Âmago

Style

Right as rein

Setting

A foray from Faro

Escape into nature and slow the tempo at Âmago, a rustic, six-bedroom retreat in Arcadian Algarve countryside. At first glance this is the quaintest of quintas, but look behind the blooming botanics that line each room’s private entryway, and you’ll spot etchings of the building’s equestrian past, vintage furnishings and artisanal touches. And interiors aren’t all owners Liz and Alex are skilled in – their enviable local tips will have you exploring Portugal’s quieter side in no time.

Facilities

Rooms

Six, including one suite.

Checkout

Noon, and check-in is at 3pm. Both are flexible, on request and subject to availability.

More Details

Rates include a buffet breakfast.

Also

Unfortunately, there aren’t any accessible rooms here and the hotel’s uneven terrain makes it challenging for wheelchair users.

Free Internet Access

Pool

At the Hotel

Rooftop terrace, private garden with fountains, and free WiFi throughout. In rooms: air-conditioning, mini fridge, refillable water bottle, beach towels, hairdryer and organic bath products.

Our Favourite Rooms

Each of the rooms has a similar contemporary style, with impressive vaulted ceilings and handcrafted furnishings. But it's Room Six that takes our fancy, courtesy of its private terrace and picture-pretty garden views. If you’re looking to stay a while longer, bag Room Four, decked out with a fully equipped kitchen, living area and garden.

Poolside

The lulling saltwater pool, bordered with plush sunloungers, sits peacefully among the hotel’s luscious fruit trees and blooming bushes.

Spa

There’s no spa, but if you’re in need of some de-knotting, a masseur can be called in to set up shop in your room, and knead residual tensions away.

Packing Tips

A copy of the Field Guide to the Wild Flowers of the Algarve to help spot the native flora that colour Âmago’s gardens.

Also

The hotel hosts local creatives with a two-week artist-in-residence programme to help inspire and showcase up-and-coming talent.

Children

Under-ones are welcome in Room Four, which has space for a cot and highchair; otherwise, this stay is for over-13s only.

Gallery

Food & Drink

Top Table

Take tipples to the rooftop terrace for scene-stealing aperitifs.

Dress Code

Keep things bohemian to blend with Âmago’s visiting beatniks.

Hotel Restaurant

There’s no restaurant here, but every morning a homemade spread of pastries, fresh fruit, yoghurt and cereals, will be set up in the living room (and alfresco, in warmer weather).

Hotel Bar

There’s a small honesty bar in the living room, that’s stocked with locally made wines and craft beers for your taking.

Last Orders

Breakfast is plated between 8am and 10am.

Planes

Most hubs have direct flights to Faro’s international airport, which is a 20-minute drive from the hotel. Private transfers can be arranged for €35 each way; otherwise, there’ll be plenty of taxis waiting at arrivals.

Trains

Faro’s central train station is 15 minutes away by car, and has links to some of Portugal’s popular cities, including Porto, Braga and Coimbra. There’s also a smaller station in Loulé, which is an equal distance from the hotel and has routes around the Algarve. Private transfers from both stations can be arranged from €30 each way.

Automobiles

If you’re planning on venturing outside Âmago’s doors, a car will come in handy. There’s private parking onsite that you’re welcome to use for free, just let staff know you’re coming so they can give you the code.

Worth Getting Out of Bed For

Âmago’s setting, just north of Faro, puts you within a short driving distance of the Algarve’s prettiest southern spots. The capital’s Old Town, marina and sun-drenched beaches (popular for surfing and paddleboarding) never fail; but for something quieter, venture northwest to the small town of Loulé, which charms with traditional markets and Moorish architecture. Centuries-standing fishing village Olhão – to the southeast – has a harbour with frequent boat trips out to the Parque Natural da Ria Formosa’s islands of Armona, Culatra and Farol. Family-owned boutiques and a towering 15th-century church characterise Santa Bárbara de Nexe, the hotel’s closest town, and hikers can take to the walking trails that wrap around the nearby São Brás de Alportel mountains.

Earn or Redeem Points with World of Hyatt

This Mr & Mrs Smith hotel participates in the World of Hyatt loyalty program. As a member, you can earn and redeem points and enjoy exclusive benefits for qualifying nights. .