Have a splashing time in the Algarve with Vigia Resorts

Whether you like to relax on a sun bed by the pool, or receive an adrenaline rush from a speedy water slide, the Algarve boasts a wealth of activities for water lovers. Located a short drive from the ocean and boasting a pool for every day of your trip, Parque da Floresta along with sister resorts The View and Quinta da Encosta Velha, located between Lagos and Sagres in the far western Algarve, offers the ideal hub from which to enjoy a wealth of activities for water-babies and land-lovers too! Below are some of the best water activities in the Algarve:

If you are looking for a relaxing break, look no further than Parque da Floresta in the western Algarve. From five bedroom villas with their own personal pools to beautiful two and three bedroom town houses, each with access to a beautifully designed pool and sun deck area, accommodation here assures that you are never far from a place to cool off. For a livelier atmosphere, head to the main pool on the complex which offers kid’s clubs and a supervised pool area for children to play in. The plunge pool in the spa development is the perfect place to relax before or after one of the luxurious treatments. www.parquedafloresta.com

If you are eager for wilder water options, head down to Meia Praia beach, in the nearby town of Lagos. With over 5km of golden sand, there are many activities that can be enjoyed, from wading into the crystal waters to adrenaline filled watersports such as paragliding, windsurfing and kite-boarding. All are available to visitors, as well as the usual thrill rides such as banana boats and gentler options such a snorkel hire. For families, pedalos can be hired by the hour; with some with slides attached to the back so that children of all ages can have a splashing time in the sea. www.simplylagos.com

Heralded as the best place to catch a wave in Europe, the western Algarve has some of the finest conditions in the world for surfing. Unlike the south coast which is sheltered from the Atlantic currents, the west coast is much more rugged and large winter swells offer top class conditions. Head to Praia do Amando which is ideal for beginners or Praia da Arrifana which is rugged and windswept with a steep winding road down to the sea and a quaint surfer’s bar for refreshments. Children can even take part in the fun, with a surf summer camp available, situated in Sagres, Algarve. Atlantic Riders helps all ages and surf skill levels to enhance their surfing performances, with friendly staff on hand. www.atlanticriders.com

Families can enjoy a fun-filled day out by visiting one of three water parks that can be found in the Algarve. Zoomarine (www.zoomarine.pt) is located just outside Albufeira, mixing entertainment and education with detailed exhibits on local marine life as well as a dolphin interaction programme, 4D cinema and an aquarium all available for visitors to enjoy. Aqua Show Park (www.aquashowpark.com) is home to the biggest watercoaster in Europe and can be found in the area of Quarteira. The extreme ride is 740 metres long and reaches speeds of up to 70mph, making this a ride not for the faint hearted. Lastly, Aqualand has a host of rides including water pools for small children and slides and rides for older children and adults. www.aqualand.pt

For those who prefer to be above the waves rather than in them, Portugal is a fantastic location for dolphin spotting and regular trips leave from Lagos Harbour with Bom Dia (www.bomdia.info), boasting guaranteed dolphin sightings or a free trip!

Book now for October half term:

Stay at Parque da Floresta in the western Algarve from €270 per person (approx £215) for one week in a deluxe two bedroom village house, based on four people sharing. This price is valid between 13 and 31 October – perfect for the kid’s half term! Car hire is included in the price as it breakfast and a discount on green fees and kids club sessions. Visit www.vigia-resorts.com or call 01223 307 088 for more details.

FACT FILE:

Parque da Floresta Golf & Leisure Resort is set in the western Algarve, amongst rolling hills, golden beaches, timeless fishing villages and unspoilt countryside. Bordering the Costa Vicentina National Park, luxurious villas and charming village houses surround the centrepiece of the resort - an imaginatively designed golf course.

The resort offers a true luxury home from home, featuring two and three bedroom village houses with separate lounges, fully equipped kitchens, BBQs and shared private pools.Flights to the Faro in the Algarve depart from 22 UK airports and only take approximately two and half hours and Parque da Floresta is only a 45 minute drive into the western Algarve.

If you would like further information of any of the activities mentioned above or require images, please do contact Hills Balfour Synergy. For more information on the resort, visit www.parquedafloresta.com.