Albufeira is possibly the jewel in the crown of the Algarve property market and will always be at a premium but the returns more than make up for that.

The Algarve region is derived from Arabic for “the West”. The Moors inhabited the area in the eighth century and the influence can still be felt today. This southernmost region of Portugal is home to about half a million inhabitants. Tourism, seafood, and fruit make up the bulk of the economy. The fruit grown here includes oranges, carob beans figs and almonds, and are amongst the most important products in the region. The Algarve region ranks as one of the richest in Portugal, which is great for Algarve Property searchers.

Albufeira was known as “the castle of the sea” by its one-time Arabic rulers. Mounted high on cliffs overlooking the sea, Albufeira is a coastal city offering abundantly beautiful surroundings. Paderne castle and its golf courses are wedged between Faro and Lagos.

Albufeira is a leading resort attraction in the Algarve region of southern Portugal. An agreeable climate and friendly people make southern Portugal a hot spot for tourists looking for a getaway bargain. Archaeological findings have shown that it was the Moorish influence during their occupation in the Algarve for 4 centuries that brought agriculture to the region. Earlier settlements relied quite heavily on fishing.

At night, the Strip and the Old Town are the two areas of attraction for night-life. The Strip offers younger crowds a vibrant night-life with discotheques, restaurants and popular bars. The Old Town focuses on preserving the Arabic architecture and a more laid back style.

New construction around Albufeira has received mixed reviews; while it has brought awesome water parks and even a zoo, complaints are that this area has been recently overbuilt and is best seen during the off season.

People seem to come to Albufeira for its boisterous night time attractions and its beaches. The fisherman’s beach is different from that of the tunnel beach. The turquoise blue of the waters contrast beautifully with the golden swatches of sandy coastline. Add to that the dimensions of cliffs caressed for thousands of years by seawater lapping at its base and you have the beauty that Algarve property watchers dream of.

International Property Portal owners have recently stated that the Algarve has once again become one of the most researched areas in the overseas property market.