Hotel Snapshot
Tucked into the rugged hills just north of Loulé in southern Portugal, Viceroy at Ombria Algarve is on the bigger side of the boutique hotel scale for us at Hotels Above Par—but once on the property, the architecture appeared to be thoughtful and intimate, invoking all the semblances one immerses in when staying somewhere boutique. Opened in October 2024, the resort feels like a well-kept secret in a region better known for its sun-drenched beaches than rolling countryside. Backed by developer Ombria and Finnish owner Pontos Group, this nature-forward retreat offers a fresh, elevated take on Algarve luxury—less coastal crowds, more cultural connection. Expect guided experiences with locals, design rooted in tradition, and a warm, easy sense of place.
Design & Character
Designed to feel like a Portuguese hilltop village, the 24-building property is an architectural love letter to the region. The team behind it—including Lisbon-based Promontorio, global firm WATG, and Wimberly Interiors—leans into rustic elegance: think clay roof tiles, whitewashed walls, hand-thrown ceramics, and breezy layouts. A central tower nods to traditional village structures, while sleek lines and contemporary touches bring it all into the now. Wander the cobbled paths between buildings and you’ll find panoramic views of the Algarve’s untouched hillsides at every turn.
The Rooms
The 141 guest rooms, suites, and residences channel understated luxury. Terraces, balconies, jacuzzis, and even private pools make appearances, depending on the category. Inside, interiors strike a cozy-meets-contemporary balance with natural wood tones, linen textures, and custom Portuguese tiles. Little touches—like kitchenettes, pantries, and roomy dressing spaces—make longer stays effortless, while floor-to-ceiling windows bring the outside in.
The Food & Drink Situation
Six restaurants and bars make dining here a highlight of the stay. Café Central charms with pastel de nata and light meals from a wood-fired oven, while Bellvino pairs local wines with charcuterie and cheese. Ombria Kitchen offers relaxed, family-style dining with live cooking stations and dishes served in handcrafted clay pottery—it’s all about seasonality here. For something more refined, Solalua delivers bold, creative plates and standout cocktails. Golfers will gravitate to Casa & Fora, the laid-back clubhouse eatery with valley views, and sunseekers can snack on fresh bites at Salpico, the resort’s breezy pool bar.
Amenities
The guest experience here is intentionally immersive, with activities deeply rooted in the local lifestyle. Guests can explore honey harvesting with a local beekeeper, go horseback riding with a riverside picnic, or learn age-old traditions like bread-making and pottery. Four swimming pools (three of which are heated) offer peaceful corners to cool off, while younger travelers can let loose at the Kids’ Club, which includes a playroom and nursery. The 18-hole golf course, designed by Jorge Santana da Silva, is carved seamlessly into the natural landscape—a favorite among both casual and competitive players.
Spa & Wellness Scoop
Opened in early 2025, the Holistic Spa by Viceroy is a serene retreat all its own. With a thermal pool, eight treatment rooms, a hairdresser, and a barber, the spa offers rituals that blend modern wellness with traditional Portuguese elements. Therapies emphasize harmony with nature and align with the resort’s broader commitment to sustainability and slow living.
Location & Neighborhood Recs
What makes Ombria Algarve special is its rural remoteness, without the inconvenience. Just 30 minutes from Faro Airport and the coast, it’s a gateway to a more authentic side of the Algarve. Instead of beach bars, expect sleepy hill towns, family-run tavernas, and centuries-old traditions. Don’t miss the Saturday market in Loulé (fresh produce, handmade ceramics), or a hike through the Fonte Benémola trail for a dose of nature. The resort also offers easy access to nearby wineries, olive oil producers, and even its own beach club for those craving a dip in the Atlantic.
Fast Facts
Location: Loulé, Algarve, Portugal
Rating: Five-star
The Vibe: A well-done, manicured Portuguese village aesthetic
Room Count: 141 guest rooms, suites, and residences
Pricing: Rates start at $220 USD per night
Our Favorite Thing About the Hotel: The experiences—we tried out the beekeeping excursion at a Portuguese family’s farm a few minutes away from the property. This involved donning full-length, protective suits to interact with the bees and observe their honey harvesting process. The honey is then packaged and sold at the family’s store.
Amenities: Four pools, six restaurants and bars, Kid’s Club, 18-hole golf course, meeting/event spaces, holistic spa, nature trails, and on-site sustainability initiatives (including a plant nursery and organic farm)
Nearby Attractions: A short drive to the traditional markets of Loulé, Fonte Benémola nature trail, Algarve wineries, and the beaches of the central Algarve coast
Airport: Faro International Airport (FAO) is 30 minutes away
