SET IN the natural beauty of the hills and valleys of Silves, against the magnificent backdrop of the Monchique mountains, is the village of Aldeia Antiga. Twenty-three semi-detached houses make up this private condominium complex, based in São Lourenço, between Alcantarilha and Algoz.
The complex was designed with the vision of creating a traditional, ‘old village’ in a unique setting. The houses boast either two, three or four bedrooms, with central heating, washing machine, oven, air conditioning and a ‘Vila Real’ style open fire. The houses are built around a communal pool and a patio area with café, and there is also a tennis court available on site. The elevated site has stunning views over the hills of the Silves region, visible from the terraces of the houses.
The condominium was constructed four years ago when owner Francisco Pinto Coelho inherited the property, which, at the time, was an old manor house with very extensive grounds. Coelho wanted to build “quality housing at an affordable price”.
Sales Administrator, Ann Bate, moved from the UK to Aldeia Antiga three years ago with her husband. After living there for some time, she offered to help Francisco with the sales and management of the properties. She describes the village as “peaceful, rural and close to everything you need”. The “good mix” of people of all ages and nationalities at Aldeia Antiga is what differentiates the complex from other residential areas. Portuguese and English families live in the complex permanently, which Ann oversees on a daily basis.
Even though the village is set in a quiet area of the Silves countryside, everything you need is easily accessible. Faro airport is 25 minutes away, the beach of Armação de Pêra is 10 minutes away and Algarve Shopping is only down the road, if you find yourself in need of any retail therapy. Algoz and Alcantarilha’s close proximity also provide residents with a range of other options.
At the moment, 15 of the 23 houses are occupied, the majority permanently. The village welcomes both residents and tourists, however, the design of the houses and layout of the complex is more suitable for people looking for somewhere on a permanent basis. The houses are reasonably priced, ranging from 157,500 euros to 234,500 euros.
Developer Oceânico is currently building a new golf course on the Amendoeira golf resort, close to the site, which is set to make the properties a very worthwhile investment.
Aldeia Antiga is perfect for those looking for somewhere “off the tourist trail”. There is a homely, traditional feel to the place, which is a welcome change from the bustle of the major tourist towns of the Algarve. For those of you looking for somewhere a little different to invest, Aldeia Antiga has something to suit all tastes.
• For more information contact Ann on 282 322 365 or 961 292 439.
