Category: Must Read

DEVELOPERS ARE LOOKING TO CARVOEIRO AS BRAND NEW PROJECTS BEGIN TO TAKE SHAPE

Earlier this year, estate agents across the region were reporting surprisingly promising signs on the property market, with more enquiries and property viewings than anyone had expected. But is this a sign of things to come? Maybe, maybe not, but in Carvoeiro, it’s certainly true that new projects have begun to crop up, with the foundations now being laid for tourist apartments, resorts and even futuristic luxury villas.

One example is the land on the clifftop next to the Tivoli Carvoeiro hotel. Signs of movement began earlier this spring, with infrastructures already being put in – according to sources, the construction of a small tourist resort, comprising up to 30 townhouses, is due to begin in September. Further along the road across from Areias dos Moinhos is another tourist development in the initial stages of construction.

Developed by Silves-based Prime Life Properties, the project will comprise two-storey tourist apartments that are due to be completed in early 2015. But perhaps more surprising is the project at the top of Estrada do Farol, an ambitious venture that comprises five villas on 2,000sqm-plots, called Palmar Villas. The brainchild of local property developer Toliloka Imobiliária, the idea was to create villas “for modern people with an exclusive lifestyle to live near the sea”, according to Antonius Verhoeven of the family-run company.

For this, he joined forces with Thomas Van Mierlo of Waratah Properties in Almancil and architect Miguel Sintra Rebelo, who designed each four-bedroom villa with unique and exclusive aspects. “The style is minimalist and futuristic based on light, space, design, safety, luxury and hi-tech, fitting the demand of tomorrow and marking the difference between the existing and the new,” said the developer. With a complete finished villa costing just over a million euros, the whole project can also be sold as a whole or with the five building plots sold individually, upon consultation.

And it seems it is this luxury market that’s worth focusing on, according to René Kalkbrenner, managing director and second generation of property management company Kalkbrenner, who, alongside local architect John Wilson and lawyer Marcos Mascarenhas, set up Panoramic Invest in June last year. By pooling each of their fields of expertise, the company locates and develops the most attractive properties on the Algarve’s coast, with an initial focus on the Carvoeiro area.

With an ethos centred on providing the highest quality in the best locations, and covering everything from real estate, legal services, architecture, interior design, project management and property management, the company was founded to fill a gap in the luxury residential market and provide a construction project “from A to Z”: “People would rather have one person to deal with, to find them a piece of land, build them a house, and see them in 18 months with the keys. If they want a convertible in the driveway, we can get that, too. It’s an all-inclusive package,” said joint founder René, whose family has been in the property management business in Carvoeiro since 1980.

With John leading the planning and project management side of things, and Marcos bringing his expertise in financial planning and property law to the table, the company has since been focusing on acquiring partnerships with established and reputable companies and speciality providers, such as luxury audiovisual experts Bang & Olufsen. In the belief that real estate is the best investment in the current market, with a number of great deals available to cash buyers who have the luxury of time, the founding partners have a growing portfolio of large plots with sea views and existing properties with huge potential.

Advising those who buy plots to “build a good-quality, durable and cost-effective construction that 10 years down the line will be worth a lot more than it is now”, René also notes that older properties, such as the villas at Carvoeiro Club, are built on huge plots in excellent locations. “Space is an aspect of luxury that’s getting less available,” he explains. But the question is, why Carvoeiro? “Carvoeiro is relatively unique as far as the way it is constructed, with good building laws keeping a very low density of building. You also have a very stable climate, and people come here and just fall in love with the place,” believes René, adding that those purchasing a well-located seaside property, built to today’s standards of technology, will get their initial investment back in eight to ten years.

www.toliloka.com | www.panoramicinvest.co.uk

INSIDE HOPPED ABOARD THE ECO EXPLORER TO GO DOLPHIN-SPOTTING WITH WILDWATCH, A COMPANY THAT DOES EXACTLY WHAT IT SAYS ON THE TIN

From the moment Wildwatch’s boat, the Eco Explorer, leaves the Portimão Marina and heads out to sea, the excitement starts to build up onboard. The promise of interaction with dolphins, one of nature’s most intriguing creatures, resonates in the mind of both the passengers and the crew, leaving a feeling of anticipation that’s more akin to that of small children on Christmas Eve.

The passion with which the crew members speak and instruct the passengers about the dolphins or the wonders of the sea shows that this is not their job, it’s their life. André Dias, owner and founder of Wildwatch and also a skipper on the trips, started fishing at the tender age of 14. His connection to the ocean led him to study Marine Biology at university, while still carrying out activities onboard boats and working at various scientific tourism companies in Lagos and Portimão.

Having reached the end of his studies and wanting to pursue his passion, he successfully applied for the ProMar support programme to help him start his business, and since November of 2012, the owner has been working to make Wildwatch an innovative and more personal alternative to the competition.

Throughout the course of the trips, which cost between €35 and €65, he and his crew provide information about the different dolphins’ habits and patterns, as well as the natural characteristics of the Algarve coast. An example of one of these natural hidden wonders is the underwater Portimão fault line, which serves as a haven for sea life and attracts numerous species to its depths with its vibrant habitat.

Birds also play a part in the quest to find the dolphins. Most sea-birds are opportunists and take advantage of their flying abilities to swoop in on a dolphin’s hunt for fish and have a feast of their own. Therefore, they are sometimes used as “guides” to the location of the sea mammals. However, the sight of these birds may lead to some frustrating moments, when the hopes of a triumphant discovery are dashed by false alarms.

Throughout the trip, passengers may be surprised by the relaxed and informal atmosphere instilled by the crew. “It is easier to get the passengers’ attention and teach them about these fascinating animals and the sea if they’re surrounded by a friendly environment,” said André Dias. Rolf van der Lans, skipper on the Eco Explorer, had worked for 10 years for several other boat trip companies before joining André’s venture. Still, he believes there is something that makes Wildwatch stand out from the crowd. “I was faced with a decision which forced me to choose between remaining at my job or following my heart. I followed my heart.”

The genuine complicity and joy of the crew members puts on a show of its own and makes you feel at home, even when you’re nearly 30kms from the coast. Nevertheless, nothing can really compare to the excitement felt onboard when the first sign of a dolphin is sighted. The 12-seater boat abruptly changes its course and roars to the location, in the hope that the dolphins won’t be afraid of the vessel. Even more awe-inspiring is the fact that the dolphins welcome the visit. Almost racing the boat, the mammals accompany the Eco Explorer’s route at the same time as they show off their acrobatic skills. One could almost think these dolphins were trained to be entertainers, but it is just part of their natural playful personality.

Hoping to take the perfect picture of the wondrous creatures is an unmatched thrill and definitely justifies bringing along a camera for the ride. After a while of interacting with the animals, it’s time to return to shore. The Wildwatch dolphin-watching centre in Ferragudo is the final destination, but first, a quick stop is made at the Portimão Marina to hop aboard their casual ferryboat and take a relaxed trip to the small town. “I chose Ferragudo because I have lived here from a very young age. It has an authentic atmosphere like no other place I know and its fishing traditions are still very much alive. It is my home,” said André as the ferry reached his town.

At the centre, passengers can learn more about the trips they embarked on and the species they saw while being offered complimentary beverages and typical regional treats in the process. The crew also displays the videos captured on the journey, showing the underwater perspective of what was just experienced out in the deep blue sea, alongside an environmental instructional presentation. But there’s far more to Wildwatch than just dolphin watching. Although the company shines the spotlight on its dolphin watching, shark diving, coastal trips and bottom fishing are available, as are try dives and many other trips, making the company a versatile option for sea lovers.

Also available is a ferryboat service, in partnership with the restaurant O Sueste, which connects the two banks of the Arade river from 9am to 11pm, or 2am if reservations are made beforehand (€3 for a one-way trip and €5 for a return trip). Clients of the restaurant and children up to 12 can use the service free of charge.

Prices for activities start at €10. www.wildwatch.pt

DAVE AND ALYSON SHELDRAKE OF A3 ART DEPICT THE ALGARVE FROM TWO VERY DIFFERENT PERSPECTIVES

Through the lens of a camera or painted in acrylic, the charm and unique light of the Algarve has been captured from two quite different yet utterly complementary perspectives. Photographer Dave Sheldrake and his wife, painter Alyson, were drawn to the region for those reasons exactly, and now, they showcase their work side by side, fulfilling something of a dream they have always harboured.

Having discovered the pretty fishing town of Ferragudo through friends around 10 years ago and immediately falling in love with the place, Dave and Alyson bought a house here soon after in preparation for the plunge they were about to take: leave their demanding jobs in the UK – Dave was in the police force and Alyson was director of education for the Church of England – and embrace the simple life in the Algarve. And that is exactly what they did. Armed with paint brushes (Alyson) and a camera (Dave), the couple moved to their home near Ferragudo and are now happily doing what they most love – she in her sunfilled studio, he on the beaches and traditional streets of the Algarve.

Deciding to avoid the traditional gallery route and run their own exhibition, mainly to avoid commissions and therefore keeping their prices low, the couple approached the Holiday Inn in Armação de Pêra to showcase their work. With a great response, they held their first A3 Art exhibition at the hotel in April last year, and since then it has become a regular event with a loyal following. In fact, the exhibitions have gone so well that this year also sees the couple showcase their work at Hotel Carvoeiro Sol. Entitled “New Beginnings”, their first art and photography exhibit and sale in Carvoeiro took place between March 29 and April 3, the first of a number of shows scheduled for this year.

The popularity of their work needs no explanation. Alyson, a self-taught artist, has won over art lovers with her unique style, with most of her best-known work belonging to her self-titled ‘New Wave’ collection. “I always have a focal point, like a lighthouse, drawn out as technically as possible, and everything around it is a series of waves of colour, shape and texture. Once I know the main feature, the rest of it just falls into place,” explains Alyson, who, instead of painting on canvas, prepares her own boards to create the ideal texture for her acrylic paintings.

Filled with the colours of the Algarve, her art is vibrant yet harmonious, which can also be seen in her latest work – the bold, bright flowers that have proven to be extremely popular. These are in fact the perfect example of how Alyson and Dave’s work goes hand in hand, as the artist was inspired by a close-up of a flower shot by her husband. “We do work together in a way,” says Dave, a police sergeant-turnedphotographer. “Alyson often paints from one of my photographs, or I might get sent out on a ‘mission’ to capture a specific tree or boat, or I might come back with something that will instantly inspire her.” And it’s not hard to see why Alyson would be inspired by his work.

A beautiful sunset over the sea, a rickety door, a wrinkle-faced man… Dave’s photographs depict the Algarve at its best – and not without seawashed feet as a regular memento. His work also shows his fondness for photographing people, especially in ‘street photography’, where he simply asks strangers on the street if he can take their photograph. Speaking of the wonderful colours and light here, particularly during the so-called ‘golden hour’ around sunset, Dave notes: “I’ve seen some skies out here that will literally take your breath away, and actually trying to capture it is quite a challenge. How can you not be inspired?” It’s clearly a lifestyle that suits the pair, whose passion for their craft and optimistic approach to life is infectious. Also accepting commissions, Alyson admits she’s quite unique in that she doesn’t ask for payment up front until the client is happy with the finished result.

This also applies to her Pet Portraits, which she will be demonstrating at the International Algarve Fair in Lagoa on June 1 and 2, as well as presenting a pet portrait for the Dog Show’s “Best in Show”. Their work can also now be appreciated through a collection of affordable costume jewellery designed by silversmith Something Xtra Special, which includes necklaces, pendants, key rings and cufflinks. Dave and Alyson may be at their happiest when they’re each doing what they love, but they also get great pleasure from seeing people liking their work and hearing the stories behind why they want to buy it. And if you’re lucky enough, you might even spot their ‘happy dance’ every time a piece sells.

INSIDE DISCOVERS THIS UNIQUE DIVING EXPERIENCE JUST OFF THE COAST OF PORTIMÃO

Back in October, press from around the country gathered to witness the sinking of two disused warships almost five kilometres off the coast of Alvor. It may have taken little over two minutes to sink the Oliveira e Carmo corvette and later the Zambeze patrol ship, but it marked the beginning of a very unique project for divers everywhere: the Ocean Revival Project.

Created under Musubmar – Association for the Promotion and Development of Subaquatic Tourism, the idea is the brainchild of Luís Sá Couto, owner of diving company Subnauta, who, in partnership with Portimão Câmara, wanted to create an underwater museum to attract divers from around the world.

The first project of its kind, it took around five years to materialise, but with the support of the Portuguese Navy, who provided the ships in their “last mission at the service of Portugal”, divers have already been able to explore this unique underwater park.

The idea is to create artificial reefs – or rather, the largest single artificial reef structure in the world – to increase the area’s biodiversity, and thus turn the western Algarve into an international diving destination, says Luís Sá Couto. “The park combines the natural desire to unravel the mysteries of the sea and lend sustainability and the ideal conditions for the proliferation of marine biodiversity. It’s also an unparalleled opportunity for the progress of scientific research in the marine biology field.”

The project relies on the sinking of four warships – the remaining two, the frigate Hermenegildo Capelo and the Almeida Carvalho oceanographic vessel, are expected to be sunk on June 15 (if weather conditions allow) and mid-October, respectively – which measure between 45 to more than 100 metres in length and are located at a depth of between 16 and 30 metres. Prior to the sinking, the ships are cleaned and decontaminated, and all pieces that could compromise the safety of the divers are removed. In total, the project is said to have cost around €3million, paid for through funding and sponsorship.

Suited to wreck diving and underwater digital photography, among other specialities, the project also incorporates a display at the Portimão Museum, where visitors can discover the history of the ships and their patrons and commanders. Additionally, part of the project is the donation of a hyperbaric chamber to be installed at the Barlavento Hospital in Portimão, not only to provide a quick and efficient response to potential diving emergencies, but also to serve the local community and the country as a whole.

As for location, divers have always been drawn to the Algarve. It may not have the crystal clear waters of the Red Sea or the Maldives, but the rocky cliffs and natural pools of the coastline, as well as the various shipwrecks off the coast of Sagres, in the west, have remained staple attractions. Selected for its excellent infrastructures, including its many hotels, restaurants, stores and nightlife, alongside its long, sandy beach, attractive marina and countless activities, it is hoped that Praia da Rocha will appeal to both seasoned and aspiring divers, as well as non-diving family and friends. So far, it seems to have paid off. Following the sinking of the first two decommissioned ships, more than 1,000 dives have already been registered during the months of November, December and January. “People feel the enthusiasm and the feeling of ‘flying’ through the ship, reliving its history,” explains Luís Sá Couto. “They are unanimous in saying that it’s one of the best dives and the only one of its kind. By promoting it, it will undoubtedly attract thousands of divers to the Algarve.”

Any trained diver can access the park, although organisers recommend diving with a centre, club or diving school certified by Ocean Revival. Diving operators are also encouraged to get the Ocean Revival certification, obtainable through a course organised by the Musubmar Association. For more information, visit www.oceanrevival.pt