12 Best B&Bs in The Algarve

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

Still not sure?

Looking for a fully-fledged beach holiday? Check out our collection of the best beach hotels in the Algarve
Or something for the kids? Why not browse our collection of the best family hotels in the Algarve
Alternatively, you could contact one of our Gurus for advice.
- 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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- 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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- Herdade Quinta Natura Algarve 4 rooms from $131
  
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  Local exploring  -  With a natural park next door, beaches a stone's throw away, and a short drive to Lagos, there's lots of local exploring
  Back to Nature  -  Located next to the Natural Park of the Southwest Alentejo and Costa Vicentina, this is a perfect escape to nature
  Romantic Break  -  The tranquil setting and pretty rooms with private terraces make this a favourite with couples
  Great walks  -  Plan a hiking trail through the neighbouring natural park for an active day out
  Recommended by  -  I Escape
  
  This beautiful rural guesthouse is nestled on the cusp of a verdant natural park. All of the uniquely designed rooms lead onto a private terrace; expect a modern finish with warm undertones. Stroll through the nearly twenty acres of gardens, boasting a stream and walking trails. An idyllic retreat. 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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- Casa Beleza do Sul Tavira 4 rooms from $133
  
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  Self catering  -  Self-catering studio and apartments have well-equipped kitchenettes, terraces with tables and sun loungers
  Town  -  Tavira is a charming and unspoilt old town, pretty squares and gardens, fishermen at work on their nets
  Golf  -  The Algarve is famous for its golf courses and some of the best are close to Tavira
  Beach nearby  -  Beautiful sandy beach close by
  Recommended by  -  Sawdays
  
  Beautifully restored 19th-century house in the unspoilt, delightful town of Tavira in the Algarve. Stylish suites and self-catering apartments have been designed by the architect owner. Original mosaic floors and features have been left intact. Shady roof terraces with panoramic views. A gem. See More
  
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- Casa Apollo Guesthouse Faro 2 rooms from $215
  
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  Local exploring  -  A peaceful B&B well positioned in the centre of the city for exploring the main attractions on foot
  Sights nearby  -  Explore the attractive cobbled streets of Old Faro
  Great walks  -  Take a stroll along the marina
  Swimming Pool  -  Outdoor pool
  
  A chic B&B offering a perfectly central location in historic Faro. Housing just two rooms both of which have a clean modern feel with whitewashed walls, crisp white linen and potted plants. A large walled garden features a lovely pool. An adult-only space perfect for a romantic break for two. See More
  
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- Casa Modesta Olhao (Algarve) 9 rooms from $245
  
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  Back to Nature  -  With the beautiful coastline close by and a natural park around the corner, this guesthouse makes a great retreat to nature
  Local exploring  -  Book a package with the hotel to explore the local area with a traditional boat ride, birdwatching and bread baking
  Romantic Break  -  Enjoy a quiet couples' getaway at this guesthouse; the private terraces are perfect for romantic down-time
  Cooking classes  -  Take a cooking class at the guesthouse and enjoy cooking with produce from the organic garden on-site
  
  In this contemporary take on a seaside guesthouse, modern architecture combines with traditional Algarvean materials. Simple, bright rooms lead up to private terraces with sea views, perfect for sunbathing. Cool down in the hotel pool before sampling wine from the cellar. A unique bolt-hole. See More
  
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- Convento Olhao 9 rooms from $167
  
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  Romantic Break  -  Hidden away down a picturesque street, it's the perfect escape in the Algarve for a intimate, romantic break.
  Sights nearby  -  Take a day-trip to Tavira with it's historic, hilltop castle.
  Birdwatching  -  The surrounding coastline is great for birdwatching.
  Fishing  -  Sea fishing trips can be organised by the hotel.
  Recommended by  -  I Escape, Sawdays
  
  Hidden in the artistic pilgrimage site of Olhao, Convento encapsulates the rich elegance and charm of the surrounding city. A tranquil atmosphere pervades throughout the hotel with its beautiful rooms and peaceful central courtyard. Perfect for a relaxing escape in the Algarve. See More
  
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- Forte de Sao Joao de Barra 8800-595 Cabanas de Tavira, Algarve 10 rooms from $195
  
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  Eco break  -  Restored in as eco-friendly a fashion as possible, using natural building materials, solar panels and fans instead of AC
  Back to Nature  -  An escape back to nature- sandwiched between olives groves, the Ria Formosa nature park and the bay of Cadiz
  Great walks  -  You are spoilt for choise here- pick between the gardens, the beach, the nature reserve and the town!
  Birdwatching  -  Thanks to the nature reserve behind the fort, this area teams with birdlife
  Recommended by  -  Great Small Hotels , Tablet
  
  A magnificent 17th century fort, turned eco guesthouse, overlooking Ilha de Cabanas. Rooms are simple and chic, with high vaulted ceilings, exposed brick walls, carved wood beds and crisp linens. Gardens and terraces perched on the ancient walls overlook the bay of Cadiz. An unforgettable stay. See More
  
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- Quinta dos Perfumes Algarve 6 rooms from $245
  
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  Total relaxation  -  A chilled out Portuguese paradise with outdoor saltwater pool, rolling green lawns framed by orange trees and regal sun loungers
  Sights nearby  -  A perfect base for exploring Tavira, and Pedro the owner has a wealth of local knowledge
  Swimming Pool  -  Salt water pool
  Restaurant  -  Breakfast only
  
  A beautiful farmhouse turned boutique hotel just outside the lovely village of Tavira. Each of the six rooms comes with a terrace overlooking the sea or gardens, and some offer a kitchenette. With 36 hectares of orange trees, a saltwater pool and fabulous fresh breakfast it's hard to beat. See More
  
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- Monte da Vilarinha Algarve from $170
  
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  Active Holiday  -  The setting provides all the inspiration you need to walk, cycle, ride, sail or just happily relax in beautiful surroundings.
  Families  -  Studios, apartments and lodges perfect for families of all sizes.
  Surfing  -  The Costa Vicentina is home to some of Europe's best beaches.
  Sailing  -  Can be booked nearby.
  Recommended by  -  I Escape
  
  A lovely family hotel in a stunning valley location surrounded by mountains, beaches, and lakes. A collection of studios, apartments, and lodges with all the mod cons, including DVD players. Large crescent pool, lunch and dinner by arrangement, a playground for outdoor pursuits. See More
  
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