It takes a long time to build a beautiful palace. An Algarve aristocrat started in 1840 to build the Estoi palace in an estate near Faro. When he died, his son took over. But by 1893, the building was still unfinished and seemed destined to become a decorative ruin. It was then that a wealthy landowner bought the palace and spent a fortune on its completion. The sumptuous inauguration took place in May 1909. Decades later, the palace was abandoned.
In 2009, a century after its inauguration, Estoi opened once again, this time as a luxury historical hotel. It is a place out of a fairytale, its opulent salons and elegant gardens restored to their original glory.
Our stay at Estoi was an extraordinary experience. Some days, we relaxed by the pool and spent time admiring the statues, fountains and myriad of architectural details. Other days, we went to the beach and enjoyed the pleasures of the sea even more than usual. For we knew that when the day was done, we would have our pink palace to return to.
Salt of Portugal 
Excellent post. thank you.
Thanks!
So many delightful places to see, so little time to do it.
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What a place to stay!
Highly recommended!
Wow – that is so beautiful!
It is an amazing place!
Lovely piece. Do you know the family name of the people who built this?
Nossa. Belas photos.
I remember visiting the gardens and outbuildings of the palace before it was restored, (we kind of sneaked through a gate). It was a magical place, even in it’s dilapidated state. I will have to return now it is restored. Thanks!
It is very much worth a visit; it is a magical place.
What an amazing place and I’m so bummed we missed this on our recent visit! However, we have plans to return to this area in the next few months and this will be on our must see list. Thanks for sharing! Anita
Estoi is a really beautiful place!
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Wonderful that it has been restored so beautifully. 🙂 🙂
The palace almost became a ruin. The restoration is spectacular.
The first time we visited it still was! X
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