Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
ugly concrete facade, Praia da Rocha has several vestiges from an elegant past, including
some 19th-century mansions, which are now atmospheric guesthouses.
There's also a sleek marina,
Marina de Portimão
, painted autumnal colours (to match the
cliffs) and a
casino
where you can double (or deplete) your savings.
Sleeping
Accommodation is almost impossible to find during the high season if you don't have a
prior reservation.
Albergaria Vila Lido
( 282 241 127;
www.hotelvilalido.com
; Av Tomás Cabreira; d €110-140; )
Near the fort, this hotel
is housed in a converted 19th-century mansion and has a slightly dated Brighton (UK)
guesthouse feel, with great sea views and 10 bright rooms, most of which have terraces.
GUESTHOUSE
€€€
BOUTIQUE HOTEL
€€€
Bela Vista
( 282 460 280;
www.hotelbelavista.com
;
Tomás Cabreira; r €220-300, ste €400-500; Mar-Nov; )
This beautiful spot - a renovated former mansion with two modern wings - adds a touch
of class to Praia da Rocha. Portuguese interior-design team Graça Viterbo has gone to
town here, using a quirky blend of contemporary and antique, all in a blue-and-yellow
colour theme. It's uber-luxurious yet not-so-snobby-you-can't-sneeze, and professional
yet fun.
The restaurant is open to the public and is worth checking out. Prices are significantly
lower outside high season.
Hotel da Rocha
( 282 424 081;
www.hoteldarocha.com
; d from €150; )
This modern spot is bang in the
middle of a busy strip opposite the beach. The rooms are simple, yet sleek and with good
light. All feature kitchenettes.
LUXURY HOTEL
€€€
Eating
The marina has a row of romantic, upmarket dining and drinking spots, some of which
stare across at the beautiful Praia Meia Grande. In summer, grab a sundowner at one of
the beachside eateries.
Restaurante Marisqueira
PORTUGUESE
€€
