You've a choice of locations for these stunningly transformed townhouses in the Algarve: the charismatic and lively coastal hub of Olhao or the laid-back border town of Vila Real de Santo Antonio (where the glistening Guadiana River spearates you from Spain). Both are equally lovely in their own way.
And the houses themselves are real eye-openers, too. Ranging from two to three bedrooms, they have ingenious, ultra-modern design which contrasts with – and complements – their historic roots (one was a fish warehouse, the other formerly a merchant’s house). We were impressed by the collage of textures and colours: cream borders mark out geometric rooms, polished concrete floors gleam, and there's a nod to Moorish history in the arched windows and doors. Each house also has a little courtyard pool in shimmering turquoise (one is large enough for a proper swim; both are heated).
Ludovic and Bert are a dream team: one a creative director with an eye for interiors, the other an Algarve aficionado and wine importer (you can sample their wares from the wine fridge in each house). Best of all is their unique concierge service: a “flying receptionist” will meet you on arrival, bring fresh bread each morning, and assist with anything from private chefs to massages. If you need recommendations for secluded sandy beaches, gentle walks in the hills, or the best subradar restaurants, just ask.
Highs
- A winning combo of self-catering villas with add-on hotel services
- The flexible set up – all bedrooms can be doubles or twins – makes them great for families
- Both houses are steps from shops and eateries, and have the sea in easy reach; perfect for a car-free holiday
- Such a clever use of space, with rooms and terraces on different levels
- Heated pools and a sunny climate year-round mean they also work well in shoulder or low seasons
Lows
- Prices match the design and services, but are fair value when split across 4-6 people
- Although kids are welcome, the houses have quite a sophisticated vibe – more suited to older children or, better still, groups of friends
- Weekly rentals only (Saturday-Saturday)
- We have yet to visit the Vila Real de Santo Antonio house (we absolutely loved everything about the Olhao house!)
Best time to go
Our top tips
- Boutique Townhouses
- 2 houses for 2-6
- Self-catering; chef & concierge on tap
- All ages welcome
- Open all year
- Outdoor Pool
- Spa Treatments
- Beach nearby
- Pet Friendly
- Disabled Access
- Car not necessary
- Parking
- Restaurants Nearby
- WiFi
- Air Conditioning
- Guest Lounge
- Terrace
- Garden
- Gym
- Daily Maid Service
- Towels & Bedlinen
- Concierge Service
- Laundry Service
- End-of-stay clean + 1 mid-week clean
Olhao House (2br)
Once a fish warehouse (armazèm), we found this elegant townhouse to be a great option for a family of 3-4, or a couple wanting extra space. It's set over two whitewashed storeys – high ceilings and arched windows allow the whole to feel airy. Its two kingsize bedrooms are on the top floor, each has an ensuite bathroom with walk-in shower, bathrobes and plenty of natural light.
On the floor below is the well-equipped, modern kitchen-diner, where we rustled up several seafood-focused meals, which has plenty of counter space, very attractive ceramics, and appliances including fridge, induction hob, oven, dishwasher, coffee machine and a washer-dryer, plus the requisite honesty bar filled with Bert's best Portuguese wines.
Custom-built arched glass doors lead onto the enclosed private patio and its heated plunge pool – a refreshing oasis in the hotter months. Spiral stairs ascend from the patio to a terrace overlooking the pool, then more steep steps lead onto the roof, which has shaded seating and an outdoor sink/bar area – perfect for sundowners – as well as long views across the town's rooftops to the Ria Formosa.
We were just two blocks from the waterfront here, in Olhao's pedestrianised zone. The nearest supermarket, which very conveniently has a bakery, is across the street, and there are many enticing restaurants and cafes within a 5-minute walk. Olhao itself is a charming coastal town with character, cobbled streets, and a renowned covered fish and vegetable market (best on Saturdays but amazing any day of the week).
Vila Real House (3br)
Tucked among a jumble of townhouses in Vila Real de Santo Antonio, a pretty border town that straddles the Guadiana River and looks across to Spain, this former merchant's house has been completely transformed into a minimalist marvel, sleeping six in three ensuite bedrooms.
The layout centres around a sunny courtyard with citrus trees and a rectangular pool (the largest of the three houses). The architect’s signature perpendicular design flows throughout, and there are multiple roof terraces spread across different levels. Branching off the courtyard are the three large bedrooms and the lounge/kitchen. Tones are muted: grey cement worktops, dark wood panelling and walls painted brilliant white.
You’re right in the heart of Vila Real here, so there’s plenty on the doorstep. Discover the grand plaza, stroll along the waterfront promenade, or recline on the town’s stunning, white-sand beach.
Activities
- If staying in Olhao, you can take a boat trip through the Ria Formosa, walk along the salt pans, float/swim in the Mar Morto, browse the boutiques – as we did. For seaside fun, nearby Armona has a gorgeous beach, accessible via ferry from Olhao
- From Vila Real, don't miss the town's white-sand beach. The surrounding Mata Nacional da Dunas Litorais pine forest has pretty cycle routes through it, or you can hop on a ferry and pop across the border to the Spanish town of Ayamonte, where there’s great tapas!
- Between the two is cute Tavira, with its cobbled streets and the bridge over River Gilao which connects both sides of the town. It's great for leisurely lunches and dinners, and crafts shopping. There's a castle and a camera obscura to discover too
- Check out the Algarve wineries – many offer tours and tastings
- Watersports including windsurfing, SUP and kitesurfing are popular all along this coastline
- This part of the Algarve is internationally renowned for birdwatching, due to the varied salt and fresh-water coastal habitats including in the Ria Formosa Natural Park – especially during spring and autumn migrations
Kids
Children are very welcome in both houses – all bedrooms can be set up as twins – but bear in mind the decor is minimalist, with designer furniture and white interiors. We think they are best for families with older children looking for a townhouse with shops, eateries and markets on your doorstep – The Olhao House was the perfect place for our family. There are beaches in easy reach if staying in Olhao and Vila Real. From Olhao, local boats ply to islets, great for getting out into nature too.
Best for:
Babies (0-1 years), Children (4-12 years), Teens (over 12)
Family friendly accommodation:
Olhao House suits a family of 3-4, with a heated plunge pool in the courtyard, and two bedrooms. Vila Real House suits a family of 5-6, with a bigger heated courtyard pool.
Kids Activities on site:
- Heated pools in both houses
Kids Activities nearby:
- Boat trips
- Beaches
- Ria Formosa National Park
- Horse riding
- Watersports
- Fishing
Families Should Know:
None of the pools are fenced. Olhao House has steep stairs (no stair gates) inside and out, and a roof terrace, so we don't recommend it for those with toddlers. All houses work well for families without a car, but parking is available at each.
Distances:
- Airport: 15-40 mins
- Hospital: 15-30 mins
- Supermarket: 1-5 mins
For more family-friendly places, see our Kids Collection
Location
The houses are in two different towns – Olhao and Vila Real de Santo Antonio – in the eastern part of the Algarve, away from the crowds. Olhao is on the coast, Vila Real is on an estuary (with a river beach).
> See all houses on a map (new window)
By Air:
Fly to Faro airport, which is 16km from Olhao and 60km from Vila Real.
From the Airport
Your flying receptionist can meet you at the airport on arrival. Most guests will hire a car from there, but if you don't drive you can request an airport transfer.
By Car:
If you want to hire a car see our car rental recommendations.
Detailed directions will be sent to you when you book through i-escape.
Airports:
- Faro Airport 30.0 km FAR
Other:
- Beach 9.0 km
- Shops 5.0 km
- Restaurant 5.0 km
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Our guests' ratings...
Based on 9 independent reviews from i-escape guests