By Eva Wiseman

The taxi slows with reverence as we drive up to the Conrad Algarve. Oranges grow along the path, and one of many gardeners stands thigh deep in water adjusting the fountain. The staff are welcoming in a way that makes you hug them when you leave. Warm and sweet, and (most importantly for me on my first trip abroad with a baby) incredibly accommodating to children, it’s the beautiful service that makes this hotel stand out.

With an impressive setting in the beautiful Quinta do Lago, the Conrad Algarve overlooks the Atlantic ocean and a spawning golden Algarve beach. Many internationally famous golf courses, including Quinta do Lago Sul and Laranjal are on your doorstep, as is the natural park of Ria Formosa.

Conrad Spa

I was booked for a treatment outside, but the weather conspired to keep me indoors in one of their elegant suites, away from the infinity pool. Guests are welcome to spend the day here, sipping cucumber water and padding through the scented rooms.

The spa is tucked away from the main hotel, accessible through its own private entrance, which gives it a whole different identity: a childfree, candle-lit air of calm. Sophisticated to the degree that even the changing room lockers use swipe card technology, it only avoids feeling corporate due to the warmth of the staff, who expertly attend to guests. As I left, a family of four generations of women was booking pedicures. The great-grandmother was paying.

Developed as a ‘showcase spa’, to be rolled out across the Conrad group’s new hotels internationally, there are no risks taken here (they use products from Aromatherapy Associates and Intraceuticals for their therapies), no trend-led treatments or surprises. Just serious relaxation, and welcome attention to detail.

The Treatment

A signature tranquil body treatment (a treatment the masseuse adapted for me, as a new mother, adjusting the aromatherapy options and carefully specifying levels of pressure) stood out for the therapist’s attention to detail.

Noticing particular knots and stresses in my back, she showed me stretches that would help when the bliss of the massage had faded.

Other Treatments

Essentially You is a collection of signature treatments that respect your time and rejuvenate your mind and body. From signature body treatments to high performance facial techniques and oxygen inhalation therapy, the products and treatments, draw on local techniques, culture and surroundings. Refreshingly personalised packages and a collection of couture treatments mean that you can spend an hour or the whole day being rejuvenated.

To Stay

Our room boasts a view over the swimming pool from a balcony complete with sofas. A Nespresso machine is a welcome addition, as is the free Wi-Fi and discreet kitchenette.

The bed is big enough for three, and the bath is fitted out with a TV. A bonus kiddie touch – they gave us a basket of baby products, and a rubber duck, too.

Don’t Miss

• Discover the Ria Formosa Natural Park
• Explore the Ria Formosa by catamaran