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Vale de Parra or Valley of the Grape as it is known is centrally located between Vilamoura and Carvoeiro, approximately 6km west of Albufeira. You will find here a small collection of traditional towns, fabulous beaches and one of the finest golf courses in the Algarve. For the evening, there are a good number of bars and local restaurants serving traditional and modern dishes.

The region enjoys a warm, temperate climate, ideal for a whole range of activities. Whether that’s lying by the pool, playing sport, or relaxing on the beach or at a restaurant, holidays in Vale de Parra, offer something for everyone.

The Vale de Parra features some of the most stunning coastline to be found in the Algarve. Gale is the largest beach, covering well over ½ mile and ranging from the west of Vale de Parra right through to the outlying areas of Albufeira. It is the best known and features an excellent selection of beach bars and restaurants.

Praia do Gale is flanked on either side by secluded coves offering excellent fishing, diving and water skiing opportunities. It is the perfect location for Algarve family holidays; for enjoying the scenery; for walking and enjoying local foods and wines and just a short drive from Albufeira.

This is an excellent walking holiday destination too, with coastal walks and trails into grape and citrus laden valleys affording stunning views across the landscape. Horse riding and cycling are good ways to explore the beautiful countryside.

With children in mind the town of Guia, just 5 minutes drive from the centre of Vale de Parra, is home to the ‘Aqualand Waterpark’ and ‘Zoomarine’. ‘Slide & Splash’, one of the most established waterparks on the Algarve, is located just outside of Alcantarilha, which again is just 5 minutes drive from Vale de Parra. Shopping is catered for at ‘Guia Shopping’, the largest retail park on the Algarve, and here you will find multi-screen cinemas, bowling alleys, and internationally established fast-food chains.

Vale de Parra is also home to the Salgados Nature Reserve, and the Salgados golf course - a championship course with both water and wind to negotiate. Holiday rental accommodation in this area offers a wealth of contrast, with golf, watersports and other beach activities blending nicely with a rich cultural history, and a local wine and food industry catering to the discerning palate.

Often found in peaceful, secluded locations, holiday villas in the Algarve provide a relaxed base from which to plan a busy agenda of outdoor activities in the beautiful Portuguese countryside. Whether you are planning a visit to the Algarve for the first time or are a regular visitor, we highly recommend this location.