Portugal?s southern coast is a favourite destination for those seeking some of the best beaches in Southern Europe. Yet the Algarve has plenty more to offer, including fascinating and authentic places to stay like the historic Pousada Palacio Estoi hotel, writes Andrew Forbes.

Found 10 kilometres from the regional capital of Faro, and an easy transfer from its international airport, one finds the Pousada Palacio Estoi, a member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World.

Portuguese Pousadas
Pousadas are a network of notable historic buildings like castles, convents and palatial estates that have been remodelled and reimagined as upscale hotels. They make for a fascinating guest experience, as one gets to be immersed in some local history and feel connected to history of the destination. The Hotel & Gardens
Pousada Palacio Estoi is no exception. The main property is truly striking. It?s a Baroque 18th century palace, modelled on Portuguese Royal residences.

This extravagant aristocratic home has been restored and now offers beautiful public spaces for the hotel, with drawing rooms that look out over the classical gardens that include fountains, pools and even a romantic grotto.

Guest facilities such as the health club with heated indoor pool, hot tub, Turkish bath, sauna, tropical shower and gym; the intimate ?Magic Spa?; and the 63 guest rooms are all within a contemporary wing, constructed in 2009 when the property opened as a small luxury hotel. Rooms are spacious, lig...