"It goes without saying that we're big fans of independent villas. So why do we have a Portuguese resort of over 100 houses and villas on our site? It’s simple: these are done so well that we couldn’t resist adding them to our portfolio. Designed with the same sleek lines, eco-concerns and modern style as Hotel Martinhal Sagres, and sharing the same facilities, these contemporary villas completely redefine your expectations of the Algarve by being family-friendly yet genuinely stylish. So many things make holidaying here a delight. The villas are well set up for self-catering, with indoor and outdoor tables, and all the kit - even juicers and blenders. But if you want a break from cooking, there are 3 stylish restaurants within walking distance – a casual Italian, a stylish seafood-focused eatery, and a formal restaurant. They're all family friendly – or book a babysitter and dine out a deux. And then there are all the other facilities... 5 heated swimming pools, tennis courts, a football academy, a spa – plus a gorgeous sandy beach a mere stroll away. There's a crèche and various kids' clubs, even screenings of cartoons in the Village Square on summer evenings. We couldn't believe how genuinely relaxing – and easy – a holiday here was. Highs A range of villa options, to suit all budgets. Some have their own pool, others are set within a private walled garden The wildly beautiful natural setting: tall grasses and masses of bright, beautiful flowers. We loved that the grounds didn't feel too manicured Gorgeous interiors – a mix of Portuguese materials (local stone, cork), contemporary furniture, luxury gadgets and funky extras (wicker lamps, Mongolian beanbags) Everyone here has kids, so you don't feel self-conscious if yours bomb in the pool/act up/won't eat their dinner in a restaurant! Active types will be in their element: hike through the national park; windsurf and surf; try deep-sea fishing Lows Keep an eye on the extras – meals, spa treatments and activities quickly add up, though the villas themselves are good value It can be very windy in the summer months, especially on the beach, but this detracts from the fierce sun Service is mixed: some staff are brilliant, we found others frustratingly laid-back, especially in the Oz Gambozinos restaurant Stylish and low-rise though the resort is, it all feels a bit suburban (and not very i-escape), but the upside is a wealth of facilities" - Kate Parsons