When I heard the news that the Viceroy Hotel Group were opening their first resort in Europe, I could not wait to take a peek. Inland Algarve, only 25-minutes from beaches, this resort is set to be the flagship of the group.
Viceroy Ombria Algarve opened in October 2024- I was amongst the first guests to experience it, and it did not disappoint. The design spec was inspired by traditional Portuese villages with the focal point being the central praça (square.) The resort oozes authenticity with its cobblestone paths, traditional blue tiles, rich textiles with unique patterns and has signature high-end luxury at every touchpoint that Viceroy guests come to expect. It has a real feel of understated elegance and practicality. I returned again at the start of their first summer, and with all the finishing touches in place, this is a special resort.
There are several flights a day to Faro from all UK airports. The drive is around 30-minutes to the resort. En route, I saw acres of lush, green, winding hills with a beautiful village perched above- this is Viceroy Ombria Algarve. You would never know that this was a resort- it simply looks like a village that has always been there.
Form the minute you arrive, guests are wowed. There is a sense of tranquillity, the warmest of welcomes, endless luxury with the essence of Portugal ever present and having seen many other luxury resorts in the Algarve, this one tops them all.
Not only is the accommodation luxurious in every little detail; from soaking tubs and the most divine smelling Portuguese toiletries to premium linens, fluffy robes and towels and thoughtful turndown amenities but the views are spectacular. I could see the picturesque valley from my floor-to-ceiling windows and the golf course from my balcony.
Although I am not a golfer, I can see why the resorts very own course recently won the Best New Golf Course at the prestigious World Golf Awards. This 18-hole, Par 71 golf course is surrounded by stunning Algarve landscape.
What I did enjoy, was the many cultural experiences that the resort offers. Guests can use one of the resort bikes to cycle or instead hike to the secluded forest and tucked away villages- the hotel can organise opulent picnics including local meats, cheeses, and wines. A local guide took us to Loulé to walk through the market; we discovered galleries and workshops and browsed the boutiques. Other experiences on offer include a honey harvesting workshop where guests join local honey producers for a guided hive-to-table beekeeping experience. Pottery making and traditional weaving workshops led by experienced local artisans are also available at our own on-site studio.
The Spa is a sanctuary spread over three floors. With several intimate treatment rooms, all with their own outdoor relaxation alcove, a thermal water therapy area including a heated indoor pool for year-round relaxation and tranquil outdoor pool. Here is also a hammam, Finnish Sauna and herbal steam room as well as a Vichy shower, sensory and bucket showers.
Not forgetting the importance of the culinary experience, there are four restaurants. My favourite being Ombria Kitchen which serves local and seasonal specialties made to be shared. My highlight was learning about the region’s wines at Bellvino wine bar, and the chance to mix our own wine with the guidance of the sommelier and it even being served to us at dinner that evening.
Lastly, if the thought of not dipping your toes in the ocean is a concern, fear not… The resort offers a complimentary transfer to the nearby Praia do Ancão where the hotel team can reserve sun loungers on the long stretch of sandy beach. There is a fantastic restaurant The Bold Octopus with rooftop bar, live music, and DJ’s if you want to enjoy a beach day and a cool beach club.
I struck gold staying here, I soaked up rustic charm, slowed down, connected with nature, and experienced Portugal in its purest form.
– By Kerrie Bartholomew
