Quinta da Escocia is our family's home-from-home situated amid the undulating hills of the southern Algarve. Totally secluded, it is a little haven of peace and tranquillity set within 115 acres of its own pine, eucalyptus and cork trees. This guarantees a holiday away from it all with no one to disturb the peace except the hum of the crickets and the evening chorus of the Nightingales, perhaps you might also catch sight of a lizard as it darts into the undergrowth for cover from the scorching sun. To escape the heat yourself pull up a chair under the shade of the bourganvillia and disappear for an hour or two with a good book or slip into the pool and drift off for a siesta aboard a lilo whilst soaking up some of the rays. If you crave the sand between your toes, Quinta da Escocia is set a short drive from two coast lines. Head south to bathe in the blue waters, relax on the beach and feast on piri-piri chicken at one of the many beach bars or take a spin west to the wilder side and try your hand (and balance) at some of the best surfing to be found in Europe. If you would prefer to stick to dry land and enjoy a spot of golf, with 6 courses in a 15 mile radius you will not be stuck for choice. If all this sounds like too much hard work then there are plenty of unspoilt places to visit, potteries to wander around and local food markets to discover fresh and delicious local produce. The end of the day can be enjoyed in the buzzing atmosphere of Lagos where you can stroll amongst the bohemian stalls, street artists and entertainers and dine on sumptuous seafood. Alternatively return to the Quinta and enjoy a long and bare-footed dinner with family and friends letting your laughter join that of the echos from others before. However you choose to fill your time, you will undoubtedly return to your everyday lives feeling refreshed and healthy, both in mind and body, having escaped the stress and speed of the modern world.