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BodyHoliday to debut in Europe with €158m wellness retreat in Portugal

26 Feb 2025 Luxury wellness brand BodyHoliday is expanding into Europe with a five-star health and fitness retreat on Portugal’s East Algarve coastline.

Set to open in 2027, the €158 million (US$165.9 million, £131.1 million) – at yet unnamed – BodyHoliday Algarve will be located near the unspoiled beaches of Praia da Lota.

The 220-key resort will be a sister destination to the operator’s flagship in St Lucia and mark BodyHoliday’s first European outpost.

OTO Architects is leading the project’s design in collaboration with environmental consultant SRE.

Interior design has been undertaken by Clodagh and the Clodagh Design Team to reflect the natural location:

“The interiors will take a modern reference to the local vernacular, using local materials and bringing the beautiful colours of the sand dunes into the public spaces and the rooms,” Clodagh told Spa Business.

Guests will have access to a 50-treatment-room spa, landscaped gardens, a clubhouse, five dining outlets and a gym designed for Pilates, spinning, and yoga. The retreat will also feature an indoor pool, three outdoor pools and direct beach access.

BodyHoliday is looking to attract visitors from key international markets, including the US, Canada, UK, France, Germany and Italy.

Construction has already commenced, with backing from the local municipality of Vila Real de Santo António (VRSA).

Álvaro Araújo, president of the Municipal Chamber of VRSA, believes the resort will be a game-changer for the region. He said: “This project will transform VRSA’s tourism landscape, elevating the quality of our offering and attracting high-end travellers.”

The development aims to redefine high-end wellness tourism in the region, blending health-focused hospitality with sustainable luxury.

The resort’s design will harmonise with its natural surroundings while minimising environmental impact. It will be built to BREEAM international certification standards, reflecting a commitment to sustainable development.