Bela Vista Hotel & Spa - Relais & Chateaux

I’m just leaving after the most incredible stay at Bela Vista and cannot wait to return. After a long journey (car troubles!), João went above and beyond to help me arrive safely to Bela Vista. Truly so helpful! Upon arrival I was told I was now home and that’s exactly how I was treated and felt. Gonçalo and the entire team gave me a beyond warm welcome which included a tour and history of the beautiful property. When I was shown my room (in building 2) I was ecstatic. A gorgeous, serene room with a patio that faces the ocean. The pool was stunning and I enjoyed some snacks and drinks poolside. I then booked 2 spa treatments. Pedro helped me with my online bookings and is the loveliest -I watched him helped a guest down the stairs who needed assistance and he did so with such care. He clearly loves what he does. Such a pleasure every interaction with him and the spa staff. Breakfast includes a buffet or warm breakfast option on the outdoor patio-such an awesome way to Start your day. After about 4 dozen pastel de nata in Lisbon, I was thrilled to have eggs and healthy toast options. But truly the gem (alongside the incredible staff) is Vista restaurant. I am shocked this restaurant only has one Michelin star. From start to finish a perfect meal which included a tour of the kitchen and chef coming out to deliver and explain the langoustine course. Every bite was memorable and flavorful. I cannot say enough about this property other than if you’re planning a stay to the Algarve, you must stay at Bela Vista. Beyond grateful to the team who were kind and wonderful.

We spent a very pleasant moment in Bela Vista, particularly in the Junior Suite. We much appreciated the breakfast which was generous with perfect service. All the staff was very welcoming and very nice, which was really appreciated.  My favorite moment was the Spa with Ophelia, who was very very kind, professional and very careful about my well being. We will come back for sure. 

We loved every minute of our stay. Meticulous attention to detail. Marvelous food at the onsite Michelin-starred restaurant—the chef actually comes to the table to prepare one of the courses. Terrific bar. The breakfast is perfect, something for everyone. Our room was spacious and modern. Cliffside setting with easy access to miles of beach. Best pool in Portimao. We did a full treatment at the onsite Occitane spa and indoor pool and that was wonderful as well. Staff takes care of every need and sets up easy transportation from train station to hotel, and then hotel to airport in Faro. We loved it so much we’ve been two years in a row. We went both years in April so I have not been to the Algarve in high tourist season, but the weather was great both times we were there. We rarely left the hotel except to walk along the main pedestrian zone, but there were other things to do, like visiting wineries in the hills, boat trips, cooking classes--all can be arranged by the hotel. Highly recommend and hope to return next year!