Dona Filipa Hotel, Vale do Lobo

Location

Set just back from Praia de Vale do Lobo’s beach, Dona Filipa showcases what made the Algarve famous – white sands, glittering seas and endless sunshine. What’s more, its landscaped grounds are just a 15 minutes’ drive from Faro International Airport, in the centre of the region’s golfing heart. And, aside from world-class courses, there’s everything from water spots and deep-sea fishing to pine-clad walks and spectacular drives on your doorstep.

Accommodation

This award-winning getaway is wrapped up in Portuguese style, with each room featuring traditional flourishes. Terracotta tiled floors, dark wood headboards and floral patterns contribute to the aesthetic while views of the hotel’s gardens, golf course and sea vistas add further charm. WiFi and large LCD TVs with video on demand services mix in more modern touches. Many rooms also come with private balconies to take advantage of those all-important views while upgrades feature marble bathrooms, suite living and oversized terraces that overlook the Atlantic.

Dining

Across the hotel’s trio of dining options you’ll be treated to the finest in Portuguese flavours. The signature Primavera Restaurant serves daily breakfast spreads and extravagantly themed buffet dinners; the Saturday champagne night is a particular highlight. For a fine dining experience, the Dom Duarte Grill champions Portuguese exploration, with flavours sourced everywhere from Goa to Malaysia before being combined with typical Portuguese flair. If you’d rather something more relaxed, the Duques Lounge Bar complements al fresco dining with craft cocktails. 

Facilities

Fitting with the region’s sporting heritage, the hotel enjoys exclusive access to one of Europe’s finest golf courses. Its sweeping greens make for spectacular waterside vistas, animated by no fewer than 70 species of bird. Back at base, there are two swimming pools, three ATP-standard tennis courts, a luxury spa and a seasonal beach club. Here your sun lounger is served with drinks and snacks as the waters lap gently at your toes. Lastly, for families, there’s the Kangaroo Kids Club whose 2,000 square metres of enclosed grounds features a range of fun-filled activities.