Its history is characterised by intrepid explorers, its culture
flamboyant and artistic and its geography richly diverse with lush
mountains and popular coastal outcrops. Seafaring habitants and
natural explorers in the 15th and 16th
centuries promoted Portugal to a world power with the discovery and
seizure of a sizable empire including colonies in South America,
Africa and Asia. Modern day Portugal still contains reminders of
times gone by, embracing a deep-rooted mix of vibrant origins and
ancient civilisations. It is also the elite haunt of some of the
world’s most exclusive golf courses and attracts enthusiasts from
around the world.
As one of the warmest European countries with
beautiful countryside, quintessential coastlines, elegant cities,
Oriental architecture and a Mediterranean ambience, Portugal has
become one of the world’s most popular tourist and second home
destinations. It is now classed as the third most popular second
home destination in the world with its most famous Algarve region
rated as the number one destination for investment according to
Channel 4’s A Place in the Sun.
Indeed, the Algarve is one of Portugal’s
success stories and is one of the country’s most affluent areas
catering for the more elite visitor. It is especially favoured
amongst golf enthusiasts and British investors who have already
laid claim to 50,000 properties along the region’s coast. Having
said that, Northern Portugal should not be overlooked. It has
coastal regions of equal merit and an increasing number of high
quality golf developments underway to rival the existing array in
the south. For wine lovers, The Duoro Valley and city of Porto are
well worth a visit, famous for their exports of Port and Vinho
Verde.
Still in this Chapter
Is this is good place to Buy?
Which type of Property should you go for?
Hotspots
The Purchase Process
Mortgages
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