Portugal as a whole never seems to have quite lived up to its potential as a location for property investment, but things are improving. The economic crisis in Europe hit hard, but the recovery is well underway and in certain areas of the Algarve, such as Albufeira, you’d be hard-pressed to find any real signs of damage. Tourism forms the backbone of the local economy and represents the biggest draw for investors. Overall property values were once again down in 2013, but demand is up and even long-term rent yields are known to go beyond the 6.5 per cent mark in the most sought-after spots. Holiday rental property investment opportunities abound, as well as the appeal of a Golden Visa-fuelled second home.