Help with hotels: Portugal beach or nearby islands
 

I'm having such a difficult time finding a upper end hotel in Portugal mid-September.

I was set on Reid's Palace on Madeira, but I've been talked out of that by numerous reviews that it's old, outdated, fussy, and my DH and I would be way too young for the crowd there (late 30s).

I then moved to Sheraton Algarve that looks fantastic, but the reviews I read indicate many young families and lots of children. We want a relaxing 3-day trip and peace and quiet.

Any other suggestions?

Beach/ocean view is key. Thanks!

Thanks for the link. No rooms available at any of those. I'm still trying!

I don't think this is right on the beach, so it may not meet your criteria, but Portuguese friends of mine rave about the Quinta do Lago as an upper end Algarve property. http://www.hotelquintadolago.com/

lreynold1--thanks for the link. It looks very nice, but we're trying for something closer to the beach with better seaviews. Not having much luck, so we may have to change plans.

If you are interested in the Cascais area, the Forteleza del Guincho on Guincho beach is elegant, gorgeous, and most definitely upscale.

Thanks Virginia. Forteleza del Guincho on Guincho looks beautiful--but no rooms available.

Maybe this one ? it says it has ocean views..
http://www.belavistamadeira.com/ig/default.htm

Thanks kenderina. I'll take a look at this one!

The Pestana chain, which now runs the pousadas (I think), has a bunch of 4 and 5 star hotels in the Algarve. www.pestana.com

And speaking of pousadas, it's not upper end luxury, but the Pousada in Sagres has rooms with little balconies (or patios on the ground floor) that extend out close to the cliff that drops down to the water.

I wonder why you're having such a hard time finding a place. Good luck! LR

Forget what you read about Reid's Palace. It just went through massive renovation. Although yes, the crowd there tends to be older than 30s. Have you considered Cliff Bay also in Madeira? I'd also suggest one of the pousadas (see the ones in Arraiolos, Estremoz, or Crato -- they're off the beaten path but if you want peace and quiet and upper end accommodation, you'll find it there). golisbon.com has good information on these (see its blog: http://www.golisbon.com/blog/2006/09...ugals-pousadas).
If you want to be closer to the beach, consider the new Hilton Vilamoura: http://www.hiltonworldresorts.com/Re...ura/index.html

I should also have suggested Choupana Hills in Madeira in my previous post! You can see photos, details, and reviews here: http://en.venere.com/hotels_funchal/...tml?ref=119191

Many travel publications have ranked this as one of Europe's top hotels...

I just posted this website on another thread, but it might help you as well. It is:

http://www.seeportugal.org

Lots of information about Portugal and Lisbon travel.

we're staying at the Sheraton Algarve because Vila Joya was beyond our budget, but it looks spectacular.

My parents loved the Cliff Bay in Madeira. I think it would fit your bill re relaxation and peace, not sure about the age range, but if you want No Kids, you may need to accept Older People Around.