Many of my pre-teen dreams were inspired by the glossy pages of Vogue and Harper’s Bazaar, fueling my fantasy of life as a supermodel traveling the world for photoshoots. This passion led teenage me to pound the pavement in New York City for “go-sees” and modeling agency open calls. Seeing icons like Naomi Campbell and Tyra Banks transformed my aspirations. While the supermodel dream didn’t quite pan out, I was thrilled to spend my 20s working Front of House at Bryant Park during New York Fashion Week for renowned designers like Diane von Furstenberg, Tracy Reese, Catherine Malandrino, Phillip Lim, and Anna Sui, through one of the top fashion PR agencies in NYC.
Staying at the Pousada of Faro
Those same glossy pages also fueled my daydreams of colossal palaces and majestic gardens. So, when the opportunity arose to stay at the Pousada of Faro, a stunning luxury hotel located just 6 miles from Faro, Portugal, I couldn’t resist since castles were already on my childhood “IT” list (read more here). Faro, the largest city in the Algarve, is known for its pedestrian-friendly old town adorned with beautiful marble mosaics.
Listed on “The Pink List,” The Pousada of Faro is famous for its neo-Baroque and neo-Rococo architecture, featuring ornate plaster ceilings, delightful tea pavilions, and French-inspired gardens. Waking up at the picturesque Estoi Palace felt like being transported to a mini Versailles. I loved the romantic-style architecture, especially its pink rococo façade and stunning gardens. My morning walks to breakfast were filled with breathtaking frescoes, gilded furniture, and intricate stucco ceilings. Most mornings, I enjoyed breakfast outside, surrounded by the hotel's three-tiered gardens connected by grand staircases and hidden grottos.
A Historic Luxury Experience
Construction on this 19th-century hotel began in the 1840s and was completed in 1909 when local businessman José Francisco purchased the property. The luxurious neo-classical details impressed Portugal’s King Carlos, who subsequently made Francisco the Viscount of the historic village of Estoi.
Now part of the exclusive state-owned group, Small Luxury Hotels of the World, the Pousada features 63 charming rooms, including 15 superior rooms and 3 suites. My room had a balcony overlooking the exquisite gardens. The main hotel boasts fabulous sitting areas with high ceilings, French windows, impressive mirrors, and stunning chandeliers. Renovations completed in 2009 by award-winning architect Gonçalo Byrne included an outdoor pool with views of the lovely landscape—the perfect spot to soak up the sun.
“Let there be peace within my walls and prosperity within my palaces.” - Catherine Ponder
