There are still large, natural areas of the garden, with olive and carob trees offering shade and seclusion. Explore, find a chair in a shady corner and relax with a book and a drink.

We have a large barbecue area where you can enjoy cooking and eating the wonderful fresh food from the local markets. For sun worshippers there is plenty of space around the large pool where you can relax and soak up the sun.

The garden also has a few surprising features. Explore and find the pink garden and pipe dream. Be more careful and have some patience and you might find a chameleon or other unusual wildlife.

The climate allows us to grow some exotic fruits including bananas, oranges and lemons. We have also kept areas of the garden wild to encourage local wildlife and to allow wild flowers including orchids, to flourish.

Tavira is a pretty town with Roman origins, and many fine 18th Century buildings. It is full of character with cobbled streets where you will find plenty of pavement cafés and restaurants. There is a busy little harbour with ferries out to Tavira island, with 11 Km of unspoilt, uncrowded beaches.

Estoi is a typical Algarvian village with a rich history. It has a gently decaying palace with lovely gardens and the nearby, well preserved Roman ruins of Milreu.

Olhoa has a lively market and a great atmosphere. We buy our fish and vegetables here - and take the opportunity to sit in the sun with a coffee and watch the world go by.

Fuzeta is a tiny fishing village between Olhoa and Tavira. We often take the ferry for a 5-minute trip to the island where there are several small bars and miles of golden beaches. Even in high season, after a few minutes walking you have the beach to yourself.

James Tate, who stayed with us recently, put this picture show together after enjoying his stay here at Casa Jardim. Click here for Casa Jardim Movie from Casa Jardim on Vimeo.