A landmark in the Algarve for over 30 years, Tivoli Marina Vilamoura made key improvements to its 300-plus rooms, recreational facilities and F&B areas
When Minor Hotels acquired the Tivoli chain six years ago, the group began to outline its strategy for the hotel located in the Vilamoura Marina, which involved developing the brand as well as new projects, whilst always being “ahead of its time”. So states Hugo Gonçalves, the hotel’s general manager since 2018.
The first novelty came in 2018 with the Algarve Congress Centre, a venue with a capacity of 3,000 people, created to “combat the region’s seasonality, hosting international events and investing in culture”, says the manager.
Hugo Gonçalves
That same year, Tivoli Marina Vilamoura began implementing changes in order to attract non-guests and local residents to enjoy the hotel’s amenities. Thus, the Purobeach pool and beach bars were created.
The Argo Bar
The year 2019 saw the resort launch a new kitchen area covering more than 2,000 square metres to cater to the needs of all gastronomic spaces within the hotel. Even during the two years of the pandemic, a period marked by restrictions and impositions, the resort continued to invest in new ventures. In 2020, it opened the Glee Boutique Café on the resort’s lobby, which serves homemade pastries under the helm of pastry chef Patrick Mestre.
On the wellness front, the hotel presented two new concepts: Tivoli Spa and Tivoli Shape, “designed to meet the needs of guests and clients, including boat owners berthed at the marina who don’t have access to a gym. These are new spaces for those who like to take care of their body and mind”, explains Hugo Gonçalves.
However, the biggest changes at Tivoli Marina Vilamoura were only revealed this February. “The resort is turning 36 years old and it needed a major renovation, so we started moving in that direction and began by elevating the gastronomy game,” explains the general manager. The area previously used for breakfasts, named Chilli, has been transformed into the Voyage restaurant. “The space now seats 600 people, and we can serve buffet breakfasts, lunches and themed dinners, offering gastronomic experiences across different types of international cuisines, as well as event menus as these can be adapted to the client. The restaurant is open 365 days a year, features an outdoor terrace near the pool, and is also available for non-guests,” he says.
The Argo Bar
The Argo Cocktail Bar offers a cocktail experience by one of the best bartenders in the world, Nelson Matos, and features a drinks menu inspired by a sailing chart. “We wanted to create a journey of flavours in an exquisite and precious space with a truly unique atmosphere – sitting on the terrace overlooking the Marina whilst enjoying gentle Jazz and Bossa Nova music. We want this space to become an international reference,” says Hugo Gonçalves.
Lobby Lounge
Finally, the hotel’s recreational areas and the 383 rooms also underwent renovations. The swimming pool now has a maximum depth of 1.40m, a decision based on sustainability, and the entire garden area now features a more efficient irrigation system. New palm trees were also planted for natural shade and private areas totalling up to 500 sun loungers were created. The new D’Azur Pool Bar also serves delicious meals to pool guests who can unwind and take in the sea view.
Hugo Gonçalves did not want to reveal plans for the future, but he did mention that changes can be expected at the Lake Side, and even a new gastronomic space focusing on the circular economy.
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