Âmago
Âmago is a family-run guesthouse tucked between the Algarvian hills and the sea, set in a restored farmhouse with pretty gardens and a saltwater pool.
Nestled between the Algarvian hills of São Brás de Alportel and the sea near Faro, Âmago is a six-bedroom guesthouse with pretty gardens and a saltwater pool.
Âmago is a passion project brought to life by couple Liz and Alex Harvey, who traded city life in London for the slower-paced Algarve. They have transformed a characterful property into a modern guesthouse that captures the tranquil essence of the region.
With curated local experiences, from dining recommendations to workshops, it's all about living the Algarve, not just visiting it. Its location makes a great base to get to know the lesser-known foothills of the Algarve, away from tourist crowds, yet relatively close to everything for those who love to explore.
Faro Airport is just a 15-minute drive away.
Awesomeness
The gardens are a highlight, with a variety of trees and pretty flowers.
Family-run, with thoughtful local recommendations.
Renovated farmhouse blending modern design, vintage finds, and locally sourced artwork.
Complimentary 8950 bathroom amenities, made with native Algarve ingredients.
Bear in Mind
From our room, we could hear some road noise.
Room Four (which has a kitchen) welcomes under-ones; all other rooms are for ages 13+.
Coffee, tea and a nifty honesty bar are available in the communal living room.
Most places, including the beach, are a 15-20 minute drive away. Ubers are available.
Âmago is a lovely guesthouse just a 15-minute drive from Faro Airport, near the towns of Loulé, and Olhão.
Âmago's location makes a great base for those who want to explore the Algarve, away from tourist crowds, yet relatively close to everything for those who love to explore.
With curated local experiences, from dining recommendations to workshops, it's all about living the Algarve, not just visiting it.
Liz and Alex are friendly hosts who know the area well and will be happy to help you with recommendations or local tips, making Âmago a practical base for exploring both the coast and the quieter inland Algarve.
The guesthouse is a 15-minute drive from Faro airport and close to towns like Loulé and Olhão.
Praia do Ancão Beach, located around 25 minutes’ drive from Âmago Guesthouse, is a beautiful stretch of sand on the Algarve’s south coast.
Perched above the dunes at Praia do Ancão Beach, 2 Passos is a long-standing Algarve classic for excellent fresh seafood with panoramic ocean views.
Austa, 15 minutes from Âmago, is a restaurant, coffee shop, garden, and wine bar rooted in the Algarve’s flavours. If you enjoy wine, it's best to take an Uber 😉
Q&A with Alex Harvey about Âmago Guesthouse
“Having corporate city jobs in London meant we wanted a better work life balance, where we could live a slower life.”
<quote-credit>Alex Harvey, co-founder of Âmago<quote-credit>
Up until a few years ago, you were living in the UK, and you had very different jobs. Was running a guesthouse something you’d been discussing for a while?
Yes, we had discussed it for about 3 years before it became serious. We then spent a year searching for a property and 2 years renovating it, before opening in August 2023.
What made you feel the time was right to make the move?
Getting married and having a child gave us a different perspective on life. Having corporate city jobs in London meant we wanted a better work life balance, where we could live a slower life.
Why Portugal and how did you come across the property?
My wife and I had been visiting this part of Portugal for around 18 years. The warmth of the people, delicious food, rich culture, stunning beaches, and landscapes, all contribute to an incredible quality of life. When we decided to leave London and start a new venture together, this place already felt like home. We just found the property online and fortunately it ticked all the boxes!
A lot of love has gone into creating Âmago. Can you tell us a bit about the renovation process?
The original farmhouse dates to around 1900 and in the 70’s a couple purchased the property and land to run an equestrian centre. We had a lot of renovation work to do, especially in terms of infrastructure. We stripped everything back and redecorated (with help from @escolhido), making sure we celebrated the authenticity of the Algarve, whilst making it a modern design escape. We also landscaped all the gardens to create a small oasis in the countryside.
“My wife and I had been visiting this part of Portugal for around 18 years.”
<quote-credit>Alex Harvey, co-founder of Âmago<quote-credit>
Can you share any challenges and rewards you’ve faced in creating and running Âmago?
The challenges were the renovation process, as after Covid, materials almost tripled so compromises had to be made. The rewards are daily, especially when we host our guests. We are lucky to attract a demographic not based on age but by a culturally curious mindset, who want to embrace the authenticity of Portugal.
Are there any experiences you think your guests shouldn’t miss?
The beaches and Islands along the Ria Formosa are stunning, while our favourite towns of Tavira, Olhão, Loulé and Faro offer various options for excursions and some amazing restaurants.
What's your favourite object at Âmago?
I am thrilled we were able to commission bespoke artworks for the rooms, through our artist in residency programme. But the vintage objects we have sourced from local flea markets and other bespoke furniture via Portuguese artisans are also great. I am fond of the terracotta octopus pots that sit on our bespoke quartz shelf in the living room, as they tell a story and contrast with the new modern interiors.
Do you have a favourite guesthouse/hotel in Portugal or abroad?
We fell in love with Portugal and travelled around the country, so our favourite hotels are found on your website! But outside of Portugal, we loved Little Green Bay, a secluded guesthouse on the Croatian island of Hvar.
Thank you, Alex and Liz, for sharing your story with us. 🙂
Âmago
SB58 Caminho das Alfarrobeiras
8005-502 Santa Bárbara de Nexe
Portugal
Airports
Faro (FAO) – 15km
Lisbon (LIS) – 255km
Porto (OPO) – 525km
By Car
It’s about a 15-minute drive from Faro to Âmago Guesthouse. Hiring a car is highly recommended to reach the guesthouse and explore the Algarve’s beaches, villages, and countryside. Ubers, Bolts, and local taxis are also available for shorter trips nearby. While light snacks and drinks are available on-site, Âmago doesn’t serve dinner — but Liz and Alex are happy to share their favourite local restaurant recommendations.
© Photos by JO&SO and courtesy of Âmago.
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