Villa Joya Hotel

Vila Joya, Apartado 7017 BEC Vale Paraiso 8200-416 Albufeira

Right on the beach, five kilometres west of Albufeira, this luxurious hideaway feels like a true refuge from the world. Guests come back year after year, and it’s easy to see why. Featuring Portugal’s only two- Michelin-starred restaurant, it is a once-in-a-lifetime kind of experience. Austrian chef Dieter Koschina wows guests each night with his exquisite sixcourse tasting menu, featuring fabulous creations such as turbot in a beurre noisette with imperial caviar, and saddle of venison with ceps and parsley späzle. Accommodation is in 20 individually designed rooms and suites, all of which face the ocean. There’s an Asian-inspired spa, an outdoor heated pool, and in the main house a cosy living area with huge sofas and an open fire. Bougainvillea, jasmine and morning glory adorn the Moorish-inspired villas, and breakfast and lunch are served out on the patio looking towards the sea. In short, there really is no need to leave. Doubles from £254.