LUXE MARE LAGOS, PORTUGAL
Lagos, in Southern Portugal boasts dramatic cliffs, a magnificent coastline and a town full of white-washed streets.
The rock formations, Ponta da Piedade are perhaps the most photographed in all of the Algarve, and are instantly recognisable. The Algarve is a unique all-year destination, it’s a magical place, famous for its historic old towns, fantastic beaches and sandy coves.
Therefore it was a no-brainer for husband and wife team, Egil and Birgitte Greve, a professional Norwegian couple to build two villas (Lux Mare) in their favourite holiday spot. Local architect Mario Martins brought their vision to life.
Lux Mare is the Latin translation of the Portuguese “Luz do Mar” Light of the Sea. It describes the reflection of the sunlight on the ocean, and the sunlight bathes both the terraces, and the interiors of each of the villas. These elegant villas close to the historic town of Lagos, make for a luxurious base to enjoy everything the south coast of Portugal has to offer. Casa M and Casa L are both six bedroom luxury villas with heated swimming pools, uninterrupted ocean views and concierge services.
We were staying in Casa M, which makes for a relaxed get-away where sipping cocktails on the veranda taking in the ocean views is about as strenuous as things got. We also had the option to swim in the heated outdoor infinity pool, or to take a soak in the deep plunge bath tub (in the master suite). Casa M also has a small gym with the latest kit, a cinema room and a games room.
The Villa has an open plan set up. The bedrooms, the living area and kitchen are all on the ground floor with a wraparound outdoor terrace. In the basement you will find the leisure area and access to the underground garage. The expansive kitchen is fully equipped with the latest mod cons, the cutlery and crockery are by Vista Alegre and all branded linens in the bedrooms are made in Portugal. The villa’s guest rooms and master suite come with terraces, sea and pool views and all the upscale amenities and stylish touches you’d expect from a five star villa.
During my short stay I fell in love with Lux Mare. The villa brings together Nordic and Portuguese style, creating a unique look and feel that transports you to a comforting and luxurious world. And as I was the first guest to arrive I bagged the best room in the villa, the master suite! The huge bathroom has a fab tub and also a fantastic shower that featured different settings including a cascade mode. There are also copious amounts of closet space and a comfy spacious bed, modern art adorns the walls and the room has floor to ceiling doors which give you direct access to the outdoor terrace.
Since the villas are just an hour drive from the airport; a few minutes from the beach; and a comfortable 1 hour drive from Faro; Lux Mare make for a great base for a fun and relaxed escape. Guests can create a bespoke experience to suit their tastes – including activities in the nature, gastronomy and cultural visits.