Our latest holiday hotel guide is all about the best hotels in the Algarve, located on the southern coast of Portugal. This beautiful region offers a perfect blend of the Atlantic Ocean's big waves for surfers and a peaceful atmosphere for those who prefer to relax by the sea.
It doesn't matter if you're travelling solo, with your family, or with your significant other, we've got you covered with this hand-picked selection of the finest luxury hotels in Algarve Portugal. Whether you're looking for an adventure, a cultural experience, or simply some relaxation, these hotels are the perfect place to start planning your trip. So, if you're wondering where to stay in the Algarve, don't miss our recommendations!
Our Top Picks
- Best hotel for families in the Algarve: Martinhal Sagres Beach Resort
- Best hotel in the Algarve for couples: Vila Joya
- Best hotel for adults in the Algarve: Bela Vista Hotel & Spa
- Best hotel for honeymoon in the Algarve: The Tivoli Carvoeiro
- Best beach hotels in Algarve: Vila Vita Parc Resort & Spa
- Best golf hotel in the Algarve: Monte Rei Golf & Country Club
- Best boutique hotel Algarve: Dona Filipa Hotel
How We Selected These 20 Best Hotels in Algarve
Drawing from guest reviews, ratings from reputable guides, and our own first-hand experiences, we've curated a list of the finest hotels based on criteria such as accommodation quality, amenities, hospitality, aesthetics, and location. Our selection joins diverse styles, atmospheres, and offerings, ensuring that every traveller can discover their ideal accommodation option in the Algarve. For further insights into our methodology, please refer to our editorial policy.
Related: Top Luxury Hotels in Lisbon | Best Restaurants in Lisbon in 2024
What is the best area of the Algarve to stay in?
The Algarve is famous for being of one the most popular holiday choices in Southern Europe, as it offers the best combo of beautiful cities and beaches. If you are looking for a relaxing holiday, then Carvoeiro is your choice, with its crystalline beach waters and countryside spots. On the other hand, if you prefer a little bit of action, Lagos, Sagres and Albufeira are the places to be for adrenaline seekers like surfers.
Best Boutique Hotels Algarve on the Beach
Algarve is on a rocky coast, so it’s not easy to find accommodation just a few steps from the beach. Those selected 5-star beach hotels offer direct access to the sand, along with other amenities.
1. Memmo Baleeira, Sagres
Portugal's Sagres peninsula provides you with gorgeous beaches, rich history and fantastic food and wine. It's also the backdrop for this exceptional hotel set on the sparkling Atlantic, with golden sandy beaches and towering limestone cliffs of the Algarve coastline.
Memmo Baleeira‘s striking design with whitewashed facades and sleek interiors surpasses the location and assures its place in our best Algarve hotels list.
The best pastime here? Learning to surf! Thanks to its surf centre, the hotel also offers the feeling of riding the wave of life – something we all can make use of.
“If you like surfing and wild beaches, this is your hotel, and Sagres your paradise.”
Related: Best hotels in Mallorca – Best hotels in Amalfi
2. Dona Filipa Hotel, Almancil
The Dona Filipa has well and truly earned its five stars with its newly refurbished hotel and modern facilities. Focusing on a design aesthetic that promises to bring luxury to the Algarve, the Dona Filipa offers an excellent golf course and fine dining. Offering a range of suites and rooms, you'll either be overlooking the beach or one of the finest golf courses in the Algarve.
“Everything about the hotel is pure luxury, and the stay was extraordinary indeed.”
3. Tivoli Carvoeiro, Praia do Carvoeiro, Lagoa
The Tivoli Carvoeiro‘s remodel project is finally finished, and boy, was it worth the wait! There is something for everyone with larger family rooms, more boutique couples' suites that are ideal for your honeymoon, and a brand-new state-of-the-art fitness centre. The enormous pool overlooks the ocean, while the Sky Bar is hidden in what feels like clouds. The Tivoli offers a range of experiences, including dining, wellness, and meditation.
“We were greeted with champagne and an assortment of chocolate-covered fruits and pastries in our honeymoon suite.”
The Best Spa & Wellness Hotels in Algarve
If you need to unwind and spend some time dedicating your attention only to yourself, head to one of those spa and wellness hotels. Their exceptional amenities and qualified staff will transform you into a completely new person!
4. Vila Vita Parc Resort & Spa, Porches
Active vacations couldn't be better spent than at the luxurious cliffside resort of Vila Vita Parc Resort & Spa at the Algarve coastline in Portugal. We got to test our golf and tennis abilities and had the chance to try out paddleboarding and water-skiing at this award-winning hotel (“Portugal's Most Elegant Hotel & Spa”). There's also direct beach access for swimming enthusiasts.
The recently renovated rooms offer true peace for the soul and the eye thanks to bleached wood surfaces, spacious bathrooms with Portuguese tiles, and breathtaking ocean views. The multi-culinary experience extends from a casual beach bar to an acclaimed trattoria and a fine-dining restaurant Ocean with two Michelin stars.
“A beautiful view and grounds that lead straight down to the beach with a wonderful pool area guarantee a peaceful stay.”
5. Bela Vista Hotel & Spa, Praia da Rocha, Portimão
Renowned for being one of the first Algarve hotels, the Bela Vista Hotel is a renovated 19th-century Portuguese family home in the shape of a small castle. It's rich in history, and very proud of it. This upmarket hotel still echoes its deep history but has thrown in a touch of elegance.
With a range of suites and rooms to suit all, the Bela Vista is also well-equipped with a spa, pool, and private beach. It certainly has the feeling of your very own holiday home, where you will be treated like royalty.
“I love that this hotel has retained its history without compromising on the facilities.”
6. Vila Joya, Albufeira
If you call yourself a gourmet of some kind, you will rejoice at this exquisite boutique hotel with a Michelin-star restaurant, which is considered one of Portugal's finest. Vila Joya‘s tranquil rooms and suites with private pools, antique furnishings and stunning views of the Algarve coast's lush gardens and sparkling sea offer the kind of relaxation that an Ayurvedic treatment at the full-service spa only enhances.
In addition, mountain hikes and excursions to the towns of Silves, Monchique, and Loulé, or sunbathing on the nearby beach, will make your holiday a dream come true.
“Paradise re-imagined: The spectacular and breathtaking views, the immaculate grounds and the kindness of the service build a paradise on the edge of the sea. One of the best hotels in Algarve for couples.”
7. Vilalara Resort, Lagoa
Surrounded by nature and located right on the seafront is the Vilalara Resort. This 5-star resort does not disappoint, and the five pools and state-of-the-art wellness centre are a treat for those wanting to reconnect with themselves and disconnect from their daily grind. The rooms and flats are beautifully designed, and the restaurant has a diverse menu, from high-class cuisine to juice cleanses.
“I could have stayed in the wellness centre all day; on one day, I think I did!”
Golf Hotels in the Algarve
We know how important it is to be surrounded by golf camps with all the necessary amenities during your holidays. Those luxury golf resorts provide everything you need and offer golf courses if you wish to further study your techniques.
8. Monte Rei Golf & Country Club, Vila Nova de Cacela
Those who want to enjoy world-class vacations in dreamlike surroundings together with family and friends should rent one of the stunning villas of this ultra-modern resort. Monte Rei Golf & Country Club offers all the amenities of a private home with the services of a luxury hotel. The resort's centre is the veranda with a restaurant and bar, which opens to a swimming pool, as well as tennis courts, a gym and a spa.
You will get to enjoy personalized service and privileged access to all facilities – including Vistas Restaurant and the Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Course – number one in Portugal and on the Algarve coast.
“This place is a ‘class act'. The villa is exceptional: spacious, comfortable, and with a very well-equipped golf course.”
9. Conrad Algarve, Quinta do Lago
Situated on the coastline of the Algarve, the Conrad Algarve is a shining example of how modern luxury and cultural heritage can sit beautifully side by side to be enjoyed by all. Whether you are going for the golfing (you'll find Quinta do Lago and Vale do Lobo close nearby) or for the wellness facilities that include a world-class spa, the Conrad Algarve is the ideal choice. Time after time, it proves to be one of the most popular destinations for those seeking sun, sea, and a sophisticated vacation.
“If modern luxury by the beach is your idea of a perfect holiday, this hotel is the right fit for you.”
Boutique Hotels in Algarve
Small and luxurious, those private establishments offer an exclusive stay for those who appreciate the uncommon. Choose between antique buildings in the city or vast country houses situated far from the crowds.
10. Casa Mãe Hotel, Lagos
Contemporary Portuguese design is interpreted in a modern way in this hotel. This 19th-century family estate on the coast of Lagos, Portugal, felt to us like its own little community – only as a boutique hotel. Casa Mãe‘s individually designed rooms, spread across three houses, are skilfully decorated with local art and impress with colourful textiles, woodwork, and ceramics.
Two in-house restaurants with organic gardens, a bakery, a farmer's market, an outdoor cinema and even an in-house magazine are the cherry on the sundae, here on the beautiful Algarve coast. A home-away-from-home feeling is guaranteed.
“Beautiful setting with orchards and vegetable gardens tended and harvested daily: everything in the hotel is well-thought-out.”
11. Vila Monte, Moncarapacho
Sangria by the pool, yoga, tennis, bike rides around the sprawling property, Olhão market visits, and beach days at nearby Fuseta Island Beach; all this and much more are on offer for your next stay at Vila Monte. You will enjoy country-style accommodation spread across vast landscapes of orange and olive groves on Portugal's eastern Algarve coast.
The clean-chic interiors, created by designer Vera Lachia, who has worked with Andy Warhol and Jacques Grange, are sublime, as are the dishes prepared by the chef from the hotel's À Terra restaurant.
“Truly a haven of tranquillity: The farmhouse itself is gorgeous, and the final touch with beautifully laid out grounds culminates with magical surroundings.”
12. Praia Verde Boutique Hotel, Castro Marim
Surrounded by a pine forest, golden beaches, and picturesque marshes, the relaxed luxury boutique hotel Praia Verde is unagitated. This minimalist wooden architecture property located far from the urban area has the feel of a calming retreat, ideal for escaping reality for a few days.
Family-friendly rooms in a trendy but unobtrusive design and the restaurant À Terra with local delicacies from the Algarve coast are reason enough to choose this hotel from our list and book your next vacation here. Add amenities like the pool that blends into the surrounding vegetation or the chance to spend time on the nearby beach under a palm tree umbrella. Portugal inspires – so does Praia Verde.
“The location within a pine forest and super close to the sea is perfect for a relaxing stay.”
13. Grand House Algarve, Vila Real de Santo António
The Grand House Algarve is in Villa Real de San Antonio, overlooking the yachts in the quay. This magnificent townhouse has been sympathetically converted into a beautiful hotel with colonial Art Deco vibes that hint at its rich history wherever you look. The restaurant and bar have a diverse menu, and those seeking a more traditional cuisine can sample one of the many restaurants nearby.
“Overlooking the marina with our morning coffees was a real highlight. Did I mention you wake up to the sun rising across the river over Spain!”
Best Country Hotels in Algarve
For those tired of the everyday rush of the city, the Algarve offers some of the most quiet and relaxed country hotels. You will be surprised to rediscover how fabulous it is not to hear anything but the birds, the wind, and the ocean far away.
14. Vila Valverde, Lagos
Tucked high up in the hills of the Portuguese coast is the Vila Valverde. This immaculate property, located in a quiet area, is ideal for a peaceful and relaxing holiday. An imposing manor house, this recently renovated marvel includes just a few rooms and suites for its discerning guests. The beautifully designed interiors match the impeccably landscaped exterior. Overall, the perfect stay for those wanting to detach from the outside world.
“Its isolated location makes you feel completely secluded.”
15. Quinta Dos Perfumes, Tavira
Located further inland than some of the other hotels and resorts on our list, the Quinta Dos Perfumes has a boutique feel with an Algarve twist. The muted tones of the interiors and understated minimalist design allow the area's beauty to be the star of the show.
The property is nestled in the middle of an orange grove with the ocean as a backdrop. A secluded pool is hidden right there. The sun terrace is adorned with traditional sail shades. Bikes are available for guests for easy access to town and the beach. This lovely boutique hotel is a perfect base for exploring the city of Tavira and the surrounding area.
“When you don't want to write a review because a place is so unique and special, you'd prefer the world didn't know about it – that says it all.”
16. Magnolia Hotel, Almancil
Offering a wide variety of sports, activities, and facilities, the Magnolia Hotel is for people who like to keep busy on holiday. Whether it's golf, cycling, or tennis, the Magnolia has a whole host of sports and spa facilities to keep you entertained. You can even explore the nearby area and soak in some Algarve culture close to the beach and a short walk into town.
“We don't like holidays where you just sit by the pool all day, so this resort was just right for us.”
Family Hotels in Algarve
Holiday with kids is a time for families to reconnect, spend time together and live new adventures. But it’s also an opportunity for the parents to have some rest as a couple and for the kids to make new friends. These family hotels find a balance between all of those necessities!
17. Martinhal Sagres Beach Resort, Quinta do Martinhal, Sagres
The Martinhal Sagres Beach Resort in Portugal, on the sun-drenched Algarve coast, is the perfect place for modern families' comfortable vacations in style. The ocean-view hotel offers kids' activities like playrooms, water sports, and five pools. At the same time, it manages to maintain the intimacy and style of a trendy boutique hotel.
Low-rise villas and townhouses feature natural materials, including stone, wood, and cork. Massive glass windows and terraces give stunning views. While kids experience the Adventure Club, adults can enjoy time at the extensive spa. Modern family? — Modern holiday!
“I have not seen restaurants and services for children like this anywhere else. we think it is one of the Best family hotels Algarve”
18. The Pine Cliffs Resort, Albufeira
The Pine Cliffs Luxury Collection Resort has dedicated accommodations and facilities for each member of your family. Each one has been carefully designed to provide opulent surroundings, from the quiet hilltop rooms for couples to the family-friendly villas. The view from the clifftop overlooking the sea is absolutely fabulous.
The compound has many restaurants to choose from. O Pescador restaurant, with its traditional fish dishes, is the envy of the area. The wonderful beachside restaurant “Mare” is highly recommended. Corda Café by the pool is a casual all-day dining option that offers excellent meals with a fantastic view.
“The view is to die for. You can get lost in a view like this.”
19. EPIC SANA Hotel, Albufeira
There aren't many places on the Algarve that offer both a beachside getaway and a full activity schedule for children, but the EPIC SANA has families firmly in mind. As well as the modern facilities and wellness centre for the adults, you'll also find kids' pools, a sports complex, and a kids club to keep the younger guests entertained for most of the day. In addition, three on-site restaurants (and a few snack bars) will ensure that no one goes hungry, and there is always a lot of variation.
“We wanted a breakaway with the kids where we didn't have to compromise… and we found it!”
20. Domes Lake Resort Algarve, Vilamoura
If location is a priority for you, the Domes Lake Resort Algarve will win, hands down. Located by the beach, the marina, and five different golf courses, the Lake Spa Resort is the perfect spot built on a private lake. The resort that defines itself as a “lifestyle destination” includes a sand-bottom pool (and three others) and a well-facilitated wellness spa. The staff and the attention to detail are outstanding.
It is also set up for guests with restricted mobility.
“If it's good enough for Ronaldo and his entourage, it's good enough for us! Brilliant staff.”
The Best Algarve Hotels: The Bottom Line
Portugal's most visited region is the Algarve, with its golden sunbathed beaches and impressive cliffs. With so many luxurious hotels available for your stay, you'll find something for everyone on our list of the best Algarve hotels on Portugal's south coast.
We have presented some of the finest hotels all around Southern Europe, be it in a helpful guide of the best hotels in Santorini, Greece; or in our choice of the best hotels on the Amalfi Coast in Italy. Now we are enjoying all the best stay Portugal's Algarve can offer.
Last Updated on October 15, 2024 by Editorial Team
