Cascade Wellness & Lifestyle Resort

A chandelier with dagger-like crystals is the commanding first sight guests see when they step into the lobby of this grand resort. It’s a fitting piece of decor for a property that goes out of its way to feel refined, which isn't always the case in laid-back Lagos. The style here is a classy ode to Portuguese style, where traditional marbles and handsome woods add character to a spacious entry with imposing columns, mosaic-tiled floors, and iron banister tendrils that are so intricate, they seem like works of art. Despite the warm notes throughout, it’s bright and airy thanks to floor-to-ceiling windows that allow plenty of natural light to filter into the property -- which makes sense given its wellness inclinations. Even the hallways are nicely styled, with colorful, modern artwork and plush leather chairs dotted here and there. The grounds are just as impressive, with apartments and villas set between immaculately landscaped gardens. Cascade makes a wonderful retreat for couples and honeymooners, yet there’s so much to do here that families and even singles (especially athletic types) will feel welcome.

Overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, the Cascade Wellness & Lifestyle Resort is ideally set atop a serene cliff. It’s the perfect spot for a property whose main focus is health and wellness -- the crisp air and cool breeze only encourage this feel-good spirit. The historic town center is about eight minutes by car from the resort, and the many shops and restaurants at Marina de Lagos are also under 10 minutes away. The nearest beach, Porto de Mos, is about a 10-minute walk down the hill, while the area’s other popular beach, Dona Ana, is approximately a five-minute drive. The hotel runs free shuttles into town and to the beach in high season. It’s best to take in Algarve’s spectacular views from the lighthouse at Ponta da Piedade, which is a six-minute drive from the resort. Faro Airport is about an hour’s drive, while it's two-and-a-half hours to Lisbon.

Rooms and apartments at the resort are situated in four separate wings: Asia, Africa, Europe, and South America. The decor is dramatically different in each section, but all have a mostly modern look, with hints of Old World elegance. African-themed rooms include accessories like geometric patterned throw pillows, ornate statues, and earthy color palettes, while South American quarters are accented with bright pops of green and blue. Rooms with an Asian theme are done in deep oranges and reds alongside intricate wall art and cherry blossom motifs. European influences are conveyed through sleek, no-fuss furnishings and hints of rich color throughout several of the suites. Bathrooms are clean and nicely sized, with a natural stone design, deep soaking tubs, and rain showers, as well as L’Occitane bath amenities.Standard features include air-conditioning, flat-screen cable TVs, free Wi-Fi, minibars, and balconies with sea, resort, or pool views. The most basic unit is the Double Room, though even these are spacious, with floor plans between 32 and 49 square meters (344 to 527 square feet). Suites, meanwhile, have separate living areas with sofa beds, multiple TVs, and coffeemakers. There are several top-tier suites, too, including the Master Suite, which features a private roof terrace with a hot tub and a hydro-massage bath overlooking the sea. Sizable, Moorish-inspired apartments are available in one- and two-bedroom configurations and include full kitchens, dining rooms, and parking. Apartments and villas both share a modern overall aesthetic, with an emphasis on cozy comfort that makes them more homey than chic. Wooden dining tables with thickly padded chairs, plush sofas, and glossy kitchen cabinets characterize these more spacious accommodations.

The resort's wellness facilities offers a wide range of therapies and programs, including personal training, nutrition, physiotherapy, and fitness services. The Cascade Gym by AXN Club 100 is a unique workout space that includes an outdoor spinning station, aerobics studios, and Technogym equipment. It’s not all gym-based, though; there are four hard tennis courts and three pools, including one with sea views and a seasonal bar. Keep in mind that there are fees for things like tennis. To unwind, Tainai Spa provides holistic treatments for the face, skin, and body, all of which are boosted by aromatherapeutic elements from Europe, Asia, Africa, or South America. The resort’s dining scene includes Senses Restaurant, an elegant spot where jazz music plays in the background. It’s only open for dinner, and the menu is packed with locally sourced ingredients and chic cocktails. The more casual Moods Restaurant, meanwhile, overlooks one of the pools and is open for breakfast and lunch, but only operates in high season. The trendy, youthful Purpur Bar offers ocean views and is in line with the resort’s health-conscious lifestyle: the menu includes detox juices, alcohol-free drinks, cocktails, and light bites. One of the resort’s best amenities is still the free shuttle bus that goes straight to the town center and to the beach, though it's not available year round. There are some other nice touches, like a welcome drink upon arrival and freshly baked cake in the evening at turndown. Wi-Fi is free throughout the property, as is parking.