STRETCHING from its border with Spain in the east to the westernmost tip of Portugal, the Algarve coast remains a favourite among Britons. The climate averages nine-15C in winter, 20-28C in summer, and with golfers arriving before (and after) the heat, the season runs from March to November.
Prices quoted are per person for seven nights' BB in September (two sharing, flights and transfers).
QUINTA DO LAGO
Which brochures: Caravela, Cresta, Extra Holidays, ITC Classics, Magic of Portugal, Mundi Color, Prestige Holidays, Thomson From: 1,285 with Extra Holidays Best for: young couples QUINTA do Lago takes its name from the lagoon and nature reserve separating it from the beach, a 10-minute walk through the sand dunes.
Owned/managed by Orient Express Hotels, the low-rise blancmange building is the smallest of the fivestar resorts, with 121 rooms including 20 suites.
Popular with slim, rich Americans, it has two restaurants including a formal Venetian one.
Rooms are golf side or lagoon side; top-floor rooms have sea views. Free shuttles serve four golf courses. No concessions for children, hence largely family-free - attractive for those relaxing round the extremely peaceful pool or drinking Martinis in the Laguna Bar for the best sunset in Portugal. The hotel closes for renovation in December to add spa treatment rooms.
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