Conrad Algarve is not subtle. Hilton’s six-story hotel in Almancil has all the oomph you would expect. With all the resort-like features, there is plenty of space for kids to run around and burn off some steam while parents can enjoy candlelit meals, the spa (try Intraceuticals oxygen-infusion facial), and the fantastic golf courses that are right outside the hotel. There is always someone who can arrange everything. The Young Guest Concierge takes children to play water polo at the indoor pool. mocktail Workshops with Wilson Pires, Portugal’s Barman of the year, dance classes or the Little C Palace Kids Club, where kids can learn how to make marzipan balls. You can enjoy princess tea parties and treasure hunts. There are films for tweens as well as blindfolded ice-cream tastings. Andrew McGie teaches cool Aussie chefs how to roll sushi. His prawn-popcorn is a huge hit at Louro.
The largest pool is just past the playground. Bring the entire family and spread out on the daybeds. The poolside Dado Restaurant serves giant grilled langoustines (also known as langoustines), meaty beef hamburgers, delicious cod-fish fritters and non-alcoholic beverages such as the Something is Missing drink, made with lime juice, mint sugar, apple juice and brown sugar. You can enjoy excellent food at all the restaurants, whether it’s the tasting menus of Gusto and Heinz Beck or afternoon teas in the bar. The heated infinity swimming pool with a view of the countryside is the perfect place for those seeking peace and quiet. Vale do Lobo’s terra-cotta roofs are dotted with sun-bathed tiles, and while there is no view of the sea, the Atlantic is only a few minutes away.
