Agua Hotels Vila Branca
As the 15th century departure point for Portugal’s pioneering seafarers, Lagos’ historic old town is a display of its prosperous maritime past. Its 21st century prosperity is firmly rooted in tourism and a growing appreciation for the beautiful beaches, coves, and limestone cliffs which characterise this coast, from Ponta da Piedade to Praia da luz.
Agua Hotels Vila Branca sits in between, in Lagos’ quiet western suburbs, and brings together the convenience of self-catering accommodation with easy access to both the beach and the old town. The resort is a collection of modern, low-rise whitewashed buildings surrounded by landscaped gardens, with an outdoor pool and sun terrace. The unimposing design sits well with its quiet residential surroundings – room types range from simple double ensuite rooms and studios, up to larger one and two-bedroom apartments. The latter’s kitchenettes and kitchens are well-suited if space and independence are your preferences – Vila Branca’s on-site Restaurante da Vila is also on-hand; the menu is predominantly Italian, based around the seasonal produce of the western Algarve.
Vila Branca’s private parking is also a big plus if you’re planning to explore the remote corners of the region’s wild west by car – parking can be tricky in the narrow streets of old town Lagos. Praia Dona Ana and Praia Porto de Mos are closest beachfronts, around a twenty-minute walk – it’s a similar distance to the centre of the city, with the Bensafrim River and the marina beyond.
