Casa no Meio

Portimão, Algarve, Portugal
4 guests
2 bedrooms
2 bathrooms

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Superbly Simple: A property that meets our exacting standards, with everything you need, nothing you don’t, and above all thoughtfully designed.

Townhouse: A tall, narrow, traditional row house

Coastal: At land’s end, on the water’s edge

Revamped Harbor Home

Occupying two levels connected by a floating staircase, this terrace home is a sweet retreat for two in the historical harbor city of Portimão in the Algarve.

Revamped Harbor Home

Occupying two levels connected by a floating staircase, this terrace home is a sweet retreat for two in the historical harbor city of Portimão in the Algarve. Easily accessible to area beaches, and walkable to the lively old harbor and a waterfront promenade, the home’s interior is cool, crisp, and practical, with a coastal décor look that favors natural fibers, straw, wood, and cane.

A standout structure in a row of historical homes that were likely once occupied by commercial fishermen, this bold, terracotta façade hides a two-level, revamped townhome that would look right at home on a nearby beach. Walls are bright white, hip straw pendant lamps hang overhead, and the vibe, both indoors and out, is bright and cheery. Two terraces invite unwinding at a small table or in a swaying hammock, and the master bedroom occupies an open mezzanine reachable by a cool suspended staircase.

AROUND

One of the larger towns of the western Algarve, Portimão is known for its historical center, sleek marina and many surrounding beaches. The town’s old harbor is lively and scenic, encircled by cafes and sidewalk taverns, shops and seafood restaurants with busy terraces. The town is set at the mouth of the Rio Arade Estuary, and the city has been a commercial fishing port for centuries, once boasting the region’s largest sardine and mackerel canning factory in a space that today houses a history museum. Portimão’s riverfront promenade extends from its modern marina along a stretch of leafy, palm-lined squares, and the town is also known for its sailing. Given its smooth waters, Portimão regularly hosts sailing regattas and elite international competitions. Chartered sailing cruises are available from the marina as are boat tours of the rugged coastline. Rocky outcroppings distinguish this section of the Algarve’s coast, and the town’s Alvor Boardwalk leads from the city’s edge to the dramatic Três Irmãos beach. Walk the wooden stretch to view the impressive cliffs along the shore or charter a coastal cruise at the boardwalk’s end.

The owners recommend renting a car to visit nearby beaches and towns, restaurants and attractions. The area’s top beach, Praia da Rocha (5 kilometers by car), is a dazzling stretch of sand that is home to the ruins of the 17th-century Fort of Santa Caterina. Other popular sands nearby include Praia dos Tres Castelos (4 kilometers), Praia dos Careanos (5 kilometers), and Praia de Alvor (8 kilometers).