With February approaching and travel restrictions easing, get inspired with these sunny half term breaks. These Portuguese properties are perfect for families, offering a timely escape from the winter blues: activities include water sports, active adventures, stunning farm stays and immersion in beautiful landscapes.
ÉVORA FARM HOTEL & SPA, ALENTEJO
Situated in the serene Alentejo region of southern Portugal, Évora Farm Hotel & Spa opened in August 2021 and offers a calming escape for those seeking a rural getaway. The 11-hectare property houses two magnificent outdoor swimming pools and spa with an indoor pool. It is also home to an orchard, petting farm and an organic vegetable garden. Experiences at the hotel include stargazing, hot air balloon rides, nature walks, food and wine tastings and breakfast on the hotel’s meadows at dawn. For culture vultures, the ancient city of Evora boasts Roman temples, painted houses, picturesque squares – in fact, here is so much history that the entire city has been rated as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
From €130 per night, room only.
AZOR HOTEL, SAO MIGUEL ISLAND (AZORES)
With panoramic views across the island’s main city and ocean, Azor Hotel is placed at the centre of the action and perfect for those looking to soak up the bounties of the Azores including whale and dolphin watching, lagoon tours, walking trails, canyoning and diving. These experiences will promise lasting memories for families. The hotel is home to a rooftop pool looking across the harbour, spa, gym and À Terra restaurant.
From €150 per night, room only.
FURNAS BOUTIQUE HOTEL, AZORES
Furnas Boutique Hotel is nestled in the landscape of the Azores, built on the rich terrain marked by the volcanic eruption of 1630. With only 1,439 inhabitants, and distinguishable by its vibrant landscape and for having one of the largest concentrations of thermal waters in Europe, parents can enjoy some R&R in the hotel spa and thermal pools whilst kids explore the beautiful landscapes. Activities include canyoning, canoeing, mountain biking, fishing and surfing, meaning there is something for everyone.
From €155 per night, room only.
PALACIO DA LOUSA
Formerly Viscondessa do Espinhal Palace, Palácio da Lousã was transformed into the country’s first boutique hotel and is classified as a Historical Heritage Building of Public Interest. Located in the heart of the city centre, the hotel is in easy reach of the Serra da Lousa; an unmissable destination for nature lovers. boasting rivers, waterfalls, deer and wild boar, this mountain range is also the perfect location for activities such as picnics, hiking, cycling and climbing
From €100 per night, room only.
Hettie is the editor and co-founder of DOSE. A keen runner, she’s also partial to a blast of high-intensity and hot yoga. A country girl at heart, she divides her time between London and the lush rolling hills of North Devon. When she’s not jetting off on her next adventure, Hettie can be found in a candle-lit alcove with a laptop, a spaniel and a full bodied Malbec.
