PBH Group Announces €12 Million Wine & Books Resort in Algarve
The Portuguese hotel operator PBH Group has officially announced the development of a new five-star resort in the Algarve, representing a total investment of €12 million. The project, named Wine & Books by The Sea — Algarve Resort, will be the brand's third location in Portugal, following its establishments in Lisbon and Porto. The new hotel is being constructed within the Salgados nature reserve, a protected coastal area known for its lagoon and diverse birdlife.
The resort will feature 250 rooms and suites distributed across seven different typologies, including connecting rooms and suites with direct ocean views. The project scope includes the complete renovation of the existing VidaMar Hotels & Resorts building. The development plan incorporates extensive leisure facilities, such as six swimming pools (four outdoor and two indoor), a comprehensive spa, a fitness center, a kids club, and flexible spaces for corporate events and conferences. The project is situated with a prime view of the Atlantic Ocean and the surrounding natural landscape.
Construction and renovation work is scheduled for completion to allow for a grand opening in February 2026. The architectural and design vision for the resort is being led by Joana Saraiva, an administrator and architect within the PBH group. The design concept is inspired by the natural environment of the Salgados reserve, utilizing a color palette of soft, sand-like tones and dry greens to create a tranquil atmosphere. A signature feature of the Wine & Books brand, large bookshelves, will be prominently displayed to celebrate Portuguese literature. The interior design will also feature traditionally produced furniture to emphasize authenticity and local craftsmanship.
The project is financed through a combination of the group's capital and financial partnerships, aimed at elevating the Algarve's luxury tourism offerings. Carlos Saraiva, Chairman of the Board of Directors for the PBH group, stated that the project aims to act as a 'messenger of Portuguese culture' by providing a unique accommodation experience rooted in the country's literature, wine, and gastronomy. The resort will host five distinct gastronomic concepts, with restaurant offerings ranging from traditional Portuguese to Mediterranean, Italian, and Asian cuisines, designed to cater to a diverse international clientele.
Need Expert Guidance?
Get personalized insights from verified real estate professionals, lawyers, architects, and more.
Regulatory approvals for the renovation have been secured, with the project adhering to environmental guidelines for development within the nature reserve. The project is expected to have a positive local economic impact, creating jobs during the construction phase and permanent positions upon opening. The development is seen as a move to 'leverage the destination to a level of quality, excellence, exclusivity, and personalization,' according to Carlos Saraiva. There has been no public announcement regarding pre-sales or specific market interest, but the established reputation of the brand and the prime location are expected to attract significant attention from the luxury travel market ahead of its 2026 opening.
The construction will be managed by a selection of contractors known for high-quality finishes, in line with the five-star positioning of the brand. The development of the Wine & Books by The Sea resort is a significant addition to the Algarve's hotel landscape, reflecting continued investor confidence in the region's high-end tourism sector.
Monitor new development opportunities at realestate-lisbon.com.