Set on Europe’s most southwestern tip, Quinta do Lago is a luxury resort located in the Algarve region of Portugal. It is also situated in the Ria Formosa Natural Park, home to a variety of wildlife and offering unique walking trails with a beautiful backdrop. After a swift plane journey from Bristol to Faro, reaching Four Seasons Fairways was a breeze. The resort is just a 20-minute drive away, making it the ideal location for families seeking convenience. The scenic drive through Quinta do Lago is nothing short of dream-like. I would describe it as the Beverly Hills of the Algarve, with extravagant villas, immaculate lawns, and high-end shopping centres, creating an atmosphere fit for royalty.
Four Seasons Fairways
There’s something for everyone in the Algarve, whether you’re a sports enthusiast, a food lover, or a sightseer; there’s so much to see and do for the whole family. If you’re struggling to find accommodation suitable for an intergenerational group, I have the place for you. Four Seasons Fairways is a home-from-home experience. With 132 opulent villas at the resort, ranging from Two Bedroom Apartments with a Jacuzzi to Three Bedroom Villas with a Pool, this is a haven for families seeking a comfortable yet luxurious holiday. I checked into the Two Bedroom Apartment with a Jacuzzi, which was the ultimate base for a relaxing weekend in the Algarve. Located on the top floor, it offers stunning views over the resort, so you can dip in the Jacuzzi with a glass of wine while admiring the panoramic views. The private terrace also includes comfortable seating and a BBQ, giving you the option to cook for yourself. For larger groups, Three Bedroom Villas have the space for up to eight guests. Complete with a fully-fitted kitchen, a cosy living area, and a large garden with a pool, the villas provide freedom and privacy for you and your loved ones.
Dining Delights
Dining at Four Seasons Fairways is unmatched, with two restaurants offering indoor and outdoor dining options. Vivo Bistro & Cocktail Lounge provides à la carte dining, serving daily food and drinks. In the morning, you can enjoy visually appealing sweet and savoury dishes as well as a selection of fresh shakes and smoothies, the ideal plates to snapshot. As the sun sets, the terrace is the perfect place to sit and indulge in your dinner, that’s after selecting from the extensive food menu – it’s a tough choice! With a selection of fish, meat and vegetarian dishes, you won’t go hungry at Vivo Bistro & Cocktail Lounge.
If you’re on your honeymoon or celebrating a special occasion, you should visit Amara Restaurant for an intimate fine dining experience. Inspired by the local Almond tree blossom legend, Amara delivers a fusion of Portuguese traditions and modern flavours, creating the ultimate culinary journey. You can choose from a three or four-course tasting menu, with an optional wine-pairing experience. Prices start from €55 per person.
Family Favourites
Fairways has a thriving range of activities for guests to enjoy, whether you want to exercise or enjoy a touch of serenity, there’s something to suit everyone. On-site facilities include a gym and a variety of fitness classes. For family-friendly fun, book an afternoon session on the resort’s tennis courts, or take a dip in the heated indoor and outdoor pools, you can also find the children’s pool outdoors.
Four Seasons Fairways is a paradise for children, with a Kids Club that offers an exciting weekly program during the school holidays, your kids will never want to leave. The club provides indoor and outdoor activities such as swimming lessons, painting, treasure hunts and lots more engaging activities. They also have recently launched Crèche, a sensory play area for guests aged 6 months to 2 years old. They can engage themselves in movement sessions and art activities, focusing on supporting learning and development. Additionally, there’s a babysitting service available for those who want some alone time. While the kids are busy at Kids Club, the newlyweds can indulge in the wellness centre, consisting of a poolside jacuzzi, a sauna and steam rooms, it’s a must-visit for a tranquil afternoon. Perhaps gift your partner a treatment at Amélia’s Hair and Beauty Salon, the Aromatherapy Massage will relieve any stress you may have from all of the wedding planning!
For a family-friendly day out, The Campus invites you to immerse yourself in the sport-centric environment. The versatile multi-sports hub caters to athletes and sports enthusiasts of all ages and skill levels. You’ll find top-notch facilities including a fully equipped gym, tennis and padel courts, a swimming pool, sports rehabilitation, and a range of wellness services. Whether you’re looking to try something new, or seeking a fun-filled workout, The Campus is an ideal day trip for the entire family to enjoy. After a day of activities, you can visit Dano’s, a stylish sports bar and restaurant located in the complex. Adorned with wood detailing, large grid windows, and vintage sports ornaments, Dano’s is one for families searching for a relaxed atmosphere. They serve a variety of dishes made with local produce, including sharing platters, vibrant salads, and succulent burgers, the immense portion sizes will be sure to give you energy after a day of sports. quintadolago.com/en
Algarve Hidden Gems
Food lovers will find a plethora of dining options in Quinta do Lago. This includes Gigi’s, a beach restaurant nestled within the Ria Formosa Natural Park. Offering a picture-perfect setting to watch the sunset, and glistening views of the ocean, this is a peaceful spot to enjoy alfresco dining or afternoon cocktails. Nestled away in the Algarve region is the hidden gem, Estaminé. Perched on the secluded island of Ilha Deserta and only accessible by boat, this one-of-a-kind restaurant presents panoramic views of the surrounding sand dunes. What sets Estaminé apart is not just the tranquil location, but its commitment to serving the freshest seafood sourced from the local fish markets and their dedication to being a self-sustainable restaurant. During my visit, I savoured the Grilled Sea Bass accompanied by perfectly roasted potatoes, and it surpassed all my expectations. Each dish is meticulously prepared to delight the eyes as much as the palate.
For a romantic afternoon, you can surround yourself with rows of grapevines at Quinta dos Santos. A unique vineyard and winery located in Western Algarve, it offers wine-tasting experiences, a restaurant, and is an idyllic location for a wedding. I visited the winery for their wine-tasting experience, which included tasting paired with a charcuterie board and a tour around the winery and vineyard. The impressive wines, cosy environment and attentive team made me instantly feel at home, creating a stand-out afternoon. During the cooler months, they have a log burner and indoor seating where you can cosy up with your loved one.
Quinta do Lago’s irresistible charm, combined with the luxurious living at Four Seasons Fairways, creates a premier destination for a familymoon. The resort offers a perfect mix of self-catering accommodation with the added luxury of hotel facilities, allowing every family member to indulge in an enjoyable and comfortable experience. I guarantee this resort will leave you with very special memories, as it did for me.
Getting There
7 nights in a two or three-bed villa or apartment with a swimming pool or Jacuzzi ranges from £1,100 to £3,980 on a self-catering basis based on travel in 2024. To book your romantic escape, visit fourseasonsfairways.com
