5 Best Eco Resorts in Portugal

Bedroom decorated with neutral coloured wood and natural materials at Areias do Seixo Luxury Eco Retreat

5 Best Eco Resorts

in Portugal

5 Sustainable Luxury Eco Resorts In Portugal

Check out our favourite eco resorts in Portugal. They’re good for the mind, body and soul (and also good for the planet)

Experience the very best during your getaway with our top five eco resorts in Portugal. Blending luxury with sustainability, these places offer the best of both worlds. Because nothing says relaxation quite like being surrounded by nature, but with all of the comforts of modern day living. 

Craveiral, São Teotónio

Craveiral

São Teotónio

This luxurious home away from home offers guests the best of both worlds in so many ways. Aptly described as ‘between luxury and simplicity’, Craveiral Farmhouse by Belong holds a strong connection to nature whilst offering all of the comforts of modern day living. It is ideally located on 9 hectares of land, half way between the countryside and the sea. A nature interpretation centre, an orchard, and a farm with animals are housed within the land, creating an authentic location to reconnect with nature. Fresh, organic produce is used in family favourite recipes to create the very best Portuguese cuisine. Beaches and nature trails span in every direction, offering endless places to explore. Back at Craveiral, a relaxing wellness centre awaits, complete with an indoor heated pool for cooler months. The team are passionate about creating experiences and environments that enhance well-being. Craveiral is definitely one of our favourite Portugal eco resorts.
Author: Al MacDonald Editor: Fritz Lekschas License: CC BY-SA 3.0 ID: ISO 3166-1 or "_[a-zA-Z]" if an ISO code is not available

Features & Amenities

• A collection of charming studios, 1 bedroom houses, 2 bedroom houses, and unique farmhouse lofts
• Portuguese delicacies at the farm-to-table restaurant
• Gardens and terrace
• BBQ
• Outdoor swimming pool
• Indoor heated swimming pool
• Sauna
• Hammam
• Jacuzzi
• Massages
• Yoga
• Bikes
• Family friendly, with children’s services and entertainment
• Pet friendly

White Exclusive Suites & Villas, Ponta Delgada

WHITE Exclusive Suites & Villas

Ponta Delgada, Portugal

Perfectly placed atop the cliff edge, WHITE Exclusive Suites & Villas offers unbeatable sea views from every corner of the property. Surrounded by rugged natural landscapes, this idyllic eco resort in Portugal is the perfect place to disconnect. Explore by foot, bike or horseback, or take to the water to discover the islands most incredible hidden coves. Take time to unwind in the wellness hut, as you sink into a treatment with the sound of the waves and the feel of the sea breeze on your skin. A wooden deck overlooking the sea is the ideal spot to practice yoga, or perhaps get the blood pumping with a personal trainer. At the end of the day, sit back and relax with a cocktail in hand, as you soak up the incredible views with the open fire pit setting the scene. Do as much or as little as you like at WHITE – your time is yours to enjoy.

Features & Amenities

• “Tailor of Experiences” – let us plan and guide your excursions
• Boat tours
• Farm-to-table restaurant
•  “Freestyle kitchen” concept – a la carte, based on chefs recommendations
• Outdoor swimming pool overlooking the sea
• Bar and garden
• Fire pit – perfect setting for evening drinks
• Only 12 steps from the hotel to the sea
• Yoga hut
• WiFi throughout the property
• Family rooms available

Author: Al MacDonald Editor: Fritz Lekschas License: CC BY-SA 3.0 ID: ISO 3166-1 or "_[a-zA-Z]" if an ISO code is not available

Santa Bárbara Eco-Beach Resort, Azores

Santa Bárbara Eco-Beach Resort

São Miguel, Azores

Santa Bárbara Eco-Beach Resort is located in Ribeira Grande, along the north coast of São Miguel Island. It was the first eco-beach resort in the Azores, born from a passion for nature, hospitality and the sea. Built using local materials and a sustainable design, this beautiful eco resort lives in harmony with its surroundings, whilst actively striving to become ever more sustainable. The farm-to-table restaurant concept makes dining here an absolute pleasure. Fresh, homegrown produce and locally sourced ingredients are used to create seasonal dishes, whilst unbeatably fresh sushi and sashimi is made with fish from the Azores. Santa Bárbara Eco-Beach Resort invites you to relax, slow your pace, and reconnect with nature. Enjoy activities such as hiking, snorkelling, whale watching and horseback riding, as well as yoga practices and massages to soothe the mind and body. To put it simply, this Portugal eco resort is not to be missed.

Author: Al MacDonald Editor: Fritz Lekschas License: CC BY-SA 3.0 ID: ISO 3166-1 or "_[a-zA-Z]" if an ISO code is not available

Features & Amenities

• Comfortable one bed or two bedroom villas offering views of the gardens, mountains or sea 
• A la carte breakfast at the restaurant
• Access to Wellness Retreat with indoor relaxation pool and gym
• Independent air conditioning
• Wi-Fi
• LCD TV with cable
• VOYA Amenities
• Hair dryer
• Bathrobes
• Electronic safe
• Kitchenette equipped with microwave, fridge and utensils
• Coffee machine with capsules
• Snacks Table for meals
• Room service (fee included)

Noah Surf House, Santa Cruz

Noah Surf House 

Santa Cruz, Portugal

The team at Noah Surf House are all about creativity, comfort, hospitality and sustainability, and they really do excel in every aspect. Cosy rooms are designed with contemporary wooden interiors and expansive sea views. The property is designed and run using sustainable practices, including aerothermal energy to heat the floors, and by favouring fresh sea air over air conditioning units. There’s a sense of community at Noah’s that really makes it feel like home. Spend the day making new friends at surf school or hitting up the skate park, then chill out with a beer and share stories around the fire pit as the sun goes down. The whole family can get the most out the holiday at Noah Surf House. Surf, bike, skate, or practice yoga on a stand up paddle board! There truly is something for everyone, no matter your age, interests or abilities. That’s why Noah’s is one of the best eco resorts in Portugal.

Features & Amenities

• 8 rooms and 13 bungalows
• Family rooms available
• Buffet breakfast
• Restaurant & cocktail bar on site
• Noah Beach House, a second restaurant, located on the beach
• Outdoor infinity pool heated by solar panels
• Outdoor jacuzzi
• Organic vegetable garden
• Sun terrace
• Surf School
Gym
• Skate park
• Bike hire
• Fully equipped kitchen to share with other travellers

Author: Al MacDonald Editor: Fritz Lekschas License: CC BY-SA 3.0 ID: ISO 3166-1 or "_[a-zA-Z]" if an ISO code is not available

Areias do Seixo, Portugal

Areias do Seixo

Portugal

Planning a romantic getaway at an eco resort in Portugal? Look no further. Areias do Seixo is a charming boutique hotel designed specifically for couples. The rooms are perfect for two, with a magical ambience and the utmost privacy. Simple yet elegant designs connect guests with nature whilst creating a cosy and relaxed atmosphere for you and your loved one. Think deep bathtubs, cosy corners and glasses of wine by an open fire. The indulgent spa offers the perfect couples experience, whilst yoga, and bike rides are just a few of the activities available. The hotel has a strong environmental awareness; it’s made using local materials and utilizes natural heating and cooling systems, and the sustainable practices don’t end there. The large organic gardens are lovingly tended, bringing fresh produce to the kitchen and natural products to the spa, creating an ever deeper connection with nature. As far as Portugal eco resorts go, Areias do Seixo is at the top of the list for romance, ambiance and tranquility.

Author: Al MacDonald Editor: Fritz Lekschas License: CC BY-SA 3.0 ID: ISO 3166-1 or "_[a-zA-Z]" if an ISO code is not available

Features & Amenities

• 15 rooms, including two tented hideaways
• Hotel is for adults only
• Outdoor swimming pool
• Spa facilities including sauna and Turkish bath
• Massages & treatments
• Yoga
• Bicycles to explore the area
• Organic gardens
• 3 restaurants
• Picnic baskets to enjoy on your day out
• Dinner and a movie under the stars
• Families are welcome to stay in one of the villas or townhouses nearby
• Family activities include baking, crafts, and surfing

At a Glance

Craveiral

For luxury & simplicity

WHITE Exclusive Suites & Villas

Ready for a dream getaway?

Santa Bárbara Eco-Beach Resort

Discover the beauty of the Azores

Noah Surf House

Start your adventure

Areias do Seixo

Planning a romantic getaway?

Top 12 Instagram-Worthy Summer Spots in Southwest Ontario

Misty lake in Ontario

Top 12 Instaworthy
Summer Spots

in Southwest
Ontario

The 12 Insta-Worthy Summer Spots in Southwest Ontario

It’s summertime, and the living is easy… well, almost. The days are growing longer and so is the list of things to do and places to see. Southwest Ontario transforms in the warm weather to a lively, beautiful slice of natural beauty and an enhanced sense of community.

From Windsor to London and everywhere in between, there are hidden gems everywhere. Cute, quaint towns, charming historical buildings, nature reserves and vintage markets have made summer road trips in Ontario a nostalgic and treasured memory for all. Whether you’re visiting from overseas, or living just down the road, put these 12 places on your list of places to see.

We’ve scoured the web and racked our minds to create an Instagram-worthy, grid-gorgeous list of the very best Southwest Ontario has to offer.

Merla Mae, London

Photo by @dineandfash

This charming little ice cream stand is home to delicious ice cream that has been keeping Londoners cool since 1957. Check out the flavour-packed menu and snap a few photos with your bestie in the vintage decor, classic typeface and vibrant colours.

Grand Bend

Photo by @colejaysen

Grand Bend is the top summer road trip beach destination for southwest Ontarians. Charming shops, a happening nightlife and the friendliest boating community you may ever encounter. World-class people watching, and a busy events calendar make this place a photography dream.

Erieau, Ontario

Photo by @wilhelmina_71

This iconic lighthouse stands alone facing off with storms on Lake Erie. Whether you visit in fine or fierce weather is up to you, but in either case, this iconic shot is worth the drive to Erieau. Pack a jacket.

caso station

The Canada Southern Railway Station is a former working station in St. Thomas, Ontario. The station was built by the Canada Southern Railway in 1871, and is now home to the North America Railway Hall of Fame, and one epic birckwork backdrop. Pop inside and learn a little more about Canada’s storied railway history.

Point PELEE

A popular trail that receives the most visitors at Point Pelee National Park, the Marsh Boardwalk allows you to gain insight into the marsh ecosystem that is often overlooked and requires protection. From two large towers, you can take in fantastic views of the ponds and cattail marsh. The moodier the sky, the better.

Shaw’s ice cream

A peice of melt in your mouth nostalgia, Shaw’s Dairy Bar has been a frequent stop for so many of us from childhood to parenthood. En route to Port Stanley, this roadside stop is a perfect detour and rest stop to take a little time to soak up the simple life.

Lake Huron

Photo by @kendiddle

An immense lake as beautiful as it is tranquil, each visit to this great lake offers a new face and canvass on which to paint. Light, water, wind and reflection create a ruggedly beautiful background for your dream long weekend city escape.

THE Pinery Market

Photo by @pinerymarket

Nothing quite encapsulates Ontario summer like weekend flea markets. The Pinery has been opening it’s doors every Sunday for over 50 years to locals and visitors looking for something unique or casually browsing the many handicraft and food vendors while taking in live performances. Bring your camera and snap away at the many antiques you’ll find in this authentic Grand Bend tradition.

Boler Mountain

Photo by @ontsouthwest

Summertime in the Forest City and the living is…. action packed! Boler Mountain ski hill transforms to an epic outdoor activity zone. The Tree Top Adventure Park is the perfect place for a birds eye view of the forest city. Quite possibly the bet views in London, this spot is a must.

Rondeau Provincial Park

Photo by @_haveroth

The second oldest provincial park is home to all kinds of wildlife, including adorable and inquisitive deer. Be patient, and steady your shot for the perfect snap.

Cantara Beach

Sarnia has nice beaches? They sure do! The sandy beach located within Sarnia’s Canatara Park stretches nearly a kilometer along Lake Huron’s pristine coastline. The sun setting on the horizon offers a broad palettte of colours that will liven up the most vibrant of Instagram accounts.

Amherstburg, Ontario

Housed in a former poorhouse that dates back to 1877, this museum and cultural centre is a National Historic Site that tells the stories of the people and places of Wellington County through curated exhibits. The expansive grounds of the museum also offer an impactful backdrop for arts and history buffs to take lust-worthy Instagram pitcures.

Top 10 Places Heating Up on Instagram: Elora and Fergus

Seven doors Elora and Fergus

Top 10 Instagram
Spots in

Elora & Fergus

The 10 Places Heating Up on Instagram: Elora and Fergus

Scrolling through Instagram, people often find themselves stricken with a serious case of wanderlust—trekking to exotic destinations around the globe, travel influencers and enthusiasts alike are constantly capturing mesmerizing shots and sharing captivating candids that are sure to make their followers jealous.

Instagram may have you daydreaming about being whisked away, but luckily you do not have to travel far to snag the perfect selfie. Just outside of Toronto, the villages of Elora and Fergus have been drawing in crowds who are looking to travel off the beaten path and up their social media game with Instagram-worthy photos tagged #EloraFergus.

Here are the top places in Elora and Fergus heating up on Instagram.

Templin Gardens in Elora and Fergus

TEMPLIN GARDENS

Photo by @elorafergus

With carved stone archways, parapet walls and tiered landscape gardens that lead down to the Grand River, this historic landmark offers an original backdrop for those looking to capture a covetable Instagram shot.

LOVER’S LEAP

Photo by @_tannis_

Found just outside Victoria Park in Elora, this lookout provides photographers natural lighting and a stunning view where the Grand and Irvine Gorges converge.

lovers leap in elora and fergus
Elora Mill Hotel and Spa

ELORA MILL HOTEL & SPA

Photo by @jess_scott_

With a breathtaking mill overlooking thundering falls, what more could you ask for? The Elora Mill is an iconic historical landmark that has been nestled at the heart of its community for over 175 years, and is a must-visit for amateur and professional photographers alike.

The Tall Man

Photo by @dizzzy.bees

If you are looking for an incredible photo that will rack up plenty of likes, you need to check out the Tall Man. Titled “Who’s in Charge”, this finger-pointing fixture in downtown Elora is one of many notable art features within the village and is perfect for taking personal poses.

Tall Man Elora
Elora Gorge

Elora Gorge

Photo by @stuminous

The Elora Gorge is a definite go-to for Instagram enthusiasts, with scenic overlooks and riverside trails providing a spectacular view of natural rapids. For photographers looking for a gorgeous natural area to frame your photo, this is the place for you.

Irvine Street Bridge (David Street Bridge)

Photo by @carly_hodge

Visible from Victoria Park in Elora, David Street Bridge is one of the most popular views within the city and one of the most photographed from the river below. An engineering masterpiece surrounded by trees and limestone cliffs, photos of this bridge are sure to garner plenty of attention on Instagram.

Irvine Street Bridge
Seven Doors Elora and Fergus

The Seven Doors

Photo by @helina___

A photo of this hidden gem is sure to make your followers jealous! Located on Metcalf Street in downtown Elora, the Seven Doors provide a pop of colour and an eclectic feel for a next-level Instagram selfie.

(For all things travel from Sarah and Rob adventures, check out the blog)

THE WELLINGTON COUNTY MUSEUMS AND  ARCHIVES

Housed in a former poorhouse that dates back to 1877, this museum and cultural centre is a National Historic Site that tells the stories of the people and places of Wellington County through curated exhibits. The expansive grounds of the museum also offer an impactful backdrop for arts and history buffs to take lust-worthy Instagram pitcures.
Wellington Country Museums and Archives Building
Elora Quarry

Elora Quarry

Probably the most popular spot on this list, the Elora Quarry is the perfect place for people looking to cool off and take plenty of nature-inspired selfies. 

From your tube

Photo by @aarondoinie

There is no better way to capture the beauty of Elora and Fergus than directly on the water! For those adventure-seekers looking to go the extra mile and have a GoPro at-the-ready, water tubing is available between the two cities throughout the summer months.

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Vancouver skyline at dusk