Spring 2019

17 Fazenda Nova Country House is a luxurious fifteen suite boutique hideaway in the heart of the Eastern Algarve countryside near Tavira. In late February, the house was recognised in the LUXlife’s 2019 Global Luxury Hotel & Spa Awards as the ‘Best Luxury Boutique Hotel’ in Portugal. We endeavoured to take a closer look at this truly picturesque establishment to find out more. The Eastern Algarve has always been a well-kept secret compared its popular southern counterpart. Fazenda Nova Country House is located right in the heart of the Eastern Algarve, close to the town of Tavira, with its classical Moorish architecture and peerless coastline. Originally a Portuguese country house, the Fazenda Nova was renovated and rejuvenated, combining contemporary features, with an undeniably traditional architectural finish. Formerly a family home and farm, Fazenda Nova retains much of its rustic charm, nestled as it is on ten hectares of land, guaranteeing privacy. In the spring and summer, this land becomes a veritable paradise as lush greenery flourishes, and wild flowers grow among the plethora of almond, carob and olive trees. The entire house embraces a relaxed and enchanting atmosphere. It is also truly romantic, without ever trying to be. The cleverly-designed gardens surround the house and annexes in their entirety. noted local The gardens encourage exploration: a series of paths lead guests to undiscovered, wild areas that offer plenty of space to reflect, relax and study the area’s plethora of wildlife. Above all else, Fazenda Nova promotes leisure, epitomising the ‘slow lifestyle’ concept Feb19417 that has come to define the Algarve. Here, guests should take a step back from the hectic every day and pause to appreciate the natural beauty that surrounds them. Beyond the property, Tavira awaits. Sitting on the river Gilao, Tavira offers plenty of choice when it comes to shops, cafes, restaurants and bars for guests to peruse at their leisure. For those that want something a little different during the summer months, an amphitheatre hosts a variety of concerts and festivals. As always, Tavira remains a natural draw for tourists who want to experience the Algarve’s exceptional beauty. Elsewhere, avid bird watchers will find much to love about Ria Formosa Natural Park, which boasts one of the most important areas for aquatic birds in Portugal and remains a vital ‘stop-over’ point in the migration routes between Europe and Africa. Alternatively, the estuary of the Formosa forms a series of islands - Farol, Culatra, Armona, Tavira and Fuseta – which are all fabulous places to take a boat trip and just let the hours pass by with the stunning island life. Indeed, no matter where you travel, all of the towns and villages offer visitors something different - the coastline in particular is truly beautiful and worth exploring. In addition to this, Olhao, Fuseta, Santa Luzia, Santa Catarina are also all exceptional places to visit, whether it be heading to the markets, up into the hills, taking a stroll by the waterfront, a water taxi to the Islands, or even just sitting with a beverage watching the world pass by. Contact: Hallie Robinson Company: Fazenda Nova Country House Address: Estiramantens, Santo Estevao, 8800-504 Tavira, Portugal Telephone: +351 281 961 913 Web Site: www.fazendanova.eu Retreat An Idyllic Hideaway in the Algarve