Vilalara Thalassa Resort

Spread across 12 hectares, and with direct access to a lovely sandy beach, at the Vilalara Thalassa Resort you can escape from everyday life and find space for yourself in an environment of pure luxury. Orientated to make the most of the stunning views, emphasis has been placed on blending in with its surroundings, as seen in the extensive botanical gardens surrounding the site. But above all this is a resort that focuses on your well-being, particularly through its Thalassa Centre, which is regularly nominated as one of the best in the world. There are also saltwater swimming pools, as well as a range of sports activities available, and even the restaurants offer specially balanced and delicious meals to ensure you go home feeling amazing. The comfortable and spacious rooms have been carefully decorated in greens and blues, echoing the natural colour schemes outside, while the private terraces make the perfect place to end the day with a cool drink. All in all, you're bound to go home feeling inspired and rejuvenated.

All of the suites are generously sized and have air-conditioning and satellite television. If you're feeling sporty, why not have a game of tennis on one of the four courts, or even raise your game with some professional coaching? Or, alternatively, you can spend some time in the fitness centre, take a yoga or Tai Chi class, or just go and play on the beach. There are also six swimming pools in total, four of which are saltwater pools. The highlight of the resort, however, is the thalassotherapy centre, which offers over 50 different treatments. Other facilities include a beauty salon, a hairdresser, and an osteopath. Once you've worked up an appetite, you can choose between three restaurants, all offering Portuguese and international dishes in a laid-back atmosphere, and one of which also offers a delicious ‘healthy living’ menu. Then afterwards enjoy a relaxing stroll through the eight hectares of gardens with plants and flowers from around the world. For children aged five and older, there is a special programme of activities during the summer, at Easter and over New Year.

Located in the centre of the southern coast of Portugal, you are within easy driving distance of a number of excellent beaches, as well as a great range of golf courses – the resort offers a booking service. The nearest international airports are those at Faro and Lisbon.