Is this Portugal’s most scenic party spot?

Words: Agatha Zarzycki

Champagne parties, a chef with Michelin-star experience shaping the culinary scene and a Whatever/Whenever service offering personalised, exclusive experiences and support 24/7 – W Algarve might just be the most epic combination of beachside play and pamper. Only a ten-minute drive from lively Albufeira and a quick 40 minutes from Faro International Airport, here’s why Portugal’s first W brand property delivers.

Breathtaking beaches 

The Algarve’s 200km coastline makes the region a European euphoria for beachgoers, and this energetic yet relaxed hotel has private access to two of its best, Evaristo and Balbina. Expect low ochre cliffs, fine golden sand and Portuguese celebrities (former president Aníbal Cavaco Silva loves it here). The sea is calm and rocky, making it a superb snorkelling spot. You might even be lucky enough to spot brightly coloured, pucker-lipped wrasse fish, camouflaging cuttlefish or striking sugar starfishes in its waters.

Meanwhile, there’s nearby Praia do Castelo, named after the 16th-century watchtower that once stood on its craggy, caramel-coloured shores and protected the area from pirate attacks. Keen to take adventure further? Pine and mastic tree-skirted Manuel Lourenco beach is known for its curious rock formations and incredible diving – and is just a 15-minute walk away.

Top tip: Use the Whatever/Whenever service to organise a private yacht rental.

Dreamy design

For a clifftop hotel overlooking the glittering Atlantic, it makes sense that its design is inspired by the Algarve’s beach and surf culture. Jet-setters step through a dramatic entrance resembling a wave before taking in other nods to the ocean inside: aquamarine and sand colour schemes throughout, large sardine pillows flopped over beds in sunset-facing rooms and suites, spacious balconies that shimmer like the scales on a fish – and views everywhere of tranquil turquoise waters. For a real treat, book into one of the WOW or Penthouse suites with rooftop terraces and private plunge pools.

In the whimsical W Lounge, Portuguese coffee and petiscos (small, savoury dishes similar to Spanish tapas) are served amid semi-circular structures of mirrors and rainbow glass, emulating the Algarve’s beach caves. Sunshine even pours in through a hole in the ceiling like the opening of a cavern. Your morning cup of espresso will never be the same again.

Top tip: Use the Whatever/Whenever service to make your stay extra welcoming with special room décor.

Pulsating parties

Regular sunset soirées on the hotel’s rooftop, themed dinner parties and, most famously, superior DJ events – W Algarve is the prodigy of party throwing. British singer-songwriter Rita Ora has performed for visitors in the Fountain Garden, while award-winning Berlin DJ Emanuel Satie has spun his decks here.

Other notable performers have included American DJ duo and house music masters Bedouin, London-based Afro-groove fusion band Angata and Italian chef-turned EDM DJ and artist manager Manfredi Romano, better known as DJ Tennis. This summer promises just as much excitement for electronic music lovers, with bashes and artists soon to be announced. For a more local, laidback vibe, charming Albufeira (just five 5km away) is no stranger to blissed-out beats, including DJ sets at Lick Bar in the marina and Johnny’s Bar, playing everything from pop to blues, in the old town.

Top tip: Use the Whatever/Whenever service to secure tickets to a must-experience event.

Wanderlust-fuelled workouts and a swoon-worthy spa

If you’re all about routine (but still want a bit of pizzaz), W Algarve’s FIT centre offers everything from circuit sessions to cliff walks and sunset yoga, plus a 24/7 gym for those who prefer to sweat solo. The 18-hole Salgados Golf Club – which doubles as a bird sanctuary – is also a five-minute drive. The best part? You can soothe sore muscles at the hotel spa, which includes a sensorial shower and, for the ultra-brave, a cold plunge tub (try focusing on the beautiful Portuguese tiles and not the 12°C temperature). Indulgent spa treatments feature the detoxifying full-body AHA (alpha-hydroxy acids) peel and wrap, while the beauty bar is mani-pedi magic.

Afterwards, chill out in the tented outdoor lounge in the peaceful presence of manicured gardens, or head to the mega Wet Deck, spanning two storeys, to cosy up on poolside cabanas with a creative cocktail – the Jasmine Breeze is radically refreshing.

Top tip: Use the Whatever/Whenever service to arrange a personalised spa treatment.

Michelin-steered dining

The great news? There are six seriously impressive restaurants and bars to choose from. The glorious news? All are led by the one and only chef Andrea Ciuccio, previously of Michelin-starred Alkimia. With a gastronomic genius born in Naples, it’s only fitting that the hotel’s culinary highlight is plush Paper Moon, serving homemade pastas, woodfired pizzas and seafood delights (the pan-seared turbot with purple potato purée, artichokes and a rosemary reduction is game-changing).

Those looking for a lighter meal can head next door to Vino, which offers high-end charcuterie, cheese and exquisite tapas accompanied by a vast selection of curated wines. Craving authentic Algarvian fare or celebrated comfort food? All-day Market Kitchen brings fresh and seasonal local favourites and hearty hits such as truffled mac and cheese. For the foodie finale, there’s no buzzier (or more beautiful) spot than AIR. From its bohemian cliffside deck, enjoy glasses of fizz, Mediterranean bites and views over the orange-splashed Atlantic.

Top tip: Use the Whatever/Whenever service to book a last-minute dinner reservation,

Book your holiday

All holidays with British Airways Holidays are ATOL protected and include a generous checked baggage allowance and a 24-hour holiday helpline. Secure your W Algarve holiday now with a low deposit and enjoy flexible payments until you fly.*

*Full balance due four weeks before departure. Subject to availability. T&Cs apply. See ba.com/deposits.