A step back in time to the Bela Vista Hotel.

In early July, I had the opportunity to visit with the team at Bela Vista Hotel, a Relais & Chateaux partner hotel, perfectly situated on a cliffside along the coast of the Algarve town of Portimao, Portugal.  It was the first time venturing out to interact with luxury industry colleagues ‘live and in the flesh’ and not on a Zoom call. Such a treat to be in person (with the appropriate face coverings, of course!) 

The property, once the private residence of a local businessman, Antonio Judice de Magalhaes Barros, opened in 1918 and then became known as ‘Nossa Senhora Das Dores’, or ‘Our Lady of Sorrows’ Villa.  The owner’s cousin later transformed the home into a hotel in 1934, when it then was christened the Bela Vista Hotel - the first hotel in the Algarve.  

From the moment that you enter the hotel, you know that you are in a very special place.  A place where many stories have been told and many memories made.  Because of Portugal’s neutrality during the war, the hotel held host to many a stealth rendezvous with messengers and spies sharing intelligence to their counterparts — it’s a place rich with history, and where life has been lived with a great welcoming energy. 

I was immediately struck by the brilliant contrast of original features combined with modern design elements.  From the original ‘azulejos portugueses’ along the staircase,  to the original wooden ceiling restored to its original state, as well as the impactful tiled fireplace in the sitting area, you know that this is a place you want to visit again and again.  Modern features further create a welcoming and updated feel to the common areas as well as the guest rooms, giving you the reassurance the experience will deliver a perfect marriage of both new and old world charm. The bright newly upholstered yellow armchair, coral accents and cozy reading nooks create the perfect environment for conversation or escape with a good book. 

It’s impossible to miss the iconic grand piano in the main level just under the stairs.  The piano, a gift by one of its most famous guests, Finland’s war hero Baron Carl Gustaf Emil Mannerheim who spent time at the hotel recovering from illness.  The piano celebrates Portuguese heritage and is covered in the design typical from the fabrics created by the women in the region of Alcobaca.  

Upon exploring the rooms in the main house, the unique combinations of modern and historic continue.  Modern creature comforts such as amenities from L’Occitane (the hotel spa is the only L’Occitane spa in the entire country), give the extra touches one might expect from a hotel of this stature. My favourite room was the Junior Suite that, whilst a smaller suite than those from most larger contemporary hotels, offers a stunning view of the cliffs and ocean from a secret, hidden in-room jacuzzi. Yes, please!

Venturing outdoors, the hotel features a beautifully redesigned pool complete with all the comforts that Bela Vista offer, including a bartender at your service to serve your favourite cold beverage.  A glass of a lovely Rose’ on a warm summer’s evening is just what I needed!  If you prefer a dip in the ocean, access to preserved sun loungers are also available at Praia da Rocha.  

Of course, one of the outstanding features of Bela Vista, is the Michelin Star Restaurant, Vista located on property.  Offering both lunch and dinner service this experience is one not to be missed.  Chef Joao Oliveira serves a delicious celebration of beautifully crafted cuisine.  I had the opportunity to secure a table for dinner and to take part in the 9 course dinner with wine pairing.  I’m still dreaming about it.. 

I was curious to see learn even more about how this lovely 39 room hotel operates, so I had the opportunity to speak with Goncalo Narciso Dos Santos, General Manager for the five star Bela Vista.

Here’s ‘The Take’:

LG:  Thank you for the tour of this amazing property. I’m curious to learn how much of the Bela Vista’s history guides the overall vision and experience at the hotel?

Goncalo: “This historical Villa, was considered a luxury reference, since it was built in 1918. It was the home of an important businessman of the fish canning industries and a fervent supporter of the development of the Algarve region. The house contains references of the historical heritage of Portugal. The Villa was built with many classic architectural references, which reflect the taste for refinement and joie de vivre of its first owners. This philosophy is maintained until this date in this historic property.”

LG: How does Bela Vista define Luxury and how does that translate to the guest experience?

Goncalo: “The Bela Vista combines refinement and hospitality in a historic property, which was able to adapt perfectly to the most modern requirements of our times. The hotel is not just a stunning structure in itself, we have a fabulous team prepared to provide an exquisite luxury service to our visitors and guests. The attention to detail, the will of the whole team for providing an experience of excellence, unique and unforgettable. The art of welcoming and refinement are timeless concepts, which we have elevated with our service and unique accommodation.”

LG: I know that Turismo de Portugal has developed the ‘Clean and Safe’ Programme for Portuguese Hoteliers in response to the pandemic.  What does this mean for the Bela Vista, its guests and what changes have you implemented?

Goncalo: “The Clean & Safe certificate, awarded by Turismo de Portugal, guarantees the Bela Vista as a safe place for customers and employees. All the adopted measures are in accordance with the guidelines provided by the Portuguese Government, Turismo de Portugal, Directorate-General of Health, alongside with other actions created and implemented by the hotel, due to its features, services and segment in which it is positioned. All of these actions further reinforce the dedication to the well-being of our clients.”

LG: In light of the pandemic, is the profile of your guests changing?

Goncalo: “The biggest challenge is indeed related to the client's profile, which usually is mostly international, reaching 90% and is divided between international markets. The domestic (Portuguese) market will be one of the biggest responses - although generally in the Algarve, it counts only about 30% in matters of national tourists, The reservations that we receive from the international market for the following months, allow us to look from an optimistic point of view to this phase we are going through.”

LG: What do you want to say to potential customers considering a trip to Portugal, but may be a bit apprehensive?  Why should they choose Portugal and why the Bela Vista Hotel

Goncalo: “Portugal is a safe country that respects its tourists. We are known worldwide for our hospitality, for our wide beaches, fresh ingredients with which we produce our food. We are with open arms. The Bela Vista is fully prepared for this phase, which will also allow to maintain the unique experience the hotel, restaurant and spa offer. The team is very confident in terms of new procedures, we had to adapt. The Bela Vista has 38 rooms and suites, divided into three distinct buildings - the Palacete, Casa Jardim and Casa Azul - promoting a natural social distance, without being imposed and minimizing places of convergence between people. In these three distinct areas it is possible to live a single and unique experience, but in a fractional and safe way for everyone. In the outdoor rest spaces guests are surrounded by nature, always with Praia da Rocha as background. There are balconies overlooking the sea, terraces to be explored, and gardens where guests will be able to enjoy a beautiful moment of serenity. Bela Vista's exclusive and direct access to the Praia da Rocha area and the Marina of Portimão will also support the experience of excellence of our customers, who can always enjoy the Algarve beach in safety as well as the possibility of private boat tours around along the coast of the Algarve.”

For additional information about the Bela Vista Hotel and to book you may visit www.hotelbelavista.net 

I would also recommend that you follow and enjoy the story on insta: @belavistahotelspa

A big thank you to Goncalo Narciso Dos Santos and Elsa Luz for their hospitality.  I look forward to visiting you all again soon!

That’s ‘The Take’….

Until next time, be active, speak out and stay safe!

-LG 

Goncalo Narciso Dos Santos, General Manager Bela Vista Hotel