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New Hilton project to boost luxury hotel segment
Updated: 03-Aug-2012

Water features are complemented by delightfully planted garden areas Photo: MARK RAWCLIFFE / ALGARVE RESIDENT

The Algarve Resident visits the Conrad Algarve before its official opening

By SHEENA RAWCLIFFE news@algarveresident.com

The imposing gates open and before you is one of the most stunning avenues you will see in the Algarve, leading you to the beautifully designed entrance of the Conrad Algarve. Here the concierge will ensure the safe parking of your vehicle.

From the moment you step into the beautiful foyer – a large but welcoming, open space – you understand why this luxury hotel has been chosen to host the World Travel Awards Europe in October.

Due to welcome its first guests in September, the Conrad Algarve offers 154 luxuriously appointed suites – the smallest being an impressive 38 square metres and the most exclusive two suites offering spacious living, being 101 and 300 square metres in size.

The Spa and Health Centre photo credit Photo: MARK RAWCLIFFE / ALGARVE RESIDENT

Interior design themes run throughout the hotel. There are a lot of orchids and one of the special features in the design is the use of the Tuberaria. There is a planting of Tuberaria in the grounds of the hotel. This delicate plant is classified as critically endangered and the Algarve is the only area of Portugal where it is found.

But size is not everything and certainly the mantra for the Algarve’s latest luxury tourism offering is the luxury of being yourself.

Joachim Hartl, Hotel Manager of the Conrad Algarve, told the Algarve Resident: “The key to the best experience for guests visiting the Conrad Algarve is ensuring we offer them the things that are special to them as individuals”.

Everything from choices in the suites’ minibars to the spa treatments available will be tailored to the guests’ favourite choices or the things that they want to try out.

The Conrad is exceptionally well situated, close to the Quinta do Lago roundabout, and once you have entered the stylish peace and tranquillity and drink in the beautiful vistas, you know why it was always planned that the Conrad would be a destination and not just a luxury hotel.

It became very obvious from talking with Joachim Hartl and some of his management team that it is as important to them to appeal to the residents of the Algarve as it is to the visitor to the Algarve.

The Spa and Health Centre are sure to be one of the early attractions for non-residential visitors to the hotel.

The décor in the suites is stunning Photo: MARK RAWCLIFFE / ALGARVE RESIDENT

The centre covers 1800 square metres and you can expect dedicated professional and, above all, caring treatments; from various style of massage to manicures and pedicures to all the holistic therapies – treatment for your sensations and your better well-being.

The gym is equipped with the finest machines, all with the latest technology – you can even take along your own pen-stick and download your choice of viewing. Or for those who are dedicated to getting fitter and staying fitter, you can book sessions with the Conrad’s personal trainer.

The accommodations, guest relaxation spaces, meeting and conference facilities and restaurants would not be complete without the best outdoor design and planning. “This is the Algarve,” said Joaquim “and we all like to spend as much time as possible outside.”

Joachim Hartl, Hotel Manager of the Conrad Algarve Photo: MARK RAWCLIFFE / ALGARVE RESIDENT

The infinity pool is so inviting on a hot summer day and the other carefully positioned water features are complemented by the delightfully planted garden areas, designed by Jardim Vista of the Algarve.

The space on this page does not allow for a truly comprehensive review of this stunning hotel.

Whilst luxury and technology abound, I came away with a feeling of belonging, of having been welcomed with wall to wall smiles, enthusiasm and professionalism – and I know that I will be returning. And so should you.