A popular tourist destination boasting rich culture, artisanal crafts, indulgent cuisine and an abundance of emerald-blue beaches with golden sand, the Algarve is the gateway to the scenic splendors of Southern Portugal and the Atlantic Coast.
Travelers can divide their time between the beaches, historical landmarks, cultural sites, mountain villages and fishing towns scattered throughout the Algarve region. Finding a centrally located hotel is wise to plan fun day trips and sightseeing tours without the exhaustion of long commutes.
Our roundup of the top 20 cool hotels in Algarve, Portugal, will introduce you to the region’s finest accommodations from gorgeous boutique hotels and trendy upscale resorts to quirky B&Bs (in no particular order).



W Algarve
W Algarve is a fashionable venue with luxurious guest rooms, independent residences, multiple onsite dining options and business-friendly amenities.
The hotel offers 134 guest rooms with private balconies, 83 residences, a fitness studio, the Away Spa, a rooftop terrace, a zero-edge lap pool and a Wet Deck to enjoy live music.
There’s never a dull moment at W Algarve. Guests typically begin their day with the hotel’s Sunrise Yoga sessions, Bootcamps at Fit, or pampering sessions at the onsite spa. Travellers wanting to feast on southern Portuguese delicacies will love the casual vibe and rich meals served at the onsite Market Kitchen.
Pros
Hip upscale hotel
Zero-edge lap pool
Sunrise Yoga sessions
Southern Portuguese delicacies
Cons
Prices are a bit high
WiFi can be slow
Limited breakfast buffet options
Praia do Canal Nature Resort




The Praia do Canal Nature Resort offers an unspoilt setting to immerse in Algarve’s western coast. Surrounded by over 500 acres of the Vicentine Coast Natural Park, this countryside estate is 15 minutes from the beach and the picturesque town of Aljezur.
The resort offers an outdoor swimming pool, an Esteva spa with an indoor pool, a cold plunge tank, sensorial showers, two saunas and a fitness studio with Technogym equipment.
Guests can find their match from a lineup of 56 rooms and suites, including two family-friendly suites with private pools and a Grand Suite Rooftop with a private jacuzzi.
Guests can rent bikes, embark on hiking trails, sign up for cooking lessons, take guided tours to local wineries and enjoy picnics in the park.
Pros
Portuguese-inspired hotel
Surrounded by a 500-acre park
An outdoor swimming pool
A fitness studio
Cons
Crowded spa
Water is not free
Pool is not heated
3HB Faro
3HB Faro offers 11 guest rooms, 2 onsite restaurants, a heated indoor pool, an infinity pool, a spa, a fitness studio, meeting rooms, and a fabulous location set against the scenic expanse of Ria Formosa. Nestled in the heart of Faro, 3HB promises an unforgettable vacation with state-of-the-art amenities, luxury suites with a private jacuzzi, and a tranquil ambience.
Vacationers can pamper themselves with massages and heat therapy at the Turkish bath, splash around in the infinity pool or dine on traditional Mediterranean fares at the onsite Habito Restaurant.
The onsite Black Oven serves a sumptuous breakfast buffet each morning, while the rooftop bar provides freshly-squeezed juices and cocktails.
Pros
Trendy chic interior
Daily breakfast service
Private jacuzzi
An infinity pool
Cons
Fewer sun loungers
Pool is cold
No on-site parking
Algarve Race Resort
The Algarve Race Resort offers a scenic setting nestled at the foothills of the Serra de Monchique Range, and a convenient location to access Rocha Beach, the A22 Motorway and the Autódromo Internacional do Algarve racetrack.
This grand hotel features an extensive selection of rooms and suites with private terraces, seating areas, in-room appliances, and minimalist furniture.
Guests can browse through multiple categories, including Twin Rooms overlooking the racetrack, luxury suites with mountain views and 1 to 3-bedroom apartments featuring kitchenettes and dining areas.
The onsite amenities include a world-class spa area with an indoor pool, an outdoor pool, a sun terrace, a fitness studio, a bar and the Restaurant Nelson Piquet.
Pros
Contemporary sleek style
Restaurant Nelson Piquet
2 on-site pools
World-class spa area
Cons
Dinner is a bit pricey
No kettle in room
Gym closes early
Hotel California Urban Beach
Located in the heart of Albufeira’s historical quarters, Hotel California Urban Beach positions travelers 300 meters from Pescadores Beach, surrounded by boutiques, bars and restaurants.
This 4-star hotel features 80 guest rooms divided across 9 floors, an onsite spa, a heated indoor pool, an outdoor pool, and multiple dining and lounging venues.
Travelers can explore a wide selection of rooms and suites with distinct amenities, including the S Room, Suite D’One, and Quarto Duplo DJ.
Guests can treat themselves to rejuvenating massages and beauty treatments at the organic spa, lounge at the Rooftop Pool Bar and indulge in seafood at the onsite Wine & Sushi Restaurant.
Pros
Bright contemporary rooms
Wine & Sushi Restaurant
A fabulous swimming pool
A trendy organic spa
Cons
Can be a bit noisy
Vibe not be for everyone
Not for all ages
Aqua Pedra Dos Bicos Design Beach Hotel
Travellers wanting to wake up to stunning views of the sea will find the Aqua Pedra Dos Bicos a delightful retreat, ideally situated 400 meters from Bicos beach and 500 meters from Albufeira’s rip-roaring nightlife.
This central venue is a fabulous choice to make the most of touristy attractions and immerse in the serenity of the Atlantic Ocean.
This beach hotel offers 140 rooms and 2 Suites, including Classic Rooms, Superior Rooms and Premium Rooms with sea or pool views. The premises also features the D’Wellness Health & Beauty Spa, an onsite restaurant, an outdoor swimming pool, a bar, and a massage room.
The onsite Serenata Restaurant serves a creative fusion of Mediterranean ingredients and continental recipes.
Pros
Contemporary stylish design
Health & Beauty Spa
Serenata Restaurant
400 meters from Bicos beach
Cons
Few dinner options
Lagging internet connection
Small pool
Jupiter Marina Hotel
A new addition to Algarve’s vibrant hospitality sector, the Jupiter Marina Hotel offers a central location, a short stroll from the city center and the Portimao museum, and within walking distance of Praia da Rocha Beach.
This hotel positions travelers in an ideal spot to explore popular attractions and local beaches on foot.
The Jupiter Marina offers Classic Rooms with private balconies, Superior and Deluxe River View Rooms overlooking the Arade River, and Junior Suites featuring a private veranda with sunbeds.
The hotel is also home to the Rio Spa & Gym, a rooftop swimming pool, and Facho Restaurant, a popular dining establishment to enjoy local flavors.
Pros
Stylish and chic design
Rio Spa & Gym
Rooftop swimming pool
Facho restaurant
Cons
Limited sunbeds
Pool closes early
Paid sauna
EPIC SANA Algarve Hotel
Nestled near one of Portugal’s most magnificent beaches, the Praia de Falesia, the EPIC SANA is a luxury resort with a state-of-the-art spa, multiple restaurants and bars, and contemporary accommodations.
Epic SANA features 160 Deluxe Rooms, 43 Resort Suites, and 36 Deluxe Suites with private balconies or terraces overlooking the emerald-blue ocean and pine forest. Guests enjoy direct access to the beach, infinity pools, guided excursions and therapeutic massages.
The onsite restaurant Fifty Seconds by Martin Berasategui is a Michelin-starred establishment specializing in Mediterranean and European cuisine from a terrific location at the top of the Vasco da Gama Tower.
Pros
Contemporary accommodations
Therapeutic massages
Access to the beach
Michelin-starred restaurant
Cons
Water is not free
Outdated gym equipment
No sea view
Sao Rafael Atlantico
An all-inclusive destination for an unforgettable vacation in Southern Portugal, Sao Rafael Atlantico is an ocean-facing hotel with luxurious amenities and wellness-focused facilities.
The hotel offers a 2000-square-meter spa near the beach to enjoy seaside massages, sea-view restaurants serving Mediterranean cuisine, multiple infinity pools, beautiful gardens, and well-appointed rooms.
The rooms and suites are bright and airy, featuring innumerable amenities including LCD TVs with satellite service, air conditioning, minibars, and kettles.
Sao Rafael Atlantico is a short walk from Albufeira’s center, offering proximity to tourist attractions and exclusive access to the Sao Rafael beach. The onsite Seven Seas Restaurant serves buffet-style meals while Fada Restaurant has an a la carte menu.
Pros
Contemporary interior
Sea-view restaurants
Multiple infinity pools
Proximal to tourist attractions
Cons
A bit secluded location
Gym opens late
Poor dinner service
Longevity Health & Wellness Hotel



A wellness retreat nestled in the heart of the western Algarve, the Longevity Health and Wellness Hotel welcomes weary travellers to rejuvenate and restore with a world-class spa and majestic views of the Bay of Alvor.
The world-class spa is indeed the hotel’s crown jewel, boasting a medical spa and wellness area divided across two floors. Guests can take advantage of 100% organic detox programs, hammams, a sensation pool, treatment rooms, and a rooftop infinity pool.
The hotel offers 70 rooms and suites, categorized as Longevity Rooms, Junior Suites, Longevity Suites and 1 exclusive unit, The One Suite. The venue is home to the Mediterranico Restaurant, the Pure Café and the Chill Out & Relax Tea Lounge.
Pros
Modern interior
Adults only
Mediterranico Restaurant
Rejuvenating on-site spa
Cons
See-through shower area
Lack of sunbeds
Poor dinner
Conrad Algarve
Golf enthusiasts flock to Conrad Algarve to enjoy easy access to the region’s best golf courses in multiple destinations, including Quinta do Lago and Vale do Lobo.
This oasis of luxury features 5 onsite restaurants and a bar, multiple swimming pools, a spa, and lavishly decorated accommodations, including the Conrad Suites and the Infinity Penthouse.
Conrad is home to the highly celebrated, Michelin-starred restaurant, Gusto by Heinz Beck, the brainchild of the talented Chef Heiz Beck. Guests can connect with fellow travellers and locals at the Lake Lounge and indulge in local spirits at the Taste Bar.
The upgraded accommodations come with concierge services, daily turndown service, exclusive access to the spa and private jacuzzi, and butler services.
Pros
Spacious accommodations
Multiple swimming pools
Michelin-starred restaurant with daily breakfast
On-site spa
Cons
Slow restaurant service
Expensive food around pool
Separate charges for spa
Palmares Beach House Hotel
The Palmares Beach House Hotel attracts cyclists, hiking enthusiasts and beach lovers with its sports-friendly amenities and convenient location 700 meters from Meia Praia Beach. This upscale venue offers 18 guest rooms, 2 luxury suites, an onsite restaurant, a bar lounge, and an outdoor pool.
The accommodations feature sprawling balconies designed to delight guests with 180º panoramic views of Ria de Alvor and Lagos Bay. The rooms and suites are spacious and decorated in soothing pastels to draw in the sunlight.
Guests can dine on authentic Mediterranean flavors at the onsite restaurant, followed by flavorful cocktails at the bar lounge overlooking the sea.
Pros
Bright spacious rooms
Adults only
Sports-friendly amenities
Authentic Mediterranean restaurant
Cons
Breakfast has less variety
Can get noisy at times
No on-site gym
The Prime Energize
Situated 400 meters from Monte Gordo beach, The Prime Energize is a sports-themed hotel that encourages travelers to stay active and elevate their itineraries with fun-filled outdoor adventures.
The hotel offers 105 rooms and suites with minimalist interiors, including Standard Rooms, Junior Suites, and Deluxe Suites. Prime Energize endorses a ‘Sleep Well’ concept with comfortable living spaces decorated with soft, neutral tones and a calming atmosphere ideal for quality sleep.
Guests have access to a well-equipped fitness studio, and a Weekly Activity Calendar featuring activities like Pilates, running, hiking, yoga, etc. The onsite restaurant Fuel by Chakall serves fresh juices and smoothies, sugar-free desserts, and nutritious meals prepared with local herbs and produce.
Pros
Rooftop Swimming Pool
Well-equipped fitness studio
Weekly Activity Calendar
Healthy meals and drinks
Cons
Gym needs yoga mats
Can get booked up
Not for the budget-friendly crowd
Boutique Hotel Vivenda Miranda
A charming hotel overlooking the Porto de Mos beach, Vivenda Miranda invites nature lovers to immerse in the splendors of Lagos’ coastline and western Algarve from the comforts of luxurious accommodations.
This boutique hotel offers a limited selection of rooms and suites, an artisanal restaurant, and a world-class spa. Vivenda Miranda offers a peaceful setting with resort-like amenities, such as an outdoor pool with a jacuzzi, Mediterranean gardens, and yoga sessions facing the sea.
Guests enjoy dining at the onsite Restaurant Mirandus which serves healthy Mediterranean meals with panoramic views of the ocean. The jungle-themed Monkey Bar is a great spot to indulge in rare wines, crafty cocktails and Algarvian spirits.
Pros
Unique panoramic sea view
Restaurant Mirandus
Jungle-themed Monkey Bar
Outdoor pool with jacuzzi
Cons
Pool isn’t heated
Bathrooms are a bit small
Can be a bit pricey
Vila Maria Hotel
An urbane hotel located steps away from the city center, the Vila Maria offers tech-savvy amenities, a rooftop pool facing the ocean, and spacious suites with private balconies.
The hotel features 27 suites with extensive space, fine furniture and outdoor spaces to soak up delightful views of the city or seascape.
Travelers can browse through a selection of Double and Twin Rooms, featuring packages that include breakfast and other onsite facilities. The units are well-equipped with air conditioning, satellite TV, minibars, coffee and tea-making equipment and digital safes.
The onsite restaurant serves a hearty breakfast spread each morning, while guests can enjoy snacks and drinks at the bar.
Pros
White modern rooms
Tech-savvy amenities
On-site bar
Daily breakfast spread
Cons
Temperamental aircon in some rooms
Small bathroom
Breakfast is a bit pricey
Gato Preto de Silves
Gato Preto de Silves is an earthy rural retreat with luxury cabins featuring stunning views of the Silves orange groves, an eclectic outdoor environment and abundant modern amenities.
Travelers eager to connect with Mother Nature and explore the local beaches will find this venue highly suitable for their needs.
The site offers three independently-owned cabins and two suites, including the Old Portugal Garden Cabin, Master Suite – The Call of the Country and the Amaryllis Garden STUDIO. All units are equipped with smart appliances, furniture, a functional kitchenette, and outdoor furniture to enjoy breakfast on the private terrace.
The retreat offers a complimentary breakfast, a swimming pool, and housekeeper services, and guests can request candlelight dinners under the romantic Bougainvillea pergola.
Pros
Rustic-chic decor
Complimentary breakfast
Candlelight dinners upon request
Daily housekeeping
Cons
Location is a bit remote
No views
Some noise at night
Vilafoia
Vilafoia boasts a romantic location in the Monchique Mountains, surrounded by a dense cork forest and panoramic views of the Algarve coastline. This cosy guest house features 11 accommodations, including 6 Double Rooms, 2 Family Rooms, 1 Suite and 2 Studio Apartments with kitchenettes.
All units offer private balconies to soak up the sun and immerse in the Atlantic Coastline, alongside smart appliances and fine furniture. Guests can start their day with a dip in the saltwater pool, followed by breakfast at the onsite buffet.
The location is splendid to explore mountain trails leading up to waterfalls and peaks, strolling down to the Monchique Village or planning a day trip to Lagos and Portimao.
Pros
Yoga classes
Saltwater pool
On-site breakfast buffet
Surrounding mountains and waterfalls
Cons
No refrigerator in room
No coffee machine in room
Noisy hallway
Eleven, Boutique luxury house & garden


A lovingly restored village home with a courtyard garden, Eleven offers a retreat-like setting and modern amenities befitting a high-end boutique hotel.
Situated in the heart of Boliqueime, this charming venue welcomes travelers to experience traditional Portuguese culture in an Algarvean village untouched by the ravages of time.
Drenched in old-world nostalgia, this hillside hotel is a popular choice for wellness retreats, guided hiking and cycling tours, and healing experiences. Eleven provides comfortable accommodations featuring 400-count Egyptian cotton linens, hypo-allergenic pillows, and innumerable smart appliances.
The onsite restaurant provides savory plant-based meals, and travelers can sign up for guided nature walks, meditation sessions, yoga lessons, and wellness workshops.
Pros
Minimal contemporary rooms
Plant-based meals
Guided nature walks
Yoga lessons
Cons
No in-room refrigerators
Small rooms
Can get booked up at peak times
Herdade Monte Do Sol
An enchanting rural setting sprawling over 30 hectares of wooded reserves, gardens and magnificent beaches, Herdade Monte Do Sol is situated deep in the heart of the Natural Park of Vicentina Coast.
This property is home to 5 villas set against a serene backdrop of the sea, offering easy access to Arrifana beach and Canal beach.
The villas offer spacious bedrooms, living rooms with a fireplace, a functional kitchenette, a dining area and an expansive mezzanine floor with elegant furniture.
The location is splendid to immerse oneself in nature, explore hiking trails, enjoy walks in the countryside, and engage with wild rabbits, falcons and ducks.
Pros
Spacious villa accommodations
Hiking trails
Nature Walks
Fully-functional kitchenette
Cons
Small-sized bed
Internet slow at times
Casa L. N. Noa
Casa L. N. Noa is an ideally located hotel to enjoy the best of Lagos, offering proximity to Porto de Mos Beach, Praia da Batata Beach, the Church of Santa Maria, and the Governor’s Medieval Castle.
The city center is a short stroll away, positioning travelers near popular restaurants, bars and nightlife venues.
This homely bed and breakfast offers comfortable accommodations equipped with home-like amenities, including a refrigerator, flat screen TVs, air conditioning, and high-speed WIFI. Some onsite amenities include a sun terrace, a garden and an outdoor swimming pool.
Guests can opt for rooms overlooking the mountains or select accommodations with private patios/terraces.
Pros
Comfortable accommodations
Private terrace areas
An outdoor swimming pool
A garden area
Cons
Pool isn’t heated
Transparent bathroom blinds
Breakfast not included in the charges
Best Quirky Hotels in Algarve Compared
The following draws a detailed comparison of the Top 20 Cool and Unusual Hotels in The Algarve.
Hotel Name | Location | Price Range (per night) | Fitness Facilities | Distance to Attractions (km) | Nearby Restaurants |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
W Algarve | Estrada da Gale | $461-$757 | Yes | 16.0 | 3 |
Praia do Canal Nature Resort | Vale dos Polvos | $508-$984 | Yes | 6.5 | 3 |
3HB Faro | Rua Vasco da Gama nº33 | $374-1,016 | No | 9.0 | 2 |
Algarve Race Resort | Sítio do Escampadinho | $206-364 | Yes | 16.0 | 1 |
Hotel California Urban Beach | Hotel California Urban Beach | $254-$590 | Yes | 12.0 | 3 |
Aqua Pedra Dos Bicos Design Beach Hotel | Urbanização Quinta Pedra Dos Bicos | $210-$344 | No | 9.0 | 2 |
Jupiter Marina Hotel | Estrada da Rocha nº 2, Sítio de São Francisco | $239 | Yes | 11.0 | 2 |
EPIC SANA Algarve Hotel | Pinhal do Concelho | $437-$1,066 | Yes | 7.0 | 1 |
Sao Rafael Atlantico | Sesmarias | $255-$534 | No | 14.0 | 3 |
Longevity Health & Wellness Hotel | Cruz da Bota Lote 2 | $239-$452 | Yes | 9.0 | 2 |
Conrad Algarve | Estrada Da Quinta Do Lago | $873-$1,996 | Yes | 10.0 | 2 |
Palmares Beach House Hotel | Campo de Golfe de Palmares | $403-$879 | No | 9.0 | 3 |
The Prime Energize | Rua de Ceuta 4, Monte Gordo | $219-$421 | No | 19.0 | 2 |
Boutique Hotel Vivenda Miranda | Rua das Violetas | $439-$860 | Yes | 10.0 | 2 |
Vila Maria Hotel | Urbanização Quinta Pedra dos Bicos | $284-$317 | No | 9.0 | 2 |
Gato Preto de Silves | Sitio do Pinheiro e Garrado Quinta do Gato Preto | $575-$708 | No | 15.0 | 3 |
Vilafoia | Corte Pereiro | $201-$206 | No | 18.0 | 3 |
Eleven, Boutique luxury house & garden | Rua Doutor João Batista Ramos Faísca 1 | $374-$415 | No | 9.0 | 2 |
Herdade Monte Do Sol | Herdade Monte do Sol, Arrifana | $219-$306 | No | 4.6 | 3 |
Casa L. N. Noa | Rua Almada Negreiros lote 22 Rua Almada Negreiros lote 22 | $502 | No | 2.2 | 2 |
Becky Moore – Owner, writer and photographer
My first true adventure began as a six month voyage around South East Asia as a fresh faced backpacker and ever since I’ve lived a semi nomadic existence, clocking up visits to over 40 countries. I’m a lover of US Road Trips, deserted beaches bathed in warm glow of a sunset, Cuban mojitos, travel destinations far away from the tourist crowds and all things Scandinavian – from cloudberry liquors to Nordic noirs. When not wandering the world and running Global Grasshopper, you’ll find me walking my ex Athens street dog in leafy South West London, strolling around the Brighton Lanes on random day trips, hunting for photogenic landscapes or daydreaming about my favourite places; Havana, Copenhagen, Italy, Borneo, Finland, Greece, Berlin, Laos, California and the surreal and beautiful landscapes of a wintry Iceland.
I’ve been quoted in Forbes, National Geographic, The Times, Yahoo Travel, Huffington Post, Business Insider, Thrillist, British Airways Magazine, Entrepreneur, express.co.uk, Wanderlust, Telegraph Travel, Daily Mail and metro.co.uk. Find me on Linkedin or Facebook.
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