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What’s new in the Algarve’s Travel and Touri...

What’s new in the Algarve’s Travel and Tourism scene


By: Spa Viceroy, Ombria Resort

Discover a variety of exciting accommodation options in the Algarve as the region’s hotels and resorts win prestigious World Tourism Awards and more and more companies open direct routes connecting the south of Portugal with the rest of the world this year.

Viceroy at Ombria coming soon 

Scheduled to open in the autumn, Viceroy at Ombria Algarve will feature six restaurants, five swimming pools, a spa, fitness centre and a luxury resort with 76 rooms and 65 residences.

Just 25 minutes from Faro International Airport, between Tôr and Querença, the development is set on a hilltop surrounded by breathtaking scenery. It presents itself as a natural sanctuary, perfect for those in search of serenity.

The Ombria golf course, designed by Jorge Santana da Silva, with 18 holes, Par 71 and the most prestigious ecological certifications, is operating under soft opening. 

Headed to Helsinki 

Finnair has announced its return to Faro Airport, starting in October with two direct flights from Finland’s capital, Helsinki.

The Finnish airline, which celebrated its 100th anniversary in 2023, joins a growing number of companies creating new direct connections between the south of Portugal and the world.

“In recent times, curiosity about the Algarve has continued to grow by leaps and bounds and this significant number of new routes shows that good promotional work is being done and proves the full potential of our destination,” says André Gomes, president of Turismo do Algarve. 

Arvad to open wine hotel 

The beautiful riverside Arvad wine estate in Silves has joined forces with the Memmo Hotel Group to build a luxurious five-star hotel.

Set to open in May 2026 on the banks of the Arade River, the Memmo Arade Hotel will be a peaceful retreat set among vineyards, where wine will play a significant role.

Taking inspiration from the winery’s design, which effortlessly blends into its surroundings with its terracotta colour scheme, the wine hotel will feature 42 rooms, including two suites, a “farm to table” concept restaurant, a wellness centre, a small gym and boat and canoe tours of the river. 

Precious water 

A creative strategy has been announced by Algarve tourism authorities to raise awareness among arriving tourists about the importance of saving water: transparent suitcases and trolleys filled with water will be placed on the luggage carousel at Faro Airport.

The suitcases and trolleys will be filled with 235 litres of water – the amount that one can save per day during their stay, without affecting their holiday experience.

With climate change and drought taking an increasingly heavier toll on the Algarve and its natural resources, getting everyone involved in the region’s water-saving efforts is viewed as vital. 

©Bruno Filipe Pires / Open Media Group

Algarve wins at Tourism Awards 

The 31st World Travel Awards Europe saw the Algarve win six titles.

The W Algarve hotel, in Albufeira, took home the award for Europe’s Leading Lifestyle Hotel, while Pestana Alvor Praia, in Portimão, was named Europe’s Leading Beach Hotel.

W Algarve

Two resorts in Quinta do Lago were also highlighted, with Conrad Algarve winning the title of Europe’s Leading Lifestyle Resort and Wyndham Grand Algarve named Europe’s Leading Luxury All-Suite Resort.

Finally, Almancil’s Dunas Douradas Beach Club was named Europe’s Leading Resort Villas and, in Lagos, the Cascade Wellness Resort took home the title of Europe’s Leading Sports Resort. 

W Algarve

Summering in Nice 

Dutch low-cost airline Transavia is launching a summer route between Faro and Nice, starting on July 18. With two weekly flights, on Thursdays and Sundays, the new route will operate during the high season in July and August, according to the airline.

“We are very proud to launch a new route to and from Portugal, one of our most valued and strategic markets worldwide. The new route between the two cities that live off the sun and stand out for their stunning beaches is also a celebration of the different cultures and idiosyncrasies that exist throughout the Mediterranean,” said Nicolas Hénin, commercial director of Transavia France. 

Quinta da Capelinha 

Boasting a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere, this rural accommodation unit in Tavira opened its doors in the summer of 2022. It is the ideal place for a romantic getaway, a family trip or an adventure with friends, perfect for a pleasant stay and creating unique memories. Offering a unique rural experience where you can enjoy the calm of the Algarve hills just a few kilometres from the beach, this agro-tourism resort offers everything from residences to duplex suites and rooms, always promoting contact with nature, harmony and serenity. 

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