A new chapter begins with a refreshed identity, luxury residences, wellness experiences, and gourmet offerings
– April 17, 2025
The iconic Vilalara Grand Hotel Algarve has reopened with a renewed identity and a focus on authenticity, hospitality, and well-being.
Now under the management of the Spanish group Azora, which specialises in hotel investment and management, the hotel invites guests to experience a fresh take on luxury in the Algarve. The reopening took place on April 2, unveiling a reimagined concept whilst preserving the essence that has defined Vilalara since its founding in the late 1960s by British investor George Ansley.
According to a statement from the brand, the hotel’s transformation strengthens its core pillars: authenticity, unique hospitality, and transformative wellness experiences. Reimagined suites redesigned common areas, and updated wellness spaces reflect Vilalara’s evolution as one of the leading luxury destinations in southern Europe.
The renovation, led by award-winning Spanish design studio Quintana Partners, blends contemporary aesthetics with natural and traditional elements, creating an atmosphere of serenity and comfort. As part of the project, the hotel maintained its original architecture, now carefully integrated into a setting where nature and design coexist harmoniously.
With 131 accommodation units, including 111 suites and 20 residences, the hotel also features five restaurants, three outdoor swimming pools, an indoor heated pool, a wellness spa, a gym, four tennis and padel courts, and a Kids Club.
A new highlight are the Residences – luxury apartments featuring two or three bedrooms, a fully equipped kitchen, and spacious living areas. The interiors are a celebration of Portuguese craftsmanship, blending rustic and contemporary styles with custom furniture, clay floors, upcycled décor, and handmade Zellige tiles.
Well-being now takes centre stage at Vilalara, with the launch of the Wellness Signature Program. Guests can choose from three- to seven-day packages, five themed wellness courses, specialised therapies, and wellness suites, all designed to provide a transformative escape.
Vilalara has also enhanced its gastronomic offering. The newly opened Vento is a health-focused restaurant where architecture and nature merge to create a peaceful dining atmosphere with freshly made dishes. Meanwhile, the iconic Coral restaurant has been renovated to continue offering fine dining with a sea view, celebrating the richness of the sea and the elegance of Portuguese culinary tradition.
To mark its reopening, Vilalara is hosting a series of exclusive Easter Week events, blending gastronomy, wellness, and family-friendly activities.
On Friday, (April 18), the Coral restaurant presents a special seafood-inspired menu featuring dishes like Azorean squid with macerated tomatoes and almonds, scallops in garlic sauce with purple muscat vinegar, and lily with Aljezur sweet potato and orange. The menu is priced at €87 per person, with reservations required.
On Saturday, guests can enjoy a cacao ceremony at 7pm, followed by a spiritual music concert at 8pm, in an intimate and meditative setting. (Exclusive to hotel guests.)
And on Sunday, the Easter program concludes with a traditional Sunday lunch, open to the public, featuring slow-roasted lamb cooked in a wood oven. €138 per person.
Families can also take part in a ceramics workshop led by Portuguese artist Pedro Piedade, where participants can create and customise their own clay pieces.
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