Hotel da Rocha ★★★★

Our daydreams of far-off destinations are often bathed in the sublime shades of gentle blue seas and the sunny green of the orchards of our youth. Natural colours, summer perfumes, simple pleasures and beautiful scenery have been seducing travellers since the dawn of time. All this can be found in the Algarve, like a huge garden where, between majestic cliffs, you can find some of the world’s most beautiful beaches.

Nowadays, the Algarve coast draws millions of visitors each year. Golf courses, water parks, hotels and complexes have sprung up all over the region. And yet you’d be wrong to jump to conclusions. It is still entirely possible to admire the natural beauty of this fantastic region. With authentic villages, bustling fishing harbours and remote beaches, the former Arab province has a wealth of stunning panoramas and unexpected treasures to discover.

Upon arriving in the town of Portimao, you can’t help but be drawn to the stunning Praia da Rocha, the jewel in the crown of local beaches. The sight of red cliffs plunging down to the ocean is breathtaking. We soon made it to our destination, the Hotel Da Rocha. This intimate, high quality establishment enjoys an exceptional location and modern amenities. A private alternative to hotel bedrooms, here you’ll be staying in a luxury studio by the sea. It’s perfect when you like your independence but don’t want to compromise on comfort. Here, you get to benefit from hotel service à la carte.

Choosing a Prestige Studio with views out to the ocean had seemed like a very safe bet from my living room, and it certainly paid off. Entering our new little home, I found it difficult to keep my eyes on anything but the emerald landscape lying outside the windows. Decorated in a designer style and with a very contemporary feel, the space is full of brightness and simplicity. The furniture is modern, practical and comfortable. There’s a kitchenette for rustling up some Portuguese nibbles, and a fully equipped bathroom, as well as a private balcony.