Perfect Destination

Abode2 explore how the mix of golf, beaches and verdant countryside, ideal for blending activity & relaxation, makes Portugal one of the best countries to retire to in Europe

The 2021 Annual Global Retirement Index from International Living has ranked Portugal as the best country in Europe to retire to – and the fifth best in the world. Meanwhile, a separate ranking from Money.co.uk has found that Portugal is the fourth most searched-for retirement hotspot on Google.

According the 2021 Annual Global Retirement Index: “This tiny country in the southwest corner of Europe has something for everyone. Vibrant cities full of Old World charm, miles of golden sandy beaches, green, rolling hills, some of the best healthcare in the world, low cost of living, and safety.”

Portugal ticks many boxes when it comes to providing what retirees are looking for. In particular, the Iberian country provides the perfect balance between staying active and fitting in time for relaxation post-working life.

The abundant sunshine of the Algarve makes the region a retirement hotspot, with those who move there enjoying long beach walks, world-class golfing facilities and even a spot of gentle mountain climbing at Fóia, the region’s highest peak. The cost of living is low and the food and wine are largely locally sourced and of outstanding quality.

For British retirees Ann and Kevin Hudson, Portugal’s plentiful golf courses were a major draw when it came to buying a European retirement property. The couple looked at a number of golf resort properties before discovering the Algarve’s stunning Amendoeira Golf Resort, owned and operated by Kronos Homes.

Ann Hudson said “We were really well looked after and made to feel very welcome. We loved both golf courses and found everyone very friendly.”

The couple originally put down a deposit to buy the apartment they were staying in at Amendoeira Golf Resort. Then, on returning to Portugal four months later, they decided they wanted their own swimming pool, so swapped the apartment for one of Amendoeira’s three-bedroom villas, which come with beautiful gardens and private pools.

The villa has fabulous views across one of Amendoeira Golf Resort’s golf courses. The resort is home to the award-winning Faldo Course, designed by Sir Nick Faldo, the challenging O'Connor Jnr Course and Portugal’s only illuminated nine-hole golf course.

There are plenty of other on-site facilities for those looking for an active retirement. There’s a grass football pitch, two AstroTurf five-a-side football fields, six tennis courts, two padel courts, gym facilities and two communal swimming pools.

With 24-hour security, a 16-hour reception service and maid and laundry services, Amendoeira Golf Resort certainly supports relaxation just as well as it promotes activity.

Kevin Hudson added “We would highly recommend Amendoeira to anyone looking for another home abroad. It has great golf courses, the facilities are wonderful, it’s close to lovely beaches, restaurants, and shopping; it’s perfect for retirees.”

The Algarve’s easy connectivity from the UK makes it an excellent choice for those looking to retire to the sun but still maintain regular contact with family and friends back home. Faro Airport provides regular flights to various UK airports, as well as to other destinations across Europe. Those looking to travel further afield can connect in either London or Amsterdam, or enjoy the easy, scenic drive up to Lisbon and fly from there.

 www.amendoeiraresort.com/en/