Praia Verde Boutique Hotel ★★★★

Swirling melodies of traditional Fado songs float out of the beachside bars and restaurants, providing a tinkling soundtrack to the gloriously sunny beaches of the Algarve. For many years, this part of Portugal has been the go-to place for travellers looking for a healthy dose of sun, sea, and sand, and it remains a hotspot for summer holidays. The sprawling, postcard perfect beaches have stepped straight out of paradise, and the small winding alleyways that twist through the small towns and villages offer a shady respite from the searing midday sun.

The Algarve, to me, meant wild, rugged shorelines that were imbued with Portuguese personality. Sure, there were the typical, flat, white sandy beaches that stretch out endlessly, but there are also pockets of beautiful, rocky coastline that offer something a bit different to your average beach holiday. I was not disappointed, either, when I arrived at the Praia Verde Boutique Hotel ****, which is nestled amongst a thick, green forest right on the shoreline of Praia Verde beach. Unlike the typical images of popular beach destinations, which include crowds of sunbathing holidaymakers covering every speck of sand, the Praia Verde beach was quiet, intimate, and peaceful.

This was, of course, helped by the secluded positioning of the hotel and the numerous hammocks dangling from tall, imposing trees – perfect for an afternoon nap or lazy morning reading. Inside, the hotel is just as impressive as its location. The stylish interior décor is modern and chic, and the crisp white walls and sheets match the freshness of the sea air. The Suite has its own kitchenette, and a spacious lounge area to kick back and relax in after a hard day’s sunbathing. The comfort and design was topped only by the friendly hospitality of the staff, and maybe the hotel’s rustic beachside restaurant that serves up a sumptuous selection of fresh seafood dishes. I, of course, hoped to try everything on the menu!

Further inland, I had the chance to explore the dipping and soaring hills of the region, and the small villages that are tucked away between them. For an area that is accustomed to soaring temperatures, the Algarve is surprisingly green with an abundance of thriving plant life, and a drive along the twisting, turning country roads is both incredibly beautiful and fascinating. Portugal is a very traditional country, which is evident in every aspect of it, from its local dishes, to its architecture and arts scene. With an expansive history that draws influence from the Moors, Islam, and the Romans, it is also diverse, and you can see elements from these periods dotted throughout the area; numerous churches perch on hilltops, and elaborate, colourful Islamic design is visible in many of the larger towns.

It was the Fado music that I enjoyed the most, though, which can be heard wafting from small tavernas, shops, and bars both along the small streets of the towns, and along the sprawling shoreline. Back at the Praia Verde Boutique Hotel ****, I took a dip in the peaceful pool that overlooks the sea – a change from the saltiness of the nearby ocean. Here, you can indulge in a tasty afternoon snack, or sip on a cocktail enjoying the spectacular views.

The Algarve is one of Portugal’s most visited destinations, and it’s easy to see why. The soft-sand beaches and uninterrupted views out to sea are the perfect backdrop for a getaway in paradise. But there are many other faces to the region too, and it is important to sample the delicious local seafood, as well as explore the historic architecture and experience the gloriously wild landscape. All of which should be set against a backdrop of traditional Fado music. For the ideal starting point to begin discovering this vast and varied part of Portugal, choose the Praia Verde Boutique Hotel ****, with its secluded location and superb design.