SINCE its inception in 1998, the W brand has done a phenomenal job of carving out its own unique niche in the highly competitive luxury hotel market. The W tagline is “redefining revelry for the modern jet set” and it has certainly achieved this with aplomb. W hotels are undeniably fresh and hip without being ostentatious.
W Residences wet deck
The brand has an immediately recognisable feel across all of their global destinations and yet each hotel is designed and furnished with locally inspired shapes and styles. In W Algarve there are sweeping arches and curving lines, echoing the nearby ocean waves, cosy nooks in which to relax – reminiscent of underwater caves, and the entrance is dominated by a stunning, undulating latticed canopy designed to mimic fish scales in homage to the coast’s traditional fishing villages.
Bold Portuguese ceramic plates adorn the walls and iridescent glassworks give a modern take on the traditional azulejos (mosaics of tiny, colourful tiles introduced to southern Europe by the Moors). In short, the property is a masterclass in fusing traditional techniques, local artisans and impeccable contemporary taste.
Lobby
The hotel is divided into two separate buildings, one housing the main hotel and restaurants, the other housing the W residences. The residences themselves are designed to be the ultimate home away from home, available to rent by the night like a standard hotel room or purchased for the ultimate in hotel living.
Bedrooms are separated by a cavernous living space ensuring everyone can have their own quiet time, and full kitchens and laundry facilities come as standard. Guests of the residences have full access to the hotel amenities such as room service, restaurants, pools and the best buffet breakfast in the Algarve. But they have the additional benefit of a residents-only pool area and complimentary underground parking.
Residence lounge
Just a five-minute walk from the residences is the hotel’s very own picturesque private beach and clifftop bar, AIR, which regularly hosts parties with top international DJs and boasts the best sunset view in the region. Also on site is Paper Moon, the only outpost in Portugal of this iconic Italian restaurant, a favourite of the fashion crowd in its home town of Milan.
Other gastronomic offerings include the W lounge that serves tapas in a relaxed atmosphere inspired by Portuguese coffee culture, Market Kitchen which offers vibrant southern Portuguese cuisine with an international flair, and Sip @ Wet which serves health-focused dishes by day and cocktails by night.
Children are very much welcomed at W and the Whatever/Whenever concierge team endeavour to meet your every need, literally whatever you want, whenever you need it. So, if you are looking for a flawless stay, W Algarve ticks all the boxes.
by Nicola Kavanagh
Residences available from 305€ per night Marriott.com