The best hotels in the Algarve

Ah, the Algarve… that particular, feel-good, light, the long expanses of burnt butter sands, blue waters washing against golden limestone cliffs; the smell of sizzling fresh fish, drizzled with local olive oil and the clack-clacking of storks sitting atop the squat olive trees that border the winding roads. There is a wealth of magic in this region, of hidden beaches where fishermen still mend their nets, small white-washed Portuguese villages where the only sound is that of the sonorous church bell, and vineyards where you can stay to taste the wine from the vines around you, immersing yourself in the terroir. And then there is the lively Algarve, where warm nights are filled with music and cocktails and beach parties, days with surfing or riding. There is something for everyone in this region and below are the best hotels from which to do it.

Casas da Quinta de Cima

Opened this summer, the nine little cottages (with bedroom, sitting room with kitchenette, bathroom and large terrace) on this farm estate offer space and tranquillity in the deeply rural eastern Algarve. The beach is a walk away, through orange and lemon trees, past the swimming pool and the prettiest honesty bar ever. Like its highly acclaimed siblings Pensão Agricola and Hospedaria, interiors mix luxury touches with retro design and pleasing overall simplicity. From here you can ride to nearby Cacela Velha in time for their fresh haul of oysters, which you can eat in the shade of the old church bell tower, while your horse waits. Doubles from £145 including breakfast.