Gourmet lovers' paradise in the Algarve
With 3,000 hours of sunshine and just a three-hour flight from the UK, the Algarve is unique in that it offers a truly delightful year round destination.
Situated in Quinta do Lago and nestled within the privacy and security of the Ria Formosa nature reserve, a scenic swirl of seawater lagoons, sandy islands, salt marshlands and diverse birdlife, lies Four Seasons Fairways – the ideal spot to escape a deux. Think warmth, sun and sumptuous Mediterranean food.
This discreet and elegant private villa resort is home to 132 colonial style villas and apartments many of which have recently been newly renovated. Set in beautifully landscaped gardens, each features its own pool or jacuzzi, terrace or garden area and outdoor barbecue/cooking station. The resorts 'Clubhouse' area is home to stunning heated indoor and outdoor pools, a wine cellar, gym, indoor-outdoor bar and there are tennis courts and bikes to hire for adventure loving newlyweds. Visitors to the area are really spoilt for choice when it comes to dining too, here's a round-up of mouth-watering suggestions...
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ESTAMINE
Possibly the Algarve's best kept secret – an incredible restaurant located on Isla Deserta, only accessible by boat. Few places come close to this family-run gem, where you can enjoy fresh fish and seafood along with other Algarvian specialities on your very own deserted island with 360 degree ocean views.
When seen from above, the restaurant itself takes the shape of a crab among the sand dunes, an architectural tribute to their neighbours scuttling along the shoreline.
Clams 'Bulhao Pato-style', prawns, deep fried in a delicious secret spice and its charcoal grilled catch of the day, simply can't be beaten.
Visit: www.ilhadeserta.com/estamine-restaurant
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A VER TAVIRA
Enjoy lunch or dinner at this elegant restaurant, accompanied by great views over the city, Gilao River and Tavira Island.
A unique gastronomic selection of international dishes with a regional twist and explosive flavours.
A tip here would be to make a reservation for one of its exquisite Degustation Menus.
Dishes change depending on the season but expect scarlet shrimps, pork cheeks, sea bass, tuna tartar and galician entrecote.
Visit: https://avertavira.com/en/
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AMARA
If you're looking to stay close to home one evening Amara, Four Seasons Fariways' á la carte restaurant, doesn't disappoint and boasts one of the finest views in Quinta do Lago.
The concept of Amara is to twin intimacy with sophistication and Portuguese traditions with contemporary cuisine to give guests an unmistakable and memorabl eexperience.
The head chef, Nelson Candeias, is just one of a number of talented cooks whose genuine love for gastronomy shines through in every dish.
Visit: www.amararestaurant.pt
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BOVINO
Bovnio Steakhouse can be found within Quinta do Lago itself and serves some of the finest steaks and wines around along with an apothecary themed cocktail menu.
The décor is stunning, staff charismatic and it always has a good vibe.
For two, the Chateaubriand is well worth it, or the Bovino signature cuts where you get to try filet, rump cap and ribeye.
The seafood is exquisite too and don't forget to add a side of triple cooked chips or mac'n'cheese.
Visit: www.quintadolago.com/en/restaurants/bovino-steakhouse
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DOS PASSOS
Another beach side delight located on Ancão Beach in the Ria Formosa Natural Park and boasts uninterrupted sea views with the dunes as a backdrop.
They serve Mediterranean and regional Portuguese cuisine using fresh fish and shellfish sourced daily from the local markets in an Algarvian 'tapas' style so super fresh and the octopus salad and grilled sole comes highly recommend.
Visit: www.restaurante2passos.com/home/eng
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| Credit: Dos Passo |
TOP TIP:
When staying at Four Seasons Fairways, if all you want is actually a cosy night in, they have a 'Drop & Scoff' service meaning you can order a delicious meal from the VIVO Bistro and have it delivered straight to your door – they drop, you scoff!
For more information visit www.fourseasonsfairways.com
