Martinhal Quinta do Lago Family Resort

Nestled in the town of Quinta do Lago, the resort is in a prime position in the renowned Algarve region. With beaches stretching along the coastline and typical Portuguese towns and villages to explore inland, discover the best of the Algarve from this luxurious base.

Townhouses in the resort have either two or three rooms with en suite bathrooms. The simplistic colour schemes make for a calm atmosphere to spend time relaxing here, with whitewashed walls and peach stone flooring. Each house overlooks its own private garden and swimming pool.

The luxury villas at the resort are the perfect choice for added splendour during your stay. They all feature chic fabrics in the upholstery and linens, as well as tasteful furnishings and ornaments. Their spacious interiors are complemented by three or four en suite bedrooms, while typical Portuguese shutters and grand white pillars add style to the exterior.

If staying in your private retreat and self-catering is ideal for you, the nearby Mercado provides freshly baked bread and pastries along with fresh fruit and vegetables daily. There's also a deli where you'll find a range of quality meats, as well as an array of takeaway options for when you're on the go.

Alternatively, head to one of the restaurants, be it in the resort or the surrounding area of Quinta do Lago. The family-friendly ethos of the resort is reflected in the children's menus and play areas for keeping them entertained while their food is prepared. Overlooking the resort's main pool, O Terraço restaurant serves up authentic Portuguese cuisine with finesse and style, and also provides an extensive breakfast buffet each morning. M Bar is the place for a quick snack or light meal, and for an afternoon treat, grab an ice cream from Gelateria.

Lounge by the pool or unwind with an indulgent massage for total relaxation. If a workout is part of your routine while away, make the most of the Fitness Room. The 25-metre outdoor pool offers swim lane sessions as well as lessons for beginners, aqua aerobics, water polo and hydrotherapy treatments.

With children in mind across all aspects of the resort, the resort's Kids Club and Crèche have endless creative activities for little ones, as well as a range of baby equipment available to pre-book. The trampoline, sand pit and pool slide are hits among children of all ages. Meanwhile in the Blue Room, table tennis and table football accompany Playstations and Wii's for indoor fun.

Take the short journey to the Artur Watersports Academy based at the Quinta do Lago lake, where you can try out non-motorised watersports such as sailing, paddleboarding, kayaking or a leisurely ride on a pedalo.

For those who prefer dry land, why not head out on an eco-bike tour? Birdwatching is popular in the area of Quinta thanks to the array of birdlife, while the golf course is perfect for an afternoon round, no matter what your ability. Give horse riding a go at Pinetrees Riding Centre, tailored to all ages and experience.

An integral aspect to Portuguese culture, head further inland on a Saturday morning to visit Loule Market - the biggest of its kind in the Algarve region. Here you'll find the most authentic local produce, fresh fish and traditional Portuguese craftsmanship.