The Wordrobe’s Sophie Ritchie enjoys a weekend of avant-garde relaxation with a gourmet stay at Conrad Algarve
Look. Forget the traditional red carpet and Champagne reception entrance. At Conrad Algarve, a 5-star retreat in Quinta do Lago, guests are greeted by the sight of musicians playing not on a stage, but atop a roof.
Luxuriously sleek, from its vast flower-flecked drive to the property’s palatial feel, this is a hotel that likes to make an impression.
The rooftop band isn’t an everyday occurrence (sadly) but it is an example of how nothing is impossible for Conrad Algarve. You name it, they’ll provide it. And they’ll do so with a little Portuguese flair thrown in too.
The venue
Technically, this 154-room hotel is located on a main road – but the gated drive leading up to the entrance, surrounded with immaculate rows of palm trees, flowers and enormous stretches of fountains, is so long that there’s no chance of hearing traffic.
First opened in 2012, the building itself is modelled on an 18th-century Portuguese palace with Moorish themes and modern interior designs courtesy of Miguel Cancio Martins. It’s vast, light and highly contemporary – filled with unique artwork inspired by water, fire and light.
If you’re looking to relax, grab your robe. The rather exquisite spa offers a number of tranquility-inducing treatments, as well as saunas, ice fountains, experience showers, infinity pools and rooms designed to simply unwind in.
The location
Located in the southernmost region of Portugal, Conrad Algarve sits regally amongst the horizon of landscaped golf courses – with the Atlantic Ocean and its enticing sandy beaches found only a short drive away too.
Quinta do Lago offers a trove of shopping opportunities – as well as fine dining restaurants with dinners that last until 2am. Good things come in three hundreds – the Algarve boasts 300 days of glorious sunshine a year, which means it’s also in pretty handy positioning for your vitamin D fix.
The rooms
Choose from 134 comfortably contemporary guest rooms and 20 suites, which are spread across six floors and decorated in chic, neutral style. Each comes paired with inviting balconies that showcase sweeping views of the surrounding landscape, gardens or shimmering pool.
For something spectacular, splash out on one of the two signature suites – the Conrad or the Roof Garden. The former offers its own butler, marble rain shower and dining room – whilst the latter 300m² haven comes complete with a private entrance and an infinity pool found, where else? In the suite’s very own living room.
The food
With five dining options to whet your appetite, many guests choose to eat in rather than venture outside. Gourmet aficionados are in for a treat at Heinz Beck’s Gusto restaurant, open for dinner service only.
Beck, who boasts three Michelin stars under his belt (or apron) at his Rome dining destination, offers a taste of modern Med with Scandi-inspired interiors. Expect simple but oh so sumptuous dishes.
For all-day dining, order away at Louro, where the breakfast comes complete with Portugal’s signature Pastéis de Nata as well as enough fruit at the buffet to keep a vegan going for a year.
The hotel also hosts an annual Gourmet Culinary Extravaganza – where foodies from across the globe flock to the hotel for a weekend of Michelin-starred entertainment and other surprises.
The Wordrobe verdict
Fine dining, five-star service and endless modern opulence. If you’re after relaxation in suave surroundings, the Algarve has your answer.
Make it happen
Where: Estrada da Quinta do Lago, 8135-106 Almancil, Portugal
Wallet: Rates from £121 (€164) based on two adults sharing on a bed and breakfast basis. Reservations: Click here or phone +351 289 350 700 to make a reservation
