Escape to the sun
This winter, there’s no better place to get away from it all than Four Seasons Fairways, Quinta do Lago, Portugal–but it’s not all lounging by the pool
As temperatures plummet at home, our thoughts tend to turn to sunnier climes. This winter, there is no better haven than Four seasons Fairways, Quinta do Lago, one of the Algarve’s most sought-after villa resorts, which has recently undergone a €2 million refurbishment.
The new Clubhouse is the heart of the resort’s charming collection of 132 two- and three-bed villas—all of which feature private Jacuzzi or pool and a private barbecue area—blending contemporary design with a Portuguese twist and described by its designer Astrid schep as ‘a comfortable, relaxing home from home with a sophisticated atmosphere’.
A dream destination throughout the year, Four Seasons Fairways particularly appeals during winter
With its glass-walled cellar, indoor-outdoor bar, two heated swimming pools (indoor and outdoor) and ‘Upside Down World’ Kids Club (there is also onsite babysitting available), the Clubhouse caters for all the family and is sure to be revisited again and again during your stay.
A dream destination throughout the year, Four seasons Fairways particularly appeals to us cold-fearing yet equally heat-fearing Britons during the winter months, when temperatures tend to hover at a pleasant 18˚C–20˚C.
This weather is guaranteed to inspire you to partake of the plethora of activities on offer, from golf—which the area is particularly renowned for—to tennis, swimming, walking or biking in the Ria Formosa natural park (one of the seven natural wonders of Portugal), to personal training, yoga and tai chi. For those seeking a change of scenery, the resort is also close to the beach and offers complimentary transfers to take all the stress out of your daytrip.
After a busy day of whichever activity took your fancy, there is no better reward than a truly sumptuous supper—because that’s at least half of what holidays are about, after all. Luckily, the Clubhouse offers the options of the Vivo Bistro & Cocktail Lounge, offering the freshest seafood, salads and steaks guaranteed to restore your strength, or the particularly special Amara, tipped to become the area’s go-to restaurant.
This intimate new eatery serves contemporary cuisine with a Portuguese influence, focusing on the most delectable regional products and boasting some of the best views in Quinta do Lago.
For those seeking the company of friends and family, there’s the option to dine in your villa, either with the take-away service or by having fresh ingredients delivered. As the sun sets, there’s one thing for sure—you won’t wish yourself anywhere other than Four seasons Fairways.
Seven nights in a two-bed villa with Jacuzzi from €1,200 (£1,050) in low season or €2,900 (£2,535) in high season. Country Life reader offer: book by January 31, 2019 and enjoy a 10% early-booking discount (00351 289 357 500; www.fourseasonsfairways.com; www. visitalgarve.pt/en/)