We have just spent 4 wonderful days ( sad to leave ) at this Oasis of peace and tranquility.On arrival from a 5 star Hotel it is a bit different but the whole place grows on you day by day. The views are spectacular the rooms very good ( suggest one of the new build rooms ) but be warned... More

This hotel was beautiful provided us with a sunny, tranquil getaway! The rooms were very modern and clean, with an artistic twist. As soon as we got there we felt so relaxed, the grounds are large. We stayed in September 2011 and the weather was still lovely and hot, we were lucky to get the pool to ourselves many days.... More

Truly class in spectacular scenic property. Portugal should be represented by this type of hotel. Cecilia is great.She is simply great. She prepared for us a gorgeous gin and tonic and i should say in a magic sunset wich gave us a endless moment.

It's difficult to say much more about Forte de Sao Joao da Barra than has already been said in the previous reviews. The (tiny, by "Fortress" standards) Fort is an historic monument (to the days in the 16th c. when the Portuguese monarchy felt the need to have "outpost" fortresses in silent, lonely, windswept spots along water boundaries such as... More

I can only confirm what others have written: rarely have I staid in a place with so much character and such friendly reception. The view of the sea is gorgeous and, although the hotel feels isolated, it is actually only minutes away from town, where there is a good selection of restaurants. Breakfast was excellent. This is also one of... More

Huge charm, fantastic view and great service, especially by Cecilia

If you're looking for peace and relaxation in a beautiful setting then this is the place. The Forte is about 45mins taxi from Faro airport. I strongly advise bringing along directions as the taxi driver wont know where it is its so well hidden. The Forte is actually located near Cabanas which is a small village not far from Tavira.... More

Probably one of the best preserved Vauban style forts I'm Portugal. This very small fort (5000 sq. meters, approx.) dates from the 17th century, including the governor's house, which is not a colonial style, 20th century building, as you can read in a previous review. The rooms open to the yard in the center, which is an oasis of silence... More

The location is absolutely gorgeous - an early 20th century colonial style house built in an old sea fort behind a nature reserve. We stayed in two of the 6 modern rooms built in the courtyard. The rooms are spacious and the architecture is beautiful. Air-conditioning would have been nice - it gets warm and the fan is not quite... More