Little did I know that this journey would later contribute to the creation of Design Escapes. A spark ignited to uncover more of the unique accommodations in our region that blend charm with local culture, transcending the touristic, resort driven perspective so often associated with the Algarve.

Hospedaria’s rustic elegance and Pensão Agrícola’s rural allure made me realise how special it is to find places that feel like home while offering authentic experiences to their area. I became inspired to seek out more hidden gems that tell stories, connect with their surroundings, and provide a sense of peace and belonging.

This month’s hidden gems not only deepened my appreciation for unique stays but also fueled my desire to share these discoveries with others. Today, through Design Escapes, I hope to inspire fellow travellers to explore the characterful corners of Portugal, just as I did in those first magical days of our marriage. The next few paragraphs revisit the place where it all began, inspired by my diary entries from those few magical days of romance and solace.

The scent of oranges blossoming in the Autumn sun hits us upon our arrival at Hospedaria, a beautifully restored tavern turned hotel complete with post-box red shutters, set at a small village crossroads near to the fishing town of Tavira. The rustic charm, stemming from its history as a meeting point for locals dating back to 1917, envelops us in warmth as we pull our suitcases towards the front door.

Collapsing into our suite we retreat to our private patio overlooking the small but tranquil gardens, the outside world shut out, providing the perfect spot to unwind. That afternoon we lounge in silence by the heated outdoor pool, an old tank surrounded by lush greenery. The honesty bar provides crisp, cold gin and tonics with lemon from the garden which we enjoy the low hanging sun. It truly feels like a home away from home.

The next morning we wake to freshly baked bread, local cheeses, and seasonal fruits from the surrounding neighbours orchards. The smell of cakes baked for afternoon tea wafts through the air, inviting us to indulge in a sweet treat later in the day.

That morning we set off to explore the local area on a charming white Vespa that the hotel provides. This delightful mode of transport allows us to discover the scenic routes and with the salty sea air in our hair (or mine at least) we feel alive and adventurous. A hand-drawn map created by the owners guides us to Tavira flea market (every first and fifth Saturday of the month) and we wander through trinkets and wares before tucking into pastel de nata and bica cheia to people watch.

Hopping on the boat from the marina in Fuseta, we find a secluded beach at Barra Nova that feels like our own private paradise. The serenity of this hidden spot is perfect for lounging, and we spend hours soaking up the sun and enjoying the tranquillity. How is this October, we asked ourselves.

Day Two, and we transition to Pensão Agrícola, where we experience a completely different vibe. Secluded and rural we are surrounded by beautiful avocado, peach and citrus orchards. The rustic charm here is even more pronounced, creating a sense of calm that is intoxicating. This place, just like Hospedaria, feels less like a hotel and more like a family home.

We wander through the courtyard and through our newfound surroundings to meet Jeremias, the friendly resident donkey. His playful personality adds a whimsical touch to our stay, and we can’t resist spending time with him and Belotta, his best friend, the sleepy Rhodesian ridgeback. It is here that we meet Rui, our host, who shares his deep connections to the area and its culture. His stories about the region’s history and the people who inhabit it enrich our understanding of this beautiful place.

He tells us about Sergio, who leads horseback rides along the stunning Ria Formosa. We organise a sunset trot along the national park up to the castle walls and church at Cacela Velha where he pulls out a picnic bag filled with sparkling Espumante and fresh oysters that we guzzle at golden hour. The romance of it all and the honeymoon buzz warms our cheeks as the cool evening draws in (or perhaps it’s just the fizz).

As I reminisce on these memories as we get ready to celebrate five years, I recognize how Hospedaria and Pensão Agrícola changed us and the way we travel. The warm hospitality, delicious and traditional food and charming ambiance left a lasting impression, inspiring me to seek deeper connections when we travel and seek out new journeys. I remember the sense of nostalgia and enticement – the local cuisine, the breathtaking landscapes, and the warm connections we made with the East Algarve through these two little hidden gems. They will capture your heart, just as they captured ours, after we captured each others.