The prestigious hotel group IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group) has added to its portfolio of luxury and lifestyle resorts, the first Kimpton-branded resort and spa in Portugallocated directly on the golden sands of São Rafael beach, near Albufeira. This is the birth of the Kimpton Atlântico Algarve Hotel, a destination that combines the Mediterranean essence with the hedonistic spirit of the Portuguese coast.
Its welfare proposal focuses on the Wellness Huba space of 1,800 m² designed for disconnection and renewal. This complex has six treatment cabinsincluding a double room for couples, and a fully equipped hydrotherapy circuit which integrates a flotation tank, vitality pool, sensory showers, Jacuzzi, sauna and Turkish baths.
The experience is extended with an indoor heated pool, a recovery room and a gym equipped with spaces for spinning classes and virtual sessions. Standard access to the spa area is limited to three hours and reserved for guests over the age of 16, ensuring a calm and exclusive atmosphere.
The Australian brand Subtle Energies is the spa's cosmetics provider, offering high-level treatments such as the rejuvenating facial with 24 carat gold. This therapy, available in 60 or 90 minute sessions, combines active ingredients that stimulate collagen production, mogra essence (royal jasmine) and massage to promote oxygenation of the skin and reduce wrinkles, achieving a real "luxury skin" effect.
According to João Freitas, head of operations and wellness development in Portugal for Highgate, the resort's management company:
"Bringing the Kimpton brand to Portugal is an exciting step for our growth in the Algarve. With its rich culture, natural beauty and charm, this location is a perfect fit for the brand. Our aim is not just to offer a place to stay, but to create energising and meaningful experiences that reflect the spirit of the region. The Wellness Hub was central to this vision - a space to recharge and reconnect with oneself.
The project, which has 149 rooms and suiteswas managed by Lucid Development Group, while the interior design is the signature of the renowned Portuguese designer Nini Andrade Silva. Inspired by the Mediterranean landscape and the leisurely pace of coastal life, Silva has integrated natural textures and earth tones throughout the hotel: soft stone surfaces, airy linen, handcrafted ceramics and touches of wood add warmth and authenticity.
Haute cuisine with a local flavour
The culinary offerings at the Kimpton Atlântico Algarve reflect the brand's commitment to quality gastronomy, fusing local produce, contemporary techniques and sensory experiences:
- The TerraA versatile space that combines a café and cocktail bar, with a relaxed atmosphere. It serves Portuguese pastries made with local ingredients such as roasted almonds, aromatic oranges and Madeira honey.
- ShadowThe restaurant is a landscaped oasis offering fresh local seafood from an à la carte menu.
- MarésInformal beachfront restaurant, ideal for lunches with market produce, such as the famous Piri Piri Piri chicken or Mediterranean beetroots roasted over a wood fire.
- ZeniteThe hotel's rooftop bar, where you can enjoy signature cocktails and local wines with spectacular views of the Atlantic.
Freitas sums up the essence of the new hotel:
"With the resort's bold design, environmentally inspired cuisine, intuitive service and focus on wellness, we are redefining modern luxury as an authentic and transformative experience that leaves a lasting impression on every guest.
Kimpton: a brand with a travelling soul
Founded in 1981 by entrepreneur and traveller Bill Kimpton, the brand was born with the purpose of transforming traditional hospitality. Inspired by his travels in Europe, Kimpton opened his first property in San Francisco, bringing the idea of hotels with character, luxury and proximity to unique destinations.
Today, the brand has more than 75 hotels and over 100 restaurants, bars and lounges worldwide. In Europe, the Kimpton Atlântico Algarve joins other iconic destinations such as Kimpton Fitzroy London, Kimpton Los Monteros Marbella y Kimpton Main Frankfurtwith new openings on the way.
In short, the Kimpton Atlântico Algarve is not just a hotel: it is a sanctuary by the sea, where nature, design, gastronomy and wellness converge to offer a luxury experience that feels personal and deeply connected to the soul of the Algarve.
