Chic Comporta is a rare vacation spot, a barefoot luxurious retreat misplaced amongst Atlantic pines and sandy landscapes of flowering shrubs and tall grasses. This 17-acre property consists of rooms, suites, and cabana-style villas with non-public swimming pools. Wellbeing amenities embrace Chic Spa, Chic Comporta Fitness center, and lively experiences similar to bike rides, tennis, in addition to horse rides alongside the broad sandy seashores. Sem Porta is the resort’s signature restaurant, whereas seasonal pop-ups embrace the Meals Circle. On the shores of the Atlantic is the Chic Comporta Seashore, the proper complement to this escape within the wild nature of Portugal’s magnificent coast.
The key is out – Portugal’s magical stretch of Atlantic coast is now probably the most sought-after locations in Europe – a favorite with A-listers and nature lovers alike. To really seize the essence of this sun-splashed vacation spot, keep at Chic Comporta, the unique vacation spot and, as I can concur, one of the best. Afterall, it’s right here that the magic started. That is the epicentre of the whole lot distinctive and memorable about this vacation spot, writes Andrew Forbes (The Luxurious Editor).
A Village-Type Retreat Beneath the Pines
The resort feels extra like a neighborhood. A country village hidden beneath the cover of pine bushes. Strolling the sandy paths, one discovers a set of wooden-clad cottages and bungalows fantastically designed with curated interiors of simplicity and laid-back luxurious.
Upon arrival, one immediately feels a part of this Chic village. I used to be welcomed by João and Neuza, who supplied service that felt real and caring. They appeared like they may very well be mates, as they displayed that uncommon expertise in hospitality the place skilled service feels warmly private.
An electrical buggy took me to my cabana villa overlooking the pine forest, a part of a 17-hectare property of pine and cork bushes. That is the last word in privateness, with a lounge, eating space, absolutely geared up kitchen, and visitor lavatory. The indoor/out of doors hearth added allure, whereas the 50m² deck beside the non-public pool is a dreamy house to really feel linked to nature.
Adjoining to the principle residing space is a bed room with floor-to-ceiling glass home windows that immerse you within the pine forest. The lavatory is dreamy, with a big soaking tub by the window searching onto twisted cork oaks. I used to be struck by the considerate in-room facilities – not simply the anticipated luxurious toiletries, however sensible gadgets like mosquito repellent, and aftershave cream, but in addition a pillow spray with geranium important oil, in addition to a shea butter, almond and tea tree foot cream.
The ground-to-ceiling glass home windows had been etched with storied and clever quotes that caught my eye all through the day:
“Chic are the bushes beneath which shadow you at all times could survive” and “Chic the ideas that present you that you just may lose observe” – offering evocative ideas that resonated with the extraordinary setting.
There’s a alternative of villas, that because of their ingenious structure might be configured as merely suites, or as 1-, 2-, 3-, 4- and 5-bedroom suites. There are additionally the sought-after bio pool suites which have decks that attain out on to a pure swimming pool, seamlessly built-in into the pure lake.
Clubhouse Stylish
On the coronary heart of Chic Comporta is a clubhouse-style fundamental constructing – a spot to socialize, drink and dine. The menus and cocktail lists carry one of the best of Comporta to life. I loved contemporary fish and native rice dishes, whereas bartenders crafted cocktails infused with herbs grown on the property.
There’s a method and aptitude right here reflecting Portugal’s ever-growing confidence, bringing notes of London, New York, and Madrid to create a cosmopolitan expertise that feels intoxicatingly distinctive amongst the beachside pine forests of Comporta.
Eating at Sem Porta
One of many many highlights of Chic Comporta is eating at Sem Porta. The restaurant was designed to harmonise with its environment – elegant and complicated with out feeling pretentious. In the course of the cooler months, eating is cosy by open fires, whereas summer season brings meals beneath the celebrities.
I used to be impressed by the dedication to native Portuguese flavours. Many elements got here from their very own natural kitchen backyard, the place they develop greens and herbs.
The group defined how they collaborate with regional producers and fishermen who preserve sustainable practices. One of many servers identified that this not solely ensures the freshest merchandise however helps protect the land’s and sea’s delicate ecosystems, in addition to the native economic system.
The cooking was distinctive with out being showy. Every dish captured the essence of Portuguese delicacies with a light-weight modern contact. The flavours had been clear and distinct, letting the standard of the elements communicate for themselves.
Wine Tasting
There’s a wealth of vacation spot experiences obtainable each on and off the property. The wine tasting showcased Portugal’s viticultural range. I discovered that the nation has lots of of various grape varieties and distinctive ‘terroirs’ from north to south. The sommelier had curated a small choice paying homage to the completely different Portuguese kinds, from white, purple and candy.
Driving the Atlantic shores
Off property, probably the most spectacular experiences is horseback using alongside the seashore. I joined Cavalos na Areia for a trek by way of Comporta’s numerous landscapes.
My horse, Gaudi, was affected person with my novice abilities as we meandered alongside rice fields, then by way of pine-clad dunes, and eventually reached the gorgeous Praia da Torre. The waves had been spectacular, crashing towards the shore whereas Gaudí took all of it in his stride.
We tracked up by way of the dunes after which alongside beside the rolling waves of the Atlantic. Wanting down the seashore, I may see kilometres of pristine white sand stretching into the gap with out one other soul in sight. The isolation felt each serene and invigorating.
Seashore Membership Bliss
After using, I visited the Chic Comporta Seashore Membership, an unique restaurant and bar on the sand the place lodge visitors are assured sunbeds, surrounded by the wild great thing about the abandoned seashore held its personal particular enchantment.
Get pleasure from indoor and out of doors areas, with the preferred being the terrace, with panoramic vistas of the ocean. Count on tremendous seafood, from tiger prawns, teamed or grilled rock lobster to clams with garlic, olive oil and coriander. The fried child cuttlefish are good with a relaxing glass of wine.
Wellbeing
Later, again at Chic, I stepped into the spa for a remedy. This house was easy, pared again and genuine. My therapist appeared genuinely at peace, which transferred to my expertise. The remedy used pure parts, reflecting their philosophy that nature presents all the mandatory elements for wellbeing.
It’s wonderful to contemplate that Chic Comporta is just a bit over an hour’s drive from Chic Lisboa within the capital but feels worlds away.
The mix of tranquillity and ease recalibrates the senses – it feels therapeutic and nurturing.
As one of many quotes etched into the glass partitions jogged my memory: “Little or no is required to make a cheerful life. It’s all inside your self, in your mind-set.” – Marcus Aurelius
Chic Comporta embodies this philosophy, providing simply sufficient luxurious with distracting from the unspoiled pure magnificence that surrounds it.
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