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On this private tour you will visit the Vista Alegre Ceramic Tile factory
Museum. Then in nearby Aviero we will stop for a Panoramic view of the
Costa Nova. In Coimbra we visit the University...more |
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Featured
Algarve Hotels / Algarve
Self-Catering/Vacation Rentals
Hidden
Wonders Of Portugal's Sunshine Coast by Martin Thompson
Featured
Algarve Hotels / Algarve
Self-Catering/Vacation Rentals
In the far south of Portugal
the Algarve offers one of Europe's warmest and most sunny climates with
a breathtaking landscape of sandy beaches, forests and hills. In recent
decades it has evolved from it's agricultural and fishing background to
become a major tourist destination. High rise apartment blocks and miles
of villa complexes have spoiled large swathes of the region. Nevertheless
with a little insiders knowledge you can still discover certain places
where the beaches remain untouched and wild countryside coexists with the
warmth and tradition of the local culture.
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Most tourists are shuttled
off to the central Algarve leaving the most beautiful and unspoiled areas
in the east and the west for independent tourists. In the back country
only miles from the tourist destinations many villages and towns remain
untouched with little known rural walks in the spring flowers and shady
woods.
Most notable in the eastern
Algarve is the historic city of Tavira with it's multitude of churches
and a central castle. This area is close to the Ria Formosa natural park
offering miles of lagoons and barrier islands where flamingos and numerous
aquatic birds live and bread. The beach at the ilha de Tavira can be reached
in summer using a ferry from the centre of town or alternatively take the
20m minute walk out of town towards the island and hop on a boat that will
take you across to the island. |
This stretch of sand is very
popular with the Portuguese but continues for miles allowing for solitude
even in the busy summer season.
In the west the city of Lagos
is a popular destination and with good reason. The city has an important
history as it is was from here that the Portuguese began their expeditions
along the coast of Africa in the age of discovery. Lagos now has a completely
pedestrianised centre within the old town that is surrounded by the castle
walls. There are many shops, excellent restaurants serving fish and in
the night Lagos is notorious for its bar scene. Don't miss the market on
Saturday mornings where you can purchase regional specialities and freshly
harvested fruit and vegetables before heading down to the fish market for
the days catch. Walk along the cliffs out to the Ponta da Piedade (Mercy
Point) with it's lighthouse or go swimming on the little known nudist beach
at Praia do Carnavial.
The mountains of Monchique
are easily reached by car from anywhere in the western Algarve. The Caldes
de Monchique are therapeutic thermal baths and the area is ideal for a
stroll in the wooded hills or down by the bubbleing stream. Drive out to
the village of Marmallate or climb to the top of the mountain where you
can take in views of the whole of the Algarve coastline and enjoy the refreshing
cool mountain air. Many local shops offer locally produced hams and varieties
of 'Medronho' (a brandy made from the Arbutus fruit that symbolises frienship)
as well as hand made craft items. Restaurants either side of the main road
offer up freshly grilled chicken, Piri Piri style.
After Lagos the Algarve coastline
continues west towards Sages and the region once called "the end of the
world" as little was known of what lay beyond the waves. Resort towns such
as Praia da Luz with it's arced bay and black rock headland give way to
the natural park of Costa Vincentina where many more secret beaches can
be discovered especially along dirt tracks west of Vila do Bispo. Atlantic
rollers meet a wild landscape of immense natural beauty. Popular with surfers
the beaches at low tide have waves that collapse on themselves again and
again and sitting on the beach on a sunny afternoon undisturbed by the
modern world listening to the roar in the background while looking out
into the abyss one can see how sailors were captivated to venture forth
to discover what lay beyond.
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Featured
Algarve Hotels / Algarve
Self-Catering/Vacation Rentals
About the Author: Martin
Thompson is a frequent visitor to the Algarve where he has enjoyed many
a sunny day at his families villa in Praia da Luz from where he uncovered
many of the best kept secrets revealed in this article. Find out more about
villa holidays in the Algarve at: http://www.holiday-villa-rental-algarve.co.uk/ |
FEATURED
ALBUFEIRA HOTELS, ALGARVE, PORTUGAL
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Albufeira
Jardim Hotel, Albufeira
Albufeira
Jardim is a 3-star hotel brilliantly positioned above the charming fisherman's
city of Albufeira. All of these lovely apartments are surrounded by the
beauty of their own gardens, include a balcony or terrace (most of which
enjoy a magnificent sea view), fully equipped and comfortably furnished.
Albufeira Jardim features two swimming pools, one children’s swimming pool,
three tennis courts, restaurants and bars. Albufeira Jardim Hotel has a
restaurant. Additional amenities include shopping on site and a television
in the lobby. This property is self-catering. |
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Bay
View Aparthotel, Albufeira
Bay
View is a refurbished resort located in the heart of Albufeira, Portugal
with picturesque views of the bay and the Old Town. Area attractions
are Zoo Marine Algarve, Dream Wave, San Vicente de Albufeira Statue and
Sant'Ana Church. Guests can relax next to the outdoor pool while the kids
play in the children's pool or enjoy the modern cool interior of the lobby
area. Bay View also has a modern sun terrace overlooking the swimming pool
and panoramic views of the old town. The beach is only a short walk away
and Bay View is surrounded by a wide range of restaurants and bars. |
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Belver
Hotel Boa Vista & Spa, Albufeira
Belver
Boa Vista Hotel & Spa situated in Albufeira in a prime location, with
stunning views over the sea and 84 rooms and suites with panoramic balconies
and individual decorations. From a light meal to a drink or even a traditional
Portuguese meal, everything is possible in the Belver Boa Vista Hotel &
Spa. Boa Vista Restaurant & Terrace "Bellevue" - enjoy a variety of
traditional and international delicacies. Terrace "Bellevue” by the pool
has a magnificent view over the bay of Albufeira and the Atlantic Ocean.
Belver Boa Vista Hotel & Spa offers you the Spa and the heated outdoor
swimming pool for your leisure times. A full spa awaits you with: Sauna,
Turkish bath, Gymnasium, Massage (in the hotel and outdoor), Sea weeds
and mud wrappings, Vichy Shower and Hydromassage. |
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Hotel
California, Albufeira
A
small, friendly, family-run hotel, the 3-star California stands in a level
location in the centre of Albufeira, well situated in a pedestrian street,
with shops, restaurants, bars and discos nearby, and the Fisherman’s Beach
only 200 yards away. There is a level walk of approximately 820 yards to
join the bus for excursions. Buffet breakfast, waiter service dinner with
choice of menu, bar, restaurant, television lounge, snack bar, rooftop
swimming pool with sun lounges and umbrellas on terrace, heating and air-conditioning
throughout, lift to all nine floors. 10 steps to reception. All of this
combined with dedicated and professional service, will assure you unforgettable
holidays. |
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Eden
Resort, Albufeira
Located
in peaceful Albufeira, this 4-star resort offers self-catering rooms with
balconies overlooking the pool and gardens. It is near Albufeira's sandy
beaches and golf courses. Free parking is available. The rooms at the Eden
Resort are elegantly designed with contemporary furnishings and feature
a spacious living area, free Wi-Fi and cable TV. Meals can be prepared
in the fully-furnished kitchens. The hotel's Pecado Restaurant offers
panoramic views from its terrace. It offers local and international cuisine
made with fresh, seasonal ingredients. Guests can lounge in the hotel's
5 indoor and outdoor swimming pools or enjoy a massage while relaxing at
spa. |
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Luna
Pérola do Algarve, Albufeira
Luna
Pérola do Algarve is a 4-star hotel in Albufeira, a charming beach
town located in the Algarve region, one of the prime holiday destinations
in Portugal. Albufeira is well-known for its wonderful beaches and its
countless leisure facilities, shops, restaurants and, of course, its lively
night-life. Hotel Luna Pérola do Algarve features fully equipped
serviced apartments and studios in a quiet location at only 0.6 miles from
the beaches and the city centre. Guests can keep in shape and enjoy
the ultimate relax during their holidays, as the Luna Pérola do
Algarve Hotel features a wellness centre with heated indoor swimming pool,
gym, sauna, Jacuzzi, Turkish bath and Scottish bath. |
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Mar
a Vista, Albufeira
The
Residencial Mar A Vista Albufeira is located in Cerro da Piedade in Albufeira
and is only a ten minute walk away from Albufeira town centre. Located
close to the shops, restaurants, bars and nightlife and there is a nearby
golf course around 5 km away. The complex is on the beachfront, and guests
can enjoy excellent views of the city and the sea. There is also a swimming
pool and sun-loungers available for guests’ use. The 2 star hotel has forty-two
rooms on five floors. The hotel has a terrace and a garden and a bar area
for drinks. The reception desk has staff on hand 24-hours a day and the
staff can exchange currency. There is also a safe for any valuables, a
television room and a breakfast room for the morning buffet. |
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Real
Bellavista Hotel and Spa, Albufeira
The
luxury 4 star Real Bellavista Hotel and Spa combines the atmosphere of
a city hotel with all the facilities and luxury of a holiday resort in
Albufeira. The Algarve is what makes the big difference; the hotel takes
care of the little details. The hotel maintains its customary high standards
in the service provided to guests. Versatility and the range of services
offered, cater for business needs and also for those in search of holiday,
sporting holidays, nightlife or absolute relaxation, satisfying both adults
and their children. “Cozinha do Real” Restaurant, the Hotel’s main restaurant,
serving the usual meals (breakfast, lunch and dinner, buffet or à
la carte, which can include the special diet options chosen by guests). |
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Rocamar
Beach Hotel, Albufeira
Basking
in the sunshine of the Algarve, a refurbished hotel, with the beach at
your feet, the sea in the background, and all of Albufeira's entertainment
on your doorstep. The magnificent view that makes the Rocamar so special
will be a constant companion throughout your stay, whether you choose to
spend your time in the comfortable indoor areas of the hotel, or in the
casual atmosphere outdoors. Don't miss the hotel's panoramic rooftop terrace
where you can marvel at the wonderful view while you take a refreshing
dip in the pool. Whether your taste runs to typical local cuisine or international
dishes, the restaurant at the Rocamar Beach Hotel is perfect for every
occasion, from a quick bite before hitting the beach, to a romantic dinner
for two. |
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FEATURED
ALMANCIL HOTELS, ALGARVE, PORTUGAL
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Dona
Filipa & San Lorenzo Golf Resort, Almancil
This
hotel is located in Almancil. Vale de Lobo Beach is an area attraction.
Another nearby attraction is Quarteira Beach. Dining options at Dona Filipa
& San Lorenzo Golf Resort include a restaurant and a bar/lounge. Room
service is available 24 hours a day. Recreational amenities include an
outdoor pool, a children's pool, a children's club, and tennis courts.
Spa amenities include beauty services and a hair salon. This 5.0-star property
offers meeting rooms for small groups and audio-visual equipment. Wireless
Internet access is available in public areas. Guest parking is complimentary.
Additional property amenities include a poolside bar, a coffee shop/café,
and a concierge desk. |
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Hotel
Quinta do Lago Almancil
The
Hotel Quinta do Lago, is situated in the Resort of Quinta do Lago in the
Algarve, next to the Formosa Estuary (Ria Formosa) and the sea, in the
very heart of the Ria Formosa Nature Park. A member of the “Leading Hotels
of the World” since 1988, the Hotel Quinta do Lago is considered one of
the most prestigious 5-star luxury hotels. The panoramic view can be enjoyed
in all its splendour from the rooms, suites, bar, restaurant, terraces
and swimming pool. The hotel’s privileged location with pedestrian access
to the beach, various golf courses right on the doorstep, the magnificent
view over the estuary and the sea, the relaxing walks along nature trails
where it can be observed many different types of birds and the splendid
lush gardens, offer the tranquillity and natural beauty of the landscape. |
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Ria
Park Garden Hotel, Almancil
The
Ria Park Garden Hotel is housed in a four-storey white building, set 900
metres from the golden sands of the Algarve's Vale do Garrão Beach,
5 kilometres south of Almancil and 4 kilometres west of Quinta do Lago.
The hotel boasts a pink, marble-floored lobby with cushioned rattan seating
and an adjacent solarium featuring a fabric-draped ceiling and a display
of Portuguese ceramics. A family pool and a children's pool provide warm-weather
outdoor swimming in a floral garden setting, complete with palm and pine
trees, potted orange trees and a rock waterfall. The pool complex includes
a sundeck and lawn furnished with cushioned lounge chairs. Guests can enjoy
the facilities of the health club, which includes fitness equipment, a
jetted tub, a hydrotherapy pool and a Turkish bath. |
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Ria
Park Hotel & Spa, Almancil
This
Almancil spa hotel is near Vale de Lobo Beach. Another nearby attraction
is Quarteira Beach. Dining options at Ria Park Hotel & Spa include
a restaurant and a bar/lounge. Room service is available 24 hours a day.
A complimentary breakfast is served daily. Recreational amenities include
an outdoor pool, an indoor pool, a children's pool, a health club, and
a spa tub. The property's full-service health spa has massage/treatment
rooms. This 5.0-star property offers meeting rooms for small groups, audio-visual
equipment, and business services. High-speed Internet access is available
in public areas. This Almancil property has event space consisting of banquet
facilities and conference rooms. Additional property amenities include
a poolside bar, an arcade/game room, and multilingual staff. |
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FEATURED
FARO HOTELS, ALGARVE, PORTUGAL
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Faro
Hotel, Faro
In the heart of the Algarve's
capital city, the Hotel Faro in Faro, Portugal is a modern, four storey
hotel next to Faro's Marina and seven kilometers from the airport. The
90 air-conditioned guestrooms are furnished in a modern style and all have
cable television, clock radios, direct-dial phones, safes, internet access
and minibars. Some have their own balcony and separate sitting area.
The Hotel Faro has the Restaurante Ria Formosa which serves Faro regional
and international cuisine in a modern setting. The Terrace enjoys panoramic
views over the city and out towards the ocean. Guests can also unwind with
a drink in the cocktail bar, even whilst surfing the web, thanks to the
Hotel's wireless internet service. |
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Monte
da Quinta Suites - Apartment, Faro
Superbly located in the
heart of sophisticated Quinta Do Lago the Club has a truly special atmosphere.
The project's concept is to take full advantage of this unique location
in the very centre of the Portuguese Algarve's most exclusive development
and create one of the most elegant resorts in the area. Accommodation is
in duplex townhouses and duplex villas with private plunge pools, swimming
pools and gardens. |
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Monte
do Casal, Faro
18th century old coach house
- high degree of privacy with an emphasis in comfort - personal service
and first class food in a very special atmosphere of total relaxation -
breakfast served on own private terrace, weather permitting -180 degree
panoramic views across the countryside to the ocean -the owner personally
meets the guests and will give advice on the best areas to visit. |
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Ria
Plaza Resort, Faro
Located in the heart of
the Algarve in Valverde, about 400 meters away from Quinta Do Lago (Vale
Do Lobo Road), one of the most prestigious resorts in the region, the Pinus
Ria Hotel has excellent accommodation, sports and leisure facilities as
well as the only restaurant in that area that specializes in fine Portuguese
gastronomy. This four-star hotel has 77 rooms, all of which are air-conditioned
and include direct dial telephone, satellite television, balcony, hair
dryer, safe, mini bar and anti-fire doors. The food is spectacular in the
hotel's restaurant. If you have the notion, stop by the hotel's bar for
a before or after dinner drink. |
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FEATURED
SAGRES HOTELS, ALGARVE, PORTUGAL
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of the Algarve
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Martinhal
Beach Resort & Hotel, Sagres
Martinhal
Beach Resort & Hotel is the finest luxury family resort in Europe.
Positioned within a protected natural park near the historic fishing port
of Sagres, on Portugal’s unspoiled western Algarve coast, Martinhal is
where luxury meets Nature. Martinhal welcomes families and couples, and
the greeting is warm, open and generous. Guests feel at home. And it’s
memorable. This is where life-long friendships will blossom, and where
lasting impressions will be made. Stylish, contemporary architecture complements
the organic personality of the resort, which has been shaped to blend effortlessly
into the indigenous landscape. This is function and form at its best. This
is sustainability. |
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Pousada
de Sagres Infante
Luxurious accommodation
at the Hotel Pousada de Sagres which is on the top of the cliffs overlooking
the clear blue waters of the Atlantic in the Algarve, Portugal.
Overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, the Pousada is located in the village of
Sagres, in the Algarve region. The discovery of the cultural authenticity
of the area and the possibility of walking on desert beaches, allow you
to forget about the real world. From the fishing village of Sagres come
the excellent fish and seafood that can be quietly savoured at the Pousada,
a contrast to the more usual cosmopolitan bustle of the Algarve coast.
Only 5 km from the Pousada, you will find the Fortaleza do Beliche, the
most south-westerly hotel in Europe with an unforgettable view and a first
class restaurant. |
| FEATURED
SÃO BRÁS DE ALPORTEL HOTELS, ALGARVE, PORTUGAL |
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Pousada
de São Brás de Alportel
Located in the Algarve mountain
range, only half an hour from the Algarve coast and near the most famous
beaches in Portugal, the Pousada Hotel in São Brás de Alportel
has and still maintains the most genuine characteristics of the region's
Culture. A fantastic view and an excellent Algarve gastronomy, make of
this charming pousada hotel an unique place. Here you can be in contact
with nature and with the traditional Algarve. You can also enjoy the sights
of the typical Algarvian architecture of their houses. Near this
charming hotel in Algarve are some golf courses, such as the Monte Rei
golf course, the Benamor golf course and the Quinta da Ria golf course,
these are some of the best greens for the practice of golf in Algarve Portugal. |
| FEATURED
TAVIRA HOTELS, ALGARVE, PORTUGAL |
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Hotel
Porta Nova Tavira
Hotel
located just above the historic town with great views of the sea from its
137 rooms. Within easy walking distance of the centre of Tavira. The Hotel
provides the 'Tabira' Restaurant, a snack-bar for the pool area, two bars,
and a games room, Two swimming pools - one for children. A Heath Club with
sauna, steam, Jacuzzi, massage, and a heated indoor pool. Perched on the
highest point overlooking the historic town of Tavira and south towards
the nearby sea, it is only 5 minutes walk for a guest to be in the old
part of the town. A 10 minute drive will also take guests to the famous
sandy beaches to be found on Tavira Island. The Hotel also makes an excellent
base for playing golf in the eastern Algarve with several courses within
easy reach. |
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Hotel
Vila Gale Tavira
The
Hotel Vila Galé, Tavira is housed in a modern, 3-storey hotel set
in the city centre, one block from the River Gilão and six kilometres
from the nearest golf course. The Vila Gale is constructed around a central
courtyard that features a swimming pool and children's pool, surrounded
by palm trees, lawns and lounge chairs. Access to the onsite health club
is available for a daily fee. The health club includes a heated pool under
a domed ceiling, a spa tub, a steam room and a fitness centre equipped
with a universal gym, cardio machines and free weights. The Aladino Dining
Room serves buffet breakfast and dinner all year round, with lunch buffets
in winter. The adjacent Aladino Grill offers an a la carte dinner menu
of grilled seafood and meat, with lunch available in summer. |
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Pousada
de Tavira - Convento da Graça
Pousada de Tavira, Convento
da Graça is a historic luxury hotel in Tavira, that blends the perfection
of classic lines and the warm atmosphere, with modern equipment. This historic
hotel in Algarve is near the golf courses Benamor, Monte Rei and Quinta
da Ria, allowing those who practice this sport it will be the opportunity
to improve their game in some of the best Algarve golf courses. The Pousada
Convento da Graça is ready to accommodate from the most demanding
business client, to the guest that simply wants to spend an afternoon by
the pool or having a delicious meal at the restaurant. This historic pousada
hotel in Tavira is ideal for those who want to spend their holidays in
Portugal, either summer or a weekend long break. |
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Tavira
Inn - Casa do Rio, Tavira
Located in Tavira,
Algarve, Portugal, this private accommodation offers visitors 5 en suite
hotel rooms (shower room and one double bed in each room) and a sea water
pool surrounded by a terrace overlooking the river and the garden in a
very eclectic ambience. Tavira Inn - Casa do Rio, separated only by the
road from the river Gilão and 3 minutes walking distance from the
centre of the town, awaits you with its casual mix of stylish décor
and friendly ambience. It is a summer home away from home.
Due to the small size and unique décor of the Tavira Inn and, on
demand of guests, reservations for guests with children are not accepted. |
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FEATURED
VILAMOURA HOTELS, ALGARVE, PORTUGAL
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Dom
Pedro Marina Hotel Vilamoura
Located opposite Vilamoura's
marina, the Dom Pedro Marina Hotel is a modern property located within
250 metres of the casino and the beach. The hotel has an outdoor pool and
children's pool bordered by sunbathing lawns, and a heated indoor spa tub,
open all year round. Guests of Dom Pedro Marina Hotel enjoy a complimentary
buffet breakfast each morning, and the main restaurant serves Mediterranean
dishes for lunch and dinner. In warmer weather there is terrace seating
and a poolside bar is open until late, whilst in winter guests can enjoy
drinks and music in the lobby piano bar. The beach club with restaurant-bar
is 200 metres from the hotel. Deck chairs and thatched sun shades can be
rented, and the restaurant serves light dishes for lunch and dinner. The
hotel also provides a free shuttle service to all 4 Vilamoura golf courses. |
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Prado
do Golf Hotel, Vilamoura
Prado do Golf is a self
catering holiday resort set in attractive tended gardens and ideally located
in a peaceful corner of the Vilamoura development, 10 kilometers west of
Albufeira. The resort is comprised of 44 white-washed, block-style villas
and apartments close to the Old Course fairways. All units lead out onto
small private terraces or balconies. Guests can enjoy a mixture of snacks
and Portuguese food at O Sino restaurant which features an outside terrace
overlooking the swimming pool, and is open daily for breakfast, lunch and
dinner with vegetarian and children's menus available. Sun worshippers
will enjoy the patio areas around the large kidney-shape pool, and there
are two beaches and a marina three kilometers away. |
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The
Hilton Vilamoura As Cascatas Golf Resort and Spa Vilamoura
The Hilton Vilamoura as
Cascatas Golf Resort and Spa is located in Vilamoura, Portugal, adjacent
to the 18-hole Pinhal Golf Course. It is 2 kilometres from its own private
beach, and 18 kilometres from the city of Faro. A full range of spa and
beauty treatments is available at the Seven Spa, including aromatherapy
massage. O Cilantro Restaurant serves traditional Portuguese and Latin
American dishes, made using locally farmed ingredients. The Moscada Restaurant
serves buffet and à la carte meals, and features show cooking, views
over the pool, and a terrace for al fresco dining. Restaurant Aquarela
offers Mediterranean specialities, including fresh seafood and salads,
and has poolside views. 6 heated outdoor swimming pools with a children's
pool. The hotel also has a golf simulator centre, and the 18-hole Pinhal
Golf Course is next door to the resort. |
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