Condé Nast Johansens Selects 40 Luxury Hotels and Wellness Retreats in Portugal

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Portugal continues to shine on the global luxury stage, with Condé Nast Johansens selecting more than 40 standout hotels and wellness spaces across the country for its latest annual guide.

From the north to the Algarve and across the islands of Madeira and the Azores, the list shows a destination that combines elegance, authenticity, and a strong sense of place. Portugal is in second place in the world in terms of the number of suggestions; only the United Kingdom is ahead, which clearly shows that the country is becoming more appealing to travellers who know what they want.

The chosen places include 33 high-end hotels in some of Portugal’s best areas. Lisbon and the Tagus Valley are in the lead, with 15 suggested places, such as restaurants and wellness centres. The Palácio Estoril Hotel Golf & Wellness is a very famous name because it combines history with a focus on health. It’s a place where old-fashioned warmth and modern comfort come together, making it a good choice for people who care about both ambience and comfort.

Further south, the Alentejo adds a quieter, more soulful layer to the list, with four hotels that are praised for their character and connection to the landscape. Next is the Algarve, where high-end living is the main focus. Condé Nast Johansens gave a special “gold star” to the Tivoli group, which is part of Minor Hotels, recognising the hotels: Tivoli Carvoeiro, Marina Vilamoura, and Alvor. In addition, Serenity – The Art of Well Being at Pine Cliffs Resort was honoured for its spa offering, reinforcing the Algarve’s image as a destination where relaxation and refinement go hand in hand.

The islands also play a key role in this luxury trip. In the Azores, both located on São Miguel Island, Solar dos Cantos Botanic House & Garden and the iconic Terra Nostra Garden Hotel were chosen, highlighting a blend of nature, tradition, and understated elegance. In Madeira, five luxury hotels won recommendations, confirming the island’s long-standing reputation for timeless hospitality and natural beauty.

This recognition from Condé Nast Johansens is more than a list of names. It is a powerful statement about Portugal as a destination that provides emotion, quality, and memorable experiences. Whether it is a seaside resort, a historic palace hotel, or a tranquil island retreat, each location offers something that goes beyond accommodation. Our Portugal golf holidays collection shows the possibilities for those planning a fancy getaway with great golf courses close by.

Golf in Andalucía: Discover the Costa de la Luz for Unforgettable Spain Golf Holidays

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The Costa de la Luz is quickly becoming one of the most exciting destinations for golfers planning unforgettable Spain golf holidays. This sun-drenched stretch of coastline offers a remarkable selection of more than a hundred golf courses, ranging from championship layouts designed for seasoned players to relaxed golf breaks ideal for beginners or those seeking a slower pace.

Among the region’s standout courses is Sancti Petri Hills Golf, a favourite near Chiclana known for its beautiful coastal views and strategic design that rewards precision. Close by, Nuevo Sancti Petri Golf Club remains one of Andalucía’s most prestigious golfing complexes, offering a variety of holes that challenge every aspect of your game while showcasing the natural beauty of the coastline.

For golfers exploring the inland areas, Montecastillo Golf near Jerez de la Frontera is a must-play. Famous for hosting major tournaments, the course blends technical challenges with immaculate greens and rolling fairways. Meanwhile, La Estancia Golf in Chiclana offers a more relaxed atmosphere without compromising on quality—ideal for golfers who want a balanced holiday mixing sport, scenery, and coastal tranquillity.

Recently, Arturo Bernal, Andalucía’s Tourism Councillor, reinforced the importance of golf to the region’s economy, highlighting that more than 85% of visitor spending happens outside the golf course. Travellers invest in local restaurants, cultural experiences, transportation, and accommodation, turning golf into a powerful engine for employment, sustainability, and long-term economic growth in the Costa de la Luz.

Whether you’re chasing your personal best, exploring new fairways under the Spanish sun, or simply looking to unwind with scenic rounds and authentic Andalusian culture, the Costa de la Luz offers the perfect blend of world-class golf, spectacular landscapes, and warm hospitality. For your next Spain golf holiday, this region delivers everything you need for a memorable escape on and off the course.

Madeira Plans New Golf Course in Faial to Boost Tourism and Local Economy

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Madeira is quickly becoming a must-visit destination for golf lovers. The Regional Government has announced plans to build a new golf course in Faial, Santana, in the north of the island. Set in a riverside area with no existing infrastructure, the course promises a high-quality layout that takes advantage of Madeira’s excellent climate. Miguel Albuquerque, President of the Regional Government, notes the project will bring economic benefits, including skilled jobs, new residents, and increased activity in the area. While there’s no official timeline yet, the plans mark an exciting development for Madeira golf.

Porto Santo is also expanding its golf offerings. The island, already home to one course, will soon welcome a second Porto Santo golf course to help reduce seasonal tourism gaps. The first phase of construction has recently gone out to public tender, with a base value of €6.1 million.

Madeira currently boasts two courses on the main island and one in Porto Santo, with additional projects underway. The new Ponta do Pargo course in Calheta is nearing completion, while Santo da Serra will be expanded and Palheiro Ferreiro upgraded. Together, these developments reinforce Madeira’s growing reputation for world-class golf courses set against stunning landscapes.

For your next golf adventure, Madeira offers the perfect mix of challenging fairways, year-round sunshine, and unforgettable views.