What it is

A 154-room modernist golf resort slung between the Atlantic Ocean and Ria Formosa National Park.

What it isn't

Just about golf. Activities on offer here include an over-the-top spa, half-Olympic outdoor infinity pool (one of three pools on-site), tennis court, and a beach club a five minute chauffeured drive away.

What we think

If the designers behind this blissful property were trying to echo the regions rumored 300 days of sun a year, they succeeded. Rooms are done in calming neutrals, yet opulent, thanks to unexpected perks (pillow menus, rain showers, and private balconies behind those blackout curtains). We have a feeling you won’t linger long in your room, though, no matter how lovely it is, because the five restaurants on the premises are worthy of a dinner crawl. Among them? Michelin-starred restaurant Gusto by Heinz Beck, Dado (where you’ll eat in a private cabana) and Louro, where old-world Portuguese fare is the order of the day. Arrive hungry.

You're here because

Children can get short shrift in many European resorts, but not here. The second your wee one checks in, they’ll be handed the keys to Little C Palace: a kids club where pasta-making classes and puppet shows will have them asking “How long can we staaay?”

The Moment

Having a gym is to be expected in this wellness-focused age. But having a gym where guest classes on offer include everything from Zumba to aqua fitness? After this morning’s pilates session and jaunts between the spa’s ice fountain and sauna, you may just leave in better shape than when you arrived.

Restaurants & Bars

Gusto by Heinz Beck - Overseen by the multi-Michelin starred Chef, Mediterranean Cuisine

Louro - Modern Portuguese Cuisine

Dado - South American inspired pool side restaurant

The Lago Lounge - Selection of Sri Lankan teas, classic cocktails, champagne and patisserie delights

Sereno - Cocktails by the pool

Tempo Sports Lounge

Location

Quinta do Lago, a 2,000-acre reprieve in Ria Formosa Natural Park in Portugal’s Vacationland, The Algarve. Sounds world’s away, but isn’t: the property is a 20 minute drive from Faro Airport.