsite: restaurantepraiaarrifana.com Receive our review of the hottest new restaurant in London every week It's not all croissants and steak frites – from falafel to fine dining, these are the best restaurants in Paris right now Discover The World’s 50 Best Bars The most delicious cities in the world The true story behind the burnt Basque cheesecake Lidl has opened a new store in Almancil which joins the four existing in the municipality of Loulé and marks the chain's 18th store in the Algarve.  Representing an investment of over 8 million euros this store contributes to local development with the creation of almost 30 new jobs following the construction line of the current Lidl store concept the new Almancil store offers customers a modern and pleasant space which gives greater luminosity to the space which allow better circulation in the sales area” The Almancil store also has a car park in the basement of the building The Vivant Restaurant has opened on the outskirts of Almancil a school-turned-restaurant with a bedroom suite modelled after the experience of a traveller settling in the Algarve The wooden statue in the garden represents the “Vivant,” a character of no particular gender or nationality who “inhabits” the restaurant located halfway down Almancil’s Rua do Comércio “The story behind "Vivant" is someone who has lived throughout the world during his life and decided to settle in the Algarve after being held down by the pandemic,” Francisco Nobre you pass through the other room and it’s the winehouse then you have the bar and then the bed suite built-in 1884 as a public school and then converted into a restaurant in the mid-late 20th century In the garden stand two olive trees that have stood there for over a hundred years but at the same time very comforting place to be that’s what we want the experience to be for our customers,” Nobre described it was a garden with grass and we’ve made this wood deck everything you see outside is new.” Inside it was only supposed to take 6 months.” Difficulties with finding the ideal contractor and delays during construction held the restaurant’s opening date back but Francisco considers this a boon: “I think we’re opening at the right moment,” referring to the annual tripling of the Algarve’s population over the summer They won’t be packing up and leaving afterwards though as he plans to keep the restaurant open all year as the main target client base are the permanent residents who call the local area home and Almancil being close by is the natural area from Vilamoura to go for dinner You’re here in the middle of the perfect triangle of the Algarve I found this place in the centre and there’s lots of residents here that’s the kind of customers we’re looking for.” Francisco Nobre owns two more restaurants in Lisbon “Sem Vergonha” and “Descarado.” The former serves traditional Portuguese food in the city centre while the other sits on the docks and offers seafood with live entertainment “This is more cosmopolitan than the other two,” he said The restaurant has a number of social options on their menu designed to share between members at the table “I believe after Covid people want to share; they want to be in groups so we have that kind of approach to our menu.” “I’m in a difficult position to recommend,” Nobre struggled to recommend any specific dish to customers “I’ve tasted everything and it’s difficult to say I’ve tasted the tartars and they’re beautiful the chef made them in ways that I want people to come and taste themselves,” he explained highlighting the food’s quality and how he couldn’t do it justice in words “Come and taste for yourselves because I think there are very interesting approaches our chef the way he turned them around is amazing.” Francisco believes the food is also enhanced by the atmosphere that inhabits the restaurant “I’m very anxious that people come and have the wow feeling when they enter our door because I think that’s the first feeling you have when you come into the terrace I think when you get the wow feeling when you see it it reinforces the wow feeling when you taste the menu We want you to say ‘wow’ when you come and when say ‘woah’ when you come out.” soon to be six as another two will open soon in Lisbon and another one at Praia do Ancão the people he works with become ever more important “One very important thing is I have a partner with me so the managers for the restaurant are very important people they are of our trust and people that we know are very competent We have to have good management teams and implement good control and good management tools in order to identify and analyse everything in short notice so we can act when needed.” Fernando revealed you can indeed stay here “It’s been very looked into for the Instagrams and all that.” Nobre concluded by describing the experience that’s been designed for the customer: “We want to make the experience very familiar We have entertainment every night from Tuesday to Saturday people say you have to have a good vibe to enjoy Star in the 2015 music video for the hit single “Headlights” by German musician DJ and record producer Robin Schulz featuring American singer-songwriter Ilsey After months of redesigning and renovating, Martins E-bike in Almancil is now ready to party Martins E-bike invites all of their customers and bike enthusiasts in general to come and have a drink on Saturday 18 May from 3pm to 6pm to celebrate this new milestone in the history of the number 1 E-bike store in the Algarve “We have created over 500m2 of showroom with over 100 different models of E-bike for you to try,” says Jan Doove one of the proud owners of the E-bike store “Top brand Riese & Müller has chosen Martins E-bike as their exclusive Experience Store for the south of Portugal Prices start from around €2,000 for a brand-new bike But second-hand E-bikes are always available at very interesting prices” Together with Amsterdam based Branding & Design Studio White Label shop-owner Anne Marie Doove redesigned the entire inside and outside of the store “We have introduced a beechy style with wooden elements and Portugese tiles that mix very well in a bike store We also wanted an orange touch to the store Jan continues: “All our staff are specialised trained and certified for the brands we work with We are an official Shimano Service Center and all available Bosch trainings were completed by our technicians “My wife and I are so proud of our Portuguese team Come and experience for yourself why our customers rate us at an average of 9.4 for service You are more than welcome to have a look at our new store concept” Come and join us for the Grand Re-opening, on Saturday, 18 May from 3-6pm. Live music, drinks, bites, and bikes at Martins E-bike, Av. Duarte Pacheco 48, Almancil owned and operated by the dynamic mother-daughter team Cristina boasts a warm and inviting atmosphere that takes you on a culinary journey through Portugal delighting your taste buds from start to finish.  The restaurant opened in 2022 with Cristina and her eldest son Antonio who won a Da Vinci scholarship that took him to train in Cork Cristina started cooking at nine years old so it would be safe to say that this family of foodies has deep-seated roots in Portuguese cuisine at the kitchen's helm is Cristina's remarkably talented 18-year-old head chef and young daughter whose passion and creativity infuse each dish with a distinctive flair From the moment you step through the doors of Vintage you are enveloped in an ambience that exudes warmth and familial charm adorned with vintage accents and cosy seating transports you to a bygone era where hospitality reigns supreme Every aspect of the restaurant has been carefully curated to create an atmosphere that feels incredibly comfortable We were greeted with a warm welcome and taken to our linen-draped table set with golden chargers and tastefully decorated presented the menus and made a sound wine recommendation for us to enjoy with our meal The menu is well-diversified and manageable enabling the ladies to keep their carefully selected locally produced ingredients fresh The couvert consists of a selection of artisan bread black olive tapenade and the super tasty Moura carrots (Moura carrots are an old Alentejo style recipe using cumin) One word of advice is to take it easy on the couvert as the portions are generous and the dishes rich The starters offer various Portuguese and Mediterranean dishes creamy shallot puree and crispy parma ham and the pork tenderloin with orange and honey mustard The scallops were sumptuous and easily withheld the other flavours and balanced with sweet Algarve orange and tangy mustard From succulent seafood delicacies to mouthwatering meat dishes Matilde told us that the filo with goat's cheese is one of their best sellers; I'll be sure to try that next time With some time between the starters and main courses a classic vintage soundtrack that perfectly fitted the restaurant we chose the garlic octopus with sweet Alentejo potato & pumpkin puree with bimi The duck magret with a subtle orange and red wine sauce and lovely crisp long-stem bimi was also delicious Feeling fully satisfied and wondering if we could "find some space" we found space; it would have been hard to resist Sofia makes everything herself and told us that she loves baking and it is indeed evident; that the proof is in the pudding The Date Delight with Toffee was absolutely delicious and the Drunken Pear hit all the right notes With generous portions and rich Portuguese ingredients there's little chance of leaving Vintage hungry; Cristina and her young daughters will ensure that you have an excellent experience and leave with a full stomach and a happy heart Their passion for their craft extends beyond the kitchen making a dining experience at Vintage exceptional But Vintage's heart and soul lie in its kitchen where young prodigy Sofia orchestrates a symphony of flavours with finesse and creativity Under the guidance of her mother and grandmother from a young age creating dishes that are as visually stunning as they are delectable The menu at Vintage celebrates traditional Portuguese cuisine infused with contemporary twists showcasing the best of local and seasonal ingredients Each dish is a testament to Sofia's artistry with flavours that are bold yet harmonious I was really impressed by her confidence with seasoning Every dish was cooked and seasoned to perfection it's no wonder that Vintage has quickly become a favourite among locals and visitors alike Whether you're a seasoned foodie or simply seeking an unforgettable dining experience a visit to Vintage will surely leave you craving more Restaurante Vintage Open for Lunch 12-15.00 Monday to Saturday captures the essence of local cuisine with her evocative storytelling and insightful culinary explorations Passionate about showcasing the region's gastronomic treasures Vivant is delighted to announce the launch of themed brunches every Sunday starting on April 14th with a Mexican Themed Brunch.  including performances by a Mariachi band and a DJ setting the perfect atmosphere for the early evening indulge in fun activities like face painting and Piñatas for the kids (or the kids at heart) the Paloma Station promises to be a favourite spot for all Step into a world of culinary excellence and thematic delights as our restaurant transforms into a paradise of gastronomic wonders From tantalising international cuisines to beloved local flavours our themed brunches offer a delightful culinary journey for every palate Vivant extends a warm invitation to all gastronomy enthusiasts and those seeking a truly unforgettable experience in the heart of southern Portugal our remarkable restaurant promises a culinary journey unlike any other Boasting an inviting ambiance indoors and an expansive terrace that remains open year-round Our venue seamlessly combines the sophistication of a fine dining establishment with the cozy comfort of a living room offering an ideal setting for cherished gatherings with family and friends or intimate moments shared with loved ones For those who relish warm summer evenings filled with laughter Whether you're indulging in delectable meals with loved ones or dancing under the stars to the rhythm of live music Vivant offers an unforgettable setting for creating cherished memories Embark on an epic culinary adventure and immerse yourself in the vibrant tapestry of themed Sunday brunches Come join us as we redefine the art of dining and celebration 45€ per adult 22,5€ for children aged 6-12 30€ for premium drinks Make your reservation now by calling us at (+351) 925 934 415 / 925 934 413 or Whatsapp us at 351925934415. Alternatively, email us at reservations@vivant.pt Instagram: @vivant_almancil Nobel Algarve British International School recently held a Founders’ BBQ at its Almancil Campus to bring together the Almancil school community and celebrate completing registration as a Cambridge Primary School and Cambridge International School The event was attended by around 400 guests who enjoyed an entertaining afternoon of fantastic food and socialising in the glorious spring sunshine The BBQ also had a ‘Green Theme’ to mark St Nobel Algarve Almancil will have yet another landmark to celebrate as it expands further to accommodate students up to Year 10 Credits: Supplied Image; Author: Client; Mike Farrer, CEO of Globeducate Portugal and UK said: “I’m so pleased to once again be in the company of the Almancil campus’s parents and to see this community coming together to celebrate St Patricks Day and the Founding of the school two years and 2 terms ago where we also celebrate the completion of registration as a Cambridge Primary School and Cambridge International School.” “The expansion of the newer Almancil campus was driven by demand in a premium region and by the reputation Nobel Algarve has secured locally.” state-of-the-art campus that currently caters for pupils from Pre-School through to Year 9 this state-of-the-art school on a large campus of 2,245 sqm boasts fantastic green spaces and high-tech facilities that support the school's ethos of eco-friendliness and educational excellence Located in the heart of the Algarve’s prestigious ‘Golden Triangle’ students benefit from all the traditions and heritage of a British-style education Nobel Algarve British International School Almancil offers diverse sporting and extracurricular programmes as well as lessons in Portuguese and French Mindfulness is an integral part of the curriculum as is Forest School and other outdoor activities such as Gardening Club which highlights outdoor learning and environmental matters For more information and/or admissions please contact: +351 289 246 303, or see the website by clicking here ShareSaveCommentReal EstateForbes Global PropertiesStunning Villa Epitomizes Luxury Living In Southern PortugalByLauren Beale No part of the world has the corner on contemporary design and luxury. Looking at the finest examples, it can be hard to tell where they are located yet easy to see the appeal. Move over, Los Angeles, Sydney and Dubai; the Quinta do Lago golf resort community of Almancil in the Algarve region of Southern Portugal is out to rival your very best. The impressive villa spans three floors and has been recently updated to add a sophisticated and .. The residence was designed by the Barcelona-based firm Lagula Arquitectes One glance confirms that the villa has served the purpose well Designed by Barcelona-based Lagula Arquitectes, known for its emphasis on harmony between the built environment and natural surroundings, Lagula Villa makes the most of the surrounding tranquil landscape and scenic views. Lagula Villa was designed by the Barcelona-based firm Lagula Arquitectes. From high above, the structure appears to be a square divided into fourths with one quadrant for open-air living and others making up the 694 square meters, or nearly 7,500 square feet, of living space. The residence was designed to maximize the peaceful landscape and picturesque views around it. From ground level, the residence—set amid manicured hedges and lawn—has a museum-like quality. Inside, two-story-high ceilings in the main living spaces create gallery-like walls for works of art. Massive glass walls connect to terrace space. The main living areas feature double-height ceilings that provide the perfect backdrop for artwork. The open-plan layout of the ground floor is augmented by a separate office or TV den and two en suite bedrooms. The sleek kitchen is outfitted with temperature-controlled wine storage, multiple ovens and a long eat-at island with sink and cooktop. The modern kitchen comes equipped with a temperature-controlled wine storage, several ovens and a ... More spacious island. A floating staircase leads to the three upstairs en suite bedrooms, including the primary, which has a balcony overlooking the pool. An elevator also reaches the upper level as well as the basement. The main bedroom, one of three on the upper floor, features a balcony with views of the pool. The lower floor contains a gym, spa room, sauna, laundry, wine cellar, sixth en suite bedroom and subterranean parking. The heated swimming pool juts into the open-air quadrant, which has an outdoor kitchen, outdoor dining room and terrace extending beyond the four corners to create a sunny lounging platform. On the lower floor, features include a glass-enclosed wine cellar. The three-floor villa, built in 2018, recently underwent a renovation of the kitchen, exterior and dining room. The asking price for Lagula Villa, is €10.99 million or about US $11.9 million. The home is across the street from the links and close to shops, restaurants and a supermarket. Quinta do Lago Beach, set against the backdrop of Parque Natural da Ria Formosa, is about a three-minute drive away. Faro-Gago Coutinho International Airport is about 20 minutes away. Famous TV chef Lúcia Ribeiro opens restaurant in Almancil she lived in London and worked in banking for 15 years she decided to change her life and wanted to become a chef She went on a cooking course in the Algarve She then returned to London to work with all the famous Michelin star chefs she started working with 2-star chef Dieter Koschina at Vila Joya and later became Executive Sous-chef at Pinecliffs Resort what she is best known for is her TV cooking programme Cozinhamos Contigo so I know all the original Portuguese dishes We have so much more to offer than what many tourist restaurants offer as authentic Portuguese: roast meat and fish What I enjoy most is making vegan versions of ancient Portuguese dishes The variety we have by region is incredible." And so now she is opening a small inn in the centre of Almancil He proudly explains that they also have vegan wines the couple will also offer cooking classes and wine tastings It's a nice varied menu with lots of Petiscos/ snacks there are also 2 vegan options and 1 vegetarian option The restaurant has 36 seats inside and a few outside It is simple and cosy with an open kitchen behind the bar We enjoyed and are happy with this addition to "our" village of Almancil Rating: Food 8.8 Service 8.5 Price/Quality 9.5 Atmosphere 8.5 TTL rating 8.8 https://www.hotspotsalgarve.com/restaurants/taberna-poco-dalmancil/ Meet Peter Cruiming, an Algarve-based food blogger. Residing in Almancil with wife Marlot Anna, a professional photographer, and their 7-year-old son, Elyas. Explore daily Algarve dining stories at www.HotspotsAlgarve.com, focused on Peter's passion for healthy and vegetarian food.  Photo by www.MarlotAnna.com.  Football Vivant restaurant is an experience like no other and I had the privilege of experiencing it on its opening day quickly came to meet me and to show me around the beautiful new venue with all the tables surrounding this central structure at the moment I visited it was still undergoing work but that didn’t stop them from offering wine where the kitchen dining area connects to the kitchen home to the bed and a bedside table either side I was given a tour of the garden area which included a DJ booth and bar a remnant of the plan to put a swimming pool in its place as the outdoors bathrooms are labelled as changing rooms depicting two figures enjoying representations of the restaurant I was first fed a starter – a mix of breads some salted butter and some butter infused with tomato that might’ve been the most unique take on bread I’ve tried so far Next came the first of two appetisers: tuna tartars Three shrimp tortillitas served as spoons to scoop the delicious tuna blend up The tuna ended up being refreshing in my mouth as the cold sensation made for a good contrast before the hot meals coming up The second appetiser was short but sweet: cheese-filled churros whilst churros are normally filled with something sweet like chocolate they can also be filled with something salty especially when you dip it in the tomato chutney that’s also available with the dish The main course of this meal was something truly unique: Asian scallion pancakes with “lagartos.” When ordering this dish you may think that you’re ordering lizards on pancakes but these “lagartos” are actually strips of black pork as you can simply wrap the pork in the equally tasty pancakes and eat it like a crêpe The crunch on the meat gave me as a pleasant surprise and the wasabi bound everything together to make the end product even better than the sum of its parts they served me a wonderful cheesecake topped with passionfruit It’s about all you could want out of a cheesecake including a small flower that’s even edible and a glass of peach schnapps with a slice of grapefruit but I have to say I really enjoyed the Aperol its bitter taste worked very nicely with the meringue I had an exquisite meal unmatched by any mere ordinary establishment featuring food that I may not get the chance to try in any other place I’ll be recommending this place to whoever may be around the area as a luxury dining destination but be sure to head over to Vivant regardless and form your own opinions – it certainly won’t disappoint Vivant is open all year for dinner from Tuesday to Saturday. For reservations, please call +351 925 934 358 or email reservations@vivant.pt Please include what you were doing when this page came up and the Cloudflare Ray ID found at the bottom of this page.