by Vila Vita Parc, which was placed on the ocher cliffs of the sun-drenched south coast of Portugal, is part of the Moorish palace, a contemporary retreat.
When our car was through the Grand Gated entrance, it was immediately clear why this timeless and cinematic resort is the favorite hill in the A-list in the Algarve.
In the reception, Hollywood Royalty, including Penélope Cruz and Javier Bardem, have even handwritten notes from thanks to the weighty leather guest book.
After check-in we followed a corridor towards our suite and went nothing more than ugly Betty Star America Ferrera with her family in tow. The proof that Vila Vita Parc’s celebrity attraction is not only legend, but also in the residence.
Where is it?
Vila Vita Parc is easy to access only 45 minutes from Faro Airport, but happily from the hustle and bustle of Albufeira’s tourist paths. The resort, which is hidden high above the Atlantic, offers its guests a seat in the front row for a fascinating area of ocean and Portugal Robust coast, whereby a private staircase leads to a remote crescent crowd of gold, where couch and umbrellas wake up. But the Algarve beyond the goals is also seductive.
Charming, white, whitened villages such as Carvoeiro promise sun lighting walks and seafood fresh from the boat, while family -run vineyards nearby, sluggish tastings of velvety red and crispy whites are washed nearby.
style
The property rooted in the traditional Portuguese design is a tableau made of white whipped walls, terracotta roofs and bougainvillaea, which are spilled over balconies. It nods the past, but never feels out of date – this is a new legacy that has been reinterpreted with a polished, modern objectively. However, step in and the true storytelling begins. Each room was curated with the eye of a collector and a local heart.
Hand -painted Azueljos, Portugal’s legendary tiles, delicate flower motifs along the hallways, while carved wooden accents, linen covers and ceramics made by regional craftsmen create an atmosphere that is tactile, soulful and unauthorized luxurious atmosphere. And then there are the reasons for 50 hectares of meandering paths that drive past koi filled ponds, shaped topics and impressive fountain.
Which space?
Our Deluxe Ocean View Room was decorated in soft white and coastal blues, with linen curtains that grew up gently in the sea breeze, and a tailor -made headboard that was padded in hand -woven Portuguese fabric. Every morning after I joined the rainfall that could compete with every municipal spa, I pushed the balcony doors a comprehensive view of the Atlantic – sunlight caught the waves, the seagulls theatrical and the gentle jack of the cutlery from the breakfast terrace below.
For guests who are looking for the ultimate privacy, the hotel’s collection of villas of the hotel has discovered like a resort in a resort. These residences with extensive lounges, kitchens, several bedrooms and private pools offer the type of freedom that is normally reserved for private goods, with the sea only a few steps away from its door.
Food & drink
Vila Vita Parc has built up a call as a gourmet destination and offers a number of restaurants that inspire even the most demanding palate. The jewel in his culinary crown is Ocean, a two-Michelin star restaurant, which is led by chef Hans Neuner born in Austria. Our tasting menu here was an eleven-course trip through the country and sea: Blue Lobster with Dashi, wild tube with fermented fennel and a dessert that imitated the rocky coast of the Algarve in meringue and almond crumbs.
The more relaxed whale serves Mediterranean dishes; A particularly unforgettable lunch included charred octopus with smoked peppers Aioli and a crispy rosé from the hotel’s property.
Then there is Adega, Vila Vita Parcs homage to the traditional Portuguese tavern, where we enjoy Piri-Piri chicken on the terrace under the subsequent Bougainvillea. You can also find Japanese meals in the Mizu Teppanyaki, from Buttery Wagyu to Seeigel Sushi and a foretaste of La Dolce Vita in Giardino, with pizzas, pasta and a delicious tiramisu on the menu.
The spa
The spa in the Vila Vita Parc is a sanctuary in Sisley, an intimate space in which the air is laced with the smell of Neroli and Rose, and a quiet soundtrack from bird song and removed waves weighs it in silence before a therapist even puts a hand on it. I enjoyed a flowing massage that melted the deepest tension, but those who are looking for a more urgent reset can register for Ayurvedic consultations and tailor -made wellness programs.
Over the spa walls, the hotel’s pools are a dream, from the family-friendly oasis to the pure space for adults, while early risers join free morning yoga sessions or have equipped themselves with the state of the art.
The Kids Club
Vila Vita Parc is astonishing for families, with a children’s club that goes far beyond the typical Crayons and cartoon tariff. Annabellas Kids Park is developed for children aged four to twelve aged four to twelve and is a miniature wonderland with a shaded playground, trampoline and a lively activity program. From baking courses and treasureunes to eco-gardening workshops and Portuguese tile paintings, every experience is infused with the signature of the resort.
For teenagers, a separate teen club offers activities such as paddleboarding, beach volleyball and film evenings among the stars, while even parents of the youngest skips can relax, since Natalies crèche is one to three years old, with a colorful playroom and a nap area.
Best for …
What Vila Vita Parc increases above the (admittedly high) standard of luxury resorts in Europe is the service. It is forward -looking, without being arrogant, warm without ever turning into artificially. Every interaction, from the waiter who remembered my favorite cocktail to the concierge, which helped with a baby monitor problem, was carried out with charm.
Even the resort’s sustainability registrations are more than skin -low. A large part of the products comes from their organic farm, and there is a seawater salaries to feed the pools and gardens. The ethos here is one of the administration – the country, culture and every guest who goes through, no matter how famous they are.
The details
Doubles from £ 255 per night. vilavitarc.com
