Vila Galé Lagos

This stylish hotel is sited so near Meia Praia that guests are practically on the beach the moment they step out of their rooms. Mind you, there is a fabulous swimming pool measuring 1,200 square meters standing in the way, sunk into spruce grounds peppered with olive trees. Lending additional leisure luster is the Satsanga Spa, a suitably refined oasis of wellness with its own indoor panoramic pool. A fully equipped health club replete with gym, sauna, and Turkish bath is another reason you may want to stay within the resort's boundaries.

The ocean is visible from many of the 112 standard and family rooms and 18 junior suites housed within this attractive property. Responsible for the interior décor theme are some of Portugal's biggest names in fashion, designers such as Miguel Vieira, Ana Salazar, and José António Tenente. Their decorative art and the runway show photographs framed on the walls can be admired throughout the public areas but are especially striking in the Versátil and Inevitável restaurants, which lend each a fresh and contemporary ambiance.

The resort's proximity to the beach affords guests a host of exciting water sports options - Meia Praia is one of the region's longest beaches. Alternatively, golfers staying here can take advantage of the nearby Palmares Golf Course, a beautiful and undulating layout designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr., and for everyone, the lively town of Lagos, with its busy marina, great shopping, and historical attractions, is within easy walking distance.