LUX November 2017

LUX - November 2017 21 and exotic flavours are used to discern global pleasures. Diners savour tasteful dining on open-air terraces, admiring green fairways and aqua pools, combing exquisite dishes with delectable views for the perfect experience. More adventurous diners Embark on the ‘Flavours of the Algarve’ tour which takes travellers on a fascinating and stimulating open top Jeep tour through the local villages and towns surrounding the hills behind the hotel known as the Barrocal Algarvio. Having grown up in a nearby village of Alte, tour leader Luis has an unsurpassed knowledge of the area, giving guests an authentic taste of local life and putting travellers in touch with the surrounding culture, history and landscape. Visitors squeeze fresh orange juice, sample the traditional almond and fig sweets, meet Maria Hortensia, who weaves traditional baskets, then feel alive with a tasting of regional Aguardente, otherwise known as ‘Fire Water’ or Medronho. For those seeking to lose themselves in an invigorating game, the resort is placed perfectly alongside the lush expanse of the Victoria Golf Course, meticulously designed by Arnold Palmer himself and the home of the annual Portugal Masters. Guests can enjoy golf year-round, starting the day with a filling breakfast at the resort before being valeted to one of the dozen local courses. Anantara offers its guests exclusive perks, including onsite storage, private transfers from the resort to all the surrounding golf courses to professional tips and advice from Anantara’s very own golf guru. Whether Winter Escape As winter draws in and the weather turns colder, travellers are increasingly seeking out sun-kissed beaches whilst other part of the world shiver. Whilst there is a myriad of destinations to choose from, the discerning traveller opts for the glories of Portugal’s Algarve, and, with its artfully decorated interior and naturally idyllic surroundings, Anantara Vilamoura is the ideal location for the perfect winter break. Debuting Anantara’s authentic luxury in Europe, it offers a landmark of quiet prestige, along southern Portugal’s picturesque Algarve coast. Guests can immerse themselves in Vilamoura’s glamour from a tranquil retreat, overlooking the Oceanico Victoria golf course. There 280 spacious rooms and suites to choose from with each offering contemporary style and Anantara’s signature touches. Balconies tempt al fresco relaxation, with many boasting garden, aqua pool or fairway views. Hideaway for peaceful romance or share a spacious family sanctuary. Winter is the perfect time to escape to this beautiful resort, with many enticing events designed to create the perfect experience. In the lead up to Christmas, guests will be treated to a range of events throughout December until 6 January 2018 including carol singing, live music performances, horse riding, wellness and detox journeys, golf excursions and a special visit from Santa Claus himself, with traditional Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve feasts and parties. Those who are enjoying the festive season at Anantara can dine on freshly caught fish and seafood prepared in authentic Algarvian style, with champagne toasts and traditional holiday sweets from around the region. On Christmas Eve, visitors can sit down for a festive feast comprising of the freshest coastal catches and traditional regional dishes and desserts. The experience is enhanced with impeccable wine and champagne pairings. On the day itself, a five-course traditional Christmas lunch is paired with an amazing handpicked selection of the resident Wine Guru’s favourite wines. Diners can enjoy a rich journey via regional bottles harvested during the latest season, destined to become vintages and prize-winners. Throughout the whole experience, warm sunny weather and relaxing seaside vibes promise merrymaking with loved ones to remember. Additionally, guests can ring in the New Year with a black-tie evening invigorated by coastal greenery and gentle sea breezes. Enjoy Portuguese canapés and clink champagne glasses at midnight during a firework display by the pool. Revelry takes place leading up to and on New Year’s Eve across the resort’s three distinct dining concepts. Food is a key part of the Anantara, and as such the resort boasts a wide range of dining options including EMO, including room service, poolside dining and Spice Spoons Dining Experience. Executive Chef Bruno Viegas’ passion for seasonal local produce and culinary flair ensures authenticity and creativity. Curate original journeys from sumptuous choices. Contemporary renditions of rich Mediterranean cuisines. Asia’s artistry Offering a glimpse into true European decadence, Anantara Vilamoura Algarve Resort is the ideal destination for travellers looking to luxuriate in stunning surroundings and enjoy some of the best hospitality that the region can offer. a first-time player or a golf enthusiast, feel right at ease in idyllic Algarvian surroundings. Any guest searching for more adventure than the golf course has to offer can reach new heights with an exclusive ‘Blown Away’ trip in a hot air balloon over the Algarve’s unique landscape, which will leave them breathless. Lift over the orange groves and cork trees, encompassing unforgettable views of the valleys and coastline of the Algarve. Created by Anantara, the resort is part of the firm’s luxury hospitality brand for modern travellers, connecting them to genuine places, people and stories through personal experiences, and providing heartfelt hospitality in the world’s most exciting destinations. Its collection of distinct, thoughtfully designed luxury hotels and resorts provides a window through which to journey into invigorating new territory, curating personal travel experiences. Overall, thanks to the exceptional hosting from the resort’s dedicated and professional staff, the glorious natural splendour of the surroundings and the exciting festive celebrations, guests can be assured that they will enjoy their most luxurious winter yet at Anantara Vilamoura Algarve Resort. To learn more or book yourself some sun this winter please visit www.anantara.com