Pure Monchique Hotel by Unlock Hotels ★★★★

Ever since I was little, I felt more at home in nature than larger cities, so when I stumbled upon the PURE Monchique Hotel, I took it as a sign to book a few days away to recharge. Every morning, I would wake up to green mountains without having to step out of bed, it almost felt like glamping but with all the luxuries of a four-star hotel.

From the terrace I would close my eyes and feel the sun, the sun lounger was ideal to properly lay back and relax. The bathroom was sparkly clean, the stone-coloured marble tiles blending into the sink and powerful rain-effect shower. I almost didn’t want to leave my cosy bubble with its panoramic vistas.

The hotel exterior is equally as charming, the white tower stands out among the green backdrop, then among the tall trees and grassy garden sits the sky-blue pool, where you can bathe in the sun or sit in the shade of the trees. If you’d like an adventure, drive to the Odelouca Reservoir Park to the east for a little hike, the roads can be windy however. There are plenty of nice walks around the hotel, just ask at the reception for the best routes and nearby gems.

Nearby Restaurante 1692 boasts ample portions of food and alfresco dining, while you can stop at Medronho Academy for magnificent views, a stuffed baked potato and a lesson in how to make a Bloody Mary cocktail! Stop for a drink at the cosy alkaline bar, with its whitewashed walls and old fireplace, with a very homely feel. Once you’ve experienced the blissful peace, the mountain air, and the relaxed vibe of PURE Monchique Hotel, and its surroundings, city life doesn’t seem so appealing!