A Long-Haul Destination
at Short-Haul Distance

THE CONRAD ALGARVE has just celebrated its second birthday and is going strong. One of the most modern 5* hotels in the Algarve, it offers immeasurable luxury somewhere which, as General Manager Joachim Hartl suggests, ‘feels like a long-haul destination, but is only short-haul.’ Indeed, the Quinta do Lago is THE destination in the Algarve, preferred by celebrities and trendsetters from all over Europe. Despite its internationally famous golf courses (including Quinta do Lago Sul and Laranjal), fine dining restaurants – many of which have been awarded Michelin stars – and luxury brand and designer label shopping arcades, the area remains largely unspoilt, with golden sandy beaches and the lagoon of the Ria Formosa just nearby. This wildlife reserve is home to a range of bird species, some of them endangered, and is one of the natural wonders of Portugal.

The hotel boasts a contemporary style with 154 guestrooms, all with private balcony, separate bath and rain shower, and well-stocked minibar. There is a choice of five restaurants and bars, offering a range of Portuguese and international cuisine, but we were lucky enough to be treated to a culinary master class and lunch in the flagship restaurant, Gusto, alongside Michelin starred head chef, Heinz Beck. With an open kitchen and Scandinavian inspired design that pays homage to Conrad Hilton’s father Augustus, this restaurant is the epitome of sleek chic. Sitting outside on the terrace, overlooking the infinity pool, palm trees and hills beyond, it really felt like somewhere far away – perhaps another lifetime. 

The principles of the Conrad Algarve are based on attention to detail and providing a memorable experience. At the very beginning, Hartl spent a couple of weeks at the door, checking and sending back any products that were not good enough. Even today, he still has staff filling this important role. Nothing will let the brand’s standard down.

After spending a happy night – and, in my case, oversleeping late into the morning – in our enormous beds, the Taste Portugal press trippers were delighted to be surprised with a morning of relaxation and pampering in the spa. Tropical showers, aromatic steam rooms, a spacious sauna flooded with natural light, an ice fountain and a cold plunge pool – plus an indulgent half hour back massage each, personalised according to any particular wishes or needs. While others then swam lengths under the sun, I retreated to my balcony to enjoy my belated breakfast brunch, kindly delivered to my room during my treatment. The sentiment of the team: if only we could have stayed a little (lot!) longer…