Top Pick: Fonte da Estrela
Fonte de Estrela, a tranquil mountain retreat in Faro, Portugal, offers unique accommodations in a thatched Pixie Hut or two self-catering wooden cabins all set amidst lush greenery. The property is walking distance from a flowing river and is an oasis for diverse bird species including owls, golden orioles, and woodpeckers as well as friendly geckos. Fruit trees grace the property, adding charm to the serene landscape. Vehicle hire from Faro offers a 15-minute drive to local beaches and the opportunity to visit some art galleries for free wine and tasty appetizers. Unwinding on the property's terrace with a glass of red wine, viewing the hilly vista, and engaging in art discussions with Toin, the generous host and renowned sculptor is a sublime experience. The property also offers studio facilities for artists and sculptors. Additionally, there's an option to borrow a three-man tent for a Robinson Crusoe-style adventure beside the river.
airbnb.co.uk/rooms/93545, Pixie Hut starting from £35, cabins from £30
Algarve
Quinta dos Carricos camping site, Praia da Salema
Great value place for peace and quiet, space and scenery. We were there at May half-term and had the place almost to ourselves. Staff are extremely helpful and friendly. The in-house restaurant serves great pizzas plus meals, and wine is good value at €1.60 a glass. Superb beaches nearby and the quieter western seaside villages are on hand. Our five-night stay with pitch for one tent, parking, Wi-Fi and showers etc, was only about €100.
+351 282 695 201, quintadoscarricos.com
Camping in Lagos
The old port of Lagos has historic buildings, beaches, surfing, nightlife and superb camping at the spotless Turiscampo (from €18 for two). There's a large pool, children's pool, shaded poolside, small supermarket, bar and good restaurant. There are also chalets to rent if you don't want to fly with a tent (from €43). English is spoken at reception. For a world-class walk head out west atop golden-ochre cliffs. Refuel on tasty authentic chicken piri-piri (€5) at Churrasqueira Praça d'Armas. Visit the hippy market (free, of course) and for €3.80 the Sagres bus will take you to the south-west tip of Europe – once the end of the Roman world where the sun was believed to drop hissing into the sea.
turiscampo.com
Villa Termal das Caldas de Monchique Spa Resort, Monchique
Superb value spa high in the hills, far from the madding crowd. A slightly fantastical collection of buildings set in sunny valley a bit like a mini Port Merrion. We paid €178 for two nights B&B including two treatments for each of us. Large room looked over a beautiful courtyard. Excellent buffet breakfast in 1692 restaurant, and our deal included wine with dinner one night. Double rooms with spa access can be had from €50 a night.
+351 282 910 910, monchiquetermas.com
Ysihoward
Exploring Affordable Lisbon Stays
Experience Lisbon At Residencial Alegria
The year was 2003, and the cost was well below expectation at a mere €39 for a memorable Lisbon stay. Fast forward to the present day, and the rate for two is still a steal, slightly below €60. Although the online images do not do it justice, Residencial Alegria is a hidden gem worth considering in your travel itinerary. An easy 3-minute promenade from the Avenida metro station situated on the iconic Avenida da Liberdade places you at the heart of Lisbon's cosmopolitan hub, Rossio. Savour authentic Portuguese cuisine at four diverse restaurants all within the neighborhood, all tried, tested and acclaimed over a one week period.
Dial in at +351 213 475 522, explore more at alegrianet.com. Find attractively priced doubles starting from €43 excluding meals
Recommendation by Benni
Unearth a Gem in Baleal: Paradise Hostel
Seeking solace from the crowded array of surf hostels? Paradise Hostel, Baleal is your answer. This tranquil sanctuary lies off the beaten track, flaunting a laid-back and welcoming atmosphere. Equipped with top-notch facilities, the hostel concocts the beautiful blend of comfort and charm. The sprawling common room, furnished with a pool table, is ideal for socializing, while the volleyball courts call for some fun action post surfing. The cherry on top? It's the perfect avenue to witness the breathtaking spectacle of the sunset. Another bonus included in this little slice of paradise is that they offer complimentary pick-ups from Peniche bus station.
To book your stay, call at +351 960 207 149, or visit paradise-baleal.com. Unbelievable starting price at just €15 per night!
Story shared by Victoria Tangle
Experience Portugal in Alentejo
Discover the Quaint Charm at Monte Alerta B&B in Monsaraz
Take a 2-hour journey westwards from Lisbon and you will find yourself in Alentejo, a region where history and nature seamlessly blend. At the heart of this region lies the hilltop town of Monsaraz, overlooking the serene Alqueva dam, is our family-owned inn, Monte Alerta B&B. Nestled amongst this picturesque landscape, our B&B is a quaint white-stoned villa, complete with a vibrant garden and a refreshing swimming pool - an ideal retreat during summer, and a warm haven in winter with our cozy real fireplace. Monte Alerta is your perfect starting point for exploring the untouched beauty of Alentejo. This part of Portugal is best known for its tranquil grandeur, enveloped in rolling hills and cork trees, mirroring nature's artwork, unscathed by time. A short, 30-minute ride will take you to towns brimming with history - Évora, Elvas, and Estremoz. Witness breathtaking sunsets while joyfully sipping your refreshing drink in our garden (BYO).
+351 966 768 307, montealerta.pt. A budget-friendly vacation with Double rooms available at €85 B&B (don't miss our seasonal offers online)
Discover Porto
An Affortable Stay at Hotel Davilina in Vila Nova de Gaia
In the sun-drenched paradise of Vila Nova de Gaia, a charming sanctuary awaits faithfully — the Hotel Davilina. Strategically located near sparkling beaches and bustling beach cafes, this hotel provides an affordable, yet delightful retreat, especially for families with spirited kids. Vila Nova de Gaia, a hidden gem nestled across the river Douro from Porto, is an excellent base for a budget-friendly seaside getaway. Our family room at the heartwarming Hotel Davilina was a stone's throw from a convenient tram stop that served routes to either Porto city or the mesmerizing white sand beaches. One worthwhile stopover is at Miramar, where Capela do Senhor da Pedra, a resplendent church seemingly arising from the sea, welcomes you. Break for a lovely beachside lunch at a local cafe before you take a scenic and leisurely walk along the vibrant boardwalk to the nearby village. When you're done exploring the beautiful outdoors, head back to the city for a taste of Portugal's famous pastel de nata pastry and your choice of Portuguese beverage at one of the cozy local cafes and bars.
Call +351 223 757 521 or visit hoteldavilina.com to book your stay. Room rates start at €30 for twins and doubles, and family suites at €40, room only.
Courtesy of Jon Maher
