The Modernist, a small hotel in Portugal

Blending the Algarve With a Bauhaus Spin

Combining a peaceful nature reserve setting and the geometry of the 1970s, we were thrilled to unearth this Modernist Faro gem rooted in Parisian hospitality.

Built in 1977 by a famous Portuguese Modern architect, the six-suite building fits right into Faro's reputation as a bastion for South Modern architecture, led by architect Manuel Gomes da Costa (who was influenced by Oscar Niemeyer, Le Corbusier and Frank Lloyd Wright).

The past is honored yet updated and outfitted to 21st-century standards, all within a stunning framework created by the award-winning architecture studio PAr. Original stone, wood and windows were restored, while added building materials were locally sourced (red limestone, brass fittings, lighting and artisan-made furniture).

Outdoor spaces were also maximized, as each apartment features a private balcony or terrace. The al fresco areas give access to the plant-filled patio and rooftop. Here, enjoy sips of port while you steal views of Faro and the Ria Formosa Natural Park (a stunning wetland that was recently emblematized as one of the 7 Natural Wonders of Portugal).

This remarkable debut is the owners' first foray into Portugal, after spending 15 years converting historic spaces into lofts so stylish and hospitable, they garnered editorials in Elle Decor, The Guardian and the Financial Times. We consider it an instant classic on the Portugal map, brought to us by the founders of the Faro Modernist Weekend. Read more about them here.

ADDITIONAL FEATURES

Fiber optic internet, baby cots available, suitable for rooftop events. Units 3B, 2B, 1B have a dishwasher and washing machine, while 3A and 3B have larger balconies.

AROUND

Faro is the capital of the Algarve and celebrated for its concentration of Southern European architecture, with about 500 buildings constructed between 1940 and 1980. Walk the city and marvel at these landmarks, with their geometric tiles, concrete exteriors and minimalist gilded doors. And make sure to visit in early November each year when your hosts lead the annual Faro Modernist Weekend.

The city's marina and historic old town plazas are part of its charm and it's well positioned to some of the best beaches along the coast and directly adjacent to the beautiful Ria Formosa Preserve and Ilha Deserta. Ten kilometers southwest lies Praia de Faro, a stretch of sand accessed by a bridge that offers sunbathing, restaurants and cafes.

The 16th-century walled town of Lagos is an hour west with stunning cliffs, sweeping headlands and Atlantic beaches and a combo of modern sprawl and picturesque history. The resort town of Portimao is also an hour west on the bank of the Arade river and the Moorish town of Silves is less than an hour to the east. Algarve's capital of Faro is less than a 45-minute drive.