There may be a new Martinhal, which opened a few summers ago at Quinta do Lago, but the original property still feels like a blast of fresh air in the Algarve. It’s strung out on its own, on a relatively unspoiled and windswept tip of the western coast. There are empty dunes to run down, beaches with thick sand and little fish shacks, and milky waves for surfing. In the two-bedroomed villas, which are connected to the hotel, the design is clear cut, with muted natural tones. There are stair-gates, cots, and plastic plates should you need them, a TV for afternoon quiet time, a mini kitchen to cook in (buy supplies at the on-site supermarket), huge bean bags to flop out on, and sun-trap balconies. There are also handy washing machines, towels aplenty and you can order in takeaway suppers. But the restaurants here are right on point, each one with a designated children’s area jam-packed with coloring books and games, all overseen by a smiling member of staff who will remember your child’s name. This means that little ones can occupy themselves not just before the food arrives, but also afterwards, so parents can actually linger over lunch (the freshest squid, pumpkin risotto with sage, juicy lamb chops). Plus, there’s an excellent juice bar: try the yogurt, vanilla, and fresh ginger smoothie. Days fly by. Bucket-and-spade time; pool time—there are five different ones, star of the show comes with giant floats and slides; kids’ club time (sign up in advance as activities such as T-shirt printing get fully booked); and before you know it, bed time. It’s all very good fun. Yes, there’s a spa, and yes, the views are lovely, but mostly this holiday is about your children. They’ll be on a high from beginning to end.
This article was originally published on Condé Nast Traveller UK.
