Discover the Renewed Allure of the Algarve: Where Timeless Beauty Meets Modern Sophistication
Where to find exceptional accommodations in the Algarve region.
Portugal is well-known for its charming hotel conversions from old farm estates. Among the newest and most sought-after is Casas da Quinta de Cima, situated near Tavira. This active farm, boasting a diverse array of citrus and other fruit trees, offers nine expansive suites. Each suite features lofty bamboo ceilings, classic terracotta floors, elegant marble bathrooms, and private outdoor patios equipped with al fresco showers. The interiors are thoughtfully curated with vintage-inspired furnishings, such as mid-century lighting, antique dressers, clawfoot bathtubs, and framed artworks, creating a wonderfully lived-in ambiance. Additionally, the property includes two private villas, each with its own pool and garden, offering a more secluded experience.
Experience luxury and comfort at Casas da Quinta de Cima and Kimpton Atlântico Algarve.
Beyond the individual suites, the former stables at Casas da Quinta de Cima have been reimagined into communal areas, including a dining room, a bar, and a recreational space. Another building houses the reception, a well-equipped gym, and plans for future massage facilities. The extensive grounds feature two swimming pools, outdoor dining options, and secluded lounging areas nestled among the citrus groves. For those seeking a larger resort experience, the newly opened Kimpton Atlântico Algarve near Albufeira is a spectacular choice. Designed by the acclaimed Nini Andrade, this 149-room property blends playful design with natural textures. Guests can admire eclectic patterns, sculptural light fixtures, and elegant modernist furnishings throughout the hotel, from the vibrant bar to the four distinctive restaurants and bars, and the sprawling 20,000-square-foot spa.
Where to indulge in the finest culinary and beverage experiences.
For discerning diners in the Algarve, Austa in Almancil is a must-visit destination. Conceived by Studio Gameira from Lisbon, this versatile establishment features both indoor and outdoor dining, complemented by an adjacent produce garden. Its design respectfully reflects the region's heritage, notably with a striking 12-foot bench crafted from 230 ancient rock salt blocks sourced from Loulé. This rustic element contrasts beautifully with contemporary aluminum chairs, angular marble-topped tables, and an outdoor wooden pergola, all expertly created by local Algarvean artisans. Chef David Barata's seasonal menu is equally captivating, showcasing local farmers and fishermen through exquisite dishes like four-year-old oysters from Ria Formosa, accompanied by fermented cucumber and buttermilk, and succulent carabineiro from Vila Real Santo António. The wine list, carefully curated, predominantly features low-intervention Portuguese and Spanish selections.
Exploring diverse dining and acclaimed culinary spots in the Algarve.
Further west, in Burgau, Sul offers a vibrant coffee shop and wine bar hybrid, popular for its outdoor seating with ocean views. By evening, its minimalist interior transforms into a lively dining spot, serving delicious dishes such as monkfish and cilantro stews, and burrata salad with figs and tomatoes. The beverage selection is impressive, highlighting many Portuguese producers, including some of the Algarve's top winemakers. The Michelin Guide has consistently recognized the Algarve's culinary scene, with Al Sud being one of the latest additions. Located within the Palmares Golf Course clubhouse, Chef Louis Anjos's restaurant boasts stunning views of Lagos Bay and a luxurious architectural setting. It offers a delicate yet accessible locavore tasting menu, featuring fresh fish and seafood from Sagres and produce from nearby farms.
Discovering unique and artistic culinary experiences in the Algarve.
In Loulé, Cafezique stands out with its colorful and eclectic interiors, including a ceramic octopus tentacle serving as a cutlery holder, mirroring its bold culinary approach. The menu features global influences, with dishes like fried empanadas filled with octopus in green curry and monkfish liver mousse with a rich onion sauce. Meanwhile, in the heart of Faro, Ato, led by American chef Sean Marsh, offers an intimate dining experience that feels like being a guest in his home. The restaurant's traditional Portuguese setting—complete with a blue door, white walls, and azulejos—provides a perfect backdrop for Marsh's contemporary cooking style. His menu emphasizes simple, fresh ingredients, as seen in dishes like a vibrant salad of ripe tomatoes and sea lettuce with vinaigrette, or tuna served with red pepper and roasted olives.
Experience the rich tradition of winemaking and artistic expression in the Algarve.
The Algarve's burgeoning wine industry is gaining recognition, with Morgado do Quintão as a prominent name. This beautiful farm in Lagoa welcomes visitors for wine tastings and traditional lunches, by reservation. The winery focuses on lesser-known regional grapes like negra mole, offering a diverse tasting experience from palhete and rosé to amphora-aged red wines. A unique feature of Morgado do Quintão is its artistic wine labels, often created in collaboration with various artists and photographers, making each bottle a collector's item.
Uncover the rich artistic and cultural landscape of the Algarve.
Beyond its breathtaking beaches, enchanting caves, and dramatic cliffs, the Algarve offers a rich landscape for design enthusiasts. Begin your cultural exploration at Loulé Criativo, a dynamic space that serves as an exhibition venue, design residency, and retail outlet, all dedicated to preserving the Algarve's creative heritage. Here, visitors can engage in workshops, interact with local artisans, and browse a curated selection of locally made crafts, ranging from intricate ceramics to woven accessories and cork-based decor. Loulé Criativo also features a tourism branch that arranges immersive experiences with Algarvean artisans, such as learning ceramic tile painting or macramé creation. Close by, In the Pink is a new photo gallery attracting international artists to showcase their work in the Algarve. Housed in a striking pink three-story building, this gallery features an impressive collection from artists like Bastiaan Woudt and Rankin, alongside local talents such as Teresa Freitas and João Mariano. For a modern take on ancient crafts, a visit to Palmas Douradas' shoppable atelier in São Brás de Alportel is highly recommended. Artist and designer Maria João Gomes masterfully transforms palm leaves into unique hats, bags, and home decor, with each piece often requiring weeks to complete. Gomes, who learned the craft from her grandmother decades ago, pushes the boundaries of this traditional material with her sculptural designs. While the oversized bags, uniquely shaped hats, and architectural light fixtures might be challenging to transport, they offer unforgettable mementos of the Algarve's innovative spirit.