In the sunny, peaceful Algarve region of southern Portugal, the Vilalara Thalassa Resort offers an authentic thalassotherapy experience beside the sea. Opened in 1966 as the country’s first thalassotherapy centre, it was founded by Englishman George Ansliy after he was inspired by spa traditions in Sardinia. Today the resort is part of the Blue&Green hotel group and enjoys direct access to Praia das Gaivotas. Accommodation options include 104 junior suites, seven suites and 12 apartments, all featuring complimentary WiFi and private terraces with views of the ocean, gardens or pool.
The resort’s extensive seawater spa is staffed by professional medical personnel and provides a wide range of thalassotherapy treatments. Guests can choose from underwater showers, seaweed therapies, marine mud baths, bubble baths and targeted marine cellulite drainage. The spa also offers specialised slimming and anti-cellulite programmes as well as themed stays tailored to specific needs, such as Anti-Stress and Wellness breaks, Leg Toning, Anti-Tobacco courses and Special Back Treatments.
Beyond the spa, Vilalara Thalassa Resort offers a rich selection of on-site activities to complement a restorative stay. Daily classes and private sessions include Tai Chi Chuan, Pilates, yoga and personalised training. For those who enjoy outdoor recreation, the Algarve’s coastline and countryside present excellent options: play golf at one of a dozen nearby coastal courses, work on your serve at local tennis facilities, tour traditional villages for cultural insights, or explore the dramatic, cave-riddled shoreline with a private guide.
Whether you seek medical-grade thalassotherapy, a fitness-focused retreat or relaxed coastal leisure, Vilalara combines professional spa care with a variety of leisure options and comfortable sea-view accommodation to create a balanced, restorative escape in one of Portugal’s most beautiful coastal regions.