Copyright Men's Journal
Nestled near the southernmost point of Portugal is a five-star resort that’s unlike any other in the luxurious marina of Vilamoura. For starters, Domes Lake Algarve is the region’s only hotel with private access to the country’s most famous beach, Praia da Falésia. But what truly makes Domes Lake Algarve unique is that it’s the first Domes Resort in the company’s history to open outside of Greece. Domes, the fastest-growing luxury hospitality and lifestyle group in the Mediterranean, currently operates 14 properties spread throughout the Greek islands, including Milos, Mykonos, and Santorini. For its first endeavor outside of Greece, Domes set its sights on Vilamoura, Portugal, where it rebranded the hotel formerly known as Lake Spa Resort and invested more than $7 million in upgrades. The region’s picturesque sunsets and tranquility — coupled with five-star amenities that include three swimming pools, five on-site restaurants, and two bars featuring world-class wine lists and refined cocktails — is just one of the reasons why this Domes property stands out. But perhaps its most unique element among the dozen-plus Domes properties is that Domes Lake Algarve is the brand’s only year-round hotel. “What thrills me about Portugal is that it’s not one-dimensional, it’s not just summer,” Manos Vatzolas, Group Commercial Director of Domes Resorts, tells Men’s Journal. “It gives us year-round horizons — wine, cycling, surf, birding, cuisine, Atlantic culture, that add depth and optionality beyond the classic Greek sun and sea playbook.” In other words: Same philosophy, different body of water. The move has paid dividends. Vatzolas says a simple “Domes rebrand drove a meaningful jump in performance, which gives you the conviction to double down.” The obvious question: Where to next? “Domes is in a disciplined global expansion cycle now, with Spain, Italy, and the South of France on deck,” Vatzolas reveals. “Portugal was the perfect starting point for that next chapter, a market where we could scale with speed, credibility, and upside without compromising the DNA that made Domes Resorts what it stands for today.” With more than 40 golf courses in the area, it’s no wonder Domes Lake Algarve elevated its offerings with a Golf Concierge Department, which offers curated experiences tailored to individuals of all ages. Some of the offerings include complimentary shuttle rides to nearby courses, a VIP Shuttle from five golf courses, golf lessons, and group bookings, with packages starting from around $283 per round. Located just 25 minutes from Faro International Airport, the Algarve has become a hotbed for golf enthusiasts, and Domes Lake Algarve is at the forefront, capitalizing on that market. For cocktail sippers, Domes Lake Algarve features The Migratory Bar’s 14 signature cocktails, drawing inspiration from a different point along a bird’s migratory path. Take the Osprey, for example, a cocktail that pays homage to the bird’s majestic flight. Fig-infused whisky combines perfectly with vermouth and bitters, while cherry syrup and a Negroni foam enhance the flavors. Like the Domes Resorts in Greece, Domes Lake Algarve is near the region’s historic towns and coastal villages, and within walking distance of a marina where tourists can board a boat for a quick trip to the iconic Ponta da Piedade.
