Tl;dr – Openings from IGH and Marriott recently opened the doors to new properties on Portugal’s Algarve Coast
This week, three new points-forward properties opened in Southern Portugal, making the region that much more accessible to folks who love earning and redeeming rewards points. These properties are clustered closely together, and I’ve mapped them on Google Maps to give you an idea of their location.
Ok, Let’s dive in!
IHG’s Kimpton Atlântico Algarve
IHG purchased an existing property, (formerly) the NAU Sao Rafael Atlântico, into the IHG family with the signing of this 149-key outlet. Now branded as the Kimpton Atlântico Algarve, the property boasts three outdoor pools, one indoor pool, and an 1800 sqm wellness center, including a state-of-the-art fitness center and a modern spa. As a guest, you’ll be able to enjoy the resort’s private access to São Rafael Beach, and if you like to tee off, there’s also the Salgados Golf Course nearby. This is the first Kimpton resort in Portugal.
For dining, guests can choose from four dining options – ranging from casual to upscale, as well as room service. There’s Terra, a bar, café, and quick service market; Sombra, highlighting fresh local seafood; Marés, a beachfront restaurant open during the day; and Zénite, a rooftop bar providing breathtaking Atlantic Ocean views.
Rates are reasonable; I searched a random day in June and saw pricing starting as low as €275 for a base-level room. 56950 IHG Rewards Points get you a free night for this same day.
Marriott Residences Salgados Resort & Westin Salgados Beach Resort, Algarve
Not to be outdone, Marriott recently opened the doors to two new resorts just a few minutes away from the Kimpton. Both The Marriott Residences Salgados Resort and the Westin Salgados Beach Resort debuted this month. These two hotels are coming to market in advance of the JW Marriott Algarve Palmares Hotel & Spa, which Marriott announced back in April, scheduled for a 2028 debut. Let’s take a peek.
Marriott Residences Salgados Resort
The Marriott Salgados is the biggest of the two resorts, coming to market with 228 guestrooms and suites. (Side note: I always read a hotel’s room count in my head, similar to how zealous sports commentators introduce an athlete’s height and weight. “Measuring six acres and weighing in 250 keys, this property packs a punch”).
For dining, guests can choose from four restaurants offering a variety of cuisines, including Japanese, Italian, and international options. For to-dos, there’s a fitness center, four outdoor pools, and a spa equipped with an indoor pool, Turkish bath, sauna, and jacuzzi.
Where does the ‘Residences’ part of this resort come into play? It is unsurprisingly in the rooms. Some rooms are equipped with a kitchen, allowing you to prepare your own meals if you desire.
I searched for rates, and the introductory pricing (€210) is about half as much as peak summer rates (€404). Points rates are as low as 37,000 points per night and seem to peak in the mid-50s.
This resort sits adjacent to the Salgados Golf Course, so you’ll have an even easier time hitting the links from here.
Westin Salgados Beach Resort
Whereas the Marriott Salgados leans into the business-event-hotel-in-a-fun-setting, the Westin Salgados seems all about relaxation. A beachfront property with 95 guestrooms and suites (in addition to 60 private residences), the hotel boasts six outdoor pools, so you never need to swim in the same one twice.
For dining, guests can choose from In-Season – a robust rotating buffet restaurant; Chiringuito Blue – a beachfront Mediterranean concept; Guilty by Olivier – a seemingly-scandalous rooftop bar; Potato Project – whimsically named root vegetable-friendly eatery; and Serenity Bar, a classic spot for libations.
The Westin brand has leaned heavily into the Wellness theme over the last few years, and this property picks up the baton and sprints a bit further by adding localized immersive experiences. In addition to the trademark Heavenly Spa and Westin WORKOUT studio, guests can explore the Salgados Lagoon alongside the resort’s in-house naturalist. An excellent place for birdwatching, the Salgados Lagoon is home to over 220 species. Other experiences include locally-themed cooking classes and botanical workshops.
Rates at the Westin start a little bit higher than the Marriott, with cash rates starting in the low €300s and peaking closer to €500. That said points rates are comparable – between 37,000 and 52,000 on the dates I searched.
All of these properties are conveniently located near the town of Albufeira, where guests can enjoy lively nightlife, culture, shopping, and more dining.
