Vila Monte Farm House

Set in nine hectares of green gardens, Vila Monte has all the peace, quiet and seclusion of a quiet country estate, yet it’s just a short drive away from the Algarvian capital, Faro. Even nearer is Olhao, the region’s biggest fishing port, and the beautiful Ria Formosa lagoon. 

Vila Monte’s rooms and suites are set in several different buildings scattered across the hotel’s grounds, each one individually designed but all sharing a less-is-more, boho aesthetic and sense of minimalist luxury. The colour scheme is pure white with splashes of marine blue in the dyed wicker furniture and cushions, evoking a Mediterranean feel. Latticed wooden shutters open onto small balconies overlooking the hotel’s pretty gardens; the larger suites boast spacious shaded terraces, and some have their own private gardens. 

Fans of slow food will find a lot to love about A Terra restaurant, where local rustic dishes are created from fresh, foraged regional ingredients. Olive oil, forest figs, carobs, mushrooms and all manner of local fruit and veg will find their way to your plate, with pizzas, bruschettas and grilled meats prepared with the wood-fired oven and Josper grill. Many ingredients are grown on-site in the hotel’s organic garden, or otherwise sourced from local farms. In the on-site grocery, you’ll find many of these products for sale to take away with you – perfect as a gift or souvenir. More delicious food awaits at Laranjal restaurant, specialising in Algarvian cuisine and seafood from the Ria Formosa lagoon.

The hotel’s sprawling gardens are home to two peaceful swimming pools, and a tennis court and gym if you’re craving a bit of exercise. The grounds are also the setting for weekly yoga classes.

While it’s tempting to do little more than kick back and relax at Vila Monte, be sure to take advantage of the extensive programme of activities laid on by the hotel. In the Ria Formosa Natural Park, you can learn all about oyster farming before savouring the final product; other gastronomic experiences include wine tasting and lunch at the chef’s table after a market tour. Boat trips can be arranged to take you for lunch and sunbathing on a desert island, while sport fishing, dolphin watching and seahorse spotting are among the sea-based activities on offer.