Forte De Sao Joao Da Barra: Algarve Boutique Hotel
Last Updated on June 3, 2023
Amidst the blue sky and golden sands of Portugal’s Algarve region lies a little-known piece of history, just waiting for those fortunate enough to discover it. The star-shaped 17th-century bastion of Forte De Sao Joao Da Barra defended the coast for centuries against seafaring enemies, and now offers laid-back luxury accommodations as a boutique hotel.
Portugal is certainly in no short supply of boutique hotels. When I visited Tavira, I was so spoiled for choice that I split my time between two hotels! Luckily for you and me, one of them was Forte De Sao Joao Da Barra, a star-shaped fort built to defend the southern coast of Portugal when it gained its independence from Spain in 1640.
Barbary pirates notwithstanding, Forte Sao Joao has been re-imagined today as a luxury boutique hotel. It offers 10 guestrooms set in a block within the courtyard of the old fort. At night, you can stare up at the stars from within the walled fortress. In the morning, enjoy breakfast al fresco on the fort’s ramparts overlooking the sea.
Ready to book? Check prices and availability for Forte de Sao Joao da Barra, or read on for more details and photos of this special place!
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Forte Sao Joao Da Barra Guestrooms
Guestrooms feature modern amenities including large, luxurious baths and toiletries. The rooms are set against the exterior wall of the fort. In several rooms, this wall is visible through a sliding glass door which spans the length of the room. The ceilings are a barrel-vault style seen throughout the region. Most rooms have space for two, while some offer accommodation for 3-4 guests including suites with a loft.
The whitewashed former governor’s house is home to the hotel’s charming owner and family, as well as a first-floor living and dining room that guests can use.
Amenities: Pool, Ambience & Al Fresco Breakfast
At each of the four corners of the star-shaped fort, a ramp provides access to terraces and lookouts. One corner features a sparkling blue pool, while another leads to a breakfast room and terrace, which offers views of the coast.
Breakfast features local and Mediterranean favorites including fresh bread, eggs, meats and cheeses, seasonal fruits and jams, coffee, tea, fresh orange juice, and dried fruits including fig stars with roasted almonds.
Arriving at Forte de Sao Joao
Guests arrive at Forte de Sao Joao to find a mysterious locked gate, which opens to reveal the fort’s inner courtyard. After unloading your bags, parking is just around the corner on the outside of the fort.
Location of Forte de Sao Joao da Barra
Forte de Sao Joao is located in Cabanas de Tavira, a small town on the outskirts of Tavira, Portugal. The coast here is part of the Ria Formosa lagoon, a natural park. This system of barrier islands and estuaries flow to the sea through six inlets, forming wetlands for birds – including flamingos – and other wildlife.
The beautiful Praia de Cabanas (Cabanas Beach) is actually on a barrier island. It’s a 5-minute water taxi ride from the downtown of the seaside village of Cabanas de Tavira. The Cabanas Beach is long and narrow, with soft white sand and dunes that are uncommon on Algarve beaches.
The town of Cabanas has spectacular seafood restaurants like Noelia y Geronimo (which was so nice, we ate there twice during our short stay!). In season, it’s also possible to book tours of the Ria Formosa from the boardwalk here. Golf courses and a kite surfing school are also nearby.
The location of Forte De Sao Joao Da Barra is best if you have a car, but you can walk to nearby restaurants and to catch the water taxi to the beach.
Ready to book this unique getaway?
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Car Rental in Portugal
Thinking of renting a car for your trip? I’ve driven in Portugal many times and find it relatively easy, except in cities where roads can be narrow and parking limited! Another issue is that car rental agencies sometimes try to add on extra fees at the pickup counter or damage charges at the end of your trip. My last few trips I’ve booked with Zest, a car rental aggregator, to find the best availability and pricing. It’s also another level of customer service in case of issues, plus the agencies want to keep their good star rating on the platform. Be sure to read recent reviews from other travelers about their experiences with individual companies, but Zest is the website that I use and recommend for renting cars in Portugal.
⫸ Search Portugal rental cars on Zest
Read next:
- Tavira, Portugal: Things to Do & Travel Guide
- Best Algarve Beaches | 10 Stunning Beaches of Portugal’s Algarve
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