About Livin Stays Algarve

We are dedicated to providing exceptional accommodation experiences in the beautiful Algarve region.

The Beginning

More than just a key

Livin Stays Algarve is a family-run project by the Rufino family, rooted in the land long before welcoming guests through its doors. What began as a humble agricultural business growing fruit and vegetables for the local Tavira market has evolved, over generations, into a way of sharing the region’s authentic lifestyle with travellers from around the world. From fields to hospitality For decades, the Rufino family has cultivated the fertile Algarve soil, delivering fresh produce to the town’s wholesale market and building close relationships with the local community. When the opportunity arose to create hospitality ventures, the same care once devoted to orchards and vegetable fields was poured into restoring and curating welcoming places to stay.

Two worlds side by side Today, Livin Stays Algarve brings together an established portfolio of carefully chosen properties and the family’s ongoing agricultural activity, running both side by side. Guests are invited to experience Tavira and the Algarve as locals do: staying in homes that reflect the rhythm of the city and countryside, while still feeling the quiet presence of the orchards and fields that made it all possible. A genuinely local family As a local family with deep rural roots, the Rufinos value simplicity, honesty, and long-term relationships, whether with market vendors, neighbours, or guests. Every stay is shaped by this family spirit: warm welcomes, attentive support, and a genuine desire to ensure that each visit creates memories as enduring as the land they continue to work.

City Stays

Escaping from stress; soaking in the city vibe; wandering through culture and cafés.

Explore City

Relax Stays

Total disconnection. Leave stress behind, feel rejuvenated, enjoy quiet mornings.

Explore Relax

Meet the Team

The local faces dedicated to making your stay unforgettable.

Rodrigo Rufino

Founder & CEO

Rodrigo Rufino has already carved out his own path in the Algarve hospitality scene. Growing up around Quinta da Capelinha, his family's agrotourism estate, he developed an early passion for welcoming guests and sharing the best of Tavira. He launched his first rental property aged 20 and has since expanded his portfolio. For Rodrigo, hospitality is personal. He loves connecting with travelers from around the world and often shares oranges from the family groves or takes guests on tours through the orchards. His philosophy is simple: earn, reinvest, and keep growing.

Hélder Rufino

Founder & Chairman

Hélder Rufino is the founder of Quinta da Capelinha and the driving force behind our family of properties. A policeman by profession, he dedicates his off-duty hours to the land — overseeing agricultural operations across three farms to ensure every product meets the highest standards. His first venture into hospitality was Quinta da Capelinha, and he now guides the development of new properties in our growing portfolio. With extensive hands-on knowledge of construction, plumbing, electricity, steel framing, and mechanics, Hélder is the backbone of every project — the one who makes sure everything works, and works well.

João Galhardo

Operations Manager

João Galhardo is our Chief Operations Officer and the person who keeps everything running smoothly. Before joining the Rufino family to open Quinta da Capelinha, he built his expertise in the food and beverage industry, where he developed a deep understanding of service and what it takes to make guests truly happy. He also manages family-owned accommodations of his own. Today, João oversees all hospitality operations across our teams and facilities — from planning refurbishments and curating interior décor to photography and public launch. Whatever challenge arises, João is there to assist guests and team members alike, always finding the best solutions for memorable stays.

Get in Touch

We are here to help you plan your perfect stay.

reservations@livinstaysalgarve.com

Phone

+351 969 875 338

Address

Quinta da Capelinha CP 814-Z 8800-202 Tavira