Summer’s coming, and House of Coco is on the hunt for the hottest hotels across the globe, from far flung corners to unlikely hometown gems and all the places in between.
Nothing says #TeamCoco quite like a contemporary motel-style hotel, nestled in one of the most exclusive neighbourhoods in southern Portugal. Located on the edge of the Quinta do Lago resort and just a stones through from the myriad of A-list residents who frequent these parts, the Magnolia Hotel invites a fusion of Palm Springs and Miami vibes under the Portuguese heat. And while Instagrammable décor is by no means number one on everyone’s hotel hunt, the Magnolia has won a fair few brownie points for its lens friendly interiors.
Such is the design concept, the Magnolia radiates a sense of millennial – taking inspiration from the likes of Soho house and seamlessly blending with a Californian summer flare. Its contemporary public areas mimic the ever more popular creative co-working spaces a and with large windows, sprawling white tables, comfy armchairs and an abundance of board games, the hotel invites both guests and locals to utilise the space for freelance working. Potted plants, modern artwork and quirky light fittings give the place a chic “Urban Outfitter” vibe fit for a tranquil meeting place and a morning coffee. Staff are also working with local and international artists to encourage use of the space for creative events, currently partnering with Irish artists and sisters Cavanagh and Gigi Foyle for an Art@theMAG series.
The hotel’s 74 rooms are situated in 1950’s style baby blue blocks; monochrome photographs hang elegantly above the bed and walls are painted in pale pastels. While the rooms are smaller than average in size, the space has been utilised for functionality with a good sized bathroom featuring a walk-in rain shower. Glass doors lead out to a small private balcony overlooking grassland and the bedroom is flooded with swathes of natural light, maximising the sense of space.
Though missing classic hotel amenities such as a kettle, mini-fridge and spa robes, no dime has been spared on the things that really matter; 300 thread-count bed linen, marshmallow mattresses, super-fast Wi-Fi and signature Magnolia sliders perfect for the poolside.
For a more spacious stay, opt for one of the Magnolia’s three suite rooms, featuring separate living areas and cosy sofas for post-beach lounging. Seven cottages are also available for those looking for a bit more privacy; burrowed amongst the pine trees toward the back of the property, the brightly painted sea container-style chalets have a light and beachy feel complete with lounge area and kitchenettes. For early-birds and night owls alike, Block A includes a premium facility gym, spa treatment room, sauna and Jacuzzi area for soaking off a day spent in the sand.
Outside, the decked walkway is framed with fairy lights and billowing palm trees which give way to a 28-degree heated pool, where yellow pinstriped parasols and loungers shimmer in the sun. Miami-style pool parties take place once a week with guest DJs and a neon-lit pool bar serves cocktails past sunset. Guests can eat al fresco and sip vino on the terrace area, or head to the Magnolia’s restaurant – serving a mixture of classic American dishes and Portuguese cuisine. Bikes are stationed under the ivy clad eaves of the main building and guests are encouraged to explore the vibrant neighbourhood of Quinta do Lago; a ride along the scenic pathways of the Ria Formosa natural park and through the salt marshes provides ample opportunity to enjoy the ocean breeze and spot the abundance of wildlife that call this area home. When the summer rays beat a little too brightly, guests can switch the bikes for the hotel’s complementary chauffeur service, with Quinta do Lago beach, 3 internationally renowned golf courses, natural fresh water lakes and a myriad of restaurants just a short ride away.
Within easy access of Faro airport and located in southern Portugal’s most affluent and exclusive neighbourhoods, the Magnolia offers a slice of the luxury life at an affordable 4-star price, with a myriad of Instagram opportunities to boot. What’s not to love?
The Magnolia Hotel:
The Magnolia Hotel (themagnoliahotelqdl.com ; (+351) 289 390 705) offers a Standard Double Room from €92/£80 on a B&B basis or €108/£94 on a half-board basis. Family cottages are available from €280/£244 per night on a B&B basis.
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