Quinta do Lago

A little about the history of Quinta do Lago...

1 - A little about the history of Quinta do Lago...

"The history of Quinta do Lago reveals how the creation of a destination can be in the hands of just one man."

To better understand this phrase, quoted on Quinta do Lago's official website, let's go back in time. Let's go back to the beginning of the history of the construction of one of Europe's most exclusive destinations.

Located between the city of Faro and the town of Almancil, the history of Quinta do Lago dates back to 1960, when André Jordan decided to take up the business path started by his father in Portugal.

The visionary bought a 300-year-old farmhouse in ruins, where the ground was dirt, inhabited only by a Portuguese couple. "Sometimes, when you look at a property, you have an instant vision of what you're going to do" says Jordan.

And so it was. With a vision of creating a luxury destination for tourists and high-end residents, Jordan began an ambitious development project in the area. The aim was to transform Quinta do Lago into an exclusive resort, with first-class infrastructure and quality services.

In addition, André took care to preserve the natural beauty of the region, which benefits from a privileged location between the Ria Formosa Nature Reserve and the Atlantic Ocean.

Between 1972 and 1974, the resort's first facilities were opened: a restaurant on the property's original farm, 20 apartments, a disco, a tennis club, a horse riding center, a bridge to the beach, the creation of the lake and the completion of 27 holes of golf.

In 1998, Denis O'Brien took over the reins of Quinta do Lago, following the initial vision of its founder. Since then, the resort has grown steadily in size and prestige.

What to see and do in Quinta do Lago?

Located in the heart of the Ria Formosa Natural Park, Quinta do Lago beach is known for its great natural beauty, with a long stretch of sand that extends for around 3.5 km. The beach has been awarded by the Blue Flag Association and has excellent support infrastructures, making it ideal for families. It also offers a wide variety of water sports, such as water skiing, stand up paddle and seagull rides. Access to the beach is via a wooden footbridge. From this walkway you can see various species of birds, including elegant flamingos. Nearby you'll find a nature trail whose highlight is the S. Lourenço lagoon observatory, from where you can spot species such as the mallard and the fulica atra.

©Câmara Municipal de Lisboa - Jardim da Parada

Since its creation, Quinta do Lago has been at the forefront of international golf and its courses have won a number of awards over the last few years. The complex has three 18-hole golf courses: the North Course; the South Course; and Laranjal, set in a former orange orchard. All the courses offer players (professionals and amateurs) a unique experience, but the "jewel in the crown" of Quinta do Lago is the South Course. This renowned course has so far hosted eight editions of the "Open de Portugal" and was considered the best golf course in Europe by the World Golf Awards in 2022. Golf lovers will also find at Quinta do Lago a practice range; a prestigious academy, founded by professional golfer Paul McGinley; and the only Taylormade Performance Center in Europe.

In addition to golf, Quinta do Lago has an exclusive multi-sports complex called "The Campus". Here you'll find a variety of tennis and paddle courts (suitable for all levels of players), a cycling center, a high-performance gym and much more! Group classes in different disciplines are often held - ballroom dancing, ballet, pilates, yoga, boxing and indoor cycling are just a few examples. Quinta do Lago is committed to sports education, with 3 illustrious academies that offer children the chance to improve or start new sports, with the support of professionals in the field. These are the Triathlon Academy, the Tennis Academy and the Golf Academy. Tip: Check out the next events (not to be missed!) in Quinta do Lago here.

©quintadolago.com 

Where to eat and drink:

Located on the site where the resort's vision was born, Casa Velha was the first restaurant to be set up in Quinta do Lago. As you might expect, this fine dining restaurant has an impressive legacy, exuding timeless charm. Under the baton of Chef Alipio Branco, Casa Velha honors Algarvian and Portuguese culture with an always fresh menu where seasonal produce shines. The restaurant occupies a privileged location in Quinta do Lago - on top of a hill, overlooking the resort, the golf courses and the lake.
Average price 50€
Opening hours
From 18h00 to 22h30 (Closed on Sundays)

©Casa Velha

If you're looking for a nutritious and balanced meal, Pure is the place for you. This charming café is considered "the home of healthy and colorful food" in Quinta do Lago, and is especially famous for its delicious breakfasts (accompanied by freshly squeezed juices). However, there is no shortage of options for lunch here. These include wraps, open tacos, salads and bowls. Come and enjoy a vitamin-packed meal on a sunny patio overlooking hole 8 of the North Course!
Average price 20€
Opening hours
From 8 a.m. to 4.30 p.m.

©Pure

Anyone who has ever stepped into the Limoni restaurant says they were immediately transported to Italy. But if the beautiful cherub-shaped fountain doesn't convince you, the chef's dishes certainly will. From the handmade paintings that decorate the space to the exceptionally well-crafted cuisine, you can breathe Italy at Lumini! Here you'll find Tortellini with monkfish sauce, Risotto with porcini mushroom cream, Beef Carpaccio and much more! Among the desserts, you can't miss the traditional Tiramisu (it never disappoints!).
Average price 40€
Opening hours
From 6:30 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. (Closed on Mondays and Sundays)

©Limoni

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