“Sotavento” , Sheltered from the Wind, is what the Portuguese people call this Eastern region of the Algarve close to Spain. This is a relatively unknown part of the Algarve off the beaten track. It is renowned for its wonderful climate, both in winter and in summer, and its simplicity and natural laissez faire. Feel like Robinson Crusoe when walking the sand dunes on the deserted islands just a stone’s throw from the coast between Faro and Tavira. You will find unspoiled beaches of soft sand, deserted even in high holiday season whilst the rest of Europe gets crowded. In the middle of this paradise right in the heart of the Ria Formosa Nature Reserve is located the Moorish Villa, a family property of 7.000m2 next to the sea. Old wooden patio doors open onto a magical scene of greens and blues with a breathtaking view of the island of Armona on the horizon. Enjoy sunny terraces and lush gardens. Take a swim in the crystal clear saline waters of the oversized pool and have a game of Boccia/Petanque on the purpose built sand pit. Barbeque with family and friends at the lavishly equipped outdoor kitchen nestled between young olive groves or simply retreat for a quiet moment in one of the many beautifully designed sitting areas dotted around the property. Walk through the gardens, pick a fig or a pomegranate and find your personal spot to relax. Enjoy a very personalized style; exquisite whilst at the same time comfortable and relaxed. You will feel instantly at home here. 6 en-suite bedrooms welcome you to stay and experience a quality holiday in privacy. Patio The enclosed Moorish style patio is the entrée of the house and is a cozy come-together outside area with an enchanting olive tree in the middle. Gather all together for a sundowner or retreat with your favorite book. Library The Library is a private semi-open area divided by arches and has a cozy wood fire where you can read, watch sat-tv and surf on the WIFI internet. The library opens up to the enclosed patio on one side and to the garden terrace on the other side. Outdoor Kitchen The Outdoor Kitchen is a generously shaded outside area lavishly equipped with a large gas grill, a charcoal grill, a pizza oven, a dishwasher, a fridge and a sink and has a sociable food preparing area. The proper wooden and tiled roof allows the use of this Outdoor Kitchen all year around. Kitchen The Main House has a perfectly equipped Open Kitchen dominated by a lavishly supersized central island that invites everybody to have ‘hands on’ in a relaxed way! The incorporated bar on the island divides the kitchen area from the dining area and invites family and friends to take a glass of wine or have a snack while socializing with the cook(s)! Living Area The Living Area enjoys an open Moorish style hand crafted wood fire and leads onto the front garden terrace. The Master Bedroom The Master Suite on the first floor enjoys spectacular sea views. You enter the suite through a spacious dressing room that has a small enchanting French balcony overlooking the enclosed patio. The dressing room leads through an arch to the sleeping area with a king size bed. From here you can go out onto a large private terrace with an exterior staircase that leads to the garden and the pool. The spacious double bathroom also boasts lovely sea views and a private terrace.