7 Great off the beaten track hotels in the Algarve

Most people, when they think of the Algarve, imagine beaches, sunshine, golfers and - let’s face it - rather a lot of people. But that is to ignore a whole sweep of the region. It is entirely possible to fly in to Faro airport, pick up a hire car and soon leave the crowds behind. Use our guide to the best off the beaten track hotels in the Algarve to plan your perfect getaway.

Flickr User Martin Robson

If you still hanker after sea and sand, then head to the south-west or the west coasts. The resorts between Burgau and Sagres, in the south-west, are low-key and low-rise while Sagres and the windswept cape of Sao Vicente attract surfers and divers. The best surfing, and the quietest beaches, are to be found on the west coast; wild and windswept and where Atlantic breakers roll in. As the whole coastline is a nature reserve, development has been restricted. The most attractive villages include Aljezur, Carrapateira and Odeceixe.

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Inland it all changes again. Hugging the eastern border with Spain, close to Alcoutim, is the spectacular mountain scenery of the wild Serra de Alcaria while, inland in the western Algarve, is the Serra de Monchique, a wooded mountain range studded with cork, chestnut and eucalyptus trees, and popular hiking country. So, if you want easy-reach sunshine but without the crowds, browse our guide to the best off the beaten track hotels in the Algarve.

For great value

• Close to the west-coast surfing beaches and next to a nature reserve, Muxima offers simple and colourful rooms with an exotic theme in the rustic decoration. Each room has a small terrace plus there’s an eco-pool in which to cool off.
• Also on the west coast, and close to the beaches, Casa Vicentina offers colourful and contemporary apartments. As well as a pool and children’s playground, there’s a nearby nature reserve which is perfect for bird-watching.
• Tucked away in the lesser-visited, eastern Algarve, Companhia das Culturas, a working farm, offers just eight cool and whitewashed rooms with a charming rustic style. There’s also a hammam, saltwater pool and yoga classes.
• Also in the eastern Algarve, and close to Tavira, but feeling a world away, Quinta da Colina is a traditional manor house set amongst citrus and carob trees. Rooms are cool with high-beamed ceilings and white-washed walls, plus there’s a rustic-chic pool made from a former irrigation tank.

Best mid-price off-the-beaten-track hotels

• Between Faro and Tavira, and surrounded by citrus groves and flower-filled fields near Moncarapacho, Vila Monte Farm House has a romantic, Moorish feel with rooms full of rich colours. A couples’ retreat with spa, several pools and an outdoor cinema.
• With the Monchique hills on the doorstep to explore, Vila Valverde offers a chic retreat to return to. Rooms are ultra-modern in natural materials and cool whites, plus there’s a spa and gorgeous surrounds of orange and olive groves.

For a boutique villa

• Situated in the hinterland about half an hour north of Faro is the gorgeous Almoada, a boutique villa and exclusive use property which can accommodate up to eight. Its location is ideal as it's away from the crowded beach resorts on the coast, yet you can get there in half an hour if you want a day by the sea. Interiors are beautifully done, plus there's a fully equipped kitchen and saltwater pool with sun terrace.

Nothing here that fits the bill?

• Check out our full range of Algarve hotels
• contact a friendly guru for advice

  • Almoada Algarve 4 rooms from $311

    
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    Groups  -  This is the perfect pick for a group holiday to the Algarve with stunning interiors and excellent facilities

    Country Escape  -  A lovely laid back country escape in the Algarve, situated in the hinterland away from the crowded resorts

    Self catering  -  This self catering villa can comfortably accommodate 8 and has fully equipped kitchen and outdoor plancha

    Exclusive use  -  The property is only available on an exclusive use basis

    

    A gorgeous 19th century farmhouse turned exclusive use boutique villa for eight in the Algarve hinterland. Beautifully designed interiors, four bedrooms, a fully equipped kitchen, sun terrace and saltwater pool plus concierge services to cater to your individual needs. A stunning group hideaway. See More

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  • Muxima Aljezur, Algarve 7 rooms from $156

    
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    Families  -  Family suites and total informality, stimulating books, toys, outdoor games & activities for all.

    Eco break  -  Using natural processes and recycled materials.

    Sights nearby  -  On the way to the beaches of Carriagem don't forget to visit the Arregata windmill.

    Surfing  -  Monte Clerigo Surf & body board lessons are available.

    

    Recommended by  -  I Escape

    Delightfully rustic eco retreat within striking distance of the best surfing beaches. Large suites with around the world themes, think India to Tunisia. Lovely terraces, eco pool, and nature reserve nearby. Great value for a family holiday and beach life. See More

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  • Casa Vicentina Odeceixe, Algarve 12 rooms from $145

    
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    Families  -  Lots of space for children to play, ride or swim and suites that sleep 4, family freedom.

    Groups  -  12 suites, make this a great venue to book up with other families or friends.

    Kids Club  -  Playground.

    Birdwatching  -  Good birding near the hotel.

    

    Recommended by  -  Sawdays

    A charming collection of suites that sleep up to 4. Stylish, bright interiors, pool, playground for children, and not far from the beach and nature reserve. Be at one with nature in an ideal spot for a family holiday, and great value. See More

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  • Companhia das culturas Altura (rua do monte grande) 8 rooms from $201

    
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    Restaurant  -  Mediterranean and Atlantic food fusion

    Great walks  -  Around Castro Marim and Cacela Velha

    Full of character  -  Simple and rural rustic charm

    Fishing  -  Excellent fishing nearby.

    

    Recommended by  -  Sawdays

    Charming and rustic hotel on 40 hectare working farm. Rooms have whitewashed walls, antique furnishings and French doors leading out into garden. With a hammam Turkish bath, outdoor saltwater pool, yoga, Tai-chi and Qi-gong classes. Close to beaches, local markets and great walks. Value chic. See More

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  • Quinta da Colina Conceição, Algarve 3 rooms from $161

    
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    Swimming Pool  -  Created from the old irrigation tank with original well and water wheel feature on the terrace. 5m x 5m

    Full of character  -  Retaining original features giving a true taste of Algarvian style.

    Sights nearby  -  Only 6 minutes by car from Tavira

    Sailing  -  Can be booked nearby.

    

    Recommended by  -  Sawdays

    Traditional Algarvian manor which has been tastefully converted to provide B&B accommodation plus cottages and an apartment for self catering. Set amid 6 hectares filled with olive, orange and carob trees. A quieter, truly relaxing spot from which to enjoy the pleasures of the real Algarve. See More

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  • Vila Monte Farm House Tavira 53 rooms from $367

    
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    Foodies  -  The wholesome delicious cuisine never dissapoints- perhaps because it comes straight from the garden or local organic farms.

    Romantic Break  -  A sophisticated couples paradise- with secluded rooms, private terraces, couples massages and romantic picnics on the beach.

    Cooking classes  -  The chef happily takes tours to the local markets such as Olhao's big fish market.

    Tennis  -  Head out on the hotel courts and try and work off your lunch!

    

    Recommended by  -  Tablet, Relais & Chateaux, Mr & Mrs Smith, I Escape

    A refreshing Moorish style retreat, nestled in orange groves and organic gardens. Light, airy and effortlessly stylish rooms offer seclusion, comfort and private terraces. Gourmet farm to fork cuisine served in a relaxed atmosphere. Two pools, tennis courts, and open air cinema seal the deal. Bliss! See More

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  • Vila Valverde Lagos 15 rooms from $322

    
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    Total relaxation  -  Crafted for relaxtion, with comfortable suites, massage treatments, sauna and laid back atmosphere.

    Great walks  -  Explore the Monchique hills on foot, the hotel will provide a light packed lunch.

    Fishing  -  The hotel will organise big game fishing trips on request.

    Restrictions on children  -  This is an adults only property

    

    Lavish accommodation surrounded by orange groves and olive trees. Contemporary white building with lots of natural light, huge terraces, and beautiful views over the grounds. Portugese specialities in the restaurant and lovely swimming pool. A real hideout in supreme comfort. See More

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Written by Helen Pickles

posted Wednesday, 12th June 2024