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Martinhal Beach Resort and Hotel, Algarve, Portugal
  • Martinhal is in a truly beautiful location: the long, sweeping beach is a joy. As it's off the beaten track, there's so much space that it's impossible to feel crowded out, unlike some resorts on the Algarve. A few miles away you'll find the  historic town of Sagres on the Cape St Vincent, Europe's most south-westerly point (aka the end of the world or 'Fim do munro').
  • This coastline is one of the best surfing spots in Europe. The hotel can organise brilliant tailor-made surfing sessions for all ages at the nearby beaches to the west, where you'll be able to catch the perfect wave.  There's a watersports centre on Martinhal beach, where you can hire equipment for windsurfing and other watersports including kayaking.
  • Walking is great fun here, and the hotel can organise fascinating guided walks along the cliffs with local experts who know everything about the history, archeology, flora and wildlife in the region. Keen walkers should look out for Martinhal's special hiking weeks held in the autumn and spring.
  • Cycling trips are fun, too. You can organise bike hire and trips at reception. Keen bikers should look out for Martinhal Bike Week, which is usually held in November.
  • There are eating options aplenty, including the restaurant O Terraco, which boasts glorious views of the bay. Think classic Portuguese cuisine with a modern twist here: recommendations include the prawns cooked in garlic and brandy, chocolate and banana brownies.  There's an extensive and well-thought out kids' menu, while baby menu offering delights such as pureed courgettes and sweet potato. Top tip: Leave room for pudding!

  • Martinhal is a wonderful place to just sit and take in the views of the ever-changing skies and ocean.
  • The loft-style beach suites and rooms are particularly luxurious. Clad in natural timber, they overlook the ocean and boast private verandas, lots of floor space and uninterrupted ocean views.
  • There are a total of five pools at the resort. The main pool at the beach club has a smaller kid's pool next to it so that all ages are able to stay in one place and enjoy. 
  • As Dunas restaurant is right on the beach, offering a great location for a break from all that sandcastle building/sunbathing/paddling/snoozing (delete as appropriate). The restaurant offers a decent lunchtime menu and snacks throughout the afternoon. Dinner in the evening here is particularly pleasant - there's a wide variety of fish on offer. Top tip: Look out for the catch of the day.
  • Breakfast can be taken on the verandah. Be sure to order yourself one of their delicious lattes and settle at a table outside, where you can soak up the early sun and take in the sweeping views. 
  • The spacious House Villas in Martinhal Village are perfect for families, consisting or one, two or three bedrooms with private terraces, gardens or balconies. Some of the Deluxe Villas even have their own private pools.
  • The Finisterra Spa is designed in keeping with the rest of the resort, a lovely relaxed place bedecked with timber and local stone. Think organic products, herbal facials and ayurvedic massages. Babysitting is available on request.
  • From sunloungers on manicured lawns to comfy beach nests, there are lots of places to admire the view and relax.

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