THE MAGNOLIA HOTEL IN QUINTA DO LAGO

The Magnolia Hotel is the only retro-vintage property of its kind in Algarve, Portugal. Laced throughout the premises you can find unique design elements and visual gags that gives it the unique cinematic feel that is reminiscent of a Wes Anderson film. Expect an array of colourful objects, diner-style tables and flamingos floating in the heated swimming pool. A hotel that host a very diverse guest list, from adventure seekers to families, The Magnolia Hotel puts comfort and leisure at the forefront of its experiences. This hotel is definitely a big hit in the Quinta do Lago area with the sun-kissed coastline within proximity.

OUR STORY

Paying homage to the iconic 1950s motor-hotel in Palm Springs, California, The Magnolia Hotel offers something you won't find anywhere else in the Algarve. The property boasts 74 rooms, 3 suites and 7 one-of-a-kind cottages which, still feels like a boutique hotel as there is an incredible long list of break out areas for guests to enjoy; indoor cinema, gymnasium, spa, outdoor heated swimming pool, game room with Xbox consoles and ping pong tables, tennis court, yoga area, an in-house restaurant, and plenty of nooks and crannies for chilling.

As a family of 3, we wanted it to feel like home-away-from-home, so we opted for one of the pretty pastel cottages situated amongst the pine trees in the quieter area of the premises. The wood-cabin style cottage has two spacious bedrooms, lounge area, bathroom with a bathtub, kitchenette with equipment and utensils and private patio area. Upon entering the cottage for the first time, we were greeted with a welcome note and a freshly squeezed bottle of elderflower lemonade. As it was summer season, we were thankful for all the rooms to have their own air conditioners and floor-to-ceiling sized window panes. Upon our earlier request, our baby had her own movable cot that was easy to transport across different spaces of the cottage as well. If we needed to top up on any grocery items, there was a nearby luxury shopping center within 5 minutes from the hotel by bike.

Not only were we spoilt with convenience at every level, but we also kept ourselves active with the different leisure activities in the area. Outside exploring the resort, we visited the beautiful Ria Formosa natural reserve on our bikes from The Bike Shed. Also, a visit to Quinta do Lago is not complete without attending a yoga class at The Campus, a state of the art multi-sports complex that hosts numerous professional athletes throughout the year. After a heart-pumping session at the gym, we enjoyed the spa for a well-deserved refresher before having lunch at Dano’s, a sports bar and restaurant with views of the tennis courts. All the dishes are made from fresh and local ingredients, sourced from the Quinta do Lago farms.

One evening we enjoyed the summer party at The Shack. This bar & grill is all about live music, cocktails and views of the nature reserve. The perfect spot for a sundowner, we had tacos and different appetisers before finishing off with a dessert. A great addition to the resort’s line-up of places to eat was Bovino Steakhouse, the go-to place for the finest dry-aged beef, serving up the tenderest of steaks in a stunningly decorated environment by renowned international designer, Lázaro Roza-Violán. The service here is simply impeccable and our little one definitely enjoyed the attention and big smiles from the team. Try their irresistible 2-person 'Bovino Signature Cuts Experience´ for a meat feast par excellence! Last but not least, we had a delicious pizza for our main dish at KOKO. This popular bistro is the go-to place for families, providing the atmosphere is relaxing with a takeaway service if needed. Do try their tiramisu for dessert, and head afterwards to play at the Mini-Golf Quinta Do Lago.

Back at the hotel there is never a dull moment, with summer social events like Dive In Movies and Pool Party BBQ’s every week. The Magnolia Hotel is an experience in itself, ideal for a dreamy getaway.

THE GOODIES

- Quinta shopping center and Buganvillia plaza nearby
- Safe
- Car park
- Bathroom amenities
- Tea/coffee making facilities
- Disabled wheelchair access
- Heated saltwater outdoor swimming pool
- Transfer services
- Leisure activity booking
- Exclusive access to the local golf course
- Bar and restaurant
- 24hr reception
- Gym and outdoor yoga space

 

SUMMARY

Rate - Start from 108 euros per night for a single-use room
Location - Doorstep of the Quinta do Lago resort in the Algarve, Portugal
Suitable for - couples, groups, friends and families. 
Tips - Prepare for an evening out at the beautifully designed Bovino Steakhouse. Also, enjoy exquisite cocktails by the lake at the fun-filled bar The Shack.