Vilalara heritage

Half a century of history A legacy of elegance

Discover the history of Vilalara Grand Hotel – a story of vision, elegancy and transformation that has made it one of the Algarve’s most iconic and exclusive resorts. From its inception to the present day, Vilalara has been a destination where luxury, nature and history come together to create a unique experience that continues to evolve.

Slider Prev Slider Prev
Slider Next Slider Next

From 1966 to today

A VISION FROM THE SEA 1966 – Portuguese Sardinia

George Ansliy, an English visionary, embarked on a boat trip along the Algarve coast and it was here, in the midst of the stunning cliffs of Praia das Gaivotas, that he discovered an 11-hectare plot of land that captured his imagination.

Inspired by the luxurious beauty of Sardinia’s Costa Smeralda, he dreamed of creating a world-class enclave of exclusive villas and first-class amenities. Thus began the journey that would become Vilalara Grand Hotel.

NAMED IN HONOUR OF LARA 1967 – The birth of Vilalara

The property was renamed Vilalara in honour of the birth of George Ansliy’s granddaughter, Lara.

It was the beginning of a legacy that would become one of the Algarve’s most prestigious luxury destinations. With its new name, Vilalara became a symbol of family, love and an enduring commitment to creating a timeless luxury destination.

THE ELITE DESTINATION 1968 – Exclusive sanctuary

Léon Levy, a Swiss businessman with an eye for exclusive luxury, visited Vilalara and immediately fell in love with the property. He bought it two years later and transformed Vilalara into a private club for the world’s elite.

Under his leadership, the resort’s prestige grew, attracting celebrities, aristocrats and high society from all over the world. Vilalara was not just a place to stay – it became a hidden sanctuary where privacy and exclusivity were paramount.

A REVOLUTION IN WELLNESS 1990 – Thalassotherapy

Vilalara made history again by opening Portugal’s first thalassotherapy centre.

Covering an area of 2,600 square meters, this state-of-the-art facility became a global benchmark for seawater-based therapies. Designed by renowned specialist Jean Bobet, together with architect Ramiro Laranjo and interior designer Samuel Paillat, the centre attracted high-profile visitors, including Princess Diana and former US President Jimmy Carter.

A NEW CHAPTER BEGINS 2009 – Modern Elegance, Timeless Charm

Pool

After an extensive eight-month renovation, Vilalara Grand Hotel reopened in 2009 with a new image that embraced modern design while maintaining its signature charm.

Led by architect João Nuno Laranjo, the renovation ensured that Vilalara would meet the evolving needs of its discerning clientele, combining tradition with contemporary luxury.

A VISION FROM THE SEA 1966 – Portuguese Sardinia

George Ansliy, an English visionary, embarked on a boat trip along the Algarve coast and it was here, in the midst of the stunning cliffs of Praia das Gaivotas, that he discovered an 11-hectare plot of land that captured his imagination.

Inspired by the luxurious beauty of Sardinia’s Costa Smeralda, he dreamed of creating a world-class enclave of exclusive villas and first-class amenities. Thus began the journey that would become Vilalara Grand Hotel.

NAMED IN HONOUR OF LARA 1967 – The birth of Vilalara

The property was renamed Vilalara in honour of the birth of George Ansliy’s granddaughter, Lara.

It was the beginning of a legacy that would become one of the Algarve’s most prestigious luxury destinations. With its new name, Vilalara became a symbol of family, love and an enduring commitment to creating a timeless luxury destination.

THE ELITE DESTINATION 1968 – Exclusive sanctuary

Léon Levy, a Swiss businessman with an eye for exclusive luxury, visited Vilalara and immediately fell in love with the property. He bought it two years later and transformed Vilalara into a private club for the world’s elite.

Under his leadership, the resort’s prestige grew, attracting celebrities, aristocrats and high society from all over the world. Vilalara was not just a place to stay – it became a hidden sanctuary where privacy and exclusivity were paramount.

A REVOLUTION IN WELLNESS 1990 – Thalassotherapy

Vilalara made history again by opening Portugal’s first thalassotherapy centre.

Covering an area of 2,600 square meters, this state-of-the-art facility became a global benchmark for seawater-based therapies. Designed by renowned specialist Jean Bobet, together with architect Ramiro Laranjo and interior designer Samuel Paillat, the centre attracted high-profile visitors, including Princess Diana and former US President Jimmy Carter.

A NEW CHAPTER BEGINS 2009 – Modern Elegance, Timeless Charm

Pool

After an extensive eight-month renovation, Vilalara Grand Hotel reopened in 2009 with a new image that embraced modern design while maintaining its signature charm.

Led by architect João Nuno Laranjo, the renovation ensured that Vilalara would meet the evolving needs of its discerning clientele, combining tradition with contemporary luxury.

VILALARA today

NOW IT’S YOUR TURN be part of Vilalara ‘s history

As we continue to grow and evolve, we invite you to become part of the legacy of Vilalara Grand Hotel.

BOOK YOUR STAY
Piscina das Gaivotas