743a212b

Stay 'n Play Marriott Praia del Rey

Tue, 06 Apr 2021 10:02:10 GMT

Best way to start the day is with a round of sea side golf. Clear the head while counting some 15.000 steps at the same time. Especially in these Covid-19 times, with wearing a mask almost all day, fresh air is a bare necessity.
Our 4 day golf destination is located just an hour North of Lisboa. The Marriott Praia d'el Rey golf & beach resort has two great golf courses, both Praia d'el Rey and Westcliffs are challenging and even more so when the weather (I mean wind) is in play...
The resort area is quite large, almost a village, and located between Atlantic Ocean seaside, dunes eucalyptus woods.

Staying at Praia d'el Rey

At this extended resort one can choose between three types of accommodation. Either the 5* Marriott Hotel, rent one of the Villas or stay in one of the beach front apartments. We stayed at the hotel , in a beachfront king suite. Sunset right in front of our balcony!
The breakfast is extended, lots of fresh fruit, normally a large buffet but due to the Covid-19 rules the masked staff is happy to serve you.

Of course the hotel has the Safe & Clean stamp . This prove of commitment complies with Covid-19 health safety recommendations issued by the National Tourism Authority according to National Health Authority guidelines.

Praia d'el Rey golf course

This mature course (over 20 years old) has both parkland - first 9 - and links hole. The second half is all about stunning seaside holes with matching views. You feel the connection with nature, even more when you hit out of bounce along the sea. Stay on the fairway! Undulating is king here and the greens are quite fast (wind!). This is the perfect course to walk with a (electric) trolley and really connect with the fairways. A classic Portuguese golf gem.

Westcliffs course

First of all, forget about walking this course (made that mistake once) and opt for a buggy. The holes are spectacular, long and also quite some distances between holes ánd between first and second nine. You need all your energy and concentration to conquer (yes, that's the word) this 18 holes links style course. You've been warned. Boy, what a challenge!

Check Praia D'el Rey or Golf and Country Travel for more info on packages.

Up in the air, an amazing balloon flight over Alentejo

Tue, 06 Oct 2020 12:42:05 GMT

Up in the air at the crack of dawn

Some things are worth setting the alarm at 05.30 am for. A hot air balloon sunrise flight over the plains of Alentejo definitely is! The perfect (I would say) 15th wedding anniversary surprise for mr. B. during our stay at Sao Lourenço do Barrocal estate.

The pick-up by the guide from Up Alentejo is at 6 am sharp, think Defender jeep, and with a cute small breakfast bag from the hotel, off we go.

Rise and Shine

When we arrive at the field the team is already busy for one hour (their alarm must have sounded at 03.00 or so) and we witness the final shots of hot air in the balloon. After safety instructions we climb into the woven basket, take in our starting position (bend your knees and hold the leather rail) and of we go. Easy as that. Let the magic begin.

Floating above Alentejo in perfect silence

Who needs a drone when you can have this view yourself? The tranquility of drifting slowly above the earth really changes your perspective and gives new views of iconic Alentejano landmarks like olive trees or the (man made) Lake Alqueva. It all looks in perfect harmony.

Soft landing ...

All good things come to an end. I could have stayed up in the air all day. It's almost a meditative feeling, seeing the world below in such a tranquility. Apart from the now and then necessary shot of hot air from the burner into the balloon.

Thanks to skilled pilot Hugo , we slowly get back on the fields - picked out by his mates on the ground who are awaiting us with the jeep. It feels funny to be with two feet on the ground again. As for a longtime tradition which started with the first French balloon ride back in 1783, Hugo celebrates our safe landing with a glass of bubbles. Not bad at 08.30 am.

For more info or bookings:

upalentejo.pt

barrocal.pt

Luxury wellness retreat (and a round of golf) at Anantara Vilamoura

Fri, 14 Aug 2020 15:30:27 GMT

Some people love to browse real estate websites. My guilty pleasure is scanning wellness destination websites. Each to their own, right? Reading a spa menu could also be a form of meditation.
When I saw Anantara Vilamoura amongst the retreat listings in Algarve on Dutch Puur & Kuur site, it caught my attention. I already read about this resort which is only 20 minutes by car from my Algarvian home and replaces the old Tivoli hotel. Time for a wellness staycation.

The Anantara hotel in Vilamoura

After a stylish, minimalistic refurbishment the former Tivoli Victoria Hotel became Anantara Vilamoura . The debut for Anantara Resorts in Europe. This iconic luxury resort brand from Thailand is renowned for its wellness and healing traditions.
Located in the Vilamoura area. I kinda find this part of Algarve a bit artificial, but once inside the mid-century style hotel it's a secluded world on its own. Perfect premises for a wellness retreat.
The resort faces the green landscape of Victoria Championship golf course and has 280 rooms. The amount of rooms surprises me. Due to the set-up it feels (and looks) much more intimate. Nice.

The (bath) room at Anantara

My deluxe room - no. 141 - is facing the golf course and has a subdued interior. White marble floors, wooden vertical slate walls with both closets and bathroom hidden behind it. The bathroom is equipped with Elemis amenities and has a - separate - large shower and bath.
The small terrace has a soft lounge bed and is big enough for two. It overlooks the garden, palms and golf courses. My favorite hang-out to try a digital detox, read a book and watch the sun set behind the palms.
Despite it being early February at my time of visit, the temperature is around 16 C. When sheltered from the wind you can really feel Spring is around the corner. These days the soft bathing robe is what I wear most.

Three nights wellness package

The 3 night Puur en Kuur Wellness package consists of the following benefits:

Stay including breakfast
wellness consultation
full body massage (60 minutes)
foot or head massage (30 minutes)
private yoga or personal training session (60 minutes)
welcome massage (30 minutes)

Also unlimited daily access to Anantara Spa (worth € 20 per person per day) and unlimited participation on weekly holistic and fitness activities (such as Yoga and Pilates) are included.
I opted for a private yoga lesson. The satyananda yoga lesson by private teacher Carine Gago was a very special one. Obrigada & namasté.

Let's Spa at Anantara Vilamoura

The Spa is set in dark colors and has 6 treatment rooms apart from the indoor vitality pool with view, sauna, Turkish bath and a special Vichy Shower room.
Authentic healing traditions are deeply rooted in Algarve’s past and are incorporated within Anantara's Asian approach of holistic wellness and natural beauty.
The Anantara Signature massage is a mix of different techniques, a massage tasting menu. The pressure is medium with long strokes altered with stretching movements known from the traditional Thai massage. I felt both relaxed and energized after this treatment.
I booked an additional facial, the Elemis Pro Collagen Age Defy . A targeted lymphatic drainage massage treatments with an age-defying mask to improve firmness and elasticity. Who can say not to that?

Healthy food is the best food

During these low season months, not all restaurants within the resort are open. So, that gives me good reason to come back during Summer time and experience EMO, the fine dining restaurant.
For now I can only share my review of Victoria Restaurant. Located on the ground floor with large glass doors that open to terrace, pool and garden.
The breakfast is amazing with fresh, local delicacies from Algarve . Stress of choice to start the day, too many healthy options! My wellness days start with an elaborate breakfast, healthy grilled organic vegetables for lunch and only fruit at night.

Golf clinic at Victoria Course

The golf course is an inherent part of the resort and vice versa. It takes an easy underground hallway from lobby to clubhouse and practice facilities. The Victoria course - an Arnold Palmer design - is a championship course which annually hosts the Portugal Masters.
Tomás Carlota is the golf guru on site and the designated person to perfect your swing or improve your putting skills during a golf clinic. We played the first 9 holes - on course lesson - together, and I am very thankful for all very welcome tips. Now I have to practice what he preaches, which is a total different challenge.

The sense of serene elegance, the genuine friendly staff - obrigada! - and the luxurious, minimalistic environment makes this resort a solo friendly retreat . A nice place to be on your own I valued the tranquility which allows me to turn my attention inwardly and reflect. Anantara is derived from ancient Sanskrit and means 'without end'. Let's leave it at that.

anantara.com

puur & kuur

disclaimer
My stay at Anantara hotel was by invitation on behalf of Portugal Love. We only accept invites that answer positive to the question: “does it match our Portugal Love lifestyle?” Authenticity is key. Words, photos and opinions are my own.

Easy recipe: home made (refined) sugar free courgette bread

Sat, 08 Aug 2020 13:29:43 GMT

Our vegetable garden in Algarve keeps on giving fruits and vegs with a leading role for courgettes at the moment. There are only so many ratatouille's, grilled courgettes or courgette soups one can make, I needed a new courgette solution. Because, as those who enjoy the perks of a veggie garden know, very often all produce is ready at the same time...
So, the last weeks I’ve been trying out various recipes – can’t just stick to one recipe, have to make changes. And came up with my own version of a (refined) sugar free courgette bread with - I hope - a balanced sweet-and-savoury taste.
Ridiculously easy to make and perfect companion for either honey, goats cheese and fresh figs. Or boiled egg with avocado. Or a thick layer of peanutbutter. Or. Or. Or.

Courgette Bread Recipe

Apart from baking paper and a regular loaf baking tin, you need:

Ingredients

200 gram rice flour (or spelt / sweet potato flour)
250 gram courgette
2 eggs
6 - 8 dates
50 ml honey or agave syrup (or 50 ml xylitol)
100 gram fresh goats cheese
75 gram walnuts
1 tsp. baking soda
half tsp. baking powder
pinch of salt
handful pumpkin and/or sunflower seeds

How to

Pre-heat the oven on 160 ºC . Do not use hot air. Line the baking tin with grease-free baking paper and set aside. Roast the walnuts in a pan till they start to shine and set aside. They burn quickly, do stir.

Slice the courgette and dates in smaller chunks and chop briefly by hand or – in my case – with the hand blender. As in easy, does it.
Mix the eggs and agave (or honey) syrup in a bowl and stir for a few minutes. Add the courgette/date mix. Stir.
Add (and crumble) the little goats cheese to this mixture and finish with slowly adding and mixing the flour and baking powder/soda and salt.
Add the roasted walnuts.

Done. I said easy recipe, right?
Put the mixture in the paper lined baking tin and sprinkle the pumpkin and/or sunflower seeds on top. Bake in the middle of the oven for 55 minutes .
When it’s done, lift the bread by pulling the paper out of the tin and let it cool down for 15 minutes before taking of the baking paper and let completely cool down.

It keeps for a few days, if it is very hot better store wrapped in baking paper in (vegetables) bottom of fridge.

Enjoy!

Tiger prawn love at 2 Passos restaurant at praia do ançao

Sat, 01 Aug 2020 16:05:34 GMT

If I have to make a choice between to dine or to lunch, the latter often wins. That's what I like about Portugal, or other southern countries, they take lunching (almoço) out very seriously.
2 Passos (pronounce Dos Passos) is another lunch gem just behind the beach at Praia do Anção. So, settle in the morning on the beach (beds) and take a long walk to increase the appetite.

'New look' for 2 Passos

For over 30 years this place is a landmark at the Algarvian coast. I remember the first time eating grilled fish here, some 25 years ago. Then a low key local place, more a bar than a restaurant but with great seafood.
Founded by a Portuguese/Dutch couple (the Passos Family - retired and into making olive oil now) the restaurant 2 Passos is now run by the second generation, so a real family business.
Over the last 30 years the restaurant has changed looks a few times with the last huge renovation in 2015. With a surprising Scandic looking minimalistic wooden place as result. A complete rebuilt which one would rather expect along one of the many waterways outside Stockholm than at the Algarvean beach side. I like its sophisticated style although I do miss the Portuguese characteristic charm from before.
Due to new infrastructure plans by the authorities, they had to rebuilt to ensure security towards the erosive tendency of the dune system. So higher on its legs this time which means more sea views!

Seafood on the 2 Passos menu

What stayed the same is food and staff , Portuguese characteristics which enhance each other. Try to get a seat in Christina's or Fatima's area, they both are always in a good mood and take great care. And do take the couvert, I fancy the little bowls with fresh chopped garlic (!!), sea salt, tapenade and olive oil that accompany the home baked bread and toasts.
The menu is based on Mediterranean and Regional Portuguese food, it's all about freshness from the sea sourced daily from the local markets.
My routine starts with amêijoas à Bulhâo Pato to share, clams sautéed in olive oil, garlic, fresh parsley & broth. This really is my number one favorite Portuguese dish.
After that the signature 2 Passos Tiger Prawns - camerão tigre as Passos . Again think garlic, herbs and oil with some chili. Delicious! Served with boiled potatoes in the skin or with the house specialty brown rice with ketjap and raisins. For me, two of those prawns is the perfect number together with the broadbeans salad ( salada de favas from the starters menu).

Also new is the lounge rooftop terrace with spectacular sea views. Perfect spot to have your bica after lunch or a drink after a relaxing day at the beach. For those into alcohol, me not, this space screams gin tonic.
Downside is that the acoustics can be poor due to glass windows all around. Although some olive trees are added inside and that helps. Try a table along the sides and slide the floor-to-ceilings glass windows open for a bit of sea breeze and sea views. This is not a cheap place (compared to the many 7,50 euro prato de dia local lunch spots) but worth every penny. Enjoy a long, long lunch together with friends. That's all the food you need for today!

reservations recommended | menu

New! Sublime Comporta opens beach club restaurant

Fri, 31 Jul 2020 12:10:46 GMT

The Beach Club (beds, parasols, beach bar and restaurant) is the latest addition to the continuously innovating Sublime Comporta resort family . At the same time that Covid-19 restrictions are released, the beach club opened late June. Not re-opened, but opened. Good timing.
As expected, this place is in style with the hotel: minimalist eco chic. Who says no to lunch with sea view, especially the widely stretched pristine beaches along this particular part of the Portuguese west coast?

Carvalhal Beach is only 10 minutes away from Sublime Comporta Country Retreat & Spa .

Lunch with a stylish view

Inside and out, stylish it is. Think beach cabana with a contemporary, sophisticated twist yet still aligned with the Comporta “chilled” attitude. True to the spirit of Sublime Comporta, the floor to ceiling windows ensure nature is always present. Decor inspiration surely came from sand dunes, sea and the cabanas of Comporta. The atmosphere of the local fishing port reflects in rough wood linings, natural sisal rope, sea shell sculptures and wash basins made of rocks.

Let's talk food, shall we?

The menu is not too extended but with all the right seaside dishes, like fresh grilled fish and oysters. For me, specially when it's a hot summer day, a lunch with mostly veggie dishes is what makes me happy. Unless the menu states Tuna Tataki, yes please.

One of my favorite typical Portuguese dishes is Peixinhos da horta : green beans tempura. So I opted for two starters, which was fine for me and left some space for the red fruit cheese cake...

The couvert comes with delicious sourdough bread, olives, fresh greens dip and tomato tapenade. Check the Sublime Beach menu .

#wekeepcomportasafe

Like the rest of hospitality Portugal, the current Covid-19 measures are taken very seriously by all and that results in the official Safe & Clean stamp . Masks are obliged until you sit at the table and must be put back on when walking trough the restaurant. Hand gel is everywhere.

Either you stay in the hotel, just hop in for lunch or spend a day at the beach this place has it all. Reservations recommended.

Sublime Comporta Beach Club

Stay 'n play at Monte Rei golf & Country club, c'est chic

Fri, 17 Jul 2020 12:43:16 GMT

Monte Rei Golf & Country club is as luxury as golf gets in Algarve. Located in the hinterland of Eastern Algarve, this secluded and private estate has one goal and that is to spoil their golfing guests. This starts from the very moment you drive up the lush green courtyard. All you have to do is hand in your car keys and the friendly staff takes it from there. While you check-in for Monte Rei North course in the well equipped pro shop, they unload your (golf) bags, set up your buggy and park the car.
The award-winning Jack Nicklaus signature course is spread over a vast natural landscape with great rural views. A true golf experience for those who love a testing game..

Stay at Monte Rei golf & country club

The usp of this classic style golf & country club is the stay experience package . As in play, stay, relax and eat, all within the well-kept premises or with addition of the Quinta do Lago courses.
Sleep at Monte Rei means move into your temporary villa with five-star hotel service. We stayed in a large 3-bedroom-two-floor villa with parking garage. As in much bigger than home.
This one ticks all the turnkey boxes, from large fully equipped kitchen to a welcome fruit and wine box. Bathrobes, slippers and numerous Molton Brown amenities in each of the three bathrooms. Yes, mr. B. and I both claimed our own bathroom. I said chic, right.
A dedicated concierge is always on-hand to assist, just pick up the phone.

Spa, gym, tennis and pool at Veranda

In the heart of the Villa Village lies Veranda which houses gym and spa facilities, tennis courts (equipments available in case you forgot to bring your racket) and swimming pools. So, the perfect place to relax and socialize or grab a bite at the poolside restaurant.

Artigo Três, Japanese sushibar in Loulé

Mon, 29 Jun 2020 14:43:05 GMT

I love the Algarvean countryside and Portuguese food. Don’t get me wrong, it's not without reason that we call this Southern part of Portugal home . But from time to time I crave authentic Japanese food . Even more so after our incredible trip through Japan in 2018. Yes, you can file this under first world problems.
So when my friend Annelies – local hero – shared here enthusiasm about an authentic Japanese restaurant in the center of lovely Loulé, our Asian culinary destination for the next day presented itself. Artigo três , cozinha Japonese is the name. Muite prazer!

Artigo três, from Tokyo to Algarve

The traditional Japanese cuisine sushi bar is owned by two young entrepreneurs Hiroshi and Shogo . Hiroshi spend the last five years in Vancouver and chef Shogo exchanged Nobu Tokyo – of all places – for the little, historical village of Loulé in Algarve.
Why here? Hiroshi tells me that, once decided to open a sushi bar in Europe, their first concern was not the location of the restaurant but where the best fresh fish is.
That’s how their journey ended in Loulé, literally next to the famous Arabian style market hall. The ‘Mercado Municipal’ where they not only sell the freshest fish and seafood but also regional specialties and agricultural local produce from both Algarve and Alentejo. East meets West.

What’s on the menu at Artigo três?

The small menu – with an additional handwritten daily recommendations of the chef – offers dishes that meet up to high international culinary standards. The flavor of the miso soup was truly amazing. As were my salmon sashimi and vinegrated mackerel .
Mr. B. opted for Ebi Mayo, fried prawns with Japanese mayo, and the taste matches the presentation. Both excellent. As was the vegetarian avocado roll, simple but perfect. These dishes were our first time benchmark choices of food. Looking forward to come back and try other favorites. Oh, and the wasabi is also freshly made.

Both the food and the service of the staff have that elegant and calm Japanese energy I came to appreciate so much after our Japan travels. We were seated in the middle of the – minimalistic style – restaurant. Next time I’d like to sit at the bar since I love watching the chef prepare the dishes in utmost concentration.

Funky detail, the chopsticks rest on a peanut shell. To eat or not to eat, was the question. We didn’t dare.
Long story short, the best Japanese food I have ever had in Portugal. Besides takeaway they also have a small deli with original Japanese comestibles to bring home.

So, lucky us. We’ve now have the real Japanese deal close to home. Another perk to living in the Portuguese countryside. Domo arigato!

Artigo três
3, Avenida Marçal Pacheco
Loulé
open from 18.00 - 21.00 (for reservations click here )
closed on Monday & Tuesday

City short break: 24H in historic Coimbra

Tue, 23 Jun 2020 09:32:31 GMT

We finally made time for a little road trip to explore more of our beloved Portugal. With just a two-hour drive north of Lisbon, Coimbra is our first stop on our way to Porto. Which we, btw, never reached due to some heavy rainfall in the North... So Porto is still on the future travel list.

Some say Coimbra is the Oxford or Cambridge of Portugal. I understand what they mean, having visited both now. This charming medieval town with the oldest university of Portugal, has the same romantic intellectual atmosphere. As in impressive historical college buildings and students wearing long black cloaks while hastily crossing courtyards. But Coimbra has definite more beautiful tiles!

University of Coimbra, from palace to lectures

Founded in 1290, this beauty goes way back. The main Royal Court building, along the Paço das Escolas courtyard, is impressive and also feels a kind of mystical to me. Enter through the Iron Gate, walk towards the left and indulge the views before turning around and take in the complex.
The day pass Program One gives access to palace and colleges. It really is a joy to wander through the small corridors and find a surprising view or gallery around the corner. Portuguese tiles included. For the culmination of antique tiles, do visit the Portal of S. Michael’s Chapel. Both tiles and organ resembles baroque galore.
Since 2013, the patio of colleges is a UNESCO world heritage site. They vary in architectural style, with those built during the totalitarian regime in the 20th century as low point.
From de Paço des Escolas we take a detour via the botanical garden to the Science Museum and National History Collection.

Science Museum and Natural History Gallery

The Science Museum is housed a neoclassical building and the original examination room with antique equipment leads to room of Light and Matter. This interactive exhibit explores human knowledge about light and matter and its relationship to the development of science. Just playing a little Newton. This is not only nice with (grand) children but also to take a trip back to highschool. Most of it still is a mystery to me, though. Although I do understand that light is life. E=mc2.
The opposite building, the Jesus College, houses both the cabinet of physics and the National History Gallery. Endless rooms with collections of animals, stones and minerals brought back from Africa, Goa and Brazil in the 19th century. To observe a whale skeleton from up close, and walk around it, is fascinating.

Coimbra’s baroque Joanina library

The Joanina Library is known as one of the most beautiful libraries of the world. This 3 floor building houses almost 60.000 books, a rare bibliographic collection from 16th – 18th century. Still available for (guided) consultation if you are in need of research.
Conservation of old books is rather complicated with natural enemies like humidity and insects that feed on paper. For both threats there is a solution. The baroque library Joanina, a sealed intellectual fortress, is only accessible via a large teak door in the General Library. Small steps and protective thick walls allow a constant temperature of around 20 °C in the opulent room. A colony of bats does the rest, they spend the night eating insects. In quite a luxurious habitat, I might say.
A maximum of 60 visitors allowed per visit, so make sure to book a slot when purchasing Coimbra University access tickets. Wander freely through the academic prison (!?) on the ground floor and the general library on the second. Then the guide ceremonially opens the large door and escorts us to ornamental gold, impressive oak reading tables, books and a large portrait of monarch D. João V.
Oh, photographing is not permitted on the top floor. And that really triggers the rebel in me. Shooting from the hip. Mea culpa.

Where to stay in Coimbra?

Location, location, location. The front door of Sapientia Boutique hotel is literally 20 meters from the famous Joanina library and Coimbra University. So, the perfect 4* operating base to explore this friendly town. Open for almost a year now, this modern style renovated 18th century mansion is a refined and quiet place.
The central courtyard patio, rooftop with 360 view and the light rooms and apartments all radiate the same minimalistic yet historical style. Love it when old and new enhance each other.
We stay in apartment 301 (103?), a true local hideaway. It feels as if we do live here. Details throughout the hotel have something to do with books. Either it be lamps, wall art or a reception desk front.
The extended breakfast buffet is worth noting. Seeds, nuts, fresh fruits and more, a feast for a healthy food snob like moi.

Where to eat in Coimbra? Notes!

Now this is a more than pleasant culinary surprise. Located just outside the old center – in Baixa, about 20 minutes walk from Sapientia – hidden on the corner of a small street you’ll find Notes Bar & Kitchen .
The friendly staff (men only?) sets the tone for the nice atmosphere. Farm to table style and with the meat locker in sight (in case you’re not a vegetarian) and incredible good food. Local dishes and ingredients with a creative twist. Enough choice for a pescetarian like me. Mr. B. still talks about his slow cooked egg (52 ºC) with textures of Iberic ham and fennel mousse with truffle.

We enjoyed a lovely lunch with a variety of starters. All between 6 and 10 euros. Try that in Paris or Londen.

Sublime Comporta, a rural luxury hotel in Alentejo

Mon, 15 Jun 2020 11:07:54 GMT

A beachside hide-away

In the midst of a 17-acre dune sand area surrounded by umbrella pines and cork trees, lies Sublime Comporta Hotel. Close to the rice fields and small fishing village of Comporta . This is quite an unspoiled destination and favorite of locals and many – famous – international guests alike. Portugal’s rustic Alentejo region hides its secrets very well. If you wouldn’t know, you will easily drive by the gated entrance.
The atmosphere is relaxed because both staff and buildings radiate a zen calmness. This ethnic, understated chic rural retreat is where interior flows seamlessly into exterior. Nature is the great connector and the consistent use of wood proves that point. Just an hour drive from Lisbon or 1,5 from Algarve.

A variety of accommodation

Spread around the woods are minimalistic villas made of wood and concrete. Done in natural hues, you have to look twice to spot them between the lush natural green surroundings. Most of the villas have private pools with 2 till 5 bedroom cabanas attached to the main building. Inspired by traditional Alentejo farm houses where another cottage is added close to the main house for each adult child.

Another option is to stay in one of the ‘friends’ rooms in the main house, originally the private house of owners Gonçalo and Patricia Pessoa. This terracotta coloured house – with spa on the lower level – is located in line with the outside pool.

Pool villa cabana for the night

We stay in a Sublime Comporta pool villa cabana with large bathroom divided from the bed room by sliding doors. The large egg shape stand alone bath-with-garden-view is a real eye catcher. Totally in love with the amenities by historic – 1887! – Portuguese brands Claus Porto . Natural ingredients, lemon and verbena, wrapped in great packaging.
No need to set the alarm, the birds will let you know when it’s time to rise and shine. Staring into nature from the bed through the open doors, while letting the smell of pine trees sneak in, is almost meditative. Not almost, it is!

From 2020 there is a new spectacular addition, Bio Pool Suites. Made from wood and straw, they overlook a stunning biological pool with private terraces built on stilts (reminiscent of the artisanal fishing port built by local fishermen). So plunge from bed direct into fresh water. No chemicals since aquatic plants are used to treat the water. See the sun set in your own front water yard...

The Spa & Yoga at Sublime Comporta

The spa is located in the main house, the first house built on the premises as holiday home for the owners. Now this terracotta coloured building hosts several hotel rooms and the spa. Both the upstairs waiting lounge (with yet another set of impressive antique doors) and downstairs indoor pool lounge are connected with outside through floor-to-ceiling glass windows. With song texts written on them to point out its glass. Isn’t that a Gloria Gaynor song?
After a foot cleansing scrub with organic essential oils and sea salt, I doze off to another dimension under the skilled soft hands of my therapist. So this is the Sublime signature massage…
Check the wellness agenda at reception for a daily shot of zen, as the spa also open for outside guests. Pranayama, silent meditation walks or hatha/vinyasa yoga?

How about the Sublime food?

Well, nomen est omen. Sublime. The proximity between garden and plate is the ultimate sustainable food indicator. At Sublime the fresh organic salad has to travel 10 meters and that is what you taste. Utterly fresh.
The restaurant is called Sem Porta (without doors), floor-to-ceiling glass doors to terrace and garden bring nature inside. New * chef Tiago Santos just joined from London and reigns in the open plan kitchen. The menu consists of seasonal cuisine with use of regional recipes and organic produce.
This is also the place for a lovely buffet style breakfast with green juices, fresh fruit, rustic country breads, regional cheese and more.
In the middle of the organic vegetable garden you’ll find Food Circle. An experiential restaurant where the chef cooks only with fire and uses organic produce.
The restaurant is also open to non-guests but reservation recommended!

Lunch at the beach, Sal Restaurant

The deserted beach is about 10 minutes from the hotel. We went to Praia do Pego for a walk along the sandy dunes and turquoise Atlantic Ocean. Either go by car or grab one of the Sublime bikes.
Reward yourself with a grilled fresh fish lunch at Restaurant Sal . Literally on the beach and everybody’s favourite.
Never change a winning eating eam, which in our case means sharing a portion of clams (Amêijos à Bulhão Pato) for starters. A grilled sea bass – robalo – as main. Apart from the usual vegetables and small garlic potatoes, the fish also comes with grilled sweet potatoes with herbal/garlic butter on top. Say no more.

Well, I do have to say more. I seldom take deserts (the minimize sugar thing) but when our friendly waiter elaborated on the lemon cheesecake who am I to decline? Made by an elderly lady from Sétubal who bakes all their famous pies. It even crossed my mind to take another piece. Yes, that good.

ps. NEW! The Sublime Beach Club beach-side restaurant opened just after Covid19 lockdown in May 2020. Enjoy a day at the private beach and a great lunch. Click here for more info.

This humble luxury beach side rural retreat is a go-to destinations for those who like nature on their doorstep, luxurious sheets, architectural designs and fine organic food. For some extra quiet ambiance you might avoid a stay during children’s school holidays. Or hide at your private pool for some peace and quiet and make room service your best friend.

Some words express the same feeling, no matter which language. Sublime, for instance.

sublimecomporta.pt

disclaimer
Our stay at Sublime Comporta was by invitation on behalf of Portugal Love. We only accept invites that answer positive to the question: “does it match our Portugal Love lifestyle?”.
Authenticity is key. Words, photos and opinions are my own.

Verride Palacio Santa Catarina, a unique 5* Lisbon hotel

Wed, 13 May 2020 13:54:23 GMT

As if you are invited by friends who happen to live in an 18th century restored palace along the Tejo river. That is how I feel while staying at the new five-star luxury boutique hotel Verride Palacio Santa Catarina . On a side note, we’re talking friends closing in on the Forbes 500 top ten. No expense has been spared during the 10 year renovation of this unique property.
The former palace is located in the heart of Lisbon along the Miradouro de Santa Catarina . This famous lookout point over the river Tejo is the spot where – young – locals and tourists mingle with street performers and musicians to enjoy sunrise and sunset. Yes, there is a contradiction between the serene tranquil atmosphere of the hotel and the hustle ‘n bustle outside. Do I mind? No, not really. You are in a busy city after all. What I like is that instead of distance between the two worlds, the hotel tries to connect and co-exists. By serving drinks outside while street bands are playing in the evening sun, for example.

The Hotel

If you value tranquility, like I do, opt for a room at the other side of the hotel. The Bica area side . Amazingly quiet, I enjoyed it so much to sit on my balcony and watch my beloved city from above. The colors of the roofs, laundry hanging out to dry, swallows flying in flocks and the ever-changing light over the river.
With only 18th rooms – two of them marvelous suites, the Kings and Queens – and an eye-catching staircase in the entrance, this p(a)lace radiates understated luxury. All restored in style by architect Teresa Nunes de Ponte.

The room at Verride Palacio Santa Catarina

My superior room, named Infantes , comes with views of both city and river and is done is soft beige and blueish green tones. I really fancy the room interior with its high ceilings and minimalism style, nothing too much but still all you need is around. Where modernity meets the old days.
The large double bed is made with the softest organic linen by Portuguese brand, Celso de Lemos . Think a trillion thread counts. As is the bathrobe and carpets, all custom-made for Verride Palacio Santa Catarina.

The TV is hidden behind a panel, no need for that when you have views this great. Apart from minibar, Nespresso machine (no tea maker unfortunately) there is a smart phone for use during the stay with guided tour apps, free calls and more.

For all rooms, click here

Marble galore in the bathroom(s)

Marble, marble, marble. We definitely have a theme here. The bathroom comes in three: one vanity corner, one bath/shower cove and a closed bathroom with toilet, bidet and sink. All well stocked with Aesop amenities and creamy beige soft towels. Golden colored faucets are the finishing touches. From the bath I have a view over the city roofs. Nothing more to add. Copy past at home, please.

Breakfast with a view

Breakfast is served in the Wintergarden room and terrace. Only available for guests who can either opt for the community table inside or small tables outside on the terrace facing the city and river. And the small pool.
The small kitchen attached to the room, is where friendly staff prepares whatever you like with culinary love. Like my egg-white spinach omelette with avocado. The buffet offers the rest.
Breakfast is served every day 'till noon, how relaxed is that?

Suba, fine dining with a view

Verride Palacio Santa Catarina has a lovely restaurant on the top floor, Suba. An intimate restaurant with tasty Portuguese cuisine with a contemporary twist made from fresh and local ingredients. And with again wonderful views of Lisbon and Tejo river.
We enjoyed a 3 course executive lunch for 25 euro, which was delicious from amuse – avocado cream with iced flowers – until the to-die-for Lemon Pie with Strawberry Sorbet (see photo).
The table ware is by Portugal’s moste prestigious brand Vista Alegre and an exlcusive design for Verride Palacio Santa Catarina, done in blue hues.

Verride’s Rooftop bar with the best view

Before we sit down for lunch, José-the-friendly-waiter asks us if I already seen the rooftop bar? Uh, no. He escorts us up the stairs behind the counter in Suba and enjoys my exclamations of surprise. This really is the best 360º view of Lisbon! He proudly points out the different highlights of his city, from the parlement building to the Castelo Sao Jorge . And beyond.

Also available for outside guests, but with the restriction that a minimum deductible consumption of 10€ per person paid in the Front Office is obligatory. The rooftop bar is open everyday from 12.00 until midnight.

The former home of a Portuguese count makes one forget you are in a hotel. I did. With checking-in online there is no hassle or waiting upon arrival. The friendly staff goes the extra (s)mile to welcome you in their stylish and cosy home. Like arriving into a friend’s house.

verridesc.pt

disclaimer
Our stay at Verride Palacio hotel was by invitation on behalf of Portugal Love. We only accept invites that answer positive to the question: “does it match our Portugal Love lifestyle?” Authenticity is key. Words, photos and opinions are my own.

Photo Journal: boat trip on Guadiana river in Alentejo

Fri, 08 May 2020 10:52:53 GMT

Boat trip is the new road trip

Luxury travel isn’t always about thread count, pillow menus and egg-white omelets with organic spinach. Sometimes luxury lies in the uniqueness of the destination. In absence of other people. In connection with nature.

We ticked all these boxes on a floating short break along the Guadiana river shores in Alentejo , the beautiful region North of Algarve. Together with friends and their two teenage sons we rented a river boat at Amieira Marina in Moura.

The river boat named Monsarraz, soon baptised as floating caravan, was ours to enjoy. It had everything, yellow plastic chairs, kitchen, bedrooms, bathrooms, be it all in the tiniest form – matchbox size – possible. Beds were really uncomfy, this is mere about waiting for the night to pass than get an 8 hour beauty sleep. But the funny thing is, it didn’t matter much.

Maneuvering our boat along a buoy in the middle of the river mattered. Boys diving from the roof and yours truly down the boarding ladder for numerous swims in the river. With absolutely nobody in sight. Lost in time sums it up, this is how we roll in high season in Alentejo!

amieiramarina.com