14 Best Hotels in The Algarve, Portugal

Stately rows of palm trees give this modern hotel the feel of a tropical retreat. The focus here is getting outdoors, whether it's to swim in the sparkling outdoor pools ringed by lounge chairs or to play a few rounds on the adjacent golf course. Afterwards you can pamper yourself at the world-class spa. The hotel recently divided itself into adults-only and family-friendly areas (including dedicated pools)—a welcome addition for most, though family rooms can be pricey.

This luxury property has golf on its mind: guests get reduced green fees and preferential tee times at the prestigious San Lorenzo and Pinheiros Altos golf clubs. The hotel also has a brilliant Arabian-Portuguese fusion restaurant, two bars (including a pool bar), its own tennis courts, and is close to the renowned Vale do Lobo tennis center. Rooms are spacious and modern, and most have sea views.

This resort's low-rise architecture beautifully blends into the landscape, which includes sand dunes and pretty gardens shaded by pine trees. There are six pools (including one indoor and one exclusively for kids), a fitness center, six restaurants, and a large, well-serviced spa where treatments can be enjoyed in the open air. Located in a prime spot overlooking Albufeira's Falésia Beach, the Epic Sana may not have the postal code of its Golden Triangle counterparts, but it certainly has the high quality to match them.

Grand in style, the cliff-top Santa Eulália occupies a privileged position just a short drive from the town center. It has large, modern rooms (ask for one facing the sea), and a host of facilities, including an impressive spa. Multiple restaurants on site satisfy appetites large and small; from a family-friendly buffet to a seasonal seafood restaurant overlooking the bay.

Positioned around a generously sized swimming pool, this low-rise complex offers more affordable studio and one-bedroom apartments. The accommodation is basic but charming, with azulejo tiles decorating bedrooms. The on-site restaurant, bar and snack bar are low-key and no-frills, but provide a bit of interaction in the otherwise self-serving digs. Golfers will be in their element, as the hotel is flanked on all sides by high-quality courses.

Occupying a converted tuna market (detailed in a small in-house museum, for those interested), the Vila Galé Albacora is a charming hotel that sits at the confluence of two rivers. In fact, in the summer months, boats depart from here to take you to the nearby white-sand beach on Tavira Island. It's traditional in architectural style, modern in decor, and not far from Tavira. Rooms are understated by practical and cozy-feeling.

Direct access to a lovely beach is one of the main perks at this family-friendly resort, with playgrounds and pools exclusively for children of all ages. Adults aren't neglected, either—there's the luxurious Finisterra Spa with a nature-first range of treatments, plus multiple sports centers. The property itself—set within a natural park on the edge of the beautiful Martinhal Beach—has lots of opportunities for outdoor adventures. A range of accommodation is on offer here, from two-bedroom houses and villas to ordinary hotel doubles. 

This striking mountain retreat enjoys breathtaking views of the coastline—it makes the perfect getaway for those searching for tranquility without being too far out in the sticks. On site, there's a fine dining restaurant serving up dishes inspired by the produce of the mountains, plus two bars, a gourmet food market, and a pizzeria. When you've had your fill of the food and scenery, relax in the spa, or enjoy one of the three lovely swimming pools. Organized walks, sports activities, and yoga are included with your stay.

This hotel has a simple but stylish interior cleverly laid out around three outdoor swimming pools complete with wooden decks and palm gardens. The spacious apartments have private terraces and kitchens with everything you need to prepare your own meals. If you are traveling by boat, this is the perfect place to base yourself—not only is the marina steps from the old town but there's also a beach nearby.

With three challenging courses on the property, it's no surprise that the Penina attracts large numbers of golfers (especially because guests get discounted green fees). Beyond the golfing lure, there's a smart hotel that caters well to families, including a kids' club and a bus that shuttles you to and from the hotel's beach. The hotel has four restaurants, a bar, and a beach snack bar.

About 1 km (½ mile) west of town, the Viking stands on a promontory directly above a lovely beach. Its manicured grounds are studded with palm trees and include several massive swimming pools (one just for children) and a lawn with lounge chairs where you can enjoy the view. All rooms include balconies, though only some look out to sea. Self-catering apartments are available, too.

Set within verdant gardens dotted with sculptures, this holiday village west of Praia da Luz offers a calm, peaceful ambience. Rooms are in the main building or in a row of newer ones alongside the pool, and are tastefully decorated with warm, earthy colors. Plenty of natural and local materials are incorporated into the decor to give it a rustic-chic feel.