Nestled in the ancient Moorish town of Tavira, Vila Gale Tavira is steeped in history and inspired by Portugal’s cultural exchange with north Africa. Discover this fascinating past with a walk to the nearby castle, a 12th-century Moorish fortress, and the church of Santa Maria do Castelo, formerly a mosque.
Elegant, terracotta-tiled rooms are havens of relaxation, with free Wi-Fi, cable TV and a private balcony. Outside is an expansive resort with plenty of options: gardens, an outdoor pool, a health club and games room. Let your tension dissolve away in the Jacuzzi or Turkish bath before having a massage, body scrub, wax or facial. While you’re being pampered, little ones can have fun at the Nep Club for kids.
There’s plenty to do on a day out, too: take the ferry from town to the wide, golden sands of Tavira Island Beach, an idyllic sandbar that stretches for 7 miles. Or tee off at Benamor Golf, an 18-hole course just 10 minutes from the hotel, which boasts mountain and sea views.