I had just about managed to convince myself that the frankly underwhelming and relentlessly rainy British summertime wasn't weighing me down. Though when the prospect of visiting Anantara Vilamoura arose, suddenly a slice of escapism sounded like exactly what I needed.
While Portugal has become something of a staple destination for British travellers seeking sun and culture in equal measure, I'd inadvertently managed to avoid visiting, despite having heard overwhelmingly positive reviews from friends.
Set in the southernmost part of Portugal and beloved for its charming sandy beaches, warm Mediterranean climate and manicured golf courses, Algarve is an obvious choice for those after some rest and relaxation. Different from Porto and Lisbon in that it's a stunning coastal destination rather than a buzzy cosmopolitan city, Algarve seemed like the perfect spot for some vitamin D refuelling and most vitally, some much needed me time.
Anantara Vilamoura launched in 2017, though with the addition of thirty new swim up family rooms this year, there's never been a better time to visit.
Synonymous with luxury, the Anantara brand has hotels across the globe, with each location featuring thoughtful details that give a nod to local influences, from Portuguese art to classic blue and white ceramics. Above all, the emphasis at the heart of their offering is on providing an authentic luxury experience to its guests.
True to this ethos, on arrival we were met with a warm welcome, being guided to ring the traditional Portuguese triangle after check in to let the universe know we had arrived.
Location
Overlooking the sprawling Victoria Golf Course, Anantara Vilamoura is located in Vilamoura's most desirable neighbourhood, a short trip from the marina and long stretches of beach.
While Anantara doesn't sit directly on the seafront, daily shuttles are on hand to whisk guests from the hotel to the marina should they want to stray from the pool. Though with the palm lined adults-only pool and swim up pool room options available for families, there's little need to.
The rooms themselves are plush, comfortable and altogether hard to leave in the morning. With stunning views of the golf course, a private balcony and every convenience you could want for, your only issue will be forcing yourself out of your pristine linens.
Spa and amenities
Your stay at Anantara Vilamoura wouldn't be complete without a visit to their award-winning spa. People are always bemused to learn that I'm not especially one for massages, finding them more uncomfortable than relaxing. That said, after my one hour signature Anantara massage I am wholeheartedly a convert, even finding myself slipping into sleep for the latter half.
While I'd strongly advise on treating yourself to their signature massage, spa treatments on offer range from massages and facials to body scrubs and reflexology, all tailored to each visitor's unique needs.
After your treatment, be sure to allow yourself time to unwind in the spa's stunning pool before retiring to your room. Featuring dramatic floor to ceiling windows that overlook Victoria golf course, it's an experience in itself.
Gym goers will be pleased to know that their state-of-the-art gym means you can maintain your workout schedule, with personal trainers available as needed, as well as pilates and yoga classes running on particular days.
Fly-and-flops aren't for everyone, so those wary of feeling a little restless will also be glad to know that the concierge service is always on hand to organise experiences for guests, whether you want to be whisked away in a Tuk Tuk through Algarve, try your hand at local crafts, golfing or explore the nearby coastline.
Food
Once you've had your fill of the impressive breakfast buffet, laze in the sun until it's time to indulge again and take your pick from their local seafood, Asian fusion and Italian offerings.
It's clear that the team have taken the time to consider exactly what their guests might be craving at any given time. Try regional delicacies such as cataplana or get your umami hit with an afternoon pizza by the pool, with even the fussiest of eaters being able to find something to their tastes. Nothing is ever too much trouble and friendly faces matched with sterling service make the experience all the more pleasant.
To sample the freshest seafood from the Algarve coast and Ria Formosa, Anantara's poolside restaurant Ria is the ultimate way to round off a lazy day of sunbathing, with the catch of the day and beyond being served up by the waterside.
An evening visit to their Asian fusion restaurant Sensai is also a must during your stay for classic dishes brought to life using Portuguese ingredients. With such a thoughtfully curated menu on offer, picking favourites is tough, though I'm left reminiscing on their melt in your mouth prawn tartare, slow cooked beef cheek and tuna nigri.
Quintessential comfort food is never far away, either, with La Cucina serving up pasta, pizza and everything in between, from creamy burrata to delicate beef carpaccio.
Once you've worked your way through the hotel's extensive restaurant offering, those seeking an evening tipple needn't travel far, with the Botanic bar serving up classic cocktails and new favourites alike.
Anantara Vilamoura Algarve Resort offers Deluxe Rooms from £284 per night based on two sharing, including breakfast and taxes. For more information visit www.anantara.com.
Plus, save on your trip with these booking.com discount codes.
