ForbesLife: Portuguese Paradise Found
Balcony
Grounds
Adults
Food
With swoon-worthy beaches and dramatic red cliffs, the Algarve rightfully tops the bucket lists. On the flipside, there’s a chunk of Portugal’s southern plain that fails the fantasy with drab hotels and apartment complexes skewing coastal vistas. But if you know where to go—it’s paradise found. And that secret Algarvian sanctuary isVila Vita Parc,a secluded seaside hideaway, set on the bluffs of Porches, Portugal, where a huddle of whitewashed Moorish-style abodes dot 54-acres of lush parklands. With endless serene spots to soak up one of the most stunning coastlines ever—including eight swimming pools, nine restaurants, cliff top golfing, and breathtaking headland trails—this luxe oasis is a getaway must. Here’s why you need to steal away now.Balcony Bliss Yep, every room has a balcony with ogle-worthy views. And after a three-year revamp, all 170-sumptuous rooms are refreshed in contemporary Portuguese furnishings with the Algarve’s blue, white, or red hues echoed in the velvety pillows, geometric rugs, local hand-painted pottery, and intricately tiled showers. Tip: Snag the two-story Townhouse Suite and you’ll be rewarded with mind-blowing balcony ocean vistas on both floors.Gorgeous Grounds Not only does the entire property face the Atlantic, the grounds are a tropical paradise with swan-strewn lakes, palm tree-laden gardens, waterfall-like fountains, and emerald grassy knolls fringed with chaises—all fashioned around traditional Portuguese tiled paths for miles of serene strolling. Or you can hit the cliff top trails for a bird’s eye coastal panorama, followed by a toes-in-the-sand walk along the shore.Adult chill time Kids are great…except when you’re ready for R&R and they’re ready for high-decibel play. Expansive grounds means adults get their own playground with plunge pools, swim-up bars and swing beds; romantic sans-kid dining with Algarve views; oodles of tranquil spots to lounge beneath umbrellas; and even adults-only sleeping quarters.Hello, food and wine lover The property has a 1700-acre organic farm and vineyard nearby where they produce their own wine, olive oil, vegetables, and more. Not to mention, there’s a stunning 11,000-bottle wine cellar built 26-feet underground at the resort. For unrivaled Portuguese fare, Adega is a must with classics like fresh-caught sea bass straight from the Algarvian coast.**READ MY FULL ARTICLE ON FORBESLIFE.