Villa Termal Das Calda De Monchique

The only hot springs spa in the Algarve, Hotel Caldas de Monchique is a small exclusive hideaway in rich green countryside, with 19th century charm and great views of the valley. Nestled in the Monchique Hills, in one of Portugal's main health resorts, the retreat consists of three historic hotels and lies about 20 kilometres north of the coast. The three hotels have been recently remodelled and make up a small resort with a thermal outdoor swimming pool and spa and good restaurants. Also, the unspoilt surroundings are a nature lover's paradise and are perfect for taking long walks, hiking and mountain biking as well.

Guestrooms are simple and tasteful and offer views of the valley, main square or swimming pool. Once you settle in and get your bearings, a trip down to the spa is well worthwhile. There you'll find a new, modern facility with a pool, therapeutic showers, mud application, as well as the spa with a reasonably-priced list of treatments. Monchique water is bicarbonated, and contains sodium and fluorine, which is, medically speaking, indicated for respiratory problems and muscle and skeletal disorders and is very moisturising when used for beauty treatments, as you'll surely find out. After you work up an appetite, you can try local smoked sausages, Italian cuisine, Algarve-style sole or salads in the restaurant, 1692, which spills out onto a lovely terrace with elm trees in the village area, perfect for balmy evenings. Finally, while you're basking in the spa, your children can spend time in the kid's club which offers sports and games, painting and babysitting.

Villa Termal das Caldas de Monchique, Spa Resort is located fifteen kilometres from Portimão and 20 minutes from the beaches on the coast; the untouched southwest from Salema to Sagres is particularly recommended if you want to explore the Algarve further, as is the picturesque village of Silves, with its old castle, only twenty five minutes by car. If you've packed your clubs, there are two golf courses within ten minutes drive with special discounts for guests; Faro International airport is about an hour's drive.