When it comes to planning a family holiday to Portugal, few places strike the perfect balance between relaxation for parents and adventure for kids. During our recent trip, we discovered that one of the best resorts in Algarve for families is undoubtedly The Westin Salgados Beach Resort & Spa. This five-star property combines luxury, nature, and a warm family-friendly atmosphere that makes it stand out among the many 5 star hotels in Algarve.
From the moment we arrived, we felt that this wasn’t just a hotel — it was an experience. If you’re looking for family friendly resorts in the Algarve, or simply want to enjoy an all inclusive holiday to Portugal with children, here’s why this destination deserves a place at the top of your list.
Arrival at a Luxury Algarve Resort
The resort is tucked away beside the stunning Salgados Lagoon Nature Reserve, just steps from Salgados Beach. The drive from Faro Airport (about 45 minutes) set the tone — coastal views, rolling landscapes, and that feeling that a proper holiday had begun.
Check-in at The Westin Resort Spa was smooth and welcoming. The staff immediately put us at ease, offering refreshments and big smiles after a long day of travel. It was clear that this wasn’t just another of the many resorts in the Algarve — the property exuded the quiet elegance and attention to detail you expect from luxury hotels in Algarve.
Accommodation Algarve: Spacious Rooms for Families
Finding the right accommodation in Algarve can make or break a trip with kids. We opted for a suite at The Westin, and it ticked every box:
- Space: The rooms are large enough for families, with space for little ones to spread out toys and adults to relax without feeling crowded.
- Comfort: The famous Westin Heavenly Bed really lived up to its name. Even the kids had uninterrupted nights of sleep — no small achievement!
- Views: From our balcony, we could see the pools glistening below and the ocean stretching out beyond Salgados dunes.
If you’re browsing family hotels in Portugal Algarve, you’ll appreciate how this property manages to deliver both luxury and practicality.
Dining: Flavours for Everyone
One of the biggest perks of a family friendly resort is not having to stress about food. Here, mealtimes were a joy:
- In Season Restaurant: The breakfast buffet was a hit with everyone. Fresh pastries, fruit, and cooked-to-order eggs kept us fueled for busy days. In the evenings, the variety of international and Portuguese dishes kept even picky eaters happy.
- Serenity Restaurant: A calm and stylish spot, perfect for parents craving something lighter and healthier.
- Chiringuito Blue: Casual, al fresco dining with views of the resort Algarve landscape. The kids loved it because they could wander a little, and we loved it for the relaxed vibe.
If you’re considering an all inclusive holiday to Portugal, this resort’s food and beverage offerings will make it worth it.
Pools, Beaches & Outdoor Adventures
For families, this is where The Westin Salgados Beach Resort & Spa shines brightest.
- Pools: Multiple outdoor pools, including children’s pools, mean kids can splash safely while adults unwind on loungers.
- Salgados Beach: Just a short stroll away, the wide golden sands are perfect for sandcastles, long walks, and salty swims.
- Nature Walks: The Salgados Lagoon is a haven for birdwatchers and a fun spot to teach kids about wildlife.
These features make it one of the most ideal kid friendly resorts in southern Portugal.
Wellness & Relaxation at The Westin Resort Spa
Even on a family holiday Portugal parents deserve downtime. The resort’s spa and wellness offerings are top-tier.
- Algarve Wellness Hub: Massages, facials, and a quiet space to recharge. We took a couples massage during our stay here and it was blissful.
- Fitness Centre: A fully equipped gym for those who want to stay active.
- Kids’ Club: Our kids were a little old for this but if you have smaller ones then definitely take advantage of the supervised activities, games, and crafts.
This balance between adult indulgence and children’s fun is what elevates The Westin to one of the best family resorts in Algarve.
Why It’s one of the Best Resort in Algarve for Families
We’ve stayed in other family hotels in Portugal Algarve, but The Westin Salgados had a special blend of features that stood out:
- Family friendly resort design: Everything from dining to room layout feels created with families in mind.
- Luxury touches: Despite being tailored for families, it never loses the sense of being a true luxury hotel in Algarve.
- Location: The proximity to Salgados Beach and Lagoon is unbeatable, making it both relaxing and adventurous.
- Service: Attentive, friendly staff who went out of their way to make us feel at home.
If you’re debating between 5 star hotels in the Algarve, this one deserves strong consideration.
Practical Tips for Your Family Holiday Portugal
To help future families planning a stay at this Algarve resort, here are some handy tips:
- Travel timing: Late spring and early autumn bring fewer crowds but still perfect weather.
- Transport: Renting a car is the easiest way to explore beyond the resort. Parking and EV charging are available on-site.
- Dining reservations: Popular dining times fill quickly, so book ahead.
- Bring a stroller: The grounds are spacious, and little legs may tire.
- Budget for extras: While breakfast and pools are included, spa treatments, kids’ club, and some activities come at additional cost.
Highlights of Our Stay
Some of our favourite moments that made this trip unforgettable included:
- Morning balcony coffees while the kids still slept.
- Watching the sunset over Salgados Beach — a painter’s dream.
- Seeing the kids make new friends at the pool and kids’ club.
- Long, leisurely dinners where everyone tried something new.
Final Thoughts
When planning a holiday to Portugal, especially with children, it can be tricky to find a balance between relaxation and entertainment. For us, The Westin Salgados Beach Resort & Spa delivered exactly that balance. It combines the comfort of a 5 star hotel in the Algarve with the fun, freedom, and safety of a true family friendly resort.
Whether you’re booking an all inclusive holiday to Portugal, exploring different resorts in the Algarve, or just searching for the ultimate family holiday Portugal experience, The Westin is a property that exceeds expectations.
If we had to summarize our stay in one sentence: it’s where the ease of a luxury retreat meets the joy of a family adventure. And that’s what makes it, in our view, the best resort in Algarve.
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