Staying at the Dona Filipa Hotel, a luxurious five-star retreat nestled on the stunning Vale do Lobo beach in the Algarve, is much more than a stay — it’s a celebration of Portuguese hospitality, timeless elegance and ultimate relaxation. From the moment I stepped into my bright and tastefully decorated suite, I knew I was about to live unforgettable days by the sea.
The suite welcomed me with a spacious lounge area, a grand emperor-size bed and a private balcony with breathtaking views over the pool and the endless turquoise Atlantic Ocean. Waiting on the table was a warm gesture of true Portuguese hospitality: chilled champagne, mineral water and delightful petit fours crafted with local flavours — fig cake, medronho, dark chocolate with almonds, and the beloved Dom Rodrigo. Small details that made all the difference and turned my stay into a memory I’ll treasure.
Many hours were spent on that balcony, torn between the pages of my book and the hypnotic horizon. And one of life’s simplest yet greatest pleasures here was having a gourmet breakfast in bed: perfectly poached eggs, freshly squeezed orange juice, a fragrant cup of tea, creamy cappuccino, a delicious selection of fresh bread and pastries, local cheeses and homemade jams. A perfect start to a day of sun and sea.
Just steps away, the golden sands of Vale do Lobo Beach stretch endlessly, framed by dramatic cliffs and washed by crystal-clear waters — an idyllic setting for strolls, sunbathing and moments of pure peace.
Gastronomy is a highlight at the Dona Filipa. At Kamal Restaurant, whose name means “perfection”, I indulged in hearty breakfasts, light lunches and exquisite dinners with panoramic views of the heated pool and the ocean beyond. Every meal was a delight: fresh mango and prawn salad, Algarvian-style tuna, delicately pan-seared sea bream with brown butter, refreshing seabass ceviche, classic sole meunière and wild salmon crusted with fresh herbs. The desserts deserve a special mention too: red berry cheesecake, mango semifreddo with raspberry sorbet, chocolate Banoffee dome with pastel de nata ice cream, and my absolute favourite — the Flexi Praliné Ganache with Bourbon ice cream. Pure heaven in every bite.
One of the highlights of my stay was the Fisherman’s Buffet, served every Sunday at Kamal: an authentic seafood feast with the freshest crab, lobster, oysters from the Ria Formosa, fish cataplana, regional dishes, a superb cheese selection and desserts that reimagine Algarve ingredients with an elegant twist.
Beyond the hotel, I explored Pinheiros Altos, one of Europe’s most prestigious golf courses, set in the heart of the Ria Formosa nature reserve. Lunch at the Pórtico restaurant was a treat: king prawn curry with basmati rice, followed by a freshly baked apple strudel with creamy vanilla ice cream.
The Dona Filipa Hotel truly offers everything to turn a holiday into an unforgettable luxury escape: two signature restaurants, exclusive access to Vale do Lobo Royal Spa and the Pinheiros Altos and San Lorenzo golf courses, two tennis courts, a garden bar, a beach club with top-notch service, a heated outdoor pool, wellness and beauty treatments, a fun kids club and leisure spaces for the whole family.
The warmth of the entire team and the impeccable service make this a place I know I will return to time and again. A dreamy refuge where elegance, nature and exquisite gastronomy come together to create memories that last a lifetime.