About

FIGS ON THE FUNCHO – A RIVERSIDE LOCATION

Discover Figs on the Funcho, an idyllic retreat in Portugal’s Algarve countryside, offering direct views over Barragem do Funcho and the river. This hidden gem, known as The River House, is nestled in the hills amidst fig and carob trees, with pathways leading to the water’s edge. It provides complete privacy, making it an ideal choice for creative or wellness retreats, family self-catering holidays, milestone birthdays, workations, intimate weddings, or hosting your own retreat.

The River House exudes charm and is beautifully decorated, featuring comfortable indoor and outdoor social areas. Its large decks and terraces offer daily options for outdoor dining with uninterrupted views of the countryside and Funcho Dam. The River House at Figs on the Funcho can accommodate 10 guests, while the glamping tents can host 4 guests, and the venue can welcome up to 80 visitors for special celebrations. In addition to being a stunning holiday destination, Figs on the Funcho offers Painting and Cooking holidays and bespoke getaways.

New for 2024 – Glamping

Get ready to explore the breathtaking landscapes that’ll make you feel like you’re in a postcard. Find out more

Find out why Figs on the Funcho could be the ideal private and idyllic location for your special event or the perfect holiday choice for you and your friends and family.

Cheryl and Graham of Figs on the Funcho
Cheryl and Graham of Figs on the Funcho

Introducing Cheryl and Graham

The past shapes us and the decisions that we make. The Covid-19 pandemic has brought into sharp focus for Cheryl and her husband Graham what was most important to them. Reflecting on the past and recalling happy memories helped them to take the decision to create a new life in Portugal’s beautiful Algarve region.

Why the Algarve

Having both grown up in the southern hemisphere, Cheryl in South Africa, and Graham in Rhodesia (now Zimbabwe), they were naturally drawn to the warm climate and relaxed culture of Portugal. However, in their early explorations of Europe during long holidays soaking up the culture and history, Portugal was the one country they didn’t quite manage to get to, instead they returned to SA, settled there for six years before returning to settle in the UK for 23 years.

Living in the UK and missing the warm South African sunny days, Portugal soon became a regular family holiday destination. After watching a documentary, in 2002, about setting up a quieter lifestyle in a European sunny destination, they made the bold move of buying a coastal property on the Algarve. The family went on to enjoy many family holidays with their two children in their new holiday home. This led them to The River House property, lovingly restored to its current glory of a modern stylish villa. A five-bedroomed villa with winding pathways for easy waterside access, an infinity pool with far reaching river views.

Life on the Algarve

Now settled here in the Algarve and having worked hard to make Figs on the Funcho a place that you will want to return to time and again, their passion for the region, and for making your holiday the best experience shines through. Media coverage for Figs on the Funcho can be viewed here.

Cheryl has a passion for cooking and for sourcing local ingredients to produce good, healthy, natural vegetarian foods. Cheryl also enjoys being hands on and will be your guide on your walking holiday, leading the afternoon walks. After many years of exploring the Algarve, Cheryl has a fascinating knowledge of the best routes, favourite spots to enjoy the view and wildlife as well as being able to impart lots of local knowledge.

Graham is also a keen cook and an avid follower of Ottolenghi, Jamie Oliver, Bosh Brothers and the Happy Pear. He enjoys cooking for the retreats and guest reviews happily report their joy in discovery new healthy vegetarian meals.

Read more about Cheryl & Graham’s adventures that lead them to where they are now in Alyson Sheldrakes’ book A New Life in the Algarve Portugal or catch up on the latest news features.

Sustainable Tourism

Figs on the Funcho are focused on being sustainable, eco-friendly and responsible and try and do as much as possible as soon as possible, read what they have done so far here.

Press Mentions

Cheryl and Graham appeared in the seventh series of Channel 4’s “A New Life in the Sun” in 2022, “Where are They Now” in 2024 and have appeared in various press media, read about their news stories and to download their press kit here.

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