favourite things

Going to a classical concert given by exceptional international musicians at Os Agostos, the lovingly-restored quinta of Maria and Tó-Zé Varajota. I am so grateful that the chairman of Amigos de Música, Helga Hampton, enables our small group of Amigos to listen to gifted musicians at such a beautiful venue so close to home. You would have to travel to major European cities and renowned music venues to hear this quality of pianists or violinists. I cherish these evenings and often, we even get to speak to the musicians ourselves. amigosdemusica.org

Late lunch with friends and family at Retiro do Camponês, sat at wooden tables in the garden, under the old trees. This is just magical. I adore the fragrant rice with razor clams and coriander, their fresh salad with grilled goat’s cheese and their homemade desserts. It feels like you are at a friend’s house, with the whole family doing everything to make your stay memorable. retirodocampones.pt

Grazing on tapas, al fresco, at Quinta dos Santos, a beautiful, recently-established farm estate. Here you can sample craft beers or their Quinta dos Santos wines accompanied by delicious tapas, made with fresh herbs, local cheese or mushrooms – the choice is varied with vegetarians well catered for. Lingering on their beautiful terrace, soaking up the view of the vineyard towards Carvoeiro, is pure joy. quintadossantos.com

Strolling through art galleries in Loulé. Art Catto has matured into such a landmark in the Algarve’s art scene. Each vernissage is a huge success, skilfully put together by owner Gillian Catto, whom I admire for being the very first lady to bring international artists to Loulé. Her roof terrace parties and art shows are epic and so much fun. artcatto.com

AND…

– Love walking my dog

– Love yoga sessions with Rola

Love painting

The In the Pink gallery boldly displays the glorious work of famous fine art photographic artists and I adore wandering through this exceptional building, with its spiralling black iron staircase. On every floor I discover exciting pieces of art and always leave these beautiful premises with a huge smile and happy feelings. in-the-pink.com

Visiting my friends at Côrte-Real Gallery for a fresh herb tea or just a chat at their beautiful and lovinglyrestored old country house near Paderne, is always delightful. I never tire of listening to the stories about how it was rebuilt and reborn, how it is cherished, and how Pedro and Michael search for just the right paintings and art pieces. Their lush and cozy garden surrounding the gallery is always a joy. corterealarte.com

– Love cooking, and exploring Lebanese cuisine right now

– Love hiking through the hills of Loulé

Love bric à brac and brocante and car boot sales