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A favourite on the to-see tourist map, the Algarve is beloved by surfers, sunbathers, birdwatchers, nature lovers and escapists alike, for its gorgeous scenery of soaring clifftops and white sandy beaches, nature parks and unspoilt historic towns. In this collection of the best B&Bs in the Algarve, we've chosen townhouse boltholes, rustic-chic getaways hidden in the wilderness, and the best B&Bs for those on a budget. Nearly every one of these gems lie in close proximity to beaches, restaurants and natural parks! Ideal for a low-key getaway.
On a budget
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- A whitewashed bungalow with a terracotta-tiled roof, Casa Vicentina is the perfect place for families, and those on a tight budget. Boasting a playground, spacious suites furnished in colourful decor, a swimming pool, a wide green garden dotted with trees and only a few kms from both beaches and the Vicentina Coast National Park, it's a place that'll keep the kids entertained. For family trips to the beach, the hotel can provide light snacks and picnics - ideal!
Value chic
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- Muxima is a delightful contradiction of dirt-cheap prices with an effortlessly cool aesthetic. A quiet eco-retreat in the leafy wilderness of the Southwest Algarvian National Park, it's a whitewashed low slung building with chic rooms adorned with exposed stone, pastel-coloured walls and stylish bedpsreads. Perfect for surfers - it's only a stone's throw away from the beaches - but also for families; there are toys and outdoor games on offer. A trendy, cheap and friendly option.
- Redefining the meaning of "rustic-chic", Herdade Quinta Natura perches on a wooded hill, like a holiday villa belonging to the ancient Roman aristocracy. Bordering a natural park, set in 20 acres of gardens replete with walking trails and a gushing stream, it's a romantic getaway of the highest order. The individually-styled rooms are a blend of exposed stone, woods, white walls and chic furnishings. A truly beautiful place, ideally suited to couples seeking a nest of tranquility.
For families
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- Set in a traditional Algarvian manor, lovingly converted into a chic B&B, the Quinta da Colina is a great place for families. Fairly inexpensive, surrounded by 6 hectares of olive, orange and carob trees, the rooms have clean white walls combined with exposed stone and high wooden rafters, all furnished with splashes of pastel colour. The quirky swimming pool - an old irrigation tank - is a godsend, and comes complete with a waterwheel. Families can rent out the self-catering cottage or apartment, and there's a restaurant 2kms away. Cool yet traditional, laid-back and charming; a haven of relaxation!
- In the unspoilt, historic town of Tavira you'll find Casa Beleza do Sul, a beautifully restored 19th century townhouse offering classical, stylish suites adorned with original mosaic floors, antiques and whitewashed walls. A great place for families searching for the best of beach life, it boasts spacious suites and self-catering apartments. A particular highlight is the shady, leafy roof terrace with its stunning panoramic views.
For couples
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- Located in historic Faro is the Casa Apollo Guesthouse. Offering delightfully stripped-back, chic, whitewashed rooms with potted plants and antiques, the adult-only B&B is the perfect romantic getaway. There's the added bonus of a swimming pool in the manicured garden, complete with exotic plants and high white walls. A serene hideaway.
- Hidden in the artist pilgrimage site of Olhao, Convento boasts cool spacious rooms set around a central courtyard. Peaceful, elegant and unpretentious, it is homely yet refined, offering light-filled rooms with white walls, antiques and floors of polished oak. An intimate place and very romantic.
- Refined and minimalist, Casa Modesta looks not unlike a temple from the outside. Offering light filled rooms of whitewashed walls and contemporary design, it's ideal for couples seeking serenity. The private terraces are great for sunbathing, and the swimming pool is delightful.
Rustic chic
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- Blending a high regard for design with the work of traditional local craftsmen, Farmhouse of the Palms is a stunning renovated farmhouse set amidst rolling, forested hills that you can see for miles around. The black mosaic tiled pool is a beautiful place for lazy days and dreaming! The stylish rooms have private terraces with hammocks, and you can relax in the lavender-filled courtyard sipping on a cocktail from the bar. Ideal for large groups; you can book out the entire place.
Back to nature
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- A converted 17th century fort facing the Bay of Cadiz, the Forte de Sao Joao de Barra is a truly unforgettable experience. With lush gardens crisscrossed with ancient walls, sandwiched between olive groves and the sea, this eco-retreat uses only natural materials in its furnishings. It offers simple rustic-chic rooms, an enormous swimming pool and boats available for hire to explore the sea. A mesmerising back-to-nature stay!
- A whitewashed, renovated farmhouse surrounded by 36 hectares of orange trees, Quinta dos Perfumes is a delightful property. The B&B has rooms that are light and airy, with a plush, contemporary feel, with private terraces overlooking gardens, a saltwater pool, and walking distance to restaurants.
Active holiday
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- Perfect for an active holiday of walking, cycling, birdwatching, sailing or sunbathing, Monte de Vilarinha sits in a valley in the shadow of mountains, just a stone's throw from nearby beaches, as well as bordering natural parks and lakes. With a large crescent-shaped pool, it offers studios, apartments and lodges; the rooms are colourful, chic and full of light, decorated with exposed stone and tiled floors.
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