EPIC SANA Algarve Hotel

A clean, well-maintained road leads to the entry gate, and after passing under this guarded entrance, a cobblestone driveway takes over and sweeps up to the expansive and unfussy drop-off area. Inside, the lobby is a wonderfully light and airy blend of sleek minimalist decor, punctuated with playful, almost otherworldly touches -- strange, sculptural flora sprouts from pairs of oversize golden plant pots flanked by metallic mosaic pillars. Seating is plentiful, low-profile, and retro, combining with ultra-modern furnishings to create a sleek and futuristic vibe with a fun, funky, and youthful edge. The resort is also set in beautifully manicured grounds comprising meandering footpaths that cut through pristine lawns lined with pine trees, subtropical plants, and colorful flowers; the property borders the coastal cliffs that overlook a long expanse of golden beach and the Atlantic Ocean below. 

Though the vibe is more adult-oriented, families do stay here -- there are even a kids' club and playground, though neither get very busy. Families looking for regular evening entertainment to enjoy will be disappointed, as there's not a lot going on here in the evenings aside from the occasional fashion show or unobtrusive musical performance. Adults seeking peace and quiet should be pleased, however. 

The hotel is located on the edge of the small town of Olhos de Agua, set between the popular Algarve resort areas of Albufeira and Vilamoura, each about a 15-minute drive away. Those looking to explore the restaurants and nightlife in either town may feel that the resort is a bit too isolated, but the quiet location is part of the appeal for many. The immediate surroundings consist largely of holiday homes and other hotels, with a few bars and restaurants within walking distance. The hotel has direct access by foot to the beautiful stretch of sands of Falesia Beach, with its dramatic backdrop of red and white cliffs. The nearest golf course is around 15 minutes by car, while Faro Airport is a 30- to 40-minute drive away. 

The low-rise resort has 229 rooms spread over two floors. Decor is fresh, bright, and contemporary with simple, blond-wood furnishings, carpeted floors, and splashes of the hotel's signature green. Amenities are impressively high-end, and include Nespresso coffeemakers, 40-inch super-thin TVs with video-on-demand, and integrated Bluetooth sound systems. All rooms open to furnished and spacious balconies or terraces, many with ocean views (though these views also typically include surrounding gardens, and the sea is a bit distant). Large sliding frosted glass doors separate the bathrooms from the rooms in many units; some guests may prefer more privacy. Bathrooms feature terrazzo tubs, walk-in rainfall showers, and high-end toiletries. Upgraded suites are spread over two floors with ground-floor living rooms and kitchenettes.

An excellent and extensive buffet breakfast is served in the hotel's main, ultra-contemporary restaurant, Abyad, which also offers an open-air terrace, and in high season, a la carte menus for lunch and dinner (with vegan and vegetarian options) and an open-air terrace. Breakfast is not included in the standard rate. Fine dining is also available in Al Quimia, and several bars serve light meals and snacks. Half-board rates including breakfast and dinner are available. 

The resort also features five outdoor pools (two for children) and one indoor pool, as well as a luxe spa with a sauna, a Turkish bath, and relaxation pool. There is a supervised kids' club for ages 4 to 12, and hours change seasonally. In addition, there is an unsupervised two-room playroom -- one room is a nursery for infants (babysitting service can be arranged for a fee), and the other has video games, table tennis, and a multi-purpose sports court for older kids and teens. Wi-Fi is free and fast.