Bonding in the unspoilt Algarve

For more information on our product, the Holiday Property Bond, see the Further Information Fact Box below. From the moment you navigate your hire car into Rocha Bravas peaceful semi-pedestrianised streets - taking in the terraced coffee shop and immaculately maintained gardens; inhaling the floral-scented air and absorbing the muted sounds of children playing by distant pool sides  you feel your post-flight fatigue literally melting away. And as the batteries begin to recharge in earnest, you know: youll be in no hurry to return home.

To my mind, Rocha Brava is the very essence of a holiday destination, providing all the elements you need to holiday your way - in congenial surroundings, yet just a stones throw from all essential amenities (not to mention, a raft of non-essential indulgences). A golden sandy beach lies within easy walking distance  as do a choice of pools, tennis courts, a fitness centre, boules courts and barbecue areas. Plus, importantly, a selection of quiet bars, cafes, shops and highly regarded restaurants  many offering superb fresh food at affordable prices.

Theres culture too. And history: the regions many menhirs (standing stones) are of Neolithic origin, dating back to around 5000 BC. And, of course, The Algarves former Governors include no less a figure than Henry The Navigator - royal prince, soldier, and land-borne explorer, whose patronage of all things maritime helped to transform Portugal into a major sea power, in the 14th century and beyond.

For the most part however it is the combination of tranquillity and climate that enthrals, keeping holidaymakers of all ages coming back for more - year after year after year.

Undisturbed Developed by Trafalgar House around 20 years ago, Rocha Bravas attractive villas and apartments are constructed in typical Algarve style and feature the usual accoutrements  fully fitted kitchens, TV, DVD and the like  as well as shaded balconies (or terraces) overlooking the attractive shrubberies, well-kept lawns and footpaths that crisscross the site.

In all, HPB owns 48 properties here, responsibility for which rests with longstanding manager John Greenhill, whose office is to be found within the Bonds exclusive PIN coded clubhouse.

Within the clubhouse and adjacent grounds, Bondholders (investors in the Holiday Property Bond) and their families are able to take advantage of a games room, DVD and book library, together with a lounge, kitchen, showers and luggage store (all of which are extremely handy for holidaymakers who either arrive early or who have a later flight). The area is also home to one of the Bonds two dedicated swimming pools (which is covered and heated between October and June), a boules court, childrens play equipment and a barbecue area (where John plays mein host at the weekly barbie).

Though the site itself offers numerous quiet corners in which to soak up the sun in relative privacy, its the beaches for which the region is renowned. And rightly so: there are so many to choose from  the majority of which are clean and relatively undisturbed; safe for all but the youngest members of the family: generally calm, shelving gently into the azure depths.

Others  as recent, tragic experience has shown  though beautiful, are suitable only for surfers and more accomplished swimmers. So be careful  and heed the signs.

Go west! Centianes in particular is a delight, and falls squarely into the former safe, peaceful category. And the good news is: its just a ten-minute walk from Rocha Brava.

Though the shore itself is  it has to be said - a long way down (via 100 or more steps, cut into the steep cliff side), the exercise provides the best possible excuse to stop, en route, for coffee and ice cream at one of the two beach bars.

Other highly recommended beaches are just a 30-minute or so drive away. Though most are accessible via similarly steep steps, Long Beach is an exception - a sandy flat beach at road level, which leads into Arma￧￣o de P￪ra in one direction and the Gal￩ beach, with its selection of bars and cafes, in the other.

In John Greenhills view, however, the finest coastal stretches lie to the west. Particularly recommended are two popular surfing beaches, Praia da Bordeira and Praia do Amado - both of which contrast golden sands with the most dramatic surf. (Hardy souls wishing to shoot a few tubes will be pleased to learn that Praia do Amado has a surf shop and school, offering boards for hire.)

Then theres Praia do Zavial which provides welcome shelter from the fierce winds that invariably buffet the shoreline. Time spent here seems literally to sail by  a good book all thats needed to punctuate a revivifying day soaking up the glorious Portuguese sun.

Well, that  and the prospect of some of the finest seafood in Europe.

Unpretentious The area has a host of restaurants to choose from, at a range of prices. And many fine eateries are within walking distance of Rocha Brava. On the doorstep, the onsite restaurant of O Farol is good, though a little pricey (and the opening hours are somewhat restrictive).

Nearby Julios on the other hand is set back from the main road, and offers comfortable seating both inside and out. The food, a mix of international cuisine and Portuguese specialities, is superb and realistically priced; the service friendly without being obsequious.

In particular, the establishment serves a mouth watering Cataplana  the local speciality, which comprises a stew of fish or meat prepared in the traditional clamshell shaped copper pot from which the dish derives its name.

And of course no stay in Portugal would be complete without at least one chicken piri piri. (Indeed, try it early in your holiday and I guarantee it wont be your last.) In line with Johns recommendation, we chose to sample this Portuguese classic at A Rampa- a cheap and cheerful caf￩ setting along the road from Monchique, on our way to the regions highest point, Foia.

Here the rustic unpretentious ambiance - paper table cloths dancing in the wind; resident Retriever snoring contentedly in the afternoon sun - belie the spicy and delicious fare, the sweeping valleys providing an idyllic backdrop.

Foia, incidentally, offers spectacular views both to the west coast, and to the south. But the circuitous mountain route is not for the faint-hearted  comprising as it does a narrow cliff-side road with vertiginous drops to the terraces far below.

It is, however, well worth the effort.

To round off your day, be sure to stop off at Caldas, which is renowned for its warm, therapeutic (if somewhat sulphurous) spring water, a small plastic cup of which can be purchased for 10 c￪ntimos. (Its quite foul - but supposedly very good for you.)

In Caldas pretty tree lined square, youll find restaurants and a couple of shops, an art gallery and bar.

If youve any energy left, the footpath up into the hills  though steep  is quite delightful, lined as it is with a variety of shrubs and flowers and of course the bubbling stream.

Car hire Although there are regular coach excursions from Rocha Brava, hiring a car provides flexibility -enabling you to take things at your own pace: lingering at spots of particular personal interest, and quickly passing by those of lesser attraction.

And driving in The Algarve is a breeze: the highways and byways alike are well maintained (well, relatively) and  by UK standards - quiet.

Accordingly John has negotiated special terms with a local hire company, enabling Bondholders to have a car delivered to the site midway through their stay, which they may also return to the airport on their journey home, so saving on the return taxi transfer fee.

Flora and fauna The Algarve is also a pleasure to explore on foot, more popular routes taking in the coastal paths to Sagres  with its highly regarded harbour side restaurants - the Monchique hills, the National Forest, the historical town of Lagos, and the Cape St. Vincent Natural Park (which remains undeveloped, maintaining the unique flora and fauna of the region).

Closer to home, there are pleasant walks from Rocha Brava itself. For instance, to Benagil, via the Praia Do Carvalho (which takes approximately two and a half hours at a leisurely pace). And across the cliffs to the close-by seaside town of Carvoeiro.

The latter route  which takes approximately an hour and a quarter - offers attractive scenery, and provides a pleasing alternative to the more direct three-mile roadside path.

The walk culminates in the heart of the bustling little coastal community, with its selection of bars, restaurants, shops and regular market.

Dolphin watching Portuguese trains are, for the most part, regular and reliable: the (Alfa Pendular) fast train will propel you to the capital, Lisbon, in approximately two and a half hours. Prices are reasonable too: a first class return to the historic city costs around ﾬ 50.

The carriages are air conditioned and offer a bar service with light snacks, TV/video and spacious seating. What better way to experience to the full the attractive hinterland views  a luxury which is seldom permitted to designated drivers?

Lagos, too, is a short hop away by train, and well worth a visit. Here you may enjoy a constitutional along the promenade and around the marina, followed by a leisurely lunch.

While youre there, be sure to visit the gold leafed Chapel and museum. Consider, also, taking the two-hour boat trip on The Bom Dia - which sails daily from Lagos to Ponta da Piedade, taking in the caves and wonderful rock formations along the coast.

Dolphin watching is also available here. Algarve Dolphins guides  many of whom are highly trained marine biologists - use new, specially designed RIBs (Rigid Inflatable Boats) to propel holidaymakers across the ocean in search of these most sociable and intelligent creatures.

Their trips depart hourly from Marina de Lagos, and usually last around 90 minutes.

Prices start from ﾬ 30 per person and - in the unlikely event that no dolphins are spotted  the company guarantees a second trip at no charge.

Moorish heritage From boats to buses. There are regular services from Rocha Brava. In particular, John recommends a day out to Silves.

The journey takes around 40 minutes (with a change at Lagao) and drops you in the heart of the old Moorish capital, where youll find an impressive castle commanding extraordinary views of the surrounding countryside.

There is also an archaeological museum, a fish, fruit and vegetable market every morning (except Sundays) and several restaurants and caf￩s in the town centre.

Silves is also home to the Fabrica do Ingl￪s which  once a cork factory  is now a popular tourist centre featuring, amongst other things, a cork museum, restaurants and, in the summer months, nightly shows in the open air stage area.

Tenuous The west coast offers more than sand and surf alone. At Cape St Vincent, Europes most south westerly point, you will find the fortress housing the famous wind rose stone compass which, it is believed, was designed by Henry the Navigator.

This wild and windswept spot resonates with atmosphere. Yet, incredibly, it has none of the trappings of a tourist hub. The gift shop, for example, has long since closed down  leading one to question whether the Algarve people really make the very best of their heritage. (Most entrepreneurial are the handful of market traders  selling textiles, gifts and local produce - that youll find lining the road to the car park and entrance.)

Over the last decade or so the fortress has attracted little or no financial support, and has been aided, in its battle against the elements, only by the kind of second rate paint job that one might more readily associate with an unloved municipal outbuilding.

Nonetheless, having passed through the old ruin, on your way to the far-most lighthouse, you quickly cast off that ghastly visage, as you pick your way through the scrub-grass paths, trying desperately to be heard over gale force winds as you marvel at the anglers perched precariously on the cliff side, a tenuous toehold separating them from the snapping surf that crashes a hundred or more boulder strewn feet below.

Gypsy market In nearby Loul￩, Saturday is market day. Then, the fruit and vegetable market swells to twice its normal size, as the local farmers and producers set up shop outside the main market building. Here youll find sides of smoked ham, home-made cheeses, sausages, fresh herbs, chickens, rabbits and other local fare.

By contrast, at the western end of the town, the weekly gipsy market features a mix of local handicrafts  including baskets, pottery, plants and linen - as well as, inevitably Levis, DVDs and video games (all of questionable provenance).

Olh￣o, too, offers a superb covered market, as well as interesting shops in the pedestrianised area behind the port.

Time permitting, its worth continuing on from Olh￣o to St Luzia, from where you may take a small open air train to Ilha de Tavira (Tavira Island), which is home to an attractive beach and medieval castle (the latter now classified as a National Monument). Also popular are the regular excursions to Sir Cliff Richard's winery - the Adega do Cantor  which is located at the Quinta do Miradouro. Here, a pre-booked tour and wine tasting costs just ﾬ7.50 per person.

In Johns view, however, there are superior examples of the vintners art to be had, courtesy of the regions Australian run vineyards.

Although Portugal is most famous for the fortified wine that bears its name, there are a range of reds and whites to meet the most discerning palate.

Water parks If youve never holidayed at The Algarve before you may  by now - have begun questioning any preconceived notions you may have held about the region, not least about its reputation for overt commercialism.

Youll probably also wonder how weve gotten this far without giving at least a nod to the primary source of that reputation: Albufeira. The fact is, however, that this one-time tourist centre isnt what it used to be. Its pleasant enough, if a little soulless; where once it was clearly vibrant it has become somewhat & down at heel.

Time was, crowds of locals and holidaymakers alike would assemble by the quayside as the fishing fleet returned home to enjoy the catch of the day - on the so-called Strips waterfront tables - fresh from the incoming boats. No more. The waterfront vendors have long since closed down, victims of ill-conceived health and safety legislation.

There are shops of course  and restaurants - which are fine. But with a finite window of holiday opportunity at your disposal there are better places to occupy your time. Not least, nearby Zoomarine, which provides a fun and informative day-out, allowing the whole family to experience (and even interact with) dolphins, seals and turtles  as well as sharks, crocodiles, alligators and tropical fish - in a reasonable facsimile of their native environment.

The park  whose stated aim is to promote environmental knowledge, preservation and education in a fun and exciting way - is also home to a variety of birds of prey, and myriad animals and exhibits.

An enthralling falconry demonstration is held daily, as is an enchanting tropical bird show. But, inevitably, its the resident bottlenose dolphins that prove the greatest crowd pleasers - displaying their immense intelligence, and acrobatic prowess, to packed audiences throughout the day.

For an experience youll never forget, you can also swim with the resident dolphins  for up to 90 minutes  in between shows (subject to pre-booking).

Also highly recommended is the parks 4D cinema, which - through truly breathtaking animation explores the devastating consequences of global warming, deforestation and the destruction of ocean habitats, which Zoomarine contends represent the three greatest threats currently facing the natural world.

On a lighter note, the eight-hectare park also has a funfair - which includes free roller-coasters and rides for the children  together with a number of restaurants, shops, amusements and two large swimming pools, to help you cool off during your stay.

Long stays Arguably the most popular holiday attraction on The Algarve, however, is Aqualand, the largest of the areas many water parks. Situated roughly 15 kms from Albufeira, the park has chutes and slides, waves and rides aplenty. Something, indeed, for the entire family (including those who would prefer a gentle swim, in the parks semi-Olympic pool).

Needless to say, Aqualand also offers a terrace caf￩ and restaurant, and a gift shop - in other words, all youll need to spend the entire day. Is it a tourist trap? Of course it is. Will the kids love it? Most certainly.

Prices are, for adults: ﾬ 18.50. For children (4 to 10 years): ﾬ 14.50.

Aqualand  like many local attractions  closes in the winter (from September to May). But this doesnt stop a raft of holidaymakers joining John and his colleagues all year round. Indeed, the site is invariably well booked with long-stayers between December and February.

In the best traditions of the HPB club, Holiday Property Bondholders visiting The Algarve during the cooler (wetter) winter months tend to make their own entertainment - arranging bridge tournaments, walks, bowling and boules. No golf, you say?

Well, usually not. Watching the relentless procession of golf bags rotating the airport luggage carousel, youd expect more golfers to be resident on site. In reality, however - although there are a number of courses relatively close to Rocha Brava - keen golfers seeking superior (more challenging) courses tend to head further afield.

Johns long term second in command, English born Anne Martin, says, Although we arrange a getting to know you evening at the start of each week - and of course provide all the help and facilities they need - for the most part our guests make their own arrangements, hosting regular cheese and wine evenings, dinners in and out, and so on.

Relaxing pursuits all  and utterly in keeping with this most tranquil location, which it seems provides a refuge from the worst of the British weather, long after the beaches have been deserted.

For more information on Rocha Brava  and 28 other exclusive destinations that you could enjoy as a Holiday Property Bondholder  visit www.hpbrochabrava.com.

Bond facts: things you should know about the Holiday Property Bond

The Holiday Property Bond is a life assurance bond investing, after initial charges, in properties and securities. Properties are booked for a no profit user-charge and Points issued with the Bond. There is a quarterly fee of around twenty-five pounds including VAT linked to RPI, with all other management fees paid from securities. Investment is from ﾣ4,000. Encashment may be made under the terms of the 'Holiday Satisfaction Guaranteed' offer. Otherwise you may encash after two years at a value linked to that of the properties and securities but you may not see a profit and may incur a loss because of initial charges and fluctuations in asset values. In exceptional circumstances encashment may be deferred for up to twelve months. No medical examination required.

As a Holiday Property Bondholder, your interests are further protected by:

HSBC Trustee (Isle of Man) Limited - To whom all cheques are made payable, and who control all the fund's assets.

Financial Services Regulation - In the sale of Holiday Property Bond we are authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority. We and our representatives have to comply with all prevailing consumer protection legislation and the highest professional standards.

The Holiday Property Bondholders' Committee - a democratically elected 'watchdog', which oversees the manager's activities, from location selection to resolution of holiday complaints.

A 30 day 'cooling off period' - your right to change your mind without penalty, as required by law.

Unique holiday satisfaction guaranteed offer - Take your first holiday at a Bond-owned site anytime within three years of investing and, in the unlikely event that you are not 100% delighted, you may cash-in your Bond within 14 days of your return. You will receive the Bond's then unit value (which may have gone up or down) plus a refund of all your initial charges. Over 40% or our new investors are introduced by existing Bondholders. And, in a recent survey, 97% of respondents took time to express their satisfaction with their decision to invest in the Bond. Consequently, we feel confident offering this unprecedented guarantee:

The people behind the Bond This advertisement is issued by HPB Management Limited (HPBM) of HPB House, Newmarket, Suffolk CB8 8EH. HPBM are authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority and are the main UK agent for Holiday Property Bond (HPB), issued by HPB Assurance Limited (HPBA) registered in the Isle of Man and authorised by the Insurance and Pensions Authority there. Holders of policies issued by the company will not be protected by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme if the company becomes unable to meet its liabilities to them but Isle of Man compensation arrangements apply to new policies.

The Trustee of HPB is HSBC Trustee (Isle of Man) Limited registered at 3rd floor, Belgravia House, Circular Road, Douglas, Isle of Man IM1 1AE. The Securities Manager is Morgan Stanley & Co. International Limited registered at 25 Cabot Square, Canary Wharf, London E14 4QA. The Property Manager is HPB Management (International) Limited (HPBMI) registered at Ground Floor, Neptune House, Marina Bay, PO Box 67, Gibraltar.

About The Author Journalist and copywriter Steve Calder (http://www.stevecalder.com) is retained by the Holiday Property Bond (http://www.hpb-rochabrava.com) to edit its quarterly investor magazine, monthly enewsletter and other regular marketing communications. To request the company's latest full colour information pack, FREEPHONE (UK only) 0800 856 0065, or email scalder@hpb.co.uk.