Algar Seco Parque

Travelers may feel as if they’ve stepped inside a museum when they first set foot inside the Algar Seco Parque. It’s adorned with authentic Portuguese artifacts, including handmade sculptures, medieval clothing, and exquisite artwork, and there’s also a small library area packed with multilingual books. It’s warm and homey inside, but it’s the bountiful gardens that really make the property so striking. Feathery palm fronds cast shadows over sleek pathways that wind their way around the grounds. Paths are lined with colorful flowers and exquisitely landscaped greenery before leading to a vast expanse that overlooks the ocean. The hotel is far nicer than many of the traditional hotels in Carvoeiro, most of which just look dated and drab. It’s an ideal setting for a relaxed getaway, and is a nice option couples seeking a romantic spot within proximity of the beach. 

Overlooking the ocean, Algar Seco Parque’s location could well be one of its most appealing features. It’s an idyllic spot set atop a hill with a craggy slope, just outside of central Carvoeiro. There are stairs, so it’s easy to stroll down the spectacular cliffs and take in the fascinating rock formations, tunnels, and naturally formed caves along the water. The hotel is about 10 minutes by foot from the many shops, cafes, and restaurants in the heart of Carvoeiro village, though there are plenty of dining spots and bars along the way. The beach tends to get crowded during summertime; another option is the slightly larger Praia de Vale Centeanes, which is a five-minute drive. The nearest theme park, Slide & Splash, is about 18 minutes away by car, while the quaint village of Alte, with its cobbled roads and charming springs, is about a 40-minute drive. Faro Airport is 45 minutes away, while a drive to Lisbon and its airport take around two-and-a-half hours

Self-catering suites, apartments, bungalows, and villas all feature a charming, traditional aesthetic that's convincing rather than dated. They’re relatively simple, yet nicely decorated with hardwood furnishings and floors in muted tones, plus wrought iron sconces, azulejo tiling, and rustic textiles. The blue and white tones throughout are perfectly Mediterranean. All are equipped with flat-screen TVs, safes, air-conditioning, and free Wi-Fi, and some have functioning, wood-burning fireplaces. They also have cozy kitchens featuring colorful tiling, along with microwaves, coffeemakers, toasters, and fridges. Suites and apartments range from 63 to 120 square meters (678 to 1,292 square feet) and are bright and airy, with floor-to-ceiling windows and balconies with ocean views. 

Moorish villas feel especially upmarket and homey, and they're situated right on the cliffs. Natural light streams through wide windows that provide flawless views of the water. They feature multiple bedrooms, and some have direct private pool access and terraces on different levels. Bungalows, meanwhile, range from 75 to 116 square meters (807 to 1249 square feet) and offer expansive pool and garden views. All have separate living areas and evoke a tropical spirit thanks to their airy color palettes and plentiful windows. Bathrooms in all units are colorful and quite well laid out, with shower/tub combos and spacious countertops. Additional amenities, like DVD players and ironing boards, are available upon request.

Eye-catching features abound at Algar Seco Parque, beginning with the property’s lavish gardens. Thick trees and abundant flowers saturated with color dot the grounds. One of the other main draws are the spacious pools overlooking the ocean. Surrounded by deck chairs, it features a diving board. Alongside it is another pool that is heated during the winter, plus a kids’ pool that's steps away. In high season, as with most Algarve hotels, sun loungers can be in short supply.

The on-site restaurant, Bistro Algar Seco, is a casual eatery with outdoor seating around one of the pools, plus a small indoor area. From its cushioned wicker chairs to its magnificent sea views, it’s ideal for relaxing in the sunlight while enjoying breakfast, lunch, or dinner. The establishment also serves ice cream and assorted snacks throughout the day. Wi-Fi is free throughout the property, and parking is also included.