Where to stay in the Algarve, from villas to boutique retreats

07 August 2026

Choosing where to stay can completely change the feel of an Algarve holiday. Beyond the region’s larger resorts, there are whitewashed villas overlooking the Atlantic, converted village houses in the countryside, intimate design hotels, and peaceful coastal retreats. From the fishing village of Salema to the quieter landscapes around Vila do Bispo and Lagos, these four stays each offer their own take on southern Portugal, whether you want the freedom of a villa, easy access to the beach, or somewhere small and characterful to come back to after a day exploring.

Where to stay in the Algarve, from villas to boutique retreats

Salema Beach Village: Villa living by the sea

If you like having your own space on holiday, Salema Beach Village puts a contemporary spin on the classic Algarve villa holiday. Set above Salema, its two and three-bedroom townhouses come with generous living areas, fully equipped kitchens, terraces, and views towards the Atlantic, making them particularly well suited to families and groups travelling together. The village itself is a big part of the appeal. Salema has retained much of its fishing heritage, with colourful boats pulled up onto the sand, seafood restaurants close to the waterfront, and Praia da Salema right on the doorstep. From here, you can also head west towards Sagres, Cape St Vincent, and some of the Algarve’s wilder beaches.

Aldeia da Pedralva: A village brought back to life

Close to Vila do Bispo, this once-abandoned rural village has been carefully restored, with its traditional houses transformed into individual holiday homes. Staying here feels less like checking into a conventional hotel and more like having your own little base in the western Algarve. The surrounding Costa Vicentina is made for getting outdoors, with walking routes, cycling trails, and beaches such as Praia do Amado and Praia da Bordeira within reach. Back in Pedralva, cobbled lanes, whitewashed houses, and a relaxed atmosphere make evenings pleasingly low-key.

Vila Valverde: Boutique calm near Lagos

Just outside Lagos, Vila Valverde – Design & Country Hotel is a good choice for couples looking for something smaller and more personal. The property combines contemporary design with the feel of a country house, surrounded by gardens and open countryside, yet it is only a short journey from some of the area’s best-known beaches. Praia da Luz is nearby, while Lagos has plenty to fill a day, from the cliffs and sea caves of Ponta da Piedade to the restaurants, tiled streets, and marina around the old town.

Vila Alba Resort: Clifftop Algarve views

For a stay that puts the coastline front and centre, Vila Alba Resort sits above Praia de Albandeira near Caramujeira, an area known for its limestone cliffs, coves, and clear Atlantic water. Suites and villas are spread across the grounds, while pools, restaurants, and spa facilities mean there is plenty of reason to stay put for the day. A path leads down towards the small sandy beach below, and the location also works well for exploring this stretch of coast, including the famous Benagil sea cave and Praia da Marinha.

To book one of these incredible stays in the Algarve, speak to your Travel Counsellor today.

Trade the beach for the streets of Valletta this autumn

07 August 2026

As summer draws to a close, city breaks come back into focus, and few destinations pack as much into a long weekend as Valletta. Malta's compact capital combines centuries of history with a thriving food scene, waterfront views, and a walkable centre that makes it easy to fit plenty into just a few days. With warm autumn temperatures, open-air cafés still spilling onto the streets, and a calendar of events continuing well beyond peak season, it's an easy choice for anyone looking for somewhere that feels both relaxed and full of character.

Why Aphrodite Hills Resort offers more than just a villa holiday

07 August 2026

Set among the rolling hills of Cyprus’ south-west coast, Aphrodite Hills Resort offers much more than a standalone villa or apartment stay. Guests have their own private space, with options ranging from serviced apartments to large villas with private pools, while still having championship golf, tennis and padel courts, restaurants, wellness facilities, and family activities close by. Just 15 minutes from Paphos International Airport, it is a practical choice for couples, families, groups, and longer stays, with added services such as housekeeping, arrival food baskets, breakfast at the Golf Clubhouse, and private chefs available to make the holiday even easier.

The Panorama Route: South Africa’s scenic road trip surprise

07 August 2026

As part of a recent South Africa trip, a group of Travel Counsellors set out to experience the country first-hand, exploring the places, stays, and local moments that help shape more personal holidays for their customers. While Kruger National Park was a major part of the itinerary, the journey there offered something just as memorable. The Panorama Route in Mpumalanga became a scenic road trip filled with deep canyons, dramatic waterfalls, forest walks, small-town food stops, and viewpoints that made everyone pause for longer than planned. It was a reminder that South Africa isn’t only about safari; the routes between each stop can be every bit as rewarding.

Where to stay in the Algarve, from villas to boutique retreats

Trade the beach for the streets of Valletta this autumn

Why Aphrodite Hills Resort offers more than just a villa holiday

The Panorama Route: South Africa’s scenic road trip surprise

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