Pure luxury and traditional Portuguese hospitality in an entrancing setting.
With unmistakable Moorish influence, this jewel of the Algarve set amidst 22 hectares of subtropical gardens, park, and oceanfront coastline is located near the town of Porches. Tourists flock to this part of Portugal, but the resort is more hideaway than hubbub.
In the lobby, indigo velvet seating is interspersed with bright yellow ottomans, an impressive chandelier and abundant light flooding in from Oasis bar and terrace. Throughout, whitewashed exteriors contrast decorative pops of azulejo tile. Bright burgundy bougainvillea bushes obscure stone walls, while plentiful koi swim in ponds bordered by palms.
Offering no excuse for boredom, there are 8 swimming pools, a gym, water sports by the beach, five tennis courts, mini golf, volleyball, badminton, an 18-hole golf course, an array of activities for children and if it suits you, a yacht can be chartered.
Set on a cliff top, the recently refurbished 180 villas are neatly laid out like a small town, clustered by room category and navigable by foot or golf cart. The large oasis family suite laid out in an open plan is comfortable enough for a family of four with a living area, separate twin bedroom, and large bathroom. The highlight though, is the rooftop terrace where a daybed, sitting area and rainfall shower beckon.
Any meal here means a choice of cuisine. Opting for the traditional Portuguese style, Adega evokes rustic romance with its dimly lit space, guitar players and Fado singers. The charm is carried through the decoration consisting of wooden farm tables, cobblestone and a hearth overlooking the swan lake steps away. Don’t be fooled by the pared back decor, this spot offers uncompromising food with a mix of dishes from Portugal, the Azores as well as its former global colonies. Start with the juicy grilled Mozambique prawns, followed by clams served Bulhao Pato style with coriander and lemon, which will have you licking your fingers. Then order the fresh fish trio served with vegetables for perfectly crisp skin and succulent flakes.
On mornings, Atlantico with its chic turquoise chairs and beach glass bulbs, overlooking the ocean offers the kind of view that would motivate even the most steadfast night owl to wake up early. Breakfast tempts guests with several rooms filled with choices or a la carte options. Order a cappuccino with cinnamon stick, and inquire about the indulgent and light dulce de lece doughnuts, among the best in the world.
A stay here would not be complete without taking a walk to the curved bay offering a commanding view of the Atlantic — soak up the hot rays in the afternoon, or watch the glow of stunning sunsets — proving why the Algarve is magnetic and sultry.
Rua Anneliese Pohl, Alporchinhos, 8400-450;
This original hotel article first appeared in the Spring 2018 issue of City Style and Living Magazine
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