From the 1 January 2022, some big changes to Portugal’s popular golden visa will be introduced. The main change is that high-density areas like Lisbon, Porto and coastal Algarve will no longer qualify for the scheme.

The good news is that if you do still want to make use of the golden visa in the Algarve, you’ll still have plenty of options. Here are three places in the Algarve that will escape the changes.

If you would like further advice on the buying process in Portugal, download your free Portugal Guide.

Vila do Bispo

Just 8 minutes’ drive from the popular surfing town of Sagres and under 20 minutes from the long stretch of sand at Praia da Cordoama, Vila do Bispo is a peaceful and truly gorgeous part of the Algarve.

The town is set on the edge of a beautiful and vast natural park – Parque Natural do Sudoeste Alentejano e Costa Vicentina – so the scenery is spectacular. There are numerous yoga retreats in the area that make use of the impressive natural surroundings.

Within the town itself, which spirals down a hill, you’ll find quaint narrow streets and plenty of bars and restaurants. There is a year-round international community living in Vila do Bispo, so there is always something going on. For active expats, the area is excellent for cycling, walking, diving, surfing and golf.

Vila do Bispo is easily accessible via a great motorway network. Faro international airport is just over an hour’s drive. Average property prices are €2,989 per square metre.

Castro Marim

On the other side of the Algarve, on the border with Spain, Castro Marim has a lot going for it. It is a town that resembles Silves, with two charming castles and an annual Medieval festival that attracts visitors from across the Algarve. For four or five days in August, Castro Marim transforms into a medieval village with traditional banquets, music and tournaments.

The town also boasts three gorgeous Blue Flag beaches, fabulous weather, a huge nature reserve and brilliant golf. The Golf and Country Club features three nine-hole courses that all have great views. Again, this attraction daws people from all over Portugal and even Spain.

Overall, Castro Marim is generally a fairly quiet place with a very authentic and laid-back feel. You’d be just 45 minutes from Faro airport, 50 minutes from the glitzy Vilamoura and an hour from Albufeira. And of course, you could easily pop across the border for some day trips in Spain.

Average property prices are €2,328 per square metre.

Why not split the cost and double the fun of owning a holiday home in Portugal by buying with family or friends? Read our guide to  Buying Abroad with Family

Monchique

Monchique is the highest, and arguably the greenest, town in the Algarve. It is nestled at the foot of the region’s highest mountain, Foia, which you can climb on foot, mountain bike or jeep. The town features colourful houses, narrow cobbled streets and a central square with pretty fountains, vibrant flowers and low-key restaurants.

Gimas _ Shutterstock.com

Although it is a popular day-trip destination, Monchique does not feel touristy. Nearby, you’ll find the famous natural spa called Caldas de Monchique with its delightful hot springs. The water has a temperature of around 31 degrees Celsius and is said to help with ailments such as rheumatism and some respiratory illnesses.

Faro airport is around an hour’s drive. The lovely seaside resort of Portimao is 35 minutes away and Lagos is around 40 minutes.

Average property prices are very affordable at €1,952 per square metre.

–

Are you looking for a property in Portugal? Search on Green-Acres

Want to sell your property on Green-Acres? Advertise on Green-Acres