Summary:
Bela Vista Hotel & Spa is one of Algarve’s first hotels, blending historic elegance with modern luxury.
Rooms designed by Graça Viterbo offer stunning ocean views and unique decor.
Vista restaurant boasts a Michelin star and features exquisite local seafood dishes.
The hotel includes a luxurious L’Occitane spa and excellent service throughout.
Located near a popular beach, it provides easy access to the stunning Atlantic Ocean.
One of the Algarve’s first hotels, the Bela Vista Hotel & Spa continues to radiate the charm of a bygone era, seamlessly blending historic elegance with modern luxury.
A Glimpse into Grandeur
Hand-painted blue and white tiles adorn the central wooden staircase, while a stunning turret dazzles with stained glass. The bar shines beneath a beautifully painted wooden ceiling, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. The hotel features a cool pool surrounded by tall palm trees, and the rooms offer an easy luxury that invites relaxation to the soothing sounds of the waves.
Highlight: The Michelin-starred Vista restaurant, helmed by renowned chef João Oliveira, serves exquisite seafood dishes that reflect the bounty of the nearby ocean.
Overall Score: 8/10
Rooms and Suites
Decorated by acclaimed designer Graça Viterbo, the rooms evoke a breezy beach vibe, with most offering breathtaking ocean views. The Mansion, the main building, features distinct historic rooms, with room 116 boasting a stained-glass turret bathroom. Across the street, Casa Azul houses seven uniquely designed suites, while the Bela Vista Jardim extension offers additional rooms with lovely pool views.
Room Score: 9/10
Food and Drink
The Vista restaurant shines with a score of 9/10, offering a modern twist on Portuguese cuisine with a focus on local seafood. Signature dishes include mackerel paired with citrus, and locally caught turbot. The restaurant also features a thoughtful wine pairing option, allowing guests to explore lesser-known Portuguese wines. Lunch is a casual affair with light dishes, while breakfast is a delightful buffet featuring local specialties.
Additional Amenities
The hotel boasts an L’Occitane spa featuring five treatment rooms, a steam room, sauna, and plunge pool, earning an 8/10 for its serene, chic interiors. Treatments focus on relaxation and rejuvenation, ensuring a memorable experience. Guests can also enjoy a gym and a large outdoor swimming pool, with exceptional service throughout the hotel.
Location
While the hotel overlooks one of the Algarve’s most popular beaches, it is located on a bustling strip in Portimao. Access to the beach is convenient, but it's advisable to visit before or after peak summer crowds. Despite its surroundings, the stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean make it a desirable retreat.
Price: B&B doubles from £320
Restaurant: Nine-course tasting menu from £189
Family-friendly: No
Accessible: No
Mary Lussiana was a guest of Bela Vista Hotel & Spa (hotelbelavista.net)
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