Set in landscaped grounds, this luxurious resort is situated in the picturesque village of Praia da Luz, approximately 5km west of Lagos and within an hour’s drive of Faro International airport. The resort is only 200m from the beach and within walking distance of all local amenities.
Luz is a pretty village and like many coastal resorts was once a little fishing port. Popular with families and couples alike, tourists come here for one of the finest beaches in the Algarve. Praia da Luz has fine white sand gently shelving into clear turquoise waters and is well served by beachside cafes and watersports. Tourists enjoy cliff-top walks along the sandstone cliffs and you can admire the locally renowned ‘rocha negra’ or black rocks at one end of the resort - evidence of ancient volcanic activity.
For those who prefer to be a little more active, there is much on offer both one site and nearby. The nearest golf course is at the Boa Vista golf resort, which also has tennis courts, football pitches and a luxury health club with gym and spa. Jeep safaris, BBQ boat excursions, fishing trips and even microlighting can all be arranged in the local area.
Nearby Lagos (6km) is a historic maritime city which played an important part in the Age of Discovery, and the place where Henry the Navigator built his ships. A relaxed and charming city, Lagos offers a great selection of restaurants, most of which are found in the pedestrianised main street. Lined with open-air cafes, the main square of Praca da Republica is a popular place to indulge in a cool drink and a spot of people watching. There are often lots of street entertainers as well; everything from magicians to clowns and living statues. Its rich, long history ensures that there are plenty of buildings and historic sites worth visiting; the governor’s castle and the church of St Sebastian being two of them.
There is plenty on offer for families with children if you want a change from the beach. Lagos Zoo, between Sao Joao and Bensafrim is set in lovely landscaped gardens with exotic plants and 250 different animals. There is an educational farm, souvenir shop and restaurant. The Slide and Splash waterpark near Lagoa is also within easy reach. One of Europe’s biggest water parks, it aims to keep you busy for a whole day with its range of plunging and gentle slides, swimming pools and a lazy rubber ring river.