PORTUGAL at The Telegraph summer recomendations
PORTUGAL
Golfers and sunseekers flood to the southerly Algarve seeking hidden coves and limestone rocks resembling abstract sculptures that rise out of the blue ocean all along the coast. Golden sands stretch from the west coast with its wild waves - a paradise for surfers - to the more gentle central and eastern Algarve, where long, accessible beaches alternate with mere handkerchiefs of sand at the end of dizzyingly steep steps carved into the rocks. There is much to discover in Europe’s most westerly country.
STAY
Vila Joya, Algarve
The hotel has the feel of a private villa and decoration follows suit, with antique furnishings and plenty of places to curl up and read. Outside, the lush gardens, filled with palms and bougainvillea, lead to the beach. It's the Algarve’s most hedonistic retreat, set on cliffs overlooking the sea, with a two-star Michelin cuisine, beautiful spa and eight luxurious suites. All the rooms, mainly in beige and white tones, have sea views.
Read the full review: Vila Joya, Algarve
Vila Joya has the feel of a private villa and decoration follows suit.
Vila Vita Parc, Algarve
After opening in 1992 Vila Vita quickly became a benchmark for luxury accommodation in the Algarve. It’s built in traditional Portuguese style, with whitewashed exteriors giving way to cool tiled interiors. The whole is set around lakes and fountains amid lush subtropical gardens. Offering commanding sea views and direct access to the beach, the hotel has something for everyone, from an outstanding spa, wine cellar and two Michelin-starred restaurant, to golf, tennis, paddleboarding and waterskiing.
After opening in 1992 Vila Vita quickly became a benchmark for luxury accommodation in the Algarve. It’s built in traditional Portuguese style, with whitewashed exteriors giving way to cool tiled interiors. The whole is set around lakes and fountains amid lush subtropical gardens. Offering commanding sea views and direct access to the beach, the hotel has something for everyone, from an outstanding spa, wine cellar and two Michelin-starred restaurant, to golf, tennis, paddleboarding and waterskiing.
Read the full review: Vila Vita Parc, Algarve
After opening in 1992 Vila Vita quickly became a benchmark for luxury accommodation in the Algarve.
Martinhal Beach Resort & HotelOn cliffs above the sea, with golden sands below and the Costa Vicentina Nature Reserve embracing it from behind, Martinhal lies near the historic town of Sagres. The 37-room hotel is low lying and ocean-facing with a variety of villas and town houses, also available to rent, around it. Martinhal has warm interiors – think squashy sofas and large bean bags – encourage relaxation and are particularly aimed at making children feel at home. It is the only completely children orientated resort on the Algarve and has a plethora of activities to suit all ages.
Read the full review: Martinhal Beach Resort & Hotel
Martinhal lies near the historic town of Sagres.
