Swindon couple delighted by villa in Portugal

A property marketing company has shared the story of a Swindon couple who found their dream villa.

Hampshire-based AB Property Marketing revealed that Ewen and Karen Harris first visited the Amendoeira Golf Resort in the Algarve in February of last year, just before lockdown started. 

A spokesperson said that, having spent the last 15 years golfing in the Algarve, Mr Harris had an in-depth understanding of what made the region special.

He and his wife bought a three-bedroom detached villa at the Central Algarve resort in November.

Mr Harris said: "It is Europe’s equivalent to California; we used to love spending our holidays at Huntington Beach but hated the long flights. The Algarve has the same effect on me – it’s classy, sunny and friendly. It’s perfect, and only a short flight.

“Having stayed there in August 2020 for a week, we had the privilege of sampling the goods before we purchased them. Seeing the investment in the clubhouse, which had been upgraded since my first visit in February, and the package on offer as part of the purchase price, it was a no brainer! We simply felt at home.”

A number of factors played into the Harris’ decision to purchase a home at Amendoeira. The resort’s proximity to the beach and its three on-site golf courses were key, as was the fact that it was just a half-hour drive from Faro airport. 

Ewen was also drawn to the fact that, while the Algarve is a popular holiday resort, it still retains a feel of rural Portugal, with local family restaurants, tiny cafes and quaint patisseries. 

From a golfing perspective, Amendoeira certainly ticks all the boxes. For Mr Harris, as a keen golfer, the upgraded clubhouse was a major plus point, as was having caddie masters to store his golf equipment. 

The resort’s Faldo course is “...a real treat to play.” He also now has that special sense of being a member at his own resort, as well as knowing that there’s plenty to keep the family entertained.

Mr Harris said: “For the family there are the football pitches, par three golf course, tennis courts, gym and communal swimming pool – no one is ever bored.”

Buying during the pandemic didn’t affect the purchase process, but Mr Harris is delighted that owning his villa at Amendoeira now makes all his travel plans “...simple, safe and exactly to our specifications.” 

The 24-hour security at the resort, he feels, adds to the sense of family-friendly safety, along with the open, spacious feel of the whole complex. 

The couple say they are looking forward to spending many happy years being part of the Amendoeira community. They are already eyeing one of the larger villas overlooking the golf course. 

Their ten-year plan is to buy one of those and retire to Portugal. In the meantime, the couple plan to enjoy Portugal’s abundant sunshine as much as possible. 

Further information can be found at https://www.amendoeiraresort.com/en/ and http://www.abpropertymarketing.co.uk/