The 5 star Kimpton Atlântico Algarve is an IHG Hotel located just a short drive from Albufeira in beautiful Portugal. This luxurious new resort is set in stunning landscaped gardens which lead down to a glorious beach, with each one of its 149 rooms and suites offering modern tranquility.
Getting There
Fly into Faro from many of the UK’s many airports (our flight was three hours from Newcastle International Airport), and then it’s a scenic 40 minute drive to The Kimpton Atlântico Algarve. We hired our car from RecordGo and would definitely recommend them.
Hotel Design
Breathtaking interiors, functional sculptures, beautiful contrasting textures and colours which complement each individual space. Designed by Nini Andrade Silva who is one of Portugal’s most highly regarded interior designers and celebrated internationally, her vision has come to life in every corner of the hotel with the lobby making an incredible impact on arrival. Thoughtfully retaining Portugese tradition but elevating contemporary ideas, every time you enter one of the public spaces here you discover something new to marvel at.
Hotel Rooms at The Kimpton Atlântico Algarve
Our premium garden view room offered an open plan design and was located at the back of the hotel so our huge balcony overlooked the incredible greenery and gardens with the sea in the distance.
These rooms don’t include a bath but have a spacious vanity area with large mirrored wall and dressing area as well as a large shower cubicle. Each room draws inspiration from the Mediterranean landscape and almost sub-consciously slows you down with its warm, earthy tones and natural textures against smooth stone finishes and timber accents. Relaxing at the end of the day definitely came easily – especially after exploring all that the Algarve has to offer. Waking up to those views through the floor to ceiling glass windows was definitely mood enhancing for the day ahead! Rooms are have smart TVs so if you visit in winter when we did and fancy a cosy night in, you can watch all the latest movies and series at the touch of a button.
Beach and Pools
The hotel boasts three gorgeous pools surrounded by palm trees and manicured lawns and plants so you really feel like you’re in the heart of the Med. A short walk takes you down to the sparkling ocean and Sao Rafael Beach which is absolutely beautiful and famed for its dramatic cliffs and clear waters beyond golden sands. We visited in November and it was still (just) warm enough to swim in the sea. Lounge areas are well spaced out and luxury cabanas are available to rent.
There’s also an indoor heated pool at Wellness Hub Atlântico offering a tranquil experience in a dimly lit, quiet, relaxing space.
Restaurants
Zénite is a retro rooftop bar with super cool interiors, lounge chairs, indoor plants and bar seating or private tables – the perfect spot to enjoy their tapas menu with a range of light bites to enjoy with a glass of wine or something from their signature cocktail list.
Zénite boasts a huge roof terrace with comfy seating and incredible views over the south coast of Portugal – the perfect spot for al fresco dining in the summer months.
The a la carte restaurant Sombra in the basement offers local and international dishes, while Terra is the statement lobby bar – perfect for all day coffee or pre dinner cocktails.
All day bar and grill Marés has both indoor and outdoor dining options close to the pool – perfect for those hot summer days when you don’t want to move too far from your lounger! We also enjoyed hearty fresh breakfasts here and service was excellent. From warm bread baskets to zingy just-squeezed juices, the buffet elements of the menu are served as the first course, with your hot selection served afterwards with fresh coffee and warm racks of toast.
Wellness
The Wellness Hub at Kimpton Atlântico Algarve adopts the Wellness 360 approach to harmonise and align body, mind and spirit. This sprawling sanctuary of over 1800 m² along with full state-of-the-art gym,is dedicated specifically to regeneration and relaxation with spa treatments like the collagen boosting 24k gold age-defying facial through to full body massages. There’s also a restorative hydrotherapy circuit, sauna and steam room, sunrise yoga and fitness sessions which can be tailored to your individual needs.
Anything else?
While the Kimpton Atlântico Algarve is quite a big hotel, it feels more boutique than resort. For a relaxing break to Portugal, you’ve got everything you need at the hotel with several pools, easy beach access and the choice of restaurants, but should you wish to explore, you can hire bikes from the front desk. The Salgados 18 hole Golf Course is also located near Salgados Beach and the Lagoon Nature Reserve, making it a great place to base yourself if you’re here to visit the club.
Book your stay at Kimpton Atlântico Algarve here, or view our other hotel reviews in Portugal here.