Portland Holidays Direct   Thomas Cook Direct   MyTravel Direct

Airtours Direct   Direct Holidays   Cosmos Direct

Try these Useful Links and Resources:

Algarve Links  Holiday Videos  Holiday Bargains  Algarve Late Deals

Add H-U to your Favourites?  Add Your Review  Holiday Discounts

Alvor Hotels and Apartments A - Z

Alvorfeiras Apartments - Alvor

Operator and Date: Thomas Cook July 2007

Opinion submitted in August 2007 by : Barbara,Mark and Claire Hedley Newcastle-Upon-Tyne  (56,46,15) 

Resort Rating: Very Good

Accommodation Rating: Very Good

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

Club Alvor Ferais is a comfortable clean apartment complex. We stayed in a one bedroom apartment which was spacious apart from the balcony which was on the small side. There are two swimming pools although we were staying on the side of the reception we always used the pool on the other side which was quieter and we always got a sun bed. The only problem with the complex is there is no lift so getting your luggage up the stairs is hard work but worth the effort.

Alvor as a resort is great everything you could want plenty bars and restaurants and a beautiful large beach well worth the 20 minutes walk from the apartments.The centre of the resort is a 10 minute walk from the apartments downhill but quite easily done.

Our favourite bar was the Cactos II bar at the Dunas apartments which was run by Mark and Ali with help from Amanda. We found this on our third night and were made so welcome that we returned every night of our 2 weeks holiday. Mark sings and entertains for three hours everynight singing and playing guitar,  songs from the 60's to up to date. If you visit this bar once you will be sure to go again.

This was our first visit to the Algarve and we enjoyed everything about this holiday so much that we have already booked to go back again next July.

Book this Hotel Direct    Package Holidays    Holidays Direct    Last Minute

Alvorfeiras Apartments - Alvor

Operator and Date: (Panorama Direct) Panorama - may 2007

Opinion submitted in May 2007 by : Paul - Dublin 38,36,6,1

Resort Rating: Excellent

Accommodation Rating: Very Good

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

Alvor has to be one of the nicest resorts i have stayed in.Dont go if you are looking for a wild clubbing holiday ,not that type of place.It really has the best of both worlds, a fairly unspoiled beautiful little fishing village but with plenty of bars and restaurants to choose from,they are avoiding the nasty high rise look of other resorts. I cant say we had one bad meal in any retaurant so its hard to recommend one in particular, but do head toward the seafront and have some fresh fish barbequed in any of the sea food restaurants. 

Alvorferias apts were clean and very spacious.Not too far to town,about 10 mins walk, and beach about 20 mins walk. beach is amazing. Apts lacked a bit of descent entertainment at night although this may change as the season goes on. portuguese people are very friendly . if you take a taxi back at night they all charge the exact same and do not rip you off.(about 4 euro). we will be back. oh and have the stone steak,cooked at the table and the best!

Book this Hotel Direct    Package Holidays    Holidays Direct    Last Minute

Alvorfeiras Apartments - Alvor

Operator and Date: Booked Direct - Oct 2006

Opinion submitted in November 2006 by : Mr & Mrs Warrington

Resort Rating: Very Good

Accommodation Rating: Average

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

We had read reviews before we went on holiday and the apartments where what we expected - fairly basic but spacious and clean.  We were disappointed with on site facilities but none of that mattered because we loved Alvor.  We were a bit of a walk from the centre but it is downhill on way there and easy to get a cheap taxi back.  There are so many nice restaurants it is hard to name one above another.  There are loads of bars but they were fairly quiet while we were there.  We met people who recommended we go to the Cactos II Bar at the Dunas Apartments and it was the best bar in Alvor.  There was live music every night - Mark was brilliant.

We had great weather and the beaches are fantastic.  Will definitely be going back.

Book this Hotel Direct    Package Holidays    Holidays Direct    Last Minute

Alvorfeiras Apartments - Alvor

Operator and Date: (Airtours Direct) Airtours October 2006

Opinion submitted in October 2006 by : Jo and Steve, Midlands (33, 32)

Resort Rating: Excellent

Accommodation Rating: Very Good

My/Our Holiday Opinion:

Just back from a great week in Alvor. The accommodation was clean and spacious - we has a 1 bed appartment, although the balcony was extra small. The appartment was well equipped so if you were planning to eat in you would have everything you needed but we ate out every night.

We were on the reception-side of the complex and found there was always plenty of sunbeds whatever the time of day - probably due to the time of year. I imagine in high season it would be a bit cramped only because the beach is a fair old hike away. Probably in the heat of summer this is a hot and horrible walk.

This, combined with lots of stairs means this complex isn't at all suitable for anyone with mobility problems.

We only went to the beach twice on  the days when the weather was cooler but it was well worth the walk. Probably even when the beach is busy there will be plenty of space as it's so big, with perfect white sand.

(when I say the weather was cooler it was still shorts and T shirt weather and we were still in short sleeves at night)

The town itself again was a 10-15 minute walk away, all downhill, and every day we walked it it seemed to take less time! We loved the town, especially the restaurants. If you're a seafood fan you will love Alvor - the barbecued 'catch of the day' is hard to resist. Most of the bars were still well attended, even though it was October. We liked the Irish bars with live entertainment but there's plenty of choice to suit all tastes.

The stray dogs were ever-present but they seemed to ignore the tourists pretty much - they were more interested in socialising with each other than bothering humans.

We found the free maps really useful for the first couple of days until we found our bearings. Most shops and bars have copies so don't feel you'll miss out if you don't got to the welcome meeting (we didn't)

Transfers to the resort took about 2 hours but this was probably due to the time of year - our coach made several stops to pick up from 3 different resorts. I imagine during busier times the coach will be full of Alvor guests and it will drive straight there.

Alvor is a lovely combination of 'jsut developed enough' and traditional Portugal. There's enough good bars and restaurants for the town to feel lively but it's not full of night clubs or underage drinkers.

We would definitely go back but would probably choose accommodation closer to the beach.

Book this Hotel Direct    Package Holidays    Holidays Direct    Last Minute

Alvorfeiras Apartments - Alvor

Operator and Date: (Airtours Direct) Airtours - August 2006

Opinion submitted in August 2006 by : Richard Chandler - Edinburgh (45, 42, 8, 6)

Resort Rating: Excellent

Accommodation Rating: Good

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

The apartments are good (a/c is now available in all apts), of the two swimming pools we preferred the one on the side nearest the beach as it had grass, more shade and somehow seemed quieter than the other (though the other pool seemed to have a bigger shallower part of the main pool to swim in (which probably explains its' popularity).

In truth we enjoyed Alvor as a place so much, we only used the apartments as a base. Alvor seems to have arrived at a unique marriage of a resort having been commercialised (and thereby providing the facilities most are looking for), yet still retaining its' character. The town still has much Portuguese character and there are loads of great restaurants - in fact many are so rated that people were having to wait 30 mins for a table (don't let that put you off the wait was always worth it). We particuarly enjoyed Vagabond, Luistania, Casa da Rio, Adeja del Alvor.

Another great plus was the beaches - they were all superb and the beach bars/restaurants were universally excellent. In Alvor we preferred the beaches with rocky coves - Tres Irmanos etc - about 15 mins walk from the apts.

We hired a car - and went to Lagos (attractive atmospheric town) and the beaches outside, Carveiro (lovely down at the beach), Silves (interesting historic town - but not a "must-see" in my book, despite what the guide-books say)and down to Praia da Rocha/Praia do Vau - more great beaches/great beach bars.

Overall the highlight of the holiday were the restautrants and the buzz of Alvor together with great beaches, in a place that still made you feel you were in Portugal (much better than Albuferia in my mind).  The weather with a constant gentle breeeze was blissful - I guess hovering around 30 degrees.

Enjoy.....

Book this Hotel Direct    Package Holidays    Holidays Direct    Last Minute

Alvorfeiras Apartments - Alvor

Operator and Date: (Thomson Direct) Thomson - May 06

Opinion submitted in June 2006 by : Steph - Sheffield (34,32,5)

Resort Rating: Excellent

Accommodation Rating: Very Good

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

After reading some of the reviews, I was a little unsure as what to expect. However if you are going this year please DO NOT worry.  The transfer from the Airport was a little over a hr, but probably depending on the time of year it could be going on for 1hr 30 to 2hrs, we were the 1st drop of as well.

1st impressions on the apts were very good, the reception staff very helpful. The apts are on two sites across the road from each other, with a connecting bridge.Both have spacious pools of their own, the reception side one tended to be a bit busier as the pool side bar is at this side only. (but we went in May so not too over busy,) plenty of sunbeds for everyone. We were on the reception side in a 1 bedrm apt, which was very spacious. But the balcony was, well small to say the least. 2&3bdrm apts have big balconies.  The walk to town about 10-15mins down hill, the village took us a couple of days to get used to, when we did we loved it, and want to go back, its a old fishing village with little streets off each other, with plenty of pubs, restuarants.  I would recommend Grand Muralh? (chinese) The carvary (both at the bottom of road from Apts. And Goodvilles and La Angelo in town centre.  If you go to welcome meeting you will get a free map with the resturants on (well needed map) but you can pick them up from most shops, free. 
A few people mentioned the dogs, don't be too alarmed about this, they are harmless and spend most of the time asleep.
The walk to the beach was 20-25mins but well worth it when you get their, find a route that suits you best their is 2 or 3 different ways, but all down hill.

Even if you don't have kids and love water parks a must is Splash and Slide, its Fab, under 3's are free but if you have kids under 5 there isn't alot they can go on. Over 5's who can't swim can wear armbands. Our son loved it. We went with thomsons, cost was 20euros for adults and 16 for children.

We hired a car with the rep, for 2days, we visited Cape st Vincent, and Sagres one day and stopped of a a couple of fantastic beaches on route, (the beaches are Fab and loads to choose from.)  The 2nd day we vistited Monchique in the mountains and Foio (which has a fab viewing point, with the best views of the coastline).
The thompson Rep (claire) is a great source of info, she has been in the algave for 15yrs, she was very friendly and available to speak to every day except 1.

I would recommend Alvor without a doubt, the apts I would also recommend, but if you love to be nearer the beach then I would choose Dunas Do Alvor, these are 10mins each to town or the beach. But if you have already booked the Alvorferias who will still have a great time.
Enjoy.... I am soooooo jealous.
P.S the weather when we went (beginning of May) was very hot every day.

Book this Hotel Direct    Package Holidays    Holidays Direct    Last Minute

Alvorfeiras Apartments - Alvor

Operator and Date: (First Choice Discounts) First Choice - Sept 2005

Opinion submitted in Oct 2005 by : 39 41 nottingham

Resort Rating: Excellent

Accommodation Rating: Average

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

Just had 2 weeks in a fantastic resort end sept 05 . Brilliant weather lots to see and do.
But every night we had to go back to the NOISEY appartment with its noisey bed noisey traffic noisey dogs and noisey coach drop offs.These rooms are now tired and desparate for an upgrade
Ok there big the pools are v good and staff very friendly but-
No TV
Exposed broken sockets
3 minute maids
Towels sheets once aweek
Minimal crockery
Smelly drains/bathroom
Most overlook each other

We holiday 3 tmes a year these are 2 star they need a good revamp to get the 3 star there holding on to
Dont miss MEATLOAF at the Venue brill
Drinks vary from 2euros a pint to 4euros depending on entertainment
All resturants give good food but better to spend 10euros plus and get a fuller meal
I would go back to alvor but try and find better acommadation - theres not alot of selfcatering
DO NOT BUY A MEAL AT THE AIRPORT you will only throw it away
If you always wear a football shirt have 14 tattoos and drink from 930 am you will fit in quite well

Book this Hotel Direct    Package Holidays    Holidays Direct    Last Minute

Alvorfeiras Apartments - Alvor

Operator and Date: (First Choice Discounts) First Choice - Sept 2005

Opinion submitted in Oct 2005 by : Nicola, Staffordshire, 30,28

Resort Rating: Very Good

Accommodation Rating: Average

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

SEEPTEMBER 2005

If its a bit of luxury that you are after - DONT GO TO THIS PLACE!!  To be fair, its very clean, we certainly didnt experience any rowdyness, the apartments are very spacious and they were well stocked with crokery, etc not that we had any intention of staying in to cook.  But the rooms are very dated and its all rather drab!!  The beds were not brilliant and yes....the pillows are very lumpy!!  But as I said, it was very clean, tidy and lots of space.  The farm next to it is not that bad, if you can call it a farm!  A couple of nights there were some nasty pongs of cow manure! 
   
Our biggest moan was that it was a good 20/25 minutes walk from the beach - all uphill! Not what you want after a day on a hot beach. Not to bad on the way down.   Get a taxi on the way back.  There is a courtesy bus but i think the lastest it brings you back is 4pm.  The weather was so lovely, we never wanted to leave the beach till 5.30/6pm.   

We thought the actual resort- Alvor was lovely. As we stayed for the week, it was just right, two weeks and we would have started to get rather bored.  Its a charming small town with nice cobbled streets.  DONT WASTE YOUR TIME GOING TO PRAIA DA ROCHA!  ITS SUCH A DUMP!! Really cheap and nasty.  It was hard to find a decent restaurant.  I am so glad we didnt get stuck there for the week. 

We had some great meals, some not so good meals. The restuarants are not as cheap as you are led to believe.  

THE BEACH - WHAT CAN I SAY?  Fantastic.  The best part of the holiday was the beach.  Its really lovely. Massive wide stretch of pale sands, wide, backed by sand dunes, so peaceful.  It didnt get crowded.  There was so much beach.  Sea is pretty cold!!  Its appeal is also that it hasnt been ruined by building beachfront cafes and hotels.  A real delight!  Lovely refreshing breeze too most of the time.

All in all we loved the resort and the beach but we would never go back to these particular apartments again.        
 
Great weather - 7 days of sun, not a cloud in the sky.   

Book this Hotel Direct    Package Holidays    Holidays Direct    Last Minute

Alvorfeiras Apartments - Alvor

Operator and Date: (MyTravel Direct) My TRAVEL    AUG 2005

Opinion submitted in August 2006 by : SMITH  37 15 12 9

Resort Rating: Below Average

Accommodation Rating: Excellent

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

What can i say we landed late at night. Nearly had a stroke when the man at reception said we needed a bus to our appartment but as it happens it was only across the road. I think it was the better said to be on because the reception side was far to crowed. The pool and the area round it was excellent great bar an resturant food was lovely. The appartment was big we had a two bedroomed it was massive and was kept realy clean. Staff were realy friendly and helpful.

The only thing was that the night entertainment was crp pity because the complex was great but nothing much at night. As for Alvor well it was to quiet bordering on boring. We're not party animals or anything like that but even something to walk round at night would be nice it was just to boring. 

The one good thing was ALANS BAR it was fantastic for something to eat proper homemade food we ate in it every night first class. We did have a great time there and would advise people to go there it is very peaceful and very beautiful.

Book this Hotel Direct    Package Holidays    Holidays Direct    Last Minute

Alvorfeiras Apartments - Alvor

Operator and Date: (First Choice Discounts) First Choice August 2005

Opinion submitted in Oct 2005 by : Belfast ( 52,29,8,4)

Resort Rating: Very Good

Accommodation Rating: Good

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

Alvor - lovely town with lots of reasonably priced restaurants.For example, China Garden - 2 starters,3 main courses,1 kids meal,portion of noodles,2 large beers,2 pints coke and sprite, free gifts for kids - all for 30 euros! Lots of other restaurants offering similar meals at similar prices. Beach clean and plenty of space - head left to the coves.

On booking with First Choice we asked specifically for a quiet room - rang 3 times to confirm same.Asked if I should ring 2 weeks before and check. We were told " No need - request sent to Portugal office" On arrival we were allocated a room directly above reception with loud noise from the noisiest of the two pools  all day and coach arrivals at night. After asking politely to be moved we were given, 2 days later, a room on the top floor at the side away from reception which was more private but had the bar directly in front and the main road behind !
The junction on the road between the 2 halves of the apartment complex was dangerous to say the least - we saw 4 car crashes in 2 weeks and heard the screeching of brakes on many occasions ! Always use the footbridge - not a problem for us but older people ( or unfit ones! )found it hard going in the heat.  Take ear plugs and you can rule out the traffic noise at night. There was also considerable noise some nights from the baying dogs. We heard the cockeral twice - not too intrusive! The farm smell as mentioned in previous reports was not a problem - twice late at night we were aware of an over-whelming pong but it only lasted 15 mins or so !!

The Algharb Bar on the complex is fairly dingy, situated underground and lacks any appeal. The entertainment was fairly predictable and the kids disco only lasted 15-30 mins.It seems a pity to have to sit in a dark stuffy bar on a holiday and the option of walking down into town, eating nicer cheaper food and sitting outside watching the world go by in more salubrious surroundings was one we took every night. However, it would have been nice to have had the choice of dining somewhere better on the complex.

On a positive note the apartments were the most spacious we have stayed in and we had two balconies - one at the back off the well-equipped kitchen ( but with the main road behind ) and the other off the living room. Cooking facilities excellent,but kettle had whistle which does`nt work so one could boil it dry if not careful ( we were`nt and did !! )No bottle opener and no clothes dryer ( take washing line to dry clothes otherwise wind may blow clothing over if just left hanging on balconies )Loads of hot water all day long, plenty of towels, clean new beds and shutters in the second apartment which kept the hot sun out during daytime hours.Very hot at night ( air con and TVs to be installed for next summer )
Toilet in first apt was really smelly and we had to keep the seat down and the door closed at all times, however second apt. toilet was fine.

Although we used mosquito plug-ins at night and sprayed liberally with anti-insect sprays we got bitten a lot !

First Choice kids reps ( Kate and Hannah) were lovely girls and excellent with the children. Rep. Fernando was very approachable and helpful and as he has been doing the same job for 21 years he is professional and informative.

Regarding trips - Zoomarine is excellent ( both for adults and children ) although we found we could`nt fit everything in as you arrive at 10.30 and leave at 4.pm. Perhaps go a day you hire a car and stay as long as you like.(The day out can be booked cheaper downtown and is exactely the same coach pick up etc.)

However, if going on jeep safari make sure you are booked with a reputable company ( ie: one with safety harnesses,insurance!! and recommended by First Choice) It is a really good day out but as we were unfortunate to be on a jeep with no seat belts, a Portuguese driver who was on some sort of hallucinogenic drug !!! and an old open-topped jeep that broke down twice we were glad to arrive back safely. It was not a journey I would like to repeat again with two small children who had to be held in a stranglehold all day to prevent them catapulting out of the jeep! Having survived the experience it makes interesting conversation for years to come but was dangerous and foolhardy in the extreme ! One of us ( the 29 year old ) was in bed for a day after with a migraine due to the 6 hours hurtling on dirt tracks at speeds normally reserved for the racetrack !

We would return to the Algarve again,perhaps to another resort ( Simply to see more of the area not because Alvor was not nice )but although the Alvorferias Apartments have helpful reception staff, clean rooms,nice pools and the anticipated air-con would help immensely we would prefer somewhere quieter away from a main road.

Book this Hotel Direct    Package Holidays    Holidays Direct    Last Minute

Alvorfeiras Apartments - Alvor

Operator and Date: (Thomson Direct) Thomson - August 2005

Opinion submitted in Sept 2005 by : Wendy & Steve Moore 39&43 triplets 12

Resort Rating: Excellent

Accommodation Rating: Very Good

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

well our holiday was really smashing, we were pleased with our accomadation very basic, but lovley and clean the cleaners came every day, we were not far from the reception area and found no problems as regards noise having read some reviews i was expecting to be kept awake all night, this wasnt the case at all.

one huge disappointment was that the rooms had no T.V and with 3 kids to keep occupied that was hard to cope with as we found the evening entertainment for kids of 12 not very good.there was a bar called the Algharb bar, as the apartments were on both sides of a busy road easily reached by a bridge it meant we had to go over to the other part of the complex. 

Alvor town centre 10 mins walk with plenty of eating places too many to mention we tried a few and found all of them very good especially a chinese restaurant called Hong Kong Gardens, and a good meal for 5 of us was around 55 euros this included drinks sweets and coffee.good tips are available organised by the reps we went on 3 the portuguese evening, the market, and the best of the Algarve, splash and slide can be easily got to by bus not that far away.the pool at our apartments were very clean and well kept the kids club was very good. Mosquitoes were a problem so pack plenty of repellent. 

On the whole it was a very good holiday but we found a little expensive food wise.

Book this Hotel Direct    Package Holidays    Holidays Direct    Last Minute

Alvorfeiras Apartments - Alvor

Operator and Date: (Panorama Direct) Panorama - August 2005

Opinion submitted in Sept 2005 by : Rosemary, Michael (44,43,13,12,11,8)

Resort Rating: Excellent

Accommodation Rating: Excellent

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

Arrived at the site around 8.30pm giving us plenty of time to shop for essentials and then head to the town for something to eat.  Went to the Blue Reef restaurant and had a beautiful meal - can recommend it for children and adults alike.  Apartments very big and roomy but was a bit disappointed that we did not have a kettle and microwave as other ones in our block had. Full size cooker with three gas rings and one electric ring and full oven - plenty for all the time you spend in the apartments during holidays.  Yes we did hear the cockerel but it did not annoy anyone with us but the dogs did on one occasion only.
Spent a lot of time (too much time) in pogues irish bar Great craic every night and good music too - in fact my husband was offered a job singing but declined.

we had our four daughters with us and they had a whale of a time both at the pool and everywhere we went for entertainment.You must take a walk to the  harbour which is bustling with people every night and if you like fresh fish then this is the place for you.  We ate in the  chinese one night and found it to be good value for money.  I think it was called the grand muralha. Our youngest one qualified for the kids club but chose not to go despite the friendly club reps - we could not keep her out of the pool which we found to be safe but as always you must keep an eye on the kids.  Snacks in the poolside bar were lovely and you could bring them out to the sunbeds if you wished.  A flyer supplied by the apartments stated that air-conditioning and satellite would be installed for 2006 season.

Our apartment was on the reception side and we did not find it at all noisy but there were others much nearer to reception.
Did not like the climb to our apartment as we were on the third floor and in the heat 54 steps were a bit much especially trying to get suitcases up there but all in all we had a great holiday and i would recommend both the resort and the apartments to anyone except those who find walking or climbing difficult.

Book this Hotel Direct    Package Holidays    Holidays Direct    Last Minute

Alvorfeiras Apartments - Alvor

Operator and Date: (Thomson Direct) Thomson - July 2005

Opinion submitted in Aug 2005 by : 42, 36, 9, 8

Resort Rating: Excellent

Accommodation Rating: Very Good

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

Arrived back from a really great holiday in Alvor, Portugal yesterday, 4th Aug 2005. Had a wonderful time and will definitely be going back next year. It is a quaint little fishing village but I refer to it as a town as it had plenty of shops, restaurants and bars to accommodate most ages. It has not become too commercialised and thankfully does not have a MacDonalds or Kentucky!!

The weather was great - really hot but lovely with the constant breeze. Best to make sure you take a really high factor suncream as the wind makes it feel cooler than it really is.

The apartments were basic but big. Small but compact balcony with no washing line or airer though but did have 2 chairs and table. All was clean and as they have plenty of windows and opposing balcony doors, they are nice and cool as the breeze blows through which was needed as there is no air conditioning. There were no instructions for the oven or hob but we didnt need to use it as i was not intending to cook anything. Best to take a travel kettle as you will have to use the one in the apartment which is an old style whistle one. This goes on the gas hob and takes ages to boil! Pillows were awful - really lumpy and only got one each! Still so tired it didn't matter too much and you get used to it. Nice big bathroom with plenty of towels. This was our first time in an apartment - usually go in hotel - were much happier with the extra space but had to buy dishcloth and washing up liquid - none supplied. There were 2 swimming pools (one on each side of road bridge). Pool snack bar provided good service and food. Watch the kids if they cant swim too well as no lifeguards and very limited shallow end! Plenty of beds though and you hire the mats for the beds at 1 euro each but well worth the added comfort. We were situated on the top floor and there are no lifts - not a problem in general but hard work getting luggage up and down them!

Heard the cockerel that others mention but not too much of a problem. Some noise with others arriving 'home' in the middle of the night a bit worse for wear but you have to expect that some families kids are not in bed by 10pm like ours!

Thomson reps were wonderful and Reception staff were very helpful. Bought 2 mossie machines and did not see one mosquito - yipee!

Was quite a walk into town about 15 mins and the same to the beach but was downhill which was easy enough and we mostly got taxi's back each time rather than walk up the hill.
Food was absolutely wonderful. We saw the fishermen take the fish just having been caught  up to the restaurants for them to barbeque them that day - can't get much fresher than that!

We didn't have one bad meal. The best was probably The Captains Table - near the harbour and Vagabond Steak House. Wonderful fish or lamb or chicken kebabs served with chips and salad and often bread and olives for 11.50 euros. We tried Sea Bass, Swordfish, Sardines, and Monkfish and all were superb. They really know how to cook and the waiters are all really friendly and dont mind if you want to share an adult meal with a child. Childrens menus are widely available but all the usual stuff like chick nuggets, fish fingers, spag bolognaise. These are fine but we wanted our children to try some of the local dishes so shared our adult portions and there was more than enough for all. Cheaper to drink Sangria than Fanta! Beach was wonderful but take some drinks with you if you can - the restaurants and bars are a long way from the water's edge!

Visited Alvor beach which is lovely and also Praia de Rocha beach which is really wide and beautiful but much busier.
Taxi from town to Alvorferia apartments is 3.90 euros but always gave 5 euros to allow for tip!
Got taxi transfer from Faro to apartment - took 50 mins and cost 60 euros. Booked one back from place in Alvor town called 'Best Days' for 40?!! Nice, airconditioned mini bus for just us four and had booster seats for kids.
Went on a trip with 'Sealife' down at the harbour and this cost around ?130 (alot) but it was to go on a really fast rescue type boat to see the wild dolphins - quite an experience - bumpy but safe ride and all allocated with life jackets and wind/rain coats. However no dolphins were around - i was really disappointed but they offered us another free trip when they had an available space. Unfortunately they will not book you in though - you have to go to the harbour 10 mins before the boat is due to leave and take pot luck to see if any spare places! No spare places for us and then no time to take other chances as we had other excursions booked and then had to fly home a couple of days later.

I think this would be a great trip but book for the morning at around 10am when the water is calm - the dolphins are more likely to be there then. Also do this if you can early in your holiday to allow for opportunity to take up the offer of the free trip if no dolphins seen first time!

Went on another trip - this time Sailing for 3.5 hrs on the Trigana - this too is at the harbour in Alvor. Lovely original portugese sailing boat. Free Sangria on board or 1? for soft drink or small can beer. Nice crew. Swam from boat to sandbank and kids collected shells. Relaxing time had by all. Had 2 fishing rods on board so you can do some fishing. If fish are caught they will barbeque them for you on board!

Wanted to do so much more but not enough time in a week so going back next year.

Book this Hotel Direct    Package Holidays    Holidays Direct    Last Minute

Alvorfeiras Apartments - Alvor

Operator and Date: (Airtours Direct) Airtours June 2005

Opinion submitted in Sept 2005 by : mave vin rich stace drew megan gav amy

Resort Rating: Excellent

Accommodation Rating: Excellent

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

alvorferias was brill went june 23 very hot but nice breeze, hotel food great nice large pools, very friendly staff especially johny in the bar entertainment every night we loved karaoke we had great nights in the bar, it was johnys birthday so he brought out plenty of shoots out for us to enjoy his birthday, kids club was great and they done kids discos before the entertainment started, rooms was nice they had 2 shops on site noy much food too choose from in centre but who cares we loved it but their is a place in the centre called phoenix which did sunday dinners which was great we definetly go their again soon. im in my 20s and i loved it and so did my parents whos in their 40s.

Book this Hotel Direct    Package Holidays    Holidays Direct    Last Minute

Alvorfeiras Apartments - Alvor

Operator and Date: (Airtours Direct) Airtours - June 2005

Opinion submitted in July 2005 by : Davi, Jean - Belfast ( 54, 51 )

Resort Rating: Very Good

Accommodation Rating: Very Good

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

On our arrival it was late on a Sunday night and everything was closed other than the bar which had 3 or 4 noisy drunks in it.  So much for first impressions.  Next morning we explored the apartments area and town.  Some how everthing looked much nicer than the night before.  To start the apartment was the largest we had ever been to. 

The kitchen was nearly as big as home and included a proper cooker and oven.  All the usual utensils to include microwave and kettle.  Everything was spotlessly clean but perhaps a little dated.  The restaurant was rather expensive overall by approx 50% in comparison to the rest of the town.  Although breakfast was served from 9am, when we tried we couldnt get served at 10am by a rather grumpy portugese lady who made it quite clear that we were a nuisance and would rather customers didnt come in to mess up her routine.  Nothing new about that, as you'll get that anywhere.  All the rest of the staff where friendly and helpful.  There was quite  extensive entertainment every night but with the large amount of small children this was spoilt for us but nobodys fault. The town was a 10 min walk down a moderate hill.  Even I did'nt mind the walk which is saying something.  Alvor is a typical nice little Portugese town.  There are numerous small bars and restaurants to suit every taste.  So cheap sometimes I had to examine the bill as I thought that there was a mistake.

The only downside of the holiday was DOGS.
There are dozens and dozens of all sizes roaming freely.  If you had a dog phobia then this not for you.  At night these dogs seem to form packs. On our second night a pack attacked another dog. The noise at 4am was quite deafening.

All in all we had a good holiday and have no problems about going back or of recommending the Alvorferias Apartments or Alvor

Book this Hotel Direct    Package Holidays    Holidays Direct    Last Minute

Alvorfeiras Apartments - Alvor

Operator and Date: (First Choice Discounts) First Choice (Falcon) - May 2005

Opinion submitted in Sept 2005 by : Suzie (24) and Graham (27)

Resort Rating: Excellent

Accommodation Rating: Very Good

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

We were quite worried after reading many reports on Alvorferias stating that it was old, unclean etc.  However on arrival we were both relieved and very happy with our accomodation.  Clean apartments, nice furniture and well equiped kitchen.  The supermarket inside the complex was really cheap and so handy.  Likewise the food in the pool side bar was really nice and reasonable also.

Most days we heading to the gorgeous beach only 20 min walk and so relaxing.  The night-life was quite low key but really good cocktail bar in the village and also Irish bars with good live music.  Every meal we ate was beautiful in many of the restaurants, ir seems there is such a high standard of food as the competition for food is so strong.  Also there is not many people out on the street dragging you in for a drink shot etc, unlike resorts in Spain. 

All in all great relaxing holiday.

Book this Hotel Direct    Package Holidays    Holidays Direct    Last Minute

Alvorfeiras Apartments - Alvor

Operator and Date: flyglobespan - march/april 2005

Opinion submitted in Apr 2005 by : Fred - Edinburgh - 42,41,13,7

Resort Rating: Very Good

Accommodation Rating: Very Good

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

Very good apartments, big and roomy. The cleaners came around most mornings.
A ten minute walk into Alvor or a 4 euro taxi ride.
It was a bit quiet at this time of year but still warm enough.
The resort is split in two by a main road with a pedestrian bridge to get you across, but you have pools both sides so no real problems.
Found a great irish bar - the black stove - cheap for drinks and the singer was very good, a big bonus was it has a downstairs games room for the kids which had a cctv link to the main bar so you could watch what was going with them and relax.

We will be going back

Book this Hotel Direct    Package Holidays    Holidays Direct    Last Minute

Alvorfeiras Apartments - Alvor

Operator and Date: (MyTravel Direct) My Travel - Feb 2005

Opinion submitted in May 2005 by : Ste - Leigh, Lancs (41,39,13)

Resort Rating: Excellent

Accommodation Rating: Excellent

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

First time to Portugal, normally a Greek island man myself but was talked into giving the Algarve a try.

What have I been missing!!

The apartments are fantastic, extremely spacious and well equipped.

Facilities at the apartments were okay 2 fantastic pools but in mid-february were just above freezing point. The bar is fine with sky sports, decent staff and a pretty good cold lager. The entertainment (?) is extremely tedious a fat bloke with a portable telly and a 20quid karaoke machine from Argos (couple of nights a week), a 3rd rate bloke with guitar (just kicked out of a labour club in Wigan), and the ubiquitous disco( a couple of hours of screamming kids sliding across the dancefloor).

Take a ten minute walk into Alvor, although a quarter of the bars and restaurants were closed in Feb you will still have a cracking night out.

Best bars:-

Black Stove - The owner is a half decent quitarist/singer who plays every night at 10pm. Beer and wine a little pricey but well worth it.

Paddy's Bar - on the left just past the taxi rank. Small cosy, cracking pint of Guinness.

Best Restaurants:-

Very difficult as there isn't a bad one.

Goodville - Try the monster meat kebab on a skewer.

Vagabondo Steak house - Beautiful steaks, staff are very nice.

Grande Muralha - Chinese Restaurant. Unbelievable value for money.

Somewhere Else - Cook your own steaks at the table on a red hot stone!! A great laugh.

Any of the fish restaurants near the harbour.

Going to try this place again, ranked in my top 5 places in Europe. Loved it!!!!

Book this Hotel Direct    Package Holidays    Holidays Direct    Last Minute

Alvorfeiras Apartments - Alvor

Operator and Date: (First Choice Discounts) First Choice - 2005

Opinion submitted in Feb 2006 by : john mcdowell - Blackpool

Resort Rating: Average

Accommodation Rating: Good

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

This was a nice place to stay. But the nighly entertainment was rubbish.

Book this Hotel Direct    Package Holidays    Holidays Direct    Last Minute

Alvorfeiras Apartments - Alvor

Operator and Date: (First Choice Discounts) First Choice-2005

Opinion submitted in July 2005 by : reece carpenter - kettring- 13 ian carpenter - kettering -35-tara carpenter -kettering- 36 tyler carpenter- kettering- 09

Resort Rating: Excellent

Accommodation Rating: Excellent

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

my names reece and we went to alvor in portagul and it was very good. we went to the alvor ferias and it was good the entertainment was good if you have children if you are eldely it is not suitible for you as it has lots of steps.THATS ONLY IF YOU HAVE BAD LEGS.
IF YOU HAVE A FAMILY IT IS QUITE HARD TO HAVE A SHOWER BECUSE the water tank only holds 1 litre and you have to  wait about two hours for the water to get hot again.
i would recomend this to anyone!
we flew with fisrt choice and you can't beat them they are so good don't fly with thomson world of tui.zoo marine is not worth the money.at the apartmants you have to buy a toaster for 2 euros.

it is very spacouis and is so good the swimming pool is so big

thanks alot the carpenters

Book this Hotel Direct    Package Holidays    Holidays Direct    Last Minute

Alvorfeiras Apartments - Alvor

Operator and Date: lunn poly - october 2004

Opinion submitted in May 2005 by : kevin 41, Rena 39, Lauren 13, Jenny 12, Reece 11, Mitchell 9 - Boston, Lincs

Resort Rating: Good

Accommodation Rating: Good

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

Alvor was our first trip to portugal, and we found it a little quiet for our taste, with having 4 kids with us, but overall the resort is very pretty.  The apartments are quite a walk out of town, uphill coming back, but fairly nice, very clean and spacious. There is a club/disco on site, with your typical holiday entertainment, karaoke, bingo, talent contests.  A must do is the 'Jeep Safari' which is a brilliant ride up into the hills, some scary tracks at times, but excellent value for money, and 'Henk' our driver was hilarious.

Beach is lovely once you get to it, but far away from these apartments but OK if you dont mind walking.

Somewhere with more to do next holiday I think.

Book this Hotel Direct    Package Holidays    Holidays Direct    Last Minute

Alvorfeiras Apartments - Alvor

Operator and Date: (Airtours Direct) Airtours -Sept 2004

Opinion submitted in Jan 2005 by : Lorraine  and Alan Blake 51,53, Milnrow Rochdale

Resort Rating: Excellent

Accommodation Rating: Good

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

After booking to go to the Club Praia De Rocha  (see other report)and demanding to be moved, this place was a palace. We were on the third floor the kitchen was fully equipped with a full sized cooker and a brand new microwave and grill (2 rings in the other place.)The place was clean and overlooked the garden with banana fig and palm tree (the other one was over looked  by  the apartments next door and had no sun all day)We opened the front door in this one the sun was shining through the window, we thought we had gone to heaven. The room had a 3 peice white suite that was alittle worn but it was spotless.

I sat on the balcony and had a gin and tonic before I unpacked.I was now on holiday 3 days after we had left home.
ALVOR town just 10 mins stroll down the hill was fab. Lots of bars and places to eat. When we looked at the top of the hill when in the town it was a lovely site cafes had bbq outside cooking fish from sardines to great big things (did not know what most of them were)the atmoshere was brilliant. People just stolling with families everyone seemed to be smiling. 

We found a great little  real italian that someone had recommended but there was a queue. We went the next night and got a table. It was round the back of one of the main  streets.Went twice brilliant food and not to dear. We went to the stone grill I had ostrich I asked him to make sure he did not overcook it. He said he would not overcook it because I was to cook it my self on a what looked like a flagstone my husband had chicken and we had real chips great meal there too. The chinese how anyone can say that it was expensive to eat in Alvor I really do not know  we paid 9euro for 3 courses and a bottle of wine. Alan got a gold Bhudda and I got a tigers eye bracelet as a fee gift. We ate in 10 different place and they was not one meal either of us did not enjoy.

It was a festival in Portugal and they had entertainment down in the harbour all the different nationalities enjoying every minute.
So what we thought was going to be a holiday from hell turned out to be one of the best we had had. So we were glad the club priaia de rocha was rubbish because we would never have found Alvor

Book this Hotel Direct    Package Holidays    Holidays Direct    Last Minute

Alvorfeiras Apartments - Alvor

Operator and Date: (First Choice Discounts) First Choice-aug-sept 2004

Opinion submitted in Sept 2004 by : 52,37,15,7

Resort Rating: Excellent

Accommodation Rating: Very Good

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

arrived in alvor at 12.20pm quickly took to our room then settled before having a look around the complex we were impressed by how clean it was .surprised to hear about most complaints as our only complaint was the complex needs a little up dating Staff all excellent (especially joeall) who worked in the bar.

Alvor town was gr8 had loads of lovely retaurants and bars definately recommend Goodville great meals.Although beach is quite far away well worth the walk or if you get a taxi it will only cost you 5 euros.zoomarine is well worth the money.

monday night live at the casio was great but a bit pricey.Slide and splash great family fun First choice rep candice and also kids reps were very friendly.

All in All an amazing holiday experience will definately be goin back in the near future

john and tracey
justine and megan

Book this Hotel Direct    Package Holidays    Holidays Direct    Last Minute

Alvorfeiras Apartments - Alvor

Operator and Date: eclipse august 2004

Opinion submitted in Sept 2004 by : julie wood kent ( 38, 34, 13, 9, 2.

Resort Rating: Good

Accommodation Rating: Below Average

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

On arrival we were dissapointed on the apartment as it was not particularly clean and very basic. We were lucky enough to have lovely hot water in the bath and shower, unlike some other rooms. The pool was very crowded (reception side) and was full of teenagers which made it difficult for our youngest to go in swimming as they were very boisterous. Also the pool was very deep.

Alvor village was ok. found some lovely places to eat and kids were made very welcome. Candice, our rep was really good ans was a familiar face every day. The beach was great too and we went there every day on the mini bus for 6 euros.Would recommend the Blue Reef restaraunt and the one opposite goodville's which I can't remember the name of!!

Book this Hotel Direct    Package Holidays    Holidays Direct    Last Minute

Alvorfeiras Apartments - Alvor

Operator and Date: (First Choice Discounts) First Choice August 2004

Opinion submitted in Aug 2004 by : Frost Family, Norwich (40, 38, 12 and 10)

Resort Rating: Very Good

Accommodation Rating: Good

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

Just returned from Alvor and, despite being worried after reading the reviews posted previously, was pleasantly surprised.  

The room did leave abit to be desired with regards to the kitchen facilities, but we made do and I would recommned taking a kettle!  The room was large and had a balcony big enough for drinks in the evening.  We were on the side oppostite the reception area and away from the farm (room 2422)so werent bothered by the farmyard noises other holiday makers spoke about.  We were aware of the busy noise from the roads nearby, I hadnt realised just how busy the road was but you did get used to it.  Also we were aware of the coach noises, especially on a Thursday when lots of people arrive and leave. 

The pools were good fun for the children cold at first but great once your body gets used to it.  The poolside entertainment was not brilliant, water polo and basketball played twice a day, but the children obvioulsy enjoyed it. 

Alvor itslef is lovely, about a mile walk down the main road and into the Harbour where there are loads and loads of lovely restaurants to suit all tastes and budgets.  We rented a car for 3 days and drove to Zoomarine, aqualand and then a day travelling around, up to the mountains to the spa area and down to lagos where there are some beautiful beaches and we hired a little boat to take us around the caves which were magnificent and well worth the 30 euro cost for our family.

The evening entertainment is abit broing the 2nd week as you have seen it all before, but the reps and the singer try their best.  I wouldnt necessary return to this accomodation but I would go back to Alvor sometime in the future, the weather was beautiful and the algarve was amazine.  Dont bother going to Praire de Roache, it was awful really busy, nightclubs, dirty streets and people trying to get you to go to their restaurants.

Book this Hotel Direct    Package Holidays    Holidays Direct    Last Minute

Alvorfeiras Apartments - Alvor

Operator and Date: (First Choice Discounts) First Choice - August 2004

Opinion submitted in Aug 2004 by : Olive - Ireland (44, 29, 4, 2)

Resort Rating: Very Good

Accommodation Rating: Very Good

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

We have just returned from the Alvorferias Apartments in Alvor after a one week stay. The weather was fantastic. Just what we needed. We stayed "over the bridge" away from the Reception side. It was lovely. The pool was busy each day, with lots of kids. The one fault that we were very dissapointed with was that the childrens pool was quite deep and didn't have any steps going into it. If your children couldn't yet swim, like ours, then it wasn't ideal.

The pool area was lovely though, plenty of sunbeds and mats for the beds available to rent for ?1 per day per mat. The staff were mostly lovely, except for one male member of staff in the bar/restaurant. The staff seemed to be very busy at times and perhaps could have done with a lot more help. We found the food very good on site and ate down in Alvor village quite a bit too.

Overall we enjoyed the trip a lot. We took a day trip to the Zoo Marine one day and it was great. Lots to do and see and there are some fantastic swimming pools. A great one for the kids.

It was our second time to Portugal, first to Alvor, and I wouldn't hesitate to recommend the accommodation to others. We had a really big apartment, and everything that we needed was available to us. The shower wasn't great, but all in all ............. a great holiday. We miss the sunshine the most!!!

Book this Hotel Direct    Package Holidays    Holidays Direct    Last Minute

Alvorfeiras Apartments - Alvor

Operator and Date: (Cosmos Discounts) Cosmos - July 2004

Opinion submitted in Aug 2004 by : Christine Livesey - Leeds (43,41,12)

Resort Rating: Average

Accommodation Rating: Average

My/Our Holiday Opinion:

Booked this holiday as a last minute deal which we were glad about when we saw the appts. 

The appts are on two sides of a main road connected via a foot bridge.When you book or arrive try to get a room on the side away from the reception as alot of people were complaining about the noise.The appts are a bit outdated and averagely clean.In our appt there was always a drainy smell which was cured by leaving toilet lid down and plugs left in sink.Entertainment was poor in an evening ,downstairs in a smokey room.Pool opens at 09:00 and there are plenty of sunbeds,lovely and clean pool but floor rough around edges.

Alvor itself is okay but eating out is very expensive,recommend LA piazza just as you enter the town. We did enjoy the holiday and felt pleased that we hadnt paid full price as some people had done.Cosmos  welcoming  meeting left alot to be desired ,lasted about two minutes.

The final question would be... would we go again ?  NO.

Book this Hotel Direct    Package Holidays    Holidays Direct    Last Minute

Alvorfeiras Apartments - Alvor

Operator and Date: (First Choice Discounts) First Choice - June 2004

Opinion submitted in July 2004 by : Wadsworth - Derbys (41,39,37,10,4)

Resort Rating: Very Good

Accommodation Rating: Excellent

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

After reading some of the reports we were quite apprehensive about what would be waiting for us at the other end, but we needn't have worried.  We had a top floor apartment which was spacious, clean and well equipped (although a little dated), which overlooked the farm.  This caused little disturbance as we neither saw nor smelled the pigs, although for the first few mornings we were woken early by the cockerals, but soon got used to the sound.

It was a 10 minute walk into the village, which had restaruants to suit all tastes and pockets, with most making children welcome.

If you are thinking of hiring a car, do so over the internet before you go as we paid half the asking price of anything we saw advertised locally.  If you do hire a car go to Portimao where you can find a Lidl and large supermarket across the road, as the price of food is a lot cheaper than the shops on site.

Overall we had a brilliant holiday and will certainly consider returning in the future.

Book this Hotel Direct    Package Holidays    Holidays Direct    Last Minute

Alvorfeiras Apartments - Alvor

Operator and Date: June 2004

Opinion submitted in June 2004 by : Hannah McCourt - Leicester (36,31,3 & 1)

Resort Rating: Excellent

Accommodation Rating: Good

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

Having read the reviews on this site i was a little apprehensive about the accommodation.

However, i was happily suprised.  Our 1 bedroom apartment was basic but spacious and situated on the "reception" side of the complex.

The only negatives of these apartments are:
No lifts - pushchairs have to be carried up and down the stairs
Noise - dogs barking/guests coming back after a night out!

On the positive side the rooms were clean, the staff friendly and helpful.

Alvor itself is wonderful. There are loads of restaurants and bars to visit.  The Pyramid Steak House is a must.

The beach is a definite.  Very clean and it costs 9 euros to hire 2 sunbeds, mats and canopy.

Must mention Elaine and Hannah Banana who ran the First Choice kids club.  They did a grand job.

Also Candice, another First Choice rep was very friendly and helpful.

I would definitely recommend these apartments and especially Alvor as we had a fantastic time.

P.S. there is loads space to hang clothes - but not much use if you don't have coat hangers - so don't forget to pack some!!

Book this Hotel Direct    Package Holidays    Holidays Direct    Last Minute

Alvorfeiras Apartments - Alvor

Operator and Date: (First Choice Discounts) First Choice - May 2004

Opinion submitted in July 2004 by : David Baker - 42, 37,10, 7

Resort Rating: Average

Accommodation Rating: Poor

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

Well where do we start. We arrived after a 2 hours transfer to be told at 2.30pm our room was not ready. We went to the bar and after an hour they called for a mini bus to take us to the room. We were in block 400 across the bridge and on entering the room we were taken back by the smell. Having looked around trying to locate it we opened the fridge which I can only describe as growing mould. Not a little but full and horible. The kitchen units were worn and dirty, the bathroom had a dark dirty brown bath, toilet and sink. The tap on the sink did not stop running, the shower was either cold or scalding. We had a balcony for 4 which was no more that 3ft x 3ft with 2 seats. The beds rattle with every movement. 

The apartment was above the main road which was busy most of the night. Only consulation is the pool area is OK but the pool side bar service very slow with one person serving all. The beach is about 25 minutes walk away and although very nice it is a long way back. The town has some nice bars and streets but there is nothing for the kids to do at night other than watch and listen to live music.

The best place by far is Michaels Bar, get down there for some fun.

If you get over the other side of the bridge then the animals on the farm next door will wake you up.

Not a place I would go back to. Although we may have just been unlucky based on other reviews.

Book this Hotel Direct    Package Holidays    Holidays Direct    Last Minute

Alvorfeiras Apartments - Alvor

Operator and Date: (First Choice Discounts) First Choice  - may 2004

Opinion submitted in June 2004 by : dave &ashley -west yorkshire

Resort Rating: Excellent

Accommodation Rating: Good

My/Our Holiday Opinion:

The appartments are ageing but adequate ,the staff were friendly and helpful.the pool area and public areas was kept clean and tidy,food and drink a touch pricey but good portions ,
Alvor town nice and laid back good selection of resturants .recommend the RIO MAR good set menu 3courses for 7euros clean and tidy.
all in all we had a great holiday in Alvor
and would recommend Alvor and the Alvoferias apts

Book this Hotel Direct    Package Holidays    Holidays Direct    Last Minute

Alvorfeiras Apartments - Alvor

Operator and Date: (First Choice Discounts) First Choice - April 2004

Opinion submitted in May 2004 by : Amanda - Huddersfield (42, 34, 13, 11)

Resort Rating: Excellent

Accommodation Rating: Good

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

Having read several reviews about this accommodation I was a little apprehensive prior to arrival. I needn't have worried - we had a super time!

Staff were friendly and spoke excellent English. The apartments were basic but very clean and functional and yes...we had a squeaky bed but it added to the fun??!! We didn't however eat in the poolside cafe or restaurant, preferring to eat in Alvor.

The resort of Alvor was wonderful with some great restaurants - we were spoilt for choice! Alvor was easy walking distance from the apartments. Plenty of shops with friendly, helpful staff.

On the whole a fantastic seven days with super weather - even my teenage son enjoyed himself! Would recommend!

Book this Hotel Direct    Package Holidays    Holidays Direct    Last Minute

Alvorfeiras Apartments - Alvor

Operator and Date: (Cosmos Discounts) Cosmos - March 2004

Opinion submitted in Apr 2004 by : Susan & Harry Ellison - Sunderland (50,67)

Resort Rating: Excellent

Accommodation Rating: Excellent

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

We thought that this was the best apartment we had ever stayed in. We found all of the staff to be very polite and helpful all speaking excellent English. We were near to the reception but did not experience any noise.  

The apartment was very large and comfortable, the kitchen had a fridge, gas rings, kettle and was well stocked in the cutlery and crockery range.  The bathroom had both a bath and shower, toilet and bidet. The maids came into the apartment every day and changed towels etc. and mopped and cleaned all of the tiled floors.  There was a swimming pool and a coffee bar/snack bar on our side and across the road which was accessed by a footbridge were more apartments, the restaurant, the nightly entertainment and another swimming pool.

The bus stops were just outside of the apartments, but it was only 6 or 7 euros for a taxi which we thought very reasonable.  It took about 10 minutes to walk into Alvor which was a very quaint little fishing village.  No McDonalds but plenty of local cafes, restaurants, chinese and indian included.  We went to the shopping centre at Portamao (Modello) which had an excellent supermarket and upstairs had various shops, and a food court.  If you had a rainy day there was also a multi screen cinema, we had 21 days of lovely sunshine. Near to Modello in Portamao was Lidl which was well worth a visit for cheap shopping. We hired a car and visited Lagos, Cape St Vincent, Sagres and monchique the mountain area all well worth a visit. Sadly due to last years forest fires there was a lot of damage. 

We will definately return to these apartments.

Book this Hotel Direct    Package Holidays    Holidays Direct    Last Minute

Alvorfeiras Apartments - Alvor

Operator and Date: (First Choice Discounts) First Choice

Opinion submitted in Dec 2004 by : Joanne Vyse (Manchester) (30, 27, 5)

Resort Rating: Very Good

Accommodation Rating: Excellent

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

These apartments are spacious and include all the mod cons; cooker, microwave, kettle and fridge.  We hired a toaster from Reception which was 2.50 euros per week.

We stayed in the Reception block which was away from the farm.  We could hear the rooster but thankfully it never woke us up at night.

There was no childrens entertainment when we went although the bar (which was situated across the bridge) had entertainment every night; bingo, karaoke, parrot show, quiz night and a singer.

The beach was about a 15 minute walk and Alvor Town Centre was less then 5 minutes away.  It had little streets with lovely bars and restaurants.

The harbour was beautiful with boats and fishermen in huts.

The Zoomarine is a must for everyone.  The parrot, dolphin and sealion shows were brilliant and the rides for the children are included in the price so they can go on them as many times as they like.  It cost us about 66 euros but it was money well spent.

We would like to return here in the summer as there was no childrens entertainment when we went and the complex did have a Bugs Bunny Club.

Book this Hotel Direct    Package Holidays    Holidays Direct    Last Minute

Alvor Golf Apartments - Alvor

Operator and Date: (MyTravel Direct) My Travel - Date Not Specified

Opinion submitted in Apr 2004 by : colin christian 44 wife pam 42

Resort Rating: Good

Accommodation Rating: Very Good

My/Our Holiday Opinion:

the alvor golf is not for those that don't like a walk or the elderly as its a good 15 min walk to the town,the apparts themselves were exelent spacious with all essentials,toaster.microwave  4 ring cooker kettle etc.the pool is small and deep in a nice sun trap.and the staff very friendly..there is a free  bus for the patrons of the quinta nova [next door] which will take you into town in the morning or to the beach and return you at 4pm.though we never used it lots of alvor guests did with no questions asked.

alvor itself is not very big you can see most of it on foot in about two hours,lots of shops and a good few bars.its not like tennerife or turkey where they try and drag you into there bar its all quite easy going,it does have the usual timeshare rodents but two little words the second one being off soon gets the message across.

my favorite watering hole was the panda bar on the right as you walk intowards town,run by an irish woman tess murphy,good cheap food and nothing is a problem for her,she even had me behind the bar serving myself when she was busy,great fun.lots of the trips seemed very expensive as much as 45 euros.all in all anice place but fairly quiet.the good points we made lots of new friends and drank beer..QUALITY...only went for a week and to be honest if i go back a week is enough.....

Book this Hotel Direct    Package Holidays    Holidays Direct    Last Minute

Alvor Jardim - Alvor

Operator and Date: Booked Direct

Opinion submitted in July 2006 by : S & J  --  Sussex [ late 50s]

Resort Rating: Average

Accommodation Rating: Average

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

The hotel is reported on in other reviews .It is a bit tired and could do with some refurbing and TLC .
The big news is that the land immediately behind the hotel pool is a building site and will be , we were told , for 2 years . This means noise , dust and dirt from 8am to 7pm six days per weeks .
The pool is really only useable on Sundays .
We moved rooms and , if you chose a room at the front of the hotel , away from the building noise etc , there is noise from the busy main road from early til late .
Irene is very helpful , but she cannot change either of these facts .

As to Alvor , it is far noisier - and dirtier -  than we expected and it was extremely windy during most of our stay .
The best restaurant is Casa do Rio on the cliff above the "harbour" . Very nice food and very helpful staff .
2nd best [ and one of the cheapest ] is A Chefe Joao  --  a tiny place on the main road close to the Soares Wine/Spirits shop. Really friendly and excellent value .
If you are taking home in particular Irish Whiskey , then it is worth knowing that the Soares shop is cheaper and has a far better selection than Faro Airport - which remains an awful place .
Being taxied to and from the airport is much more convenient than the alternative coach run .

Book this Hotel Direct    Package Holidays    Holidays Direct    Last Minute

Alvor Jardim - Alvor

Operator and Date: (Thomson Direct) Thomson - Just Brochure - 2005

Opinion submitted in July 2005 by : Debra Kent - Warrington (25, 43, 51, 2)

Resort Rating: Very Good

Accommodation Rating: Very Good

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

My parents stayed at the Alvor Jardim in 2003 and 2004 and my son and I went with them this year. My parents warned me that Alvor was a bit quiet and might not be to my taste, but it was busy enough for me, especially with a 2 year old!

The apartments were clean but basic and the pool area was nice but the water was freezing! The litle bar by the pool was quite cheap and the staff were friendly.

The resort itself is very picturesque with locals mingling with the tourists. The are ample restaurants and bars dotted around the place - we ate out every night and the meals were nice. My fave was the portugese style Tuna, mmmmmm!

Only bad point was the woman who stood every day outside the little supermarket on the pedestrianised main street who was asking everyone for cigarette - it got to the point where we were avoiding walking past her as she would wouldnt leave us alone!

Overall, we had a good time and my son enjoyed himself and thats all that matters

Book this Hotel Direct    Package Holidays    Holidays Direct    Last Minute

Alvor Jardim - Alvor

Operator and Date: (Thomson Direct) Thomson 2004

Opinion submitted in Mar 2005 by : Andy Harris-Cartwright - London

Resort Rating: Good

Accommodation Rating: Excellent

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

An excellent hotel, set within easy walking of the main attractions and beach.  The Alvor Jadim is a spacious clean accommodation with friendly staff.  The hotel it’s self is more suited to holiday makers not wishing to be surrounded by lots of children and so offers the perfect holiday resting place away from the hustle and bustle of the main touristy areas of the Algarve, although these are within easy reach by means of public transport or a cheap taxi ride.

If you want a drink, with good company, but without any loud music, make use of the resident’s bar until quite late, and with a choice of beverages on offer, you could think yourselves lucky, you only have to stumble to the lift to get to bed, as Jean can testify.

Alvor’s main centre is packed with various shops, bars and restaurants and has something to cater for most tastes, and is reasonably priced, however you are advised to shop around before making purchases and watch out for those end of season bargains towards the end of October.

Best option is to bypass the tour operators; get your own flight options to Faro and book with Eileen direct, allow about 40 Euros to and from the airport, and forget about the “special days” the tour operators offer, information shops are a plenty in Alvor, but don’t stress about it, Eileen can advise and book trips and excursions most things for you.

Book this Hotel Direct    Package Holidays    Holidays Direct    Last Minute

Alvormar Apartments - Alvor

Operator and Date: (Cosmos Direct) Cosmos October 2006

Opinion submitted in October 2006 by : Amy and Mark 34;33 Alton

Resort Rating: Very Good

Accommodation Rating: Excellent

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

The Alvormar apartments were clean and a good size. excellently positioned in a quiet location near the Old Town although the beach was 15 minute walk away. Ideally suited to couples who are not fussy about abeach side location. swimming pool and property not really ideal for a family holiday.

Book this Hotel Direct    Package Holidays    Holidays Direct    Last Minute

Alvormar Apartments - Alvor

Operator and Date: (Cosmos Direct) Cosmos July 2006

Opinion submitted in September 2006 by : Oliver and Lucy;40;38 Romford

Resort Rating: Very Good

Accommodation Rating: Excellent

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

The Alvormar apartments carry our recommendation for a good place to stay in Alvor. 

Spacious well equipped and clean rooms, a modern bathroom with good plumbing and a large balcony where you can sit quietly and enjoy a cold beer or whatever your tipple is!!. The staff are friendly and helpful and the only negative is the small swimming pool and cramped area around it. Well located only 4 minutes walk from the old town centre the beach is 15 minutes stroll away. More suited to couples of 30 plus who enjoy a quite central location and do not mind a walk to the beach. The main bus stop and taxi rank is around the corner so it is ideally situated for all transport. Alvor Old Town has a wonderful choice of restaurants and bars some playing live music. Not suitable for clubbers or young singles. Families may prefer a beach-side location or accommodation with a better pool. 

For us it was a wonderful holiday and position wise the Alvormar was perfect.

Book this Hotel Direct    Package Holidays    Holidays Direct    Last Minute

Alvormar Apartments - Alvor

Operator and Date: (Direct Holidays) Direct Holidays september 2005

Opinion submitted in Oct 2005 by : Robert and Jade Holloway 49;48; Bishops Stortford

Resort Rating: Very Good

Accommodation Rating: Excellent

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

The Alvomar apartments are ideal for couples looking for a comfortable, well equipped base. The rooms are a good size and the staff extremely helpful. They are a 5 minutes walk from the Old Town and 18 minutes walk to the beach. Bus stop and taxi rank around the corner. facilities in accommodation minimal with a small swimming pool area, a tiny bar and a good book exchange library. Situated on a side road but it does suffer from a little traffic noise. 

Alvor Old town itself is wonderful with a superb choice of restaurants. Our favorite three were Rio Mar ,Capacho and The Captains Table. The only one we found over rated was Casa Do Rio which had a wonderful view but very little else. Michaels, The Black Stove and Pogues were the 3 best place for drinks and light live entertainment. All round more of a couples or " 30 plus" singles resort rather than families or "Clubbers".

A great holiday all round.

Book this Hotel Direct    Package Holidays    Holidays Direct    Last Minute

Alvormar Apartments - Alvor

Operator and Date: (Cosmos Discounts) Cosmos July 2005

Opinion submitted in Sept 2005 by : Janine and Mark;45;46. Bushey, Herts

Resort Rating: Very Good

Accommodation Rating: Very Good

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

The Alvomar apartments are located in the centre which has both advantages and disadvantages. There is a liitle noise but nothing too disturbing. The beach is 15 minutes walk away but other facilities on your doorstep. There is a slight incline but not too much inconvenience unless you suffer from walking difficulties. The rooms themselves are excellent and staff are friendly. the swimming pool area is a bit naff. Alvor itself has retain much of it character although away from the centre a number of large concrete hotel have sprung up. There is a great selection of restaurants here many serving locally caught fish. One word of caution you are usually charged by weight and consequently the bill is a lot higher than envisaged. Some good bars as well. An ideal position if you are not too worried about a beach side location.

Book this Hotel Direct    Package Holidays    Holidays Direct    Last Minute

Alvormar Apartments - Alvor

Operator and Date: May-2005

Opinion submitted in June 2005 by : Ken,Barbara,70s with Emma 15  and Laura14

Resort Rating: Excellent

Accommodation Rating: Excellent

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

Just returned from Alvor first time visited and enjoyed every minute,we took our granddaughters who agree with us.

The apartments are excellent nothing to much trouble for the staff cleaned to high standard every day ,just a short walk and we were in centre although most nights spent in Michaels Bar singing with Danny the Karaoke king( my grandaughters say) we had a good laugh staff really friendly and make sure you have a good night,

altogether a great family holiday and look foward to returning,No down sides at all.

Book this Hotel Direct    Package Holidays    Holidays Direct    Last Minute

Book this Hotel Direct    Package Holidays    Holidays Direct    Last Minute

Alvor Plaza Apartments - Alvor

Operator and Date: (Aspro Discounts) Aspro - August 2004

Opinion submitted in Sept 2004 by : Kevin & Sue - Reading ( 47, 45 )

Resort Rating: Excellent

Accommodation Rating: Very Good

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

We have just returned from 2 fabulous weeks at the Alvor Plaza. This was our second visit, as we had a week there last June.

Tip: please go to the reps meeting, Julian was one of the best reps i have come across and was extremely helpful throughout our holiday and is full of useful information.

The apartments are ideally situated, less than 3 mins walk to a wonderful sandy beach and 10 mins to the town centre & harbour. Everywhere is within walking distance of the apartments. They are clean and spacious. They were fitted with a microwave, kettle, toaster and a Fridge and plenty of storage space.

Alvor has an excellent range of restaurants and bars. There are Italian, Chinese, Indian and Irish bars serving englisg food if you want that type of meal.

I found the restaurants had good menus with plenty of choice and were excellect value for money. We ate in a different restaurant everynight and never had a bad meal or had cause to complain.

As we were there for 2 weeks this time, we ventured further afield as there is more to the Algarve than Alvor.

We booked the Historical trip, Day to Seville and a day at Zoomarine. The Dolphin show was one of the best i have seen, and i have seen a few.

The best trip was the boat trip from Alvor Harbour, it cost 20euros and leave every afternoon at 2-30 and returns at 5-30. Please note advanced booking required as the boat can only take 10 people and gets booked up quickly.

Taxis are cheap and the prices are fixed.
7euro will get you to Praira da Rocha. We went in the evening and caught a train, pulled by a tractor, which takes you around the town and marina for 3euros. The trip last 45mins but is well worth it. We also took a taxi to Lagos for 20euros which is worth a visit as it has a beautiful marina and an excellent range of shops, restaurants and bars. 

Would i return to Alvor again, yes without hesitation. Would i stay at the Alvor Plaza Apts, yes without hesitation.

Are there any negatives to mentions, if there were i didin't find them.

Book this Hotel Direct    Package Holidays    Holidays Direct    Last Minute

Alvor Plaza Apartments - Alvor

Operator and Date: (Direct Holidays) Direct Holidays - July 2004

Opinion submitted in Aug 2004 by : Gavin & Hannah - Aberdeen (25 & 21)

Resort Rating: Excellent

Accommodation Rating: Very Good

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

Having read previous reviews on the Alvor Plaza we had prepared ourselves for the worst. Having read that this hotel was a tower block style, unclean and basically not a very desirable hotel we were sceptical, however upon arrival we very pleasantly surprised.  We were welcomed by very friendly staff who directed us to our room very promptly.  Upon entering the room we found it to be spotlessly clean with a lovely view to both the sea and the surrounding village.

Being only a small hotel, we got to know the staff and other guests by name and were made very welcome.  The pool is very small, however there is a large amount of sunbeds to go round and always some available at every point in the day.

Of particular note is the stunning beach which is only about one minutes walk from the hotel front door and the resort of Alvor is only five minutes max.

If you are looking for a luxurious hotel then don't choose the Alvor Plaza.  However if you are looking for a superb, friendly, comfortable and well maintained hotel in a fantastic location then this is the hotel for you.

We will be going back to Alvor and will request to stay at the Alvor Plaza again!

Alvor is one of the most beautiful places we have visited and we have been everywhere! Not commercialised like Costa Del Sol etc. retaining its natural beauty and character.

Alvor is an old fishing village perfectly combined with lively nightlife, beautiful restaurants and lots and lots of character. It has old cobbled style streets filled with shops, restaurants and lots of Irish pubs! On the harbour edge they cook the fish on barbecues in the street served straight onto your plate, however there are plenty of other dishes if fish doesn't take your fancy.

The beach is the most unspoiled beautiful beach we have ever seen with lots of water sports, but if that is not your thing then there are is a further twenty miles of beach for you to walk along.

However, there are many stray dogs that roam the streets of Alvor. Although, they are harmless and do not pay any attention whatsoever. Locals lay out water and food for them and it seems they are well vetted. They have obviously caused no bother to any one for them to be there and they certainly didn't cause any bother to us. We actually wanted to take a couple home!!!!!!!!

We will be returning to Alvor very shortly and hopefully we will be able to afford a stunning villa of our own.

Book this Hotel Direct    Package Holidays    Holidays Direct    Last Minute

Alvor Plaza Apartments - Alvor

Operator and Date: june 2004 and july 2004

Opinion submitted in July 2004 by : julie simpson (36,40,40,7,4)

Resort Rating: Very Good

Accommodation Rating: Very Good

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

i have been to the plaza twice now in the last couple of months, i found yes it was not as mordern as someplace but the rooms where clean, the staff were nice, and the location was excellent for the beach. i hardley spent any money on these holidays even though i was self catering. 

my son age 7 loved the place and my disabled friend said she could not have wished for better accomadation as she has walking difficulties and she had no problems getting about in the plaza lounge, pool area and going to the beach and lovely town,. 

the food is great in alvor the mustard steak was mouthwatering. i am going back in october i am planning to go to the plaza again. for very little money i have had 2 great holidays there if you can afford a little bit of luxuary then go for it but if u want a cheap and clean holiday i recomend this place. alvor maybe not as commercialised as other resorts but for a quite laid back holiday this is it.

Book this Hotel Direct    Package Holidays    Holidays Direct    Last Minute

Alvor Plaza Apartments - Alvor

Operator and Date: (Airtours Direct) Airtours - July 2004

Opinion submitted in July 2004 by : Curt & Dawn  ( 42, 40 )

Resort Rating: Very Good

Accommodation Rating: Average

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

Alvor Plaza apts were ok for an allocation on arrival/late deal cheap hol. 12 storey apt block,we were on the 7th floor,luckily we had a sea view,and what a view it was!Nice location,right on the beach, but if when you walk down to the beach you walk along the seafront to the left, you will reach the rocky coves which you can walk right through to find more private little beach coves-absolutely gorgeous!!

Ten minutes on foot and you will find yourself in the centre of the village where you will find lots of lovely little intimate bars & restaurants of which "Albar snack bar & restaurant"-no1 on your free map given by your rep is excellent, you must try their "steak portuguese" and their lasagne- very large!!!, also "Piccolo  Mondo" a lovely little Italian restaurant with delicious desserts and wine sold by the 1/2 litre-very cheap.The bar at the apts is very small and if like us you are non smokers you will hate it,but with all the bars in town there is no need to stay at the apts. The pool is small,and in my opinion these apts would be no good for children, I am glad i didn't take mine!

All in all we had a good week, great weather, good food, clean accomodation in a great location- great suntan!

Book this Hotel Direct    Package Holidays    Holidays Direct    Last Minute

Alvor Plaza Apartments - Alvor

Operator and Date: (MyTravel Direct) My Travel- July 2004

Opinion submitted in July 2004 by : Sureena, Jaleh ( 18 )

Resort Rating: Excellent

Accommodation Rating: Very Good

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

Well we booked a last minute deal 2days before we actually went, so i didnt get time to visit this site any sooner- luckily i didnt!! It was a nice resort, yeah we were on the 11th floor but the lift was always in service so it didnt take long to get about.

It was not at all as bad as alot of these reviews suggested!! the staff were very friendly and english speaking, prices of all food and drinks were stated, so no one was going to be ripped off. As for entertainment- well we never spent our nights in the hotel so we would not know but when you are on holiday you want to explore the place- not sit in the lounge watching the TV!!

Our studio was spacious and no the balcony bit was not as clean as i would have liked but i did not really spend much time their either. The beach was a breathtaking view from our apartment and a 5min walk and the town of alvor was a 10min walk. Everything was in good reach- shops etc.

Nightlife was quiet although i would recommend sports cafe. However 7euros in a cab would have taken you into Praia Da Rocha where you get the typical nightlife scene.

Finally it is a great resort and the hotel has a great location and you will definitely enjoy your time there ( its cheap n cheerful!!)

Book this Hotel Direct    Package Holidays    Holidays Direct    Last Minute

Alvor Plaza Apartments - Alvor

Operator and Date: (Aspro Discounts) Aspro - June 13th 2004

Opinion submitted in June 2004 by : Sam and Gary (20 & 22)

Resort Rating: Excellent

Accommodation Rating: Very Good

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

We read other reports on Alvor Plaza before we came and we were horrified, we even tried to change to another apartment but we couldn't and we are very glad we didn't because we had a fantastic time. The apartment had everything we needed and it was quite spacious, the beach was only a 3 minute walk in one direction and the town about 10 in the other. The staff were very friendly and helpful and our room was clean. Don't be fooled by some of the other reports because no one we spoke to had a problem.

Alvor itself was really nice too. The best restaraunt we visited was called Stone Grill, you get to cook your own steak or fish on a stone that is brought to your table and it is really cheap.

The best place for an english breakfast is EL RIE on the main strip, its about 5 euros and very filling.

Taxis are cheap so don't be afraid to explore. Praia de Rocha is nice and so we were told the night life is excellent there but we found that Alvor's nightlife was good enough for us.

There are 3 good water parks nearby but you really need to hire a car to get to them. The roads are really easy to get used to although signs are few and far between so you will need a map. Be careful though because the Portugese do tend to drive really close behind you if they want to get past.

We will almost definately be going back to Alvor again and we will stay in Alvor Plaza again.

Book this Hotel Direct    Package Holidays    Holidays Direct    Last Minute

Alvor Plaza Apartments - Alvor

Operator and Date: (Airtours Direct) Airtours may 2004

Opinion submitted in May 2004 by : janet and steve (19+23)

Resort Rating: Excellent

Accommodation Rating: Excellent

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

alvor plaza is a fabulous apartment really clean and tidy asd would recomend it to anyone. resort is quiet with nice shops and restaurants and bars. was a bit anxious at going to this resort with the comments that i read on this but no problems. x

Book this Hotel Direct    Package Holidays    Holidays Direct    Last Minute

Alvor Plaza Apartments - Alvor

Operator and Date: (MyTravel Direct) My Travel - Apr 2004

Opinion submitted in Apr 2004 by : Rachell and Craig - Shropshire (36, 33)

Resort Rating: Excellent

Accommodation Rating: Average

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

Having read the reviews on this website of Alvor Plaza we were prepared for the worst.  However, although the accommodation has old and tired decor it was clean.  Cleaners came to our room every day, sheets were changed once a week and towels twice weekly.  Luxury it is not but its OK and you get what you pays for!

Don't whatever you do book tours with your rep.  A short stroll or taxi ride into Alvor will deliver you to tour operators with much lower prices.  Also, if you book a tour with the rep you have to walk to another hotel to be picked up.  If you book with another operator (we used Follow Me Tours) they pick you up at the reception of your hotel.  If we had booked Loule Market, Seville and Historical Algarve tours with our rep it would have cost 97 Euros each. With Follow Me tours it cost 63.50 Euros each (Loule Market is free if you book 2 full days on other tours). (Prices might be higher in peak season.)

Alvor is a fantastic resort, largely unspoilt and with loads of restaurants.  If your veggie then there is quite a bit of choice - try the veggie lasagne at the Blue Reef.  However, if like me you are vegan then be prepared to cook for yourself - you will only be able to find chips and salad in the restaurants, or find a friendly restaurant that will cook something special for you.  Best restaurants in our opinion were the Angolo and Al Dente.  Best bar was Bar 13 which was relaxed and chilled and run by two charming Dutch women - such a change from endless Irish and kareoke bars.  All of these places can be found on the freemap of Alvor - widely available except from your rep. 

Hope you have as good a time as we did!

Book this Hotel Direct    Package Holidays    Holidays Direct    Last Minute

Alvor Plaza Apartments - Alvor

Operator and Date: (MyTravel Direct) My Travel - 2004

Opinion submitted in Oct 2004 by :  mrs v coombes- chehire 49, 55

Resort Rating: Good

Accommodation Rating: Poor

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

Alvor its self is very nice to look at and ok if you want to chill.the best breakfast in town is in the Dream team and only 5 euros. my self and my partner were really bored as it is only a small fishing village.Now for the good part the Alvor Plaza looked like a block of old council flats.It was dirty run down old fashioned and the lift was the size of a single wardrobe.when it did work you could get 4 people in if you were a sardine.the pool is the size of a postage stamp and very dirty the staff are surly.

All in all dont go there it needs knocking down.

Book this Hotel Direct    Package Holidays    Holidays Direct    Last Minute

Alvor Plaza Apartments - Alvor

Operator and Date: Sunmaster - Date Not Specified

Opinion submitted in June 2004 by : Ed Bell 54

Resort Rating: Very Good

Accommodation Rating: Good

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

Having read the reviews I was not sure about the Alvor Plaza.I was pleasantly surprised.Yes the rooms are a little dated but ours were clean and for the amount of time spent in them value for money.I compared it to a 2 star Turkey hotel.Loads of hot water to wash off the salt from a great beach only minutes away.

The staff were pleasant but the real treat was sitting in Alvor near the harbour and just relaxing watching the world go by and having a lovely fish dinner.Do not be put off by the dowdy appearance of the two resterants either side of the harbour both did great (cheap Fish meals).

Alvor is a gem of a place .We hired a car and travelled aound make no mistake Alvor although small is best.

Book this Hotel Direct    Package Holidays    Holidays Direct    Last Minute

Alvor Plaza Apartments - Alvor

Operator and Date: (MyTravel Direct) My Travel - Date Not Specified

Opinion submitted in June 2004 by : john stevie brian barry   in our thirties

Resort Rating: Good

Accommodation Rating: Average

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

ok the old plaza isnt very modern, but as we were staying there on route to the uefa cup final in seville we werent too worried about luxuries
the rooms are a bit old fashioned and basic but cleaned every day
the pool area is decent enough although not as nice as more modern hotels
we got on well with all of the guests and staff
we got this holiday at agood price and it was as good as can be expected for the price 
if you want luxury you have to pay for it

the town itself is very good although quieter than we were looking for
plenty of restaurants and bars mostly irish which suited us
i would definately go back to alvor and the plaza but then again we are not to fussy as long as the digs are clean safe and practical
so dont let the bad reviews put you off
make the best of your holiday and say hello from us 4 celtic fans

Book this Hotel Direct    Package Holidays    Holidays Direct    Last Minute

Amoreiras Apartments - Alvor

Operator and Date: (Libra Discounts) Libra - July 2004

Opinion submitted in Aug 2004 by : M McC, Scotland

Resort Rating: Very Good

Accommodation Rating: Average

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

We stayed for 2 weeks in what we thought was a fairly spacious 1 bedroom apartment on the 3rd floor (no lift!).  Accommodation is of reasonable standard and clean.  Maid service 3 times per week, clean towels 3 times, and sheets changed once during our stay.

On the ground floor there is a small shop selling basic rations and Calypso Bar to the front.  There was also a small bar to the rear of the building en route to the swimming pool.  The pool itself is OK, but the moulded plastic seat/loungers were rather uncomfortable, so out of the two weeks, a couple of hours by the pool was enough for us!

The beach is sandy and really nice, with rocks and sandy coves at one end and the town/harbour at the other.  To walk to the beach takes approx 20 mins, and the town about 30 mins (5 euro for a taxi back).

Transfer time to the resort with Libra was 2 hrs, 30 mins (without air conditioning in 43 degrees heat!!!!).  There was a problem with the bus and the engine kept cutting out, too.

We found the Libra Rep at the Amoreiras rather unhelpful when inquiring about car hire for a couple of days.  We were handed leaflets as she ignored us and spoke to some other people about flights.  (Some customer care training wouldn't go amiss there!).  We walked off and booked our car hire through Best Days Travel in the town, where they were most helpful with information about places to visit etc.

Book this Hotel Direct    Package Holidays    Holidays Direct    Last Minute

Amoreiras Apartments - Alvor

Operator and Date: (Libra Discounts) Libra-June 2004

Opinion submitted in June 2004 by : Eddie Ellis-49,45,9,9

Resort Rating: Very Good

Accommodation Rating: Average

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

Amoreiras apts are basic but adaquate libra rep was helpful when asked. One word of warning these apartments are situated above two bars so it does get very noisy especially if your room is above one of these bars as our room was Libra does not mention this in their brochure ,you have been warned.

Alvor is a lovely little town with a fabulous beach dont stay by the pool all day go to the beach it is a must.
Restaurants are very good  ,Rio Mar superb value for money ,Pyramid steak house portions are ginormous dont have a starter or you will not finish your meal
Pizza place near Michael,s bar excellent value for money try the sangria in here it was superb
China garden does a all you can eat buffet for a set price if you like your chinese food ,good value
Trips i would recommend are slide and splash for the kids ,Zoomarine but take your own food if you can as it is expensive inside the parks .

The Sports Bar in town is well worth a visit good staff and very friendly do try a large beer in here it is the biggest pint you will ever get no mistake.
I could go on and on about alvor but most of it has all ready been said do yourself a favour and go but maybe give the amoreiras apartments a miss

eddie,jan,sarah and laura ellis
Little Sutton
Ellesmere Port

Casa Da Alvor Apartments - Alvor

Operator and Date: Broadway Travel - Apr-May 2007

Opinion submitted in May 2007 by : Tina Woof - Lancashire (23, 23)

Resort Rating: Very Good

Accommodation Rating: Very Good

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

We found the apartment to be spacious and very clean, basic but high quality furnishings.  Fairly large kitchenette, electric hob and microwave with grill.  Fridge with small freezer compartment.  We were self catering, there seemed to be a dining room area near the pool but we didn't see anyone eating there or any food advertised.  The Ali-Super supermarket was 5-10 mins walk away and really cheap.

Double/twin bedroom and convertible sofa bed so apartment could've slept 4 but that would've been cramped.  Nice balcony though our view wasn't great.

About 40 apartments in the complex, small unheated pool (pretty clean) and not many sun-loungers.  Plenty to go round as we were in low season but could imagine it being mayhem if the place was full!  Icecreams etc were on sale by the pool.

Alvor town centre is 5-10 mins walk away, lots of lovely little shops and a huge selection of restaurants lining little streets that slope down to the harbour area.  (Quite a hilly town so not ideal if walking is difficult.)  Several fish restaurants right next to the sea.  The beach is a bit further away but can be reached by walking approx 15-20 mins, it is lovely and sandy.  Sun loungers and parasols can be hired but a lot of them were just being set up during our holiday.

The tourist info centre was open every day at really accessible hours, and the staff were very helpful with excellent English.  We hired bicycles for a reasonable rate - the tourist info staff organised it for us at no extra cost.  We booked this apartment separately from our flight and so had no holiday rep but found we didn't need one as info was so readily available.

We hired a car for 3 days and would recommend this especially if you want to see the area as navigating it is not too challenging and the organised tours (available from tourist info) seemed quite expensive.

If you want a quiet, low-budget holiday free from a lot of fuss and well clear of nightclubs, we would reccommend Alvor and the Casa Da Alvor Apartments.  The weather at the end of April / beginning of May was warm enough for some sunbathing, cloudy at times and it did rain one day.  Everywhere was fairly quiet (which we prefer) and we imagined the whole place would be heaving in high season.  If you're after an all-inclusive type hotel holiday the Pestana Group has some good hotels around Alvor but it'd be a wasted visit to a beautiful country if you spent the holiday in the hotel complex!

Book this Hotel Direct    Package Holidays    Holidays Direct    Last Minute

Casa Da Familia - Alvor

Operator and Date: Algarvian Holiday Rentals - 2006 / 2007

Opinion submitted in April 2007 by : Paul Bancroft

Resort Rating: Excellent

Accommodation Rating: Below Average

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

Alvor is a fantastic place that I would recommend to everyone, Casa Da Familia however is a large expensive villa in a very poor state.On our arrival we found the pool to be unusable and full of frogs, the sunbathing area to be full of garden waste, a none stop flushing toilet, a filthy villa and a ice block for a freezer. We have sent 26 emails to the letting agent regarding our dismay, and never had not one single reply. Alvor 10/10, Casa Da Familia a generous 2/10 letting agent a woeful 0/10 SHAME ON YOU!!!

Book this Hotel Direct    Package Holidays    Holidays Direct    Last Minute

Casa Da Familia - Alvor

Operator and Date: Algarvian Holiday Rentals

Opinion submitted in August 2006 by : 2,12,14,19,30,34,40,46

Resort Rating: Excellent

Accommodation Rating: Below Average

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

We have visited Alvor previously and was well aware what a beautiful resort it was. What we were not aware of was that spending £2000 on renting Casa Da Familia through Algarvian Holiday Rentals would be such a terrible experience and waste of money. There were problems from the offset with Algarvian Holiday Rentals. 

Correspondance between our parties was slow and limited(arrangements for key collection were not given to us until 7 hours before our departure and the telephone number given to us for contact was incorrect)confirmation of payment via a bank transfer did not arrive for 6 weeks!On arrival(finally) at Casa Da Familia we were given the keys by the caretaker and never saw him again. 

The property was a spacious Villa in a poor state of repair and cleanliness. 2 of the interior doors had broken hinges and the freezer was a solid block of ice. Our first day was spent cleaning. not a great start. We decided to spend our second day relaxing by our "Jacuzzi" and pool. Unfortunately these were unusable as the pump had broken, and the pool was full of leaves and frogs!! We reported this to the caretaker who also happened to be a local restrauntuer and the problem was resolved,6 days after our arrival. At no point did the promised "weekly maid service" happen and on Day 6 the toilet broke. This was again reported to the caretaker who arranged for it to be fixed, which it was, 2 days before we left.

I could go on but I am running out of space. we have complained to Algarvian holidays in a dozen mailings since our arrival home, and have not heard a thing. DO NOT BOTHER WITH EITHER the list goes on and on and they are not petty issues (half ton of insect and rodent infested garden waste at the side of the pool).  We have been back in England for 9 weeks now. I have been emailing Algarvian Holiday Rentals 1-2 a week. I have had one single reply. This was on the 3rd July (todays date is 19th August) 
We have had no reply and have emailed many times since.

Book this Hotel Direct    Package Holidays    Holidays Direct    Last Minute

Casa d'Alvor Apartments - Alvor

Operator and Date: Jet2.com & broadway travel.com -  Sept 2006

Opinion submitted in October 2006 by : The Haymans - Preston, Lancs  (40,39)

Resort Rating: Very Good

Accommodation Rating: Excellent

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

Booked the flight with jet2.com, 2 wks for 2 £167, bargain! & the 1 bed apartment with broadwaytravel.com £392, saved a packet. The apartments were the best we've ever stayed in, situated in a quiet residential area 10 min walk from centre & 20 min walk to beach. Kitchen with kettle, microwave, 2 ring hob, fridge, all utensils needed , beautiful marble floors throughout, new bathroom with shower, bath & bidet,towels changed every other day & kept spotless by the friendly maids, there was even an ironing board & loads of storage space, free a/c & heating in lounge & bedroom of which both opened onto a balcony were we were not overlooked, TV, safe 40 euros the fortnight & the staff couldn't do enough. The pool was large with a small kiddie section, very relaxing . 

Resort

Alvor is a quiet fishing village with a beautiful beach & very relaxing atmosphere. We ate out for about 25 euros a night with drinks & the local sagres beer for 2 euros a pint. We went to Albar alot as they serve such a variety, the Indian Hut do a fab balti, China Garden is a great & inexpensive chinese, the Phoenix which is yorkshire owned, fab sunday dinners. Pick up a free resort map, giving details of bars,restaurants etc. We had pizza a few nights at La Piazza & breakfasts for 5 euros at Tapa Latina both near roundabout. The apartments don't change currency but Alisuper supermarket past roundabout is the cheapest in town.

There wasn't much in the way of entertainment at night in the bars except at the Silmar in the square , some nights there were Peruvian players.

We hired a car for 3 days with carhirealgarve.net, £63 all inclusive no excess insurance & no need for credit card, would defo recommend them. We visited Albufeira, we would stay there next time, plenty to do, gorgeous beaches
& better shopping! Carvoeiro was nice, Praia Da Rocha, bit like blackpool, Lagos, very picturesque & beauty beaches. Went to Monchique & Foia in the mountains, picked a clear day & the views were stunning. Went over boarder to Spain for a day, there was no extra charge on insurance for this provided you inform them.Tip fill up in Spain the petrol is cheaper!

Cigg prices range from £17.50 for L&M (hubby smokes these abroad just like L&B) to £32 a sleeve for L&B, Golden Virginia 55 euros for 10 pack approx £39.

Very relaxing holiday, would defo go back to Algarve again but Albufeira next time as a bit more to do. 

Book this Hotel Direct    Package Holidays    Holidays Direct    Last Minute

Casa d'Alvor Apartments - Alvor

Operator and Date: July 2006

Opinion submitted in July 2006 by : Sheila - Sheffield ( 2 adults)

Resort Rating: Excellent

Accommodation Rating: Very Good

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

We have just returned from a week at the Casa D'Alvor, and thoroughly enjoyed it.

The apartment was spacious and clean, with free air conditioning (which we needed as temperatures were in the 90's.

The room we were in did not have a toaster, or an oven, but did have a combi microwave grill.

As stated in other reviews the 'cobbled streets of Alvor', where the majority of the bars and restuarants are located are within five minutes walking distance.

One restuarant which we found was excellent value, was on the right hand side of the road, adjacent to the small roundabout as you enter Alvor from the motorway direction.  This was called 'The Rialvor', and offered a three course menu with wine for 10 euros per person.  This included a mixed grill with huge amounts of a variety of different meats.

One of the problems with Alvor seemed to be the lack of supermarkets, the nearest we found to Casa D'Alvor was at least 10 minutes walk each way (uphill coming back)

We would definitely return to Alvor again, and stay at the Casa D'Alvor.  The owner could not do enough to help, if any problems arose.

Book this Hotel Direct    Package Holidays    Holidays Direct    Last Minute

Casa d'Alvor Apartments - Alvor

Operator and Date: oct 2005

Opinion submitted in Nov 2005 by : shirley moynihan 45

Resort Rating: Excellent

Accommodation Rating: Good

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

the apartments themselves were very modern, extremely clean and very spacious.iwas there for 10 day and the place wasonly cleaned 3 time we never had clean bedding only when we arrievd .we did get clean towel 3 times but that all she did do. 

All the staffwere very friendly and there was a small bar which also provided food at very reasonable prices if you didn't fancy going outin the day but the bar shut at 6and there was no member of staff after six so if there had been a fire there was no one to contact .there are no phones in the room so could not phone home  A 10 minute walk away from the apartments leads you to the main bars and resteraunts of which there are loads.  the apartments had a good pool but the water was very cold.

there was hardly any cooking utensils? not even a bowl to put in Microwave no kettle or toast o and no oven , at night there would be no light on so when i walked my 74 yr old mother home we could not see where we was going . but i did have a good hol

Book this Hotel Direct    Package Holidays    Holidays Direct    Last Minute

Casa d'Alvor Apartments - Alvor

Operator and Date: (Libra Discounts) Libra/Sky Holidays - July 2004

Opinion submitted in July 2004 by : Christopher & Lesley Child - Stoke On Trent (50,41)

Resort Rating: Excellent

Accommodation Rating: Good

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

After a two and a half hour bus ride from Faro we arrived at the Casa d'Alvor apartments which we found to be very clean with regular maid service and free air conditioning, you have everything you need in there should you wish to cook your own meals and basic T.V channels. To book a safe for a fortnight will cost you 60 euros with a refundable 20 euros deposit on the safe key.The hotel does not change money so take some with you for your arrival.

The firt week of July was quiet around the pool with plenty of sunbeds but the second week saw the hotel transformed with the arrival of many Portugese families arriving for their holidays and sunbeds were snapped up quite quickly and the pool area became a no go area for those looking for peace and quiet. However food there is very reasonable and on the whole edible.

The beach is about 15-20 mins walk throught the narrow cobbled streets down a steep hill beware the local drivers!Once there you will pay 9 euros for your sunbeds and parosol, but after 6pm you will be asked to vacate them. The beaches are some of the best I have seen and are not overcrowded.

The town of Alvor itself is full of shops and restaurants lining both sides of it's cobbled streets - there are two that we found that gave excellent service coupled with quality food at a reasonable price. Firstly there is El Rei run by Maria and her family who provide everything from full English breakfasts to hearty evening meals, secondly for all thos curry lovers there is the New Delhi restaurant just further down the road from the square, Akon provides you with many excellently prepared dished across the wide ranging menu that he has, the staff speak good English and give you their best attention at all times, the restaurant is very clean inside and is air conditioned and they sell Cobra beers. 

Lastly the weather - we never saw a cloud during our two weeks stay what more can I say!

We will definatly be going back but staying in a different hotel.

Book this Hotel Direct    Package Holidays    Holidays Direct    Last Minute

Casa d'Alvor Apartments - Alvor

Operator and Date: (Thomson Direct) Thompson - 2004

Opinion submitted in Feb 2005 by : Charlie McCormick, Gosport, Hampshire

Resort Rating: Good

Accommodation Rating: Excellent

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

the apartments themselves were very modern, extremely clean and very spacious. They were cleaned everyday. All the staffwere very friendly and there was a small bar which also provided food at very reasonable prices if you didn't fancy going out. A 2 minute walk away from the apartments leads you to the main bars and resteraunts of which there are loads. Our favourite was A Caravela, a short walk up the main street. The food was excellent and the service was second to none. The staff remembered us when we went in there and gave us complimentary drinks, it was all very nice. the apartments had a good pool but the water was very cold. 

overall i would reccomend this holiday to families and older couples as the resort the apartments are situated in are not very trendy and have only a few good 'young persons' bars. ten out of ten for the accomodation though. definately worth a visit. oh, and don't forget the resteraunt a caravela.

Book this Hotel Direct    Package Holidays    Holidays Direct    Last Minute

Club Alvor (formerly Club Alvor Golf) - Alvor

Operator and Date: Independent - October 2006

Opinion submitted in October 2006 by : Ann & Neil Killey - Wakefield (50,48)

Resort Rating: Excellent

Accommodation Rating: Good

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

These apartments are just outside the village of Alvor, about a 15mins walk (as is most of the accomodation round about)this isnt a problem for most people put small children or people with walking difficulties could find it a bit of a struggle.There is a shuttle bus from th Iberhotel just down the road which runs to and from the centre and the beach 4 times a day, but not on an evening.

The apartments are basic, but have all the essential items including a microwave, they are kept clean and tidy 5 days per week.  One word of warning the pillows as they are called are basically cushions filled with foam and are very uncomfortable.  There is a pleasant bar and lounge area, nice pool with plenty of sunbeds.  All the staff are very friendly and will help you in any way that they can. These apartments  are due to close at the end of October and I think they will be updated for next season
Alvor itself is a very pretty village with plenty of bars and restaurants to choose from, if you fancy a bit of home cooking try Joe's Chippy, she is from Wales, but cooks all the home made things that you miss and even makes her own fresh chips.

If you want ot get out and about go to Cats travel agent, she has been there for over 20yrs and can advise you on just about anything as well as issuing bus tickets. anyone will tell you where it is in Alvor, and if you are bringing cigaretts back don't bother to shop around they are all the same price.

I would recommend the accomodation and the resort to anyone, and would go back again if I were looking for a short haul holiday.

So If you are going in the near future have a lovely holiday!

Book this Hotel Direct    Package Holidays    Holidays Direct    Last Minute

Club Alvor (formerly Club Alvor Golf) - Alvor

Operator and Date: Holiday Discount Centre - July 2006

Opinion submitted in September 2006 by : Caroline & Keith - 46 & 49 - Beckenham

Resort Rating: Excellent

Accommodation Rating: Very Good

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

This was our 4th visit to Alvor. Our first in the Club Alvor Golf.  Resort is small but filled with plenty of good restaurants and bars.
The Club Alvor Golf apartments are pleasant with a small pool.  Rooms are spacious with all the necessary facilities.  There are TV's in the rooms but you have to rent the remote from reception. If you don't mind walking it does take about 15 minutes into town, a bit further on is a superb beach.

Definately a place to go if you want a relaxing time, will be going back again.

Book this Hotel Direct    Package Holidays    Holidays Direct    Last Minute

Club Alvor (formerly Club Alvor Golf) - Alvor

Operator and Date: Air Tours - Aug 2004

Opinion submitted in Jan 2005 by : Eric - (42, 40, 13)

Resort Rating: Excellent

Accommodation Rating: Poor

My/Our Holiday Opinion: This was our forth holiday in the Algarve, We love portugal, Alvor is our favorite resort. August 2004 we stayed at Club Alvor formally Club Alvor Golf, this had to be the worst acommadation we have every had!

Dirty appartments, dirty pool, dangerous pool, no entertainment at all, made numberous complaints that were handled in the most unproffesional way by Air Tours staff, the only thing we can reccomend try this resort it is beautiful but at all costs avoid Alvor Golf!!!!!!

Book this Hotel Direct    Package Holidays    Holidays Direct    Last Minute

Club Alvor (formerly Club Alvor Golf) - Alvor

Operator and Date: (Airtours Direct) Airtours

Opinion submitted in Sept 2004 by : Paula.H -Manchester(33,30,12,5,4)

Resort Rating: Excellent

Accommodation Rating: Poor

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

What a lovely place Alvor is, the resort is beautiful and has an excellent choice of bars(Sports Bar) and restaraunts.  The accomodation however was awful, dirty and tired,& ant ridden.  The pool we never used(we used the excellent pool across the way), the kids pool was more like a pond.  This should be a 1 star accomodation, although i have to say the staff are friendly and only too accomodating.  Will go to alvor again, but no way will i be staying here.  Oh and check out The Albar, nice friendly staff the food is great and there is an ice-cream parlour over the road.

Book this Hotel Direct    Package Holidays    Holidays Direct    Last Minute

Club Alvorferias - Alvor

Operator and Date: (Thomson Direct) Skytours - August 2005

Opinion submitted in Sept 2005 by : Majella Malley 37, Liam OMalley 7

Resort Rating: Excellent

Accommodation Rating: Good

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

My son and I have just returned from a week's holiday at the Club Alvorferias apartments.  It was our first trip to the Algarve and we thoroughly enjoyed it.  The flight out was delayed an hour but we made time up during the flight so we were only 30 mins late.  The transfer to the aprts took about 45 mins.  We were situated on the reception side opposite the supermarket.  The apartment was very clean and a lot better than other studios I have stayed in on other holidays.  The reception staff were very pleasant and helpful.  The Skytours rep Naomi was great and my son Liam loved the kids club.

We went on a day trip to Zoo Marine which was excellent - although we could have done with a bit longer there - pick up is at 4 pm.  The dolphin show was great.

Alvor itself is beautiful and very quaint with its cobbled streets.  Its very peaceful and I felt totally relaxed.  The food is very nice too - lots of nice, very reasonably priced restaurants.  We also went to the Pizza Pasta on Rua Marques de Pombal - nice pizza and pasta dishes. 

The beach is very nice and well worth the walk and never seems over crowded.

A week wasn't long enough and I have already booked to go back again next year to the Club Alvorferias.

Book this Hotel Direct    Package Holidays    Holidays Direct    Last Minute

Club Alvorferias - Alvor

Operator and Date: (Airtours Direct) Airtours - July 2005

Opinion submitted in July 2005 by : Richard & Michelle Hannigan - Paisley (37, 32, 5, 3, 1

Resort Rating: Excellent

Accommodation Rating: Good

My/Our Holiday Opinion:

Just returned yesterday and we had a great holiday.  After reading all the reviews before I went I did not know what to expect.  All I can say is that all the people that have complained obviously dont know how to enjoy themselves and must complaint about anything and everything.  It is a 3* so it is not going to be luxurious and pristine!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

There were 10 adults and 10 children in our party and everyone of us had a great time.  The rooms are very big and get cleaned everyday.  They are quite basic but they had everything you need.  Only thing is take a gas lighter with you as they give you matches to light the cooker which is a bit of a nightmare. Apartments are about a 10 minute walk from the beach which is lovely but it is down a dirt track so we ended up staying at the pool most days.  We didnt really stay in the apartments at night, went to the kids disco most nights then headed into Alvor for dinner and then drinks.  It is about a 5 - 10 minute walk and we had 2 prams and found it fine.  Alvor is lovely with lots of lovely restaurants.  Everyone we went to was nice.  No complaints about any of them.  Most pubs have Karoake and it usually stops about 1am but we went to the Crows Nest and they were still singing at 3.30 am. 

We all went to Zoomarine which was excellent.  Only complaint is we didnt have enough time.  We were there for 6 hours and didnt get to see everything.  Would definately go back there.  We also took a picnic with us but the prices were cheaper than our apartments so I wouldnt bother next time.  Popcorn 1euro, Candy Floss 1euro.

Would definately return to Portugal and Alvor again.  It is probably one of the nicest places I have been.

Book this Hotel Direct    Package Holidays    Holidays Direct    Last Minute

Club Alvorferias - Alvor

Operator and Date: (Thomson Direct) Thomson-September 2004

Opinion submitted in Jan 2005 by : Lauren and Adam -Lincoln (19,19)

Resort Rating: Very Good

Accommodation Rating: Very Good

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

After reading the other reviews for these apartments we thought we had to write to say what a great time we had there! The Apartements were clean and spacious. The Rep there was also brilliant (Tony). After booking late and reading the reviews we were not looking forward to our holiday at all but were pleasantly suprised!

Alvor itself was lovely with pleanty of restaurants to eat out at. We found a great little pub, 'Bar Berola', the live music there was fantastic and the music catered for people of all ages, we only foung this on our penultimate night and really wish we had found it at the beginning of our holiday. Also a really nice restaurant was 'Goodvilles" well worth visiting!

We, like many others, thouroughly enjoyed the Zoo Marine ans Slide 'n' Splash.

We would recommend this holiday, so don't panic if you've booked before reading the other reviews like we did!!

Book this Hotel Direct    Package Holidays    Holidays Direct    Last Minute

Club Alvorferias - Alvor

Operator and Date: (Airtours Direct) Airtours - Aug 2004

Opinion submitted in Sept 2004 by : Ryan family (44,33,13)

Resort Rating: Poor

Accommodation Rating: Poor

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

Arrived late on the 15th and given keys to an apt, which was round the corner past the tennis courts. At this time of nite it was dark and the numbers on most of the apts were hidden by trees.
Security from the resort eventually took us round to an apt which could only be described as slum/prison living.  No air conditioning which we had been told by Going Places in Belfast there would be.
Made a complaint to the reception staff and told to take it up with Airtours as it was not their problem.

Spoke to Airtours rep on Monday after getting no sleep at all Sunday nite, and were accused of trying to get a free upgrade.  Also declined access to the Welcome meeting, so no information in relation to the place we were staying and the Airtours rep threatened to have us removed from the complex because we complained.
Staff in the resort eventually moved us to another apt further up the complex, which due to being Westerly facing was much cooler.  Also a lot noisier as right beside a farm with 6/7 roosters which crowed all nite, and also several dogs which insisted on barking through the nite.
After several days of staying at Club A. we rented a car and drove to Spain just to rest and relax.  What can I say £15oo down the tubes and no chance of a refund!

If you find it difficult to walk up and down hills, or you have any children in prams, do not go as you will have at least two flights of stairs to contend with before you get into your apt.  The coffee shop/bar is directly facing the deepest end of the swimming pool (3m) and I watched two very young children nearly getting into difficulties when they slipped their parents.

Don't attend the barbecue on Friday nights!  The barbecue looks as though it has not been cleaned since the beginning of time, and if that doesn't put you off, the sight of cats prowling over the grill and picking up the uneaten food certainly will.

If you do go bring extra towels with you as the cleaing staff only change the towels on a Wednesday and a Sunday and our bed sheets were never changed for the full unfortunate two weeks we stayed.

Best thing about Portugal - SPAIN!!

Book this Hotel Direct    Package Holidays    Holidays Direct    Last Minute

Club Alvorferias - Alvor

Operator and Date: (Thomson Direct) Thomson july 2004

Opinion submitted in July 2004 by : willaim lynch mrs lynch ( 45,42 )

Resort Rating: Poor

Accommodation Rating: Poor

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

alvor fresias is very dated rooms nice and big but no view as such balcony rteally tatty no firniture on it no correct utensils for kitchen when you put gas on all you smell is the gas bottle under the sink stuck in 1970s decor 

town is lovely though good eating place is the grand marnier chinese excellant service also the beaches are a must but watch where you park hiring a car is a must you get to see a lot more and the golf courses are superb horse riding is good do that through your rep and go and swim with the dolphins what an experience but dont stay at club alvor its horrible good place is vitors plaza very nice

Book this Hotel Direct    Package Holidays    Holidays Direct    Last Minute

Club Alvorferias - Alvor

Operator and Date: (First Choice Discounts) First Choice July 04

Opinion submitted in July 2004 by : kate and lucy birmingham (18,18)

Resort Rating: Very Good

Accommodation Rating: Poor

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

well where shall we start ... when we arrived we were given the wrong accomodation with no apologies.They said we were the ones in the wrong.We were told there were no other apartments available until our travel agents rang them. it was only then that we got our rooms changed a day later.(so when they say there are no rooms dont beleive them!!) we didnt find carrying our suitcases across the main road and up two flights of stairs very amusing!!

when told about first choices GREAT package deals we chose the special 'Monday Night Live.' We were told it included a brilliant three course meal in a five* hotel/casino,free wine all night as well as amazing entertainment and we were told to get our glad rags on! we thought for fourty euros this cant be bad!God how wrong we were! meals were like inedible school diners.wine was only for the duration of the meal, you had to pay to enter the casino and dont even get us started on the entertainment.

like others said apartments were disgusting.grime everywhere as well as live wires and the informous squeeky beds!

On the positive side, we found taxis to be cheap, seven euros into Prais de Roche. Night life in Prais de Roche was brilliant.. highly recommended!
BUT.. what really made our holiday was Michaels bar in Alvor! Easy five minute walking distance from the apartments. With friendly lively staff and the unforgettable Kareoke man Roger. It truely made our holiday.. brilliant cocktails and a fabulous atmosphere! Another first choice day out was to Zoomarine, 21 euros, well worth the money, a good full day out!

Apartments beach taxi.. well worth 1.50 euros return as the so called 5 minute stroll to the beach was a little underestimated! Although beach well worth a visit as it was heaven!

We were a little unfortunate with our choice of meals yet found a couple of beautiful places to eat including a chines in Alvor town.. up some steps with a big green T sigh outside! As well as Goodfellars.

Overall apart from a few unfortunate choices it was a brilliant holiday.. well recommended. Were going back in September but probably not to the same apartments as although it was cheap it wasnt so cheerful!

Book this Hotel Direct    Package Holidays    Holidays Direct    Last Minute

Club Alvorferias - Alvor

Operator and Date: (MyTravel Direct) My Travel june 2004

Opinion submitted in July 2004 by : David Michael Swansea (15,10,40,43

Resort Rating: Very Good

Accommodation Rating: Good

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

When we stayed at the club alvorferias our apartment was situated above the reception.The room was good very big with a bedroom a kichen a bathroom and a huge living room area. In the night it is very noisey with people coming into the apartments and with the farm next door to the apartments you can here the cockrall and the dogs almost everynight.

We stayed during Euro 2004 so with the football games being on in the afternoon we were told that the bars and entertainment was not on or open late because of that. The area of Alvor is very good with a big selection of restaurants and bars all around which include some georgous Chinese restaurants which i recommend. The trips include Zoo marine and Slide and splash. Zoo marine i would recommend for families with younger children as it includes dolphin shows and brilliant parrot shows. Slide and splash is also a must as it includes quite alot of rides which suit families. 

The beach is georgous just a 10 minute walk away down the road with lovely beaches but the water can be cold. I would recommend clube alvorferias to other readers but the service by the airtours representatives was not at a very good standard

Book this Hotel Direct    Package Holidays    Holidays Direct    Last Minute

Club Alvorferias - Alvor

Operator and Date: (First Choice Discounts) First Choice-may 2004

Opinion submitted in Jan 2005 by : lisa-(24,28,3,6)

Resort Rating: Very Good

Accommodation Rating: Below Average

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

Alvor a lovely place but a shame about the apartments the beach outstanding but definately too far away nearly every restaurant we ate in was nice but the apartments were soooo BASIC and didnt rekon much to the entertainment on a night the beds are very noisy and the wiring in the rooms was shocking even the kitchen light switch kept falling of would definately go back to Alvor but NOT to these apartments EVEN SO HAD SOME GOOD DAYTRIPS

Book this Hotel Direct    Package Holidays    Holidays Direct    Last Minute

Club Alvorferias - Alvor

Operator and Date: (First Choice Discounts) First Choice-may 2004

Opinion submitted in June 2004 by : lisa stevens-24,27,6,3

Resort Rating: Very Good

Accommodation Rating: Below Average

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

definately would go back to alvor but never to these apartments again. very very basic no grill and no toaster and with kids these are essential. there was bare wires in the bedrooms and 3 single beds for 4 of us and the squeeky beds keep u awake most of the night.there was not a lot of night time entertainment on the onsite club although the bar staff in the algarbs bar were brilliant.the walk to the beach is very exhuasting especially in warm weather.a brilliant holiday in alvor but just not in these apartments again.oh and watch the maids we found theyd been looking at our passports.

Book this Hotel Direct    Package Holidays    Holidays Direct    Last Minute

Club Alvorferias - Alvor

Operator and Date: (MyTravel Direct) My Travel - feb 2004

Opinion submitted in Feb 2004 by : k mcleod - cheshire ( 25,28,9,7,4.)

Resort Rating: Good

Accommodation Rating: Poor

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

we  arrived at reception at lunchtime and was told we could not check in room till 4pm  as this was the policy so early flights have some wait. 

snack bar very expensive burgers came with moldy buns, shop sold out of date milk and bread asked to change bread due to the mold was told to wipe it off,

was given room 2101 after some wait room was clean and spacious both balconies were approx 2ft wide could not sit out had view of dentist who worked till 10pm 15ft in front of balcony 

cockerel at back of apartment crowed all day and night along with the dogs barking and getting kinky with eachother in front of your window kids found this amusing. 

all the beds smelt of urine and were all mouldy underneath ,enough hot water for 3 showers aday water very dirty colour, electric would trip off each morning constantly between 7 am and 8.30 am as everyone waking up. 

no childrens play area just a gravel pit ,people bewarned with children snack bar has 3 electronic games and 1 has naked women on them and can be accessed with no money being used .

Book this Hotel Direct    Package Holidays    Holidays Direct    Last Minute

Club Alvor Golf - Alvor

Operator and Date: (MyTravel Direct) My Travel - April 2004

Opinion submitted in Apr 2004 by : R Kennedy - Kent (37,33)

Resort Rating: Excellent

Accommodation Rating: Very Good

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

After reading the other reviews on this resort I was going to cancel my holiday!  So was pleasantly surprised on arrival. The rooms are very spacious - an apartment with big lounge/kitchen dining area and a separate bedroom and bathroom.

The accomodation was modern and clean.  The rooms were cleaned every day apart from Monday and Wednesday. 

The reception staff were very polite and helpful.  We stayed in Block 1 with the pool out the front and the swimming pool was cleaned daily.  Block 2 is currently being refurbished and was closed.  Rooms overlooking that site would probably be views over a building site.  We had a room at the back overlooking the country.  Yes the dogs did bark but they were usually asleep by 11pm. 

You can use facilities at the whole of the complex incuding other apartments like Quinta Nova on site. 

The village of Alvor is lovely with a wide choice of restaurants.

I will be going back to Club Alvor Golf next year.

Book this Hotel Direct    Package Holidays    Holidays Direct    Last Minute

Delfim Hotel - Alvor

Operator and Date: Style - Aug 2006

Opinion submitted in September 2006 by : Pearce - West Yorkshire (44,40,17,15)

Resort Rating: Excellent

Accommodation Rating: Average

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

We had been to Alvor before and stayed in apartments, but this time we thought we would stay at the 4* hotel Delfim which is situated on the beach, friends before had stayed at this hotel and had highly recommended it.

Unfortunately upon arrival we were given our keys for two rooms on the 6 floor, we had paid extra for a sea view for our room and upon opening the door we were disappointed to find that our room over looked the main road.  This was eventually corrected and we were put onto the 12th floor which at 4pm the room was not cleaned and therefore not ready.

There were no Style rep to be seen apart from the ones at the airport, the childrens room was very small just big enough for two beds and the bath room although clean was very very tiny.  The large aluminium windows/doors which could be opened fully were very dangerous and the little wall could not keep you safe.

The staff at the hotel were not friendly and we were very disappointed with the pool area, although they did supply us with clean towels around the pool these were not often available until 11am.

The lifts were being replaced so always a long wait.  The breakfast was ok as long as you got there early before 8 after this it was a free for all and the bread was sometimes hard as if it had been left out over night.

We loved Alvor town and beach but I would recommend going to the 5* Pestanna hotel next door this we visited on most days and it was a 5* not like the Delfim which just scraped into the 3* category for the money we paid we were very disappointed.  THIS HOTEL NEEDS A COMPLETE FACE LIFT ITS DATED AND LOOKS SAD.

Book this Hotel Direct    Package Holidays    Holidays Direct    Last Minute

Delfim Hotel - Alvor

Operator and Date: (Thomson Direct) Thomson - June 2006

Opinion submitted in July 2006 by : Jim Davies - Worsley (56, 57)

Resort Rating: Very Good

Accommodation Rating: Very Good

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

Just arrived back from Alvor after 11 nights stay at the Delfim.  

Reception staff very pleasant and helpful.  Hotel room spotless, roomy and cool.  We were on the 14th floor and although we heard other guests complain about waiting for the lifts we never had any problems even though there were only two working. Sheets and towels were changed regularly and rooms cleaned.  The pool area was always well kept and towels, sunbeds and parasols were provided. We were on a half board basis and found the choice of food to be more than adequate although again some people complained about it (the choice of sweets/cakes was exceptionally good). The hotel is a short walk to the beautiful beach and the weather during our stay was very hot so we were thankful for the breezy conditions.  Drinks in the hotel bars were expensive but taxis into Alvor Town were only 4 euros and worth a walk round the small town where drinks were a lot cheaper. 

We enjoyed our stay at the Delfim and would not hesitate to recommend it.

Book this Hotel Direct    Package Holidays    Holidays Direct    Last Minute

Book this Hotel Direct    Package Holidays    Holidays Direct    Last Minute

Delfim Hotel - Alvor

Operator and Date: style - july 2004

Opinion submitted in Sept 2004 by : john firkins- sheffield (49, 46, 17)

Resort Rating: Excellent

Accommodation Rating: Excellent

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

After staying for two weeks at the Delfim, I would find it hard to go to another hotel or town. Alvor itself is a lovely little fishing village, still unspoilt but for how much longer I don't know.There are simply loads of places to eat,the best in our minds is "Goodville", but saying that, you are really spoilt for choice.The only place I would'nt go back to is a restaurant down by the harbour called "Casa de rio" it looks great and is in a lovely setting, but the service and the food were disgusting.There are some nice bars in the town too. Make sure you visit the Chapel at the top of the town,it's really beautiful.

The Delfim is marvelous! It's one of those hotels that you look back at through the window of your all too soon departing coach and you hide the tears. It really has got everything, and the staff are the most hardworking folks I have seen in all my years of travel.The swimming pool area is HUGE, and the buffet breakfast has as loads of choices to suit all.The stroll down to the beach takes about 3 minutes, and what a beach!

I could praise the place for hours, just see it for yourself, once you go you will want to go back, I know we will.

Book this Hotel Direct    Package Holidays    Holidays Direct    Last Minute

Delfim Hotel - Alvor

Operator and Date: (Direct Holidays) Direct Holidays - June 2004

Opinion submitted in June 2004 by : Anthony + Paula Jarvis (34, 39)

Resort Rating: Very Good

Accommodation Rating: Very Good

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

This was the second time we have stayed at the Delfim. We enjoyed our holiday there in June 2003 that much we went back again this year.

The Delfim is officially a 4 star hotel and I would agree with this.

The two rooms we had were both large with air conditioning and twin beds pushed together. There was a TV with 23 channels to cater for all nationalities (the English language channels being CNN, BBC world, Sky News and TCM). Play station games and other films are also available for purchase. On both occasions we upgraded to a sea view and it was well worth it. The balcony was roomy with a table and two sunloungers.

The bathroom, with twin basins, WC, bidet, bath with both fixed and hose showers, was clean and functional but was in need of redecoration but that is my only minor complaint about the room. The room was made every day and this always included fresh towels. A safe was also available for rent.

The hotel put on some activities in the day and this included things like volleyball and keep fit exercises. There were also many other things to do, some of which were complimentary: for golfers there was putting, chipping and a driving range. There were pool tables, table tennis, a proper tennis court, a health club and a great oversized, novelty chess set. 

The large round pool was great, over 2 metres at its deepest, in the middle of which was the Blue Lagoon Bar. There was also loads of sunloungers around the pool and the gardens and there always seemed to be many available.  Complimentary beach towels were available. The lovely sandy beach was just a couple of minute walk down hill.

There was also quality entertainment in the bars every night such as folk dancing, cabaret, singers but nothing tacky like Karaoke.

We were B&B and the self-service breakfast buffet was good. A lot of choice: cooked (eggs, bacon etc and they tried to vary this up a bit every day), plus the same cereals, fruit, yoghurts, bread rolls, cheese and hams.

We found the hotel staff friendly and helpful.

The Delfim is situated on the top of a small hill and is a 15-20 walk into the centre of Alvor, so if you have walking difficulties then you might find this a problem. However, a taxi into Alvor only cost 5 Euro. Also all the local buses, including those into Portimao and Lagos stop right outside the hotel's entrance.  The hotel also provided a free bus into Portimao. The surroundings of the hotel were generally very quite at night.

Alvor is a great little resort, lively without being rowdy. The restaurants, especially the fish restaurants by the harbour are excellent. I would recommend the Abajuba and the Fisherman's rest. A sardine lunch with a bottle of Vinho Verde is a must. For other tastes there's Chinese, Italian and Indian places and several Irish pubs. There is also many shops and even street vendors selling quality goods. This year we noticed a quite few policemen walking around Alvor that we didn't see last year, most probably because of the football. Also we noticed many stray dogs that we didn't see last year but they were not aggressive and didn't bother you if you left them alone.

Yes I would recommend the Alvor and the Delfim in particular and we would stay there again.

Book this Hotel Direct    Package Holidays    Holidays Direct    Last Minute

Delfim Hotel - Alvor

Operator and Date: (Thomson Direct) Thompson - Apr 2004

Opinion submitted in Apr 2004 by : Rutherfords - Derbys. 52, 46, 18, 13

Resort Rating: Excellent

Accommodation Rating: Excellent

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

Easter 8-15.4.04 Our first holiday abroad for 17 years was a winner!Flight efficient and professional.Weather 20/21C and Alvor has enough of everything you need. A very long soft sandy beach with interesting rock formations starting near Delfim's beach area (east)and a range of shops and bars etc. Local atmosphere in old part on hill and around harbour.

Delfim great after reading other comments on here. Impressive, efficient and clean but on a hill for access, limiting if you can't walk far.Free courtesy bus to Portimao,other bus services from hotel.Parking free just outside.(Driving - difficult. Some roads not signed, not easy markings through towns. All signs seem to lead you to motorway. Other drivers erratic.)
 
We paid extra to ensure sea view (worth it)and fridge (used for water and wine from local Alisupermarket shop 5 mins - hotel drinks are expensive). Rooms large, beds comfy, bathroom spacious - tiling was a bit tired but clean, two wash hand basins plus bidet. Fresh towels as required and bed linen changed too often.
Good balcony with furniture and a light.

No mosquitoes in April - great! Self serve breakfast/dinner buffet offered great choice with variations. 1L water at dinner 2.70 Euro, coffee 2 euro, wine pricey.  Complementary Indoor swimming at Hotel Atlantic, next door for heated pool(water was still cold in Delfim's outdoor one). You can also arrange to eat at Hotel Don Juoa's buffet for a change. Ask at reception. Lovely views and gardens, 5 mins to beach down paved footpath. Entertainment optional and not obtrusive, quiet enough to sleep well at 11 pm.
   
Worth walking west towards Alvor as far as harbour wall, allow a good 3/4 hour. From here you can walk through area of land between sea and estuary, some intersting birds and plants to be found.Rest in Alvor with a choice of restaurants, bars. Ones near lifeboat house good for watching locals and boats.Because of good plentiful food at Delfim we mostly snacked and had choice of some lovely cakes reasonable in the snack bars,approx 10 euro for four. Dogs do roam around without leads here but not too much of a problem, just ignore them and they seem to ignore you.

Also try a great walk over cliffs (east to praia do vau) wonderful rock formations to be seen and holes, flowers, birds and butterflys. Reasonable shoes needed. We rested at 'Jacaranda' just at back of first exist from the beach. English owner, yet fluent in different languages, good food and toilets, reasonable prices. Walk takes about one hour each way plus stop. Market visits Alvor 2nd Tuesday each month - very lively, worth a look but beware of immitation goods.Don't forget to haggle or offer. If wanting a boat trip, make sure sea is not choppy as they cancel for safety (much to our regret). WOULD LOVE TO RETURN.

Book this Hotel Direct    Package Holidays    Holidays Direct    Last Minute

Delfim Pestana - Alvor

Operator and Date: Thomson June 2007

Opinion submitted in June 2007 by : Janet Pearson -  (40,10)

Resort Rating: Average

Accommodation Rating: Very Good

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

We have recently returned from a weeks stay at the Delfim Pestana Hotel. The hotel was spotlessly clean,well maintened and the staff were all helpful and polite. The outdoor pool was inviting (if a little cold) and there was ample sun beds for everyone plus free clean towels everyday. There was also a small indoor pool which was much warmer and strangely situated within the main entertainment bar. It wasn't really big enough to have a decent swim but it proved popular with parents and toddlers and made a lovely feature with its little wooden bridge and waterfall. We were on half board and the food was always very good though did get a little repetative as is the case with most holiday hotels. Our room was lovely and the bathroom huge!! We had a wonderful sea view wich we didn't have to pay a supplement for. However, we were on the 15th floor and you do nead a head for heights and have to be wary of the rather low balcony railings.

On the negative. This hotel is isolated and it is not situated in the village of Alvor. There really is nothing outside the hotel at all so forget that stroll after your evening meal.Alvor is a 20 minute trek along a steepish busy road. My advice would be get a taxi as most people did - around 3.5 euros. You will need to do that some nights as the entertainment in the hotel is almost non existent. Never starts before 9.45pm and never lasts more than an hour (if you are lucky). Also no entertainment for children whatsoever.

I would revisit the Algarve but I would not go back to the Pestana. Whilst I agree it certainly merits its 4 star rating and everyone here really welcomes you, it is simply too isolated.

Book this Hotel Direct    Package Holidays    Holidays Direct    Last Minute

Dom Joao 2 - Alvor

Operator and Date: Eclipse - August 2006

Opinion submitted in September 2006 by : David & Victoria - Nottinghamshire 35,34

Resort Rating: Very Good

Accommodation Rating: Very Good

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

Just back from Alvor. Stayed at the Dom Jao II. Looked all over but couldn't find the Dom Joa I.....
Alvor is about the furthest resort west of Faro so you might find yourself the last drop off/first collection. If so be prepared for a 2/2.5 coach journey. Might be worth paying the extra for a taxi through the holiday company.
We booked a sea view for extra money. This is well worth it. We were on 5th floor so view was excellent. The alternative on the other side is the road/car park.

Hotel itself is very clean. Staff speak good English and are generally helpful.Air Con in the room is a bit pathetic, not really sure if it worked. We didn't have a fridge in the room which was quite annoying.
Hotel mix was English, German and quite a lot of Portugese ( A Good sign)
Breakfast is buffet style - hot and cold. Perfectly fine. Get there around 8 till 9 before it gets busy.
Hotel is located on a lovely sandy beach. Very clean. 10 Euros for 2 sun beds and umbrella or free if you lie on the sand as most of the Portugese do. Plenty of snack bars line the area near the hotel.
The town is itself is 15 mins walk ( the first bit is an unpaved road)or ?4 in a taxi to the harbour.
There are plenty of places to eat in the town. Fish places near the harbour always busy.
Plenty of good places to eat - Casa da Rio on the cliff top. New Delhi Curry House - better than Indian Hutt, Goodvilles & Vagabonds are fine, Al Dente good - (dont bother with the minestrone soup though). Didn't really have a bad meal in the resort.

Would return to Alvor again and recommend the Dom Jao 2

Book this Hotel Direct    Package Holidays    Holidays Direct    Last Minute

Dom Joao 2 - Alvor

Operator and Date: june 2006

Opinion submitted in June 2006 by : karen stalybridge..mum & daugher

Resort Rating: Excellent

Accommodation Rating: Good

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

absolutely fantastic holiday..3rd time in alvor now and definately not the last...

i took my daughter for a girlie holiday, met up with a mum and son, we have a brilliant week...never had a bad meal yet !!  staff brilliant both with kids and adults...lots of places to choose from.  the usual are vagabonds, goodvilles, always excellent ..although this year i thought the blue reef was a bit below standard. duty free is pretty much same price whichever shop you go in.  taxis very cheap too.  try the venue for a good night out..have madonna, elvis, blues brothers and cher on, also large trampolines for the kids 3 euro for 8 mins, wears them out for sure, the curry house next to the venue is also very good.....best meal i have found it the al dente italian open lunch and evening times, bit further up the hill from the venue..in the town.  

i dont think you can go wrong with this resort its just beautiful...

Book this Hotel Direct    Package Holidays    Holidays Direct    Last Minute

Book this Hotel Direct    Package Holidays    Holidays Direct    Last Minute

Dom Joao 2 - Alvor

Operator and Date: (Airtours Direct) Airtours - November 2004

Opinion submitted in Feb 2005 by : V and K - Middlesbrough (46,47)

Resort Rating: Excellent

Accommodation Rating: Excellent

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

We were transferred to this hotel as the Delfim our original booking was closed for refurbishments.
On first arriving we were a little disappointed, however once we entered the hotel it was lovely.
The view from the front of the hotel was fantastic, a beautiful long clean beach edged with trees.
The gardens of the hotel were also beautiful and immaculate.

Our room was clean and well furnished.  We had a lovely sea view. If a view is important to you, please pay the extra for sea view or you will probably be overlooking the car park.
The Restaurant was 'a proper restaurant' and had a very good range of meals and very friendly staff.
The entertainment was good and if you want to try painting they do a lot of activities around painting, I tried it and found it totally relaxing.

All staff at the hotel were extremely friendly and helpful.

We loved Alvor so much we've booked to go back next year.  It's a lovely 'lived in by locals' fishing village, with a beautiful beach, very quiet and very relaxing.  We love walking and in 4 weeks we found plenty of walks and plenty to do in this area.

Book this Hotel Direct    Package Holidays    Holidays Direct    Last Minute

Dom Joao 2 - Alvor

Operator and Date: Eclipse - April 2004

Opinion submitted in May 2004 by : Jim  - Stourport  (49, 48, 48, 16)

Resort Rating: Very Good

Accommodation Rating: Very Good

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

We went to the Hotel Dom Joao last Easter and having had a good hoiliday elected to visit this year. Unfortunately on the first evening (6pm) two youths attempted to mug me at knifepoint, the only English word they used being "Money". I managed to get away from them but the attitude of the locals in the harbour area where mugging occurred left a lot to be desired. Those who spoke English refused to call the police or provide me access to a phone so i could. The hotel reception did and the police themselves where helpful but as may be imagined the event put a bit of a dampener on my holiday at least.

The Hotel food was good with plenty of choice and the evening entertainment better than i remember it last year. The weather was hot and sunny all week.

The highlight of the holiday for the others was a trip to Zoomarine during which they got to swim with dolphins.
I must admit to some misgivings about the size of the pools the dolphins are in compared to other places i have been although the dolphins themselves seemed happy. My wife, Sue and son swam with dolphins (cost about £85 each) with me as a spectator. They thouroghly enjoyed the experience.

Overall i would recommend hotel and Alvor. Plenty of shops and also in nearby Portimao (although they tend to me somewhat more expensive than Alvor). However because of my experience i may not visit area again.

Book this Hotel Direct    Package Holidays    Holidays Direct    Last Minute

Book this Hotel Direct    Package Holidays    Holidays Direct    Last Minute

Dunas Do Alvor - Alvor

Operator and Date: (Thomson Direct) Thomson - SEPT 2005

Opinion submitted in Oct 2005 by : Marie & Phil 51 & 55

Resort Rating: Excellent

Accommodation Rating: Below Average

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

We have been to Alvor before thou not to this accomodation. The apartments themselves are excellent, spacious & clean.
The bar Carlos II is what nightmares are made of. If the singer is on, there is no point in even thinking of going to bed till 12.00 when he stops. Even then the noise doesn't stop from people singing and shouting. The one night we still awake at 2.00 a.m. thru the noise.

The other side of the apartments has the problem of traffic, buses and dust trucks in the early hours.
We would have returned to these aprtments but we were not alone with the disgust at the mentality of the people who allow a music bar to be operating immediately below apartments. We felt sorry a couple who had young children, as they were still out on the balcony at 12.00 unable to get them to sleep.

Avoid if you like a good nice nights sleep!!!!

Book this Hotel Direct    Package Holidays    Holidays Direct    Last Minute

Dunas Do Alvor - Alvor

Operator and Date: (Thomson Direct) Thomson  -  July 2005

Opinion submitted in Aug 2005 by : Chris and Jon  - Wirral  (36,35)

Resort Rating: Excellent

Accommodation Rating: Very Good

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

Can recommend these apartments for close proximity to Alvor centre and an easy walk to the beach, if you want a change from the lovely big pool.

Try the Indian restaurant around the corner (next to The Venue Bar) - well worth a visit!

This year, there is live music in the evening at the Cactos Bar (on the complex) - Mark sings and plays guitar....fab voice, great reportoire, makes for both 'singalongs' and easy-listening - made our nights thoroughly  enjoyable. (He is finished by midnight.....we didn't have an issue with any noise).
Ali (his wife) is charming and very welcoming and makes a great 'Kermit' cocktail....yummy...TRY ONE!!

Hope you enjoy a lovely resort.

Book this Hotel Direct    Package Holidays    Holidays Direct    Last Minute

Dunas Do Alvor - Alvor

Operator and Date: (Thomas Cook Direct) Thomas Cook July 2005

Opinion submitted in July 2005 by : John Oakley (46,42'17'14'14

Resort Rating: Excellent

Accommodation Rating: Excellent

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

Alvor is a lovely place to visit and for our family was great, in that it was big enough to have a choice but small enough to allow the kids some freedom without us having to worry about their safety.

The weather was brilliant with almost unbroken sunshine and a cooling breeze.

The reviews on this site must be looked at by the powers that be in Alvor in that various reviews mentioned the bins being emptied at night and the stray dogs.

The bins are now emptied of an afternoon and we did not come across a stray dog the whole fortnight.

The Dunas apartments are as big as they say and the complex has a brilliant pool with plenty of room and sunbeds.

There is no complex entertainment but a number of bars/restaurants on site which offer a quiet or more lively mix.

we went off site every night as there are some great restaurants/bars in Alvor and they are only (literately) round the corner.

Never disturbed by noise and we had two apartments, one facing the complex and one over the main road.

In the apartment there is a television (cartoon network, films in english with Portugese sub titles, various news channels)There is no hairdryer but the fridges are large and enough crockery etc.

There are a few boat trips from the harbour and we took the Novo Alvor and found it great as it was small enough for them to be able to make you seem special and we had a monopoly on the pull along inflatable, they also do a great deal on fresh fish.

Try Slide and Splash as an aqua park, the kids(and me)loved it, cost 19 Euros but you can get a deal at some shops.Food and drink in the park is reasonable too.

Restaurants that are good:
- Vagabonds
- Goodville
- Kashmir
- Dream Team (best breakfast and good value)

The kids will love the trampolines by the Venue/Kashmir (3 Euros for 8 minutes and always full)

Beach is nice, clean and huge, try walking to the left when you reach the beach and keep going where you will find some lovely isolated coves.

We met loads of people who kept going back to Alvor and we may yet.

Book this Hotel Direct    Package Holidays    Holidays Direct    Last Minute

Dunas Do Alvor - Alvor

Operator and Date: (Thomson Direct) Thomson - June 2005

Opinion submitted in June 2005 by : A and J Tumman - Saddleworth (32yrs, 33yrs)

Resort Rating: Excellent

Accommodation Rating: Good

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

Alvor is a lovely place to go on holiday, it's the second time we've been, the beach is fantastic, one thing about the beach though is to take some water with you there is no longer a shop on the beach and the tavernas charge 2euros, also there's a charge for sunbeds - shop around some are cheaper than others. There are some really nice resturants in Alvor, we're lucky as we've been before we knew were to go and were not to go. Sorry can't remember names just directions.

The apartment itself was quite large, suited the two of us very well.
There was one bedroom (twin beds which pushed together without any gaps). There was ample storage space, including safe deposit box (payable locally). The curtains were blackouts, much needed as we got the morning sun.

The bathroom consisted of bath, shower, toilet, bidet and sink again with storage space. There always seemed plenty of hot water - never went cold.

Kitchen, dining, living area was quite large and would easily sleep two others without overcrowding the room. Kitchen area adequatley equipped for self-catering.

The whole apartment was very clean, and appeared to be cleaned on most days, we got our beds properly made.

The pool was big enough, with plenty of sunbeds, but why do people put there towels on the sunbeds at 08.30 and leave them there. One day I went to the pool at 09.00 (couldn't sleep) and there were 3 towels on the next sunbeds, when I left at 14.00 the towels were still there, and nobody had been near them. WHY??

One gripe about our apartment was the noise. We overlooked a 'courtyard' in which there were cafe bars and resturants.
Never again, if you have one of these rooms ask for a change, if not buy some earplugs - you'll need them. Even when we returned in the evening after midnight the noise was unacceptable, from - guests themselves - their children, the bar's television, music, waiters and bar staff talking loudly to each other etc. Two bonuses are we weren't near the road so didn't hear the traffic, and we never heard any noise from the stray dogs.

The Rep - we never went to the meeting and therefore never met her, there are no longer reps on coaches to and from the airport.

On the whole had a really nice holiday, would definately return to Alvor, but, would definately not return to these apartments, due to the noise

Book this Hotel Direct    Package Holidays    Holidays Direct    Last Minute

Dunas Do Alvor - Alvor

Operator and Date: (Thomson Direct) Thomson May\June 2005

Opinion submitted in June 2005 by : Chris - Kettering (37) Iain (45), Sarah (13), Emma (10)

Resort Rating: Excellent

Accommodation Rating: Excellent

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

Just returned from Alvor after having a wonderful 2 weeks - we found this site useful so thought I would add our comments to be of some help.

Accommodation - nice spacious apartment, very clean.  Plenty of storage space for clothes etc.  We had the sofa bed in the lounge up for 2 weeks and it didn't bother us - there was still plenty of space.  The only gripe was the lack of changing of the towels but we found reception very helpful. We had 2 problems, a light bulb went and they forgot to leave us enough towels 1 day but within 10 mins both were sorted out.
The pool was great nice and big and we never had a problem getting sunbeds, not sure whether it was full or not though so don't know whether this would be a problem in summer. 

Beach - 10 min walk - fantastic beach although we found this all round the resort areas as we hired a car one day.  Lovely sand - sea a bit rough though - probably not good for small children. 

Alvor itself is lovely full of character and plenty of eating places.  The people are very friendly and we felt safe at all times. About a 10 min walk. Great for families.

We took a boat trip from the harbour which was great - TRIGANA - the bloke (english) was great and very friendly.  Good for kids of all ages.  We left this til the last few days but I think we'd have done this again.  Good for a hot day -nice and windy.  Cost us 75 euros for the 4 of us.

Eating out - we ate out every night and we can't complain about any of them.  Plenty of choice for the most fussy.  Won't list all 12 but these are our top 3:
Pick up the FREEMAP which lists all the places this is how we worked round them all:

5 Quinas 5 Crowns Restaurante - on the beach fantastic setting and very friendly staff.

Casa do rio restaurant - overlooking the harbour -nice food and again fantastic setting.

Lusitania Restaurante and Pizzeria - down the main cobbled street - very nice food.

Goodvilles is a good place for atmosphere - people were queing to get in here and the foods not bad either.

In all we found all places very reasonable to eat - wine and beer is cheaper than pop about 80p for a glass of wine and £1.50 for a pint of beer.  But we didn't see anyone drunk.

We hired a car for one day and managed to fit in Vilamoura, Albufeira and Cape St Vincent, this cost 80 euros but we paid extra for air con.  Cheaper to hire for 3 days but we didn't want to go all round.

Lagos is worth a visit about 1/2 hr on the bus but we thought the bus was expensive.  We found the taxi cheaper.  Portimao is really nice about 10min journey.  We walked to Praia da Rocha which took an hour and a half (wouldn't recommend this on a hot day) and we were glad we weren't staying there!!  Got a taxi back which cost 5 euros!

Try walking along the beach beyond the rocks it comes to lots of secluded coves and there are some good huts which sell drinks etc.

We would definitely recommend Alvor and the apartments.  ENJOY!!

Book this Hotel Direct    Package Holidays    Holidays Direct    Last Minute

Dunas Do Alvor - Alvor

Operator and Date: (Thomas Cook Direct) Thomas Cook - April 2005

Opinion submitted in July 2005 by : Helen Gordon (42, 18, 15)

Resort Rating: Very Good

Accommodation Rating: Excellent

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

I knew the appartment was going to big but this was enormous compared to those I have stayed in other countries. There was plenty of room to spread around in although the balcony was a little small. The kitchen was large and well equipped with a big enough fridge to keep all your drinks cold at the same time. The staff were all friendly and helpful and the standard of cleaning was good too. We were facing in to the main square but didn't experience much problem with noise whilst we were there. 

The pool is large and varies well in depth so there was plenty of room for everyone and it appeared to be supervised at all times. There are several bar/cafes on the complex and close to the pool but Marco's is far and away the best. it is run by an English couple and serves mainly English type food but this is all freshly cooked everyday and is of a very high standard but served at a very reasonable price (most main meals were 5-7 euros)and if you have children or fussy eaters with you Marco will go out of his way to cater for them. There is a large 'local' supermarket less than 5 minutes walk away with its own bakery selling freshly baked bread and cakes every day and the apartment kitchen is well equipped for making your own light meals. It is well worth a walk up through the town and down into the harbour especially in an evening when all of the fish restaurants display the fish outside for you to choose from. 

The beach is within easy walking distance but we didn't use it much as it was very windy when we were there but made good use of the pool instead. The water park is well recommended but can be a long slow bus trip as it picks up at numerous resorts on the way. 

I would definitely reccommend this holiday especially if you are on a tight budget as we were.

Book this Hotel Direct    Package Holidays    Holidays Direct    Last Minute

Dunas Do Alvor - Alvor

Operator and Date: (Thomas Cook Direct) Thomas Cook - april 2005

Opinion submitted in May 2005 by : Andrea Falvey - Sidcup (26,36)

Resort Rating: Excellent

Accommodation Rating: Very Good

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

we really enjoyed our holiday to alvor.  i thought alvor was great lovely beaches loads of lovely places to eat out!

the apartment we had was huge and clean, the only bad thing was our balcony never got any sun on it. the pool area was lovely and clean and theres lots of space and sunloungers. we didnt take our 3yr old daughter as we went for our anniversary but i would definately take her there, its very child friendly and the pool area was ideal. there are lots of cafes etc in the apartments, not all were open coz of the time of year, but i would definately recomend pic nic. the bloke in there is sooo keen to help and the food is lovely especially for brekkie stuff.

its only a short walk to the bars, resturants and beach.  im a very fussy eater but i loved the food. it is generally very cheap but there are some lovely more expensive places if you want a really lovely meal (goodville, vagabondos. My favorite bar was happy nights because it does kareoke, but we also spent alot of time in the sports cafe where the staff were lovely!

All in all we had a great time and would definately go back! I dont think i would stay in those apartments in the height of summer as the set out would make them very noisy!

Book this Hotel Direct    Package Holidays    Holidays Direct    Last Minute

Dunas Do Alvor - Alvor

Operator and Date: (Thomas Cook Direct) Thomas Cook - 2005

Opinion submitted in July 2005 by : The Gallons (33,37,9,6)

Resort Rating: Excellent

Accommodation Rating: Excellent

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

Wow, where do i start. this was our first visit to Portugal but will not be our last.The country the resort the accomadation the people are second to none.The best self catering apartments we have ever stayed in.
The apartments are home from home apparently they are around six years old and are spotless. The rooms are huge in compared to most self catering apartments and have everything you need.They where cleaned 12 days out of the 14 with the towels and bedding changed regularly.
There are two blocks of apartments with two courtyards one with the pool.Thought they would be noisey at night with the bars but we heard nothing.

We booked after reading reviews on this site.Some people mentioned the noise at night of the dustbin men, yes once or twice they did come at strange times of night around 1am but they are not there for hours 2 mins at the most. Dogs barking yes we did hear some now and again but really this is nothing to mention or to worry about.

The resort is beautiful lots of shops, bars and resurants in the cobbled streets of the town leading to the horbour.We never had a bad meal.Goodvilles and coffee shop where our favorites. With music playing from the local indian pipe band.
The beach looked lovely when we first stepped onto the sand but got better. As you came to the end there was another four coves to explore with cafes built into the cliff side.When the tide is out there is another two coves with caves it is wonderful.
We booked three trips with "Best Day" located in town, which offer the same trips as the rep but a lot cheaper.
Zoomarine is a must , the shows are out of this world especially the dolphin show.
Also Slide and Splash water park with lots of Slides.

This is the first time with Thomas Cook and they where brilliant best company I have used yet. Mick the rep was always happy to help.
If you price this holiday becareful for exactly the same holiday on the same flights and everthing Thomson where £600 more exspensive.
Finaly if you have ever thought of going to the Algarve go, we put it off for too long now they wont be able to get rid of us. BRILLIANT.
IF ONLY MY SIX NUMBERS WOULD COME UP !!!!!!!

Book this Hotel Direct    Package Holidays    Holidays Direct    Last Minute

Dunas Do Alvor - Alvor

Operator and Date: (Thomas Cook Direct) Thomas Cook - 2005

Opinion submitted in June 2005 by : Tony, Hilary & James (10) - Cheshire.

Resort Rating: Very Good

Accommodation Rating: Very Good

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

We recently spent 2 weeks at the Dunas and  thought the apartments were very comfortable, spacious, and clean.
Kitchen facilities were a bit limited, however this did not inconvenience us too much as we eat out most nights.

The pool was a good size and not overly busy at the time we were there.
The beach was excellent with plenty of room for everyone and some very nice beach bar/restaurants to enjoy.

The staff at the Dunas were very helpful and friendly as were all the Portugese we met.We never had any real problems once we had switched rooms to a pool view and only a couple of times did we experience some of the noise problems from bars that others have previously mentioned on this site.

Alvor itself was an enjoyable place though we felt it did not have as much genuine character as we expected.
Our favourite restaurants were Goodville's, El Rei and Al Dente which was nice and local to us.

We hired a car for the day and enjoyed a nice trip to Sagres and Cape st Vincent.
We took the bus to Zoomarine which was okay but felt rushed in trying to see all the shows before catching the return trip, a bit disappointing really.             
Slide & Splash was a great day out we all enjoyed, really good fun.
 
Overall, a most enjoyable holiday & would definitely recommend to anyone.

Book this Hotel Direct    Package Holidays    Holidays Direct    Last Minute

Dunas Do Alvor - Alvor

Operator and Date: (Thomson Direct) Thomson - October 2004

Opinion submitted in June 2005 by : Kendal - 40, 31, 3, 1

Resort Rating: Very Good

Accommodation Rating: Very Good

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

We had a really good 11 night stay in Alvor.

We can only re-iterate what everyone else has said about how spacious & clean the apartments were.  They were very well equipped & we would recommend them. 

Only 2 negative things for us were; the balcony which wasn't particularly child friendly - they had put a piece of plastic mesh over the gap where the bars were.  & also the bin men.  They emptied the bins at an unearthly hour in the morning, which just sounded the loudest thing I've ever heard!!  It was every night bar one as well.

The complex was an unusual design but our room overlooked the courtyard & got the sun in the afternoon & there was always something (or someone) going on.  Can imagine it does get a bit too loud & busy in the Summer though.

The pool area was clean & spacious.  It was getting a little bit cool by the end of our stay but our children still braved it, even if they came out shivering!!

The beach is absolutely stunning.  Probably the best thing about Alvor.  Its a 10 minute walk max, & is well worth the walk every day.  Really big so it never felt crowded at all.  The children loved it.

We had several good meals in Alvor.  The best was also the closest & probably the most reasonably priced.  It was at a restaurant on the complex but unfortunately cannot remember the name.  The guy was really friendly & the food excellent.  Sardines were round about 6 euros, & for that got 9 whole sardines with chips & salad for that price.  The chicken piri piri is also a must.

The local supermarket is a bit disappointing.  We found the staff generally quite unhelpful.  It wasn't the cleanest place in the world & prices weren't always too clear.  But after a few days we got used to it!!

Really enjoyed Alvor, a definite place to go for beach lovers.  Not sure if the kids would enjoy it again, as there is not much for them to do.  But us adults would go back!!

Book this Hotel Direct    Package Holidays    Holidays Direct    Last Minute

Dunas Do Alvor - Alvor

Operator and Date: (Thomas Cook Direct) Thomas Cook Oct 04

Opinion submitted in Mar 2005 by : Shona Quigley - Yorkshire (38, 13, 10)

Resort Rating: Excellent

Accommodation Rating: Excellent

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

Well where shall i begin.... This was the first time we had ..EVER.. been on holiday as a family of 3. When we got there we were very suprised at how big the apartment was. It was very clean and although there was not alot of bedsheets, we managed.

The staff were very helpful and all spoke fluent english. Lots of little cafes around the square were good. Although we were there in October and it was very quiet. We found it was the best time to go as it was not over crowded. We totally enjoyed the local people, they were very friendly.

We were also bothered about all of the stray dogs.. they were harmless and never went near you, only two friendly mongrels, which were quite happy in meeting all of the holiday makers, and would just wonder around with you. We were told that every so often they were all rounded up by the police and destroyed. We wanted to bring one dog back called Foxy but we named him Chalky. There was also another dog called Samson, he was amazing character for a dog, he was a large black and white Jack Russell, and he was always charging at any car and chanced been ran over,we spent alot of the time watching how daring he was. So we decided we'd call him Chase. So if you happen to go to these apartnments look out for these two lovely dogs. Any how if you are a pet lover I'm sure you'll no how we felt. 

We plan on going back there again in 2005. We would love to live there and set up a dog sanctuary. But overall we fell in love with Alvor... if you want to know where the best place is.. try it. We were so glad that we did!!  

Book this Hotel Direct    Package Holidays    Holidays Direct    Last Minute

Dunas Do Alvor - Alvor

Operator and Date: September 2004

Opinion submitted in Oct 2004 by : The Browns - Essex (32, 32, 4)

Resort Rating: Excellent

Accommodation Rating: Very Good

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

We booked the Dunas after reading the reviews on this site and weren't disappointed. 

The apartments are spacious, we left the double sofa bed up all week and it didn't get in the way at all, there was a very large cupboard so you could keep suitcases and other bits and pieces well out of the way without using up wardrobe space, the fridge was a very good size but in need of defrosting, crockery was a bit limited but adequate for our needs. The cleanliness was of a very high standard with the apartment being cleaned 6 out of the 7 days we were there.
The curtains were blackouts, great for lie-ins !

Reception is 24hour and they all speak English well and are friendly.
There is a mini-market in the complex which stocked what we needed but there is a supermarket a couple of minutes walk up the road for everything else.

The pool is very cold but big and clean and there is a nice sized childrens pool as well.
The main downside to the Dunas is the noise at night, we had a roadside room on the 3rd floor and luckily didn't need to keep the windows open to stay cool but even with them closed the road noise was awful, not only the dogs barking, dustcart at 2am but a skateboarder using the road as his track and various other local people shouting until the small hours. As the apartments aren't airconditioned this could be a problem in the very hot months.

The location of the apartments is ideal for both town and beach, great choice in the town (a 10 minute walk) for food, especially if you like fish. The beach is fabulous, also a 10 minute walk in the opposite direction, the sea wasn't as cold as we were expecting but quite rough while we were there, beware of the undercurrent.
The rocky part of the beach to the east is worth a visit.
We hired a car through avis for 3 days and visited Aquashow (a waterpark), the nearby town of Portimao and Zoomarine, all very nice days out. Driving out there was fairly straighforward although their road markings and signs are rather lacking so had to be careful of rights of way etc !

All in all a great holiday and praise must go to Thomas Cook as we travelled out on the day of the Gatwick baggage handlers strike and they had laid on their own staff so delays were kept to a minimum.

Book this Hotel Direct    Package Holidays    Holidays Direct    Last Minute

Dunas Do Alvor - Alvor

Operator and Date: (Thomas Cook Direct) Thomas Cook - September 2004

Opinion submitted in Sept 2004 by : Stuart, Fiona & Ross - (41, 40 & 12)

Resort Rating: Very Good

Accommodation Rating: Average

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

Alvor is lovely.  A quaint fishing village which is a mixture of old and new with lovely cobbled streets.  The beach starts at one end consisting of a large white sandy rock/cove area all the way to Alvor's little estuary with small fishing boats in the harbour. You are never at a loss to find room, it's one large beach!

The apartments however I do have a few gripes with.  Very spacious and reasonably clean - albeit they do tend to forget to change your towels BUT it is true about the noise and we went in September.  We were lucky and went on the quieter side of the complex but could still hear noise from the bars!!  Our friends unfortunately got the much talked about noisy side and needed more than ear plugs to get to sleep some nights!    This didnt happen everynight but should have been stamped out by staff.  We weren't too upset about it as this was a "cheapie" holiday for us.  It's true about the dog population they are everywhere you look and so noisy in the middle of the night.  Not to mention the refuse collection coming at 4 a.m. most nights!!

On a positive side the pool was big and in September we did not have a problem getting a bed. The Rep was ok but could have served us a drink on the welcome meeting as it was so hot!

For eating I would recommend Al Dente, a lovely Italian we wished we'd found sooner, Albar, Goodvilles - to be honest we did not have a bad meal all the time we were there.

Book this Hotel Direct    Package Holidays    Holidays Direct    Last Minute

Dunas Do Alvor - Alvor

Operator and Date: (Thomas Cook Direct) Thomas Cook - August 2004

Opinion submitted in Aug 2004 by : The Arathoons - Chester (50,37,14,11)

Resort Rating: Average

Accommodation Rating: Below Average

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

It looks like my review is different from eveyone else's that stayed here but I may as well be honest!

We were really disappointed in both the accomodation and resort.

Firstly the accomodation - it was spacious and well equipped but had many faults - holes in the curtains, broken tiles in the bathroom, a toaster that didn't work properly, also when we arrived we reported two light bulbs out and that we only had 3 plates for 4 of us and it took several days for these problems to be remedied.
But worst of all the room wasn't cleaned properly and the towels and linen weren't changed regularly.
The design of the complex means that all of the apartments are above bars and shops - we were above the noisiest bar and had trouble sleeping due to the noise, the heat (we won't stay somewhere without air-conditioning again - our own fault I know)and the barking of the wild dogs

On the plus side the pool was a good size but there was a mad rush to get your sunbeds when it opened at 9.00 am otherwise you had to sunbathe on the grass.
The selection of bars and cafes on the complex was good and much cheaper than eating in Alvor although it did get repetitive.

I thought the location was fairly good - just outside the main town with a few bars and restaurants nearby and many more in Alvor town but they were expensive and to be honest nothing stood out as being exceptional except for the Indian restaurant next to the Shamrock!

Having read in another report that the Thomas Cook rep was helpful - we didn't think so! Our kids enjoy playing pool and we asked where there was a bar with a pool table - she didn't know - but we soon discovered there was one just over the road! We wanted to book a trip to Fatima - and she hadn't heard of it! Also the Welcome meeting was held in a cafe that was closed and there was little shade - we were sweltering - we noticed the Thomson rep was supplying his clients with plenty of cold drinks - we got nothing.

Trips - I would highly recommend Zoomarine but if you go on an organised trip you have to leave at 4.00 pm and we didn't catch all of the shows, same with Slide and Splash - we regtet not going there by car and staying till it closed!

We got a mammoth discount on trips and free tickets to Slide and Splash by going to a Time Share meeting - we had no intention of signing up and it cost us half a day of our holiday but it was worth it as we saved 30% - a huge saving on the Fatima trip.
 
We have been to Portugal four times now and feel that it is being spolit by building more and more hotels. We probably won't go back for a while but if we do it will be somewhere other than this complex.

Book this Hotel Direct    Package Holidays    Holidays Direct    Last Minute

Dunas Do Alvor - Alvor

Operator and Date: Blue Sky Travel - August 2004

Opinion submitted in Aug 2004 by : Becky Hewlitt - West Bromwich (31,31,1)

Resort Rating: Very Good

Accommodation Rating: Good

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

We were really looking forward to our trip after reading the reviews on here and after getting an excellent deal with Blue Sky. The flight was on time and very comfortable. The transfer took about 2 hours but it was an air conditioned coach so not too bad. 

The room was very big, clean and with satellite TV which was great. The only downside was that we were overlooking the central square and the bars seemed to attract some ignorant people who though it was perfectly acceptable for their kids to scream, kick footballs and run up and down at midnight while they sat and got lagered up.We asked to be moved but reception didn't want to know. If you go REFUSE a room overlooking the pool/square area! 

Apart from that it was great - lovely pool. Alvor is a nice place with lots of good places to eat. We recommend Goodville, Vagabondos and Hellmans for the best food. Don't bother with the Chinese all you can eat buffet - bleurgh. You must go to the 'Five Crowns' on Alvor beach. Great staff and lovely food.

It rained for three days when we were there but it gave us the chance to explore. We went to portimao by taxi (cheap and a nice day out), Lagos by bus (from Alvor centre only a few euros) and Faro by train from portimao. This was an excellent trip. We saw lots of the countryside and faro is absolutely beautiful. It was and hour and a half on the train. Big clean and cool carriages. Dead cheap. Kids would love it. We also did a two day tour of seville and gibraltar with 'Best day' tours costing 80 euros each including a night in seville in a wonderful four star hotel. It was brilliant and well worth doing. 

So to conclude the apartments are very nice but VERY noisy if you get the wrong room so be persistent. Alvor is great with a lovely beach and a very nice walk to Praia Do Rocha if you get bored. Lots to see and do in the area. Great food but can be quite pricey. 

Enjoy your holiday!

Book this Hotel Direct    Package Holidays    Holidays Direct    Last Minute

Dunas Do Alvor - Alvor

Operator and Date: (Thomson Direct) Thomson - July 2004

Opinion submitted in Aug 2004 by : Donna Clements - Evesham (36,32,6,3)

Resort Rating: Excellent

Accommodation Rating: Very Good

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

This was our first trip to Portugal, and we booked the Dunas Do Alvor after reading reviews on this site. They were very accurate, and I can only reiterate what they said. The apartments are huge, and very clean, although towel and linen changes can be few and far between. The staff all speak very good english and are very friendly and helpful. The pool and pool area is very clean, although loungers were sparse as it was busy. The cafes and bars on site are very good and reasonably priced. Particularly good are Duarte's and Pic Nic. It was exceptionally hot whilst we were there and the lack of air conditioning did make the nights very uncomfortable, especially with small children. Fans are extortionate to rent from reception, so you are better off heading into Portimao and buying one - reception semmed willing to buy them off people at the end of the holiday.

The location of the apartments is ideal, and its a really nice short walk into town. Alvor itself is lovely, and the restaurants are great. Ignore all of the hype about "Somewhere Else" - the service was poor, and the food expensive and disappointing - the only bad meal we had it 2 weeks. "Al Dente" serve great Italian food but the service was shockingly bad. Best for fish was "Adega d'Alvor". Little pricey but fantastic food, service and atmosphere. Everywhere was very accomodating of our two small children.

We went to Zoo Marine and Slide and Splash - both really good days out. If possible book to swin with the dolphins at Zoo MArine (cost about £90) - fantastic experience and much cheaper than doing it in places like Florida.

OUr Thomson rep -very friendly but totally useless - never turned up when he said he would, and had generally no interest in any of his clients. We poached Nicola, the Thomas Cook rep, if we needed any help or advice, and she was great.

I would definitely return to Alvor and the Dunas apartments, but would probably think twice about using Thomsons just because of the rep.

Book this Hotel Direct    Package Holidays    Holidays Direct    Last Minute

Dunas Do Alvor - Alvor

Operator and Date: (Thomas Cook Direct) Thomas Cook July 2004

Opinion submitted in Aug 2004 by : Tony  Smith 42 ,48,14,12

Resort Rating: Excellent

Accommodation Rating: Very Good

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

Great apartments, spacious and clean with regular maid service. Pool is a good size and well maintained, more sunbeds needed when the apartments are full.

Some great restaurants, Vagabondo is ok drinks can be expensive compared with other places. Albar has something for everyone, China Garden very good value and excellent food. We found a really good restaurant past vagabondos and goodville turn left as you go the harbour and its at the top of the road, large green doors but no name lots of locals eat there.

We first visited Alvor in 97, pleased to see that it has not been spoilt despite the number of new bars and apartment blocks, a great resort for a family holiday, would recommend a jeep safari for an exciting day away from the great beach.

Book this Hotel Direct    Package Holidays    Holidays Direct    Last Minute

Dunas Do Alvor - Alvor

Operator and Date: (Thomas Cook Direct) Thomas Cook  -  July 2004

Opinion submitted in Aug 2004 by : The Jones's  -  Essex  ( 37, 37, 15 , 6

Resort Rating: Very Good

Accommodation Rating: Very Good

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

This was our second trip to the Algarve, the first being 10yrs ago when we stayed in Lagos.
We hired a car for our two week stay, so can't comment on tranfers. Car hire was via Avis, booked at the time of holiday. We upgarded to a slightly larger car with air con (a god send)at the airport. Be aware that the quote they give you is less tax and there is additional road tax of 1.5 Euro a day which they don't advertise either (read everything). Petrol is about the same price as here.

Dunas appartments were clean and quiet with a nice big pool and plenty of sunbeds and parasols to go around if you get there before 10am. We were in a first floor appartment on the end with a pool view, and were generaly happy with the service and the quality. A cursory Maid service most days, electric hob, toaster and fridge freezer. If you intend to cook meals rather than eat out you may find the facilities a little restrictive. Microwaves can be hired at 5 E's a day!

The appartments are not air conditioned, which is not a major problem, but when the temp reaches 44c as it did whilst we were there, it's pretty uncomfortable. Fans can be hired at 3 E's a day which I think was too much. We bought 2 in the hypermarket in Portimao for 11 E's each and then sold them at the end of the holiday, loosing only a few Euros.

There are a few shops, a beauty salon and cafe/restaurants in the complex, but a lot of empty shoplets which made it feel a bit like a ghost town(good in some ways, bad in others). The reception and general staff are very polite andhelpful. Noise wise, be aware of the stray dogs and the dustmen come about 3am some days.

Food shopping can be done at the Alisuper close by, but we found a Lidel on the way into Portimao, about a 5 min drive. The food was much cheaper and accross the road from there is the Modelo shopping center which has everything you need and cheaper.

Alvor is a pleasant town. There are plenty of restaurants. We never had a bad meal. If you like fish it's a haven.We would recomend 'Al Dente' near the appartments 'Rio a Vista' and 'O Arco da velha', but there are so many, Vagabondo has a pleasant terrace and does a good kebab. There isn't a great deal in the way of entertainment in the area. Plenty of Irish bars, a lone pan piper, a couple of silly Jokers and occasionaly a band on the stage by the harbour. Saying that, there is a nice feel to the place.

We found that a trip in to Lagos (about 20 mins) at night was a bit more entertaining. It's a lovely town with a nice promenade, there's a bit more going on and it's got some proper shops rather than tacky souvenir ones, however the restaurants are not so good.

Things to do:

'Slide and Splash' about 20 mins drive is a must. A great day out.
'Aqualand' is similar, not quite so good in our opinion, a further drive, athough there is a wave machine and a fantastic sledge ride.
'Zoomarine' has a pool, a mix of basic rides and animal shows but it's pricey and if you've done Disney/Seaworld there's no comparison.
'Boat rides' are best from Lagos. There's loads to choose from, they're cheaper and the coast line is nicer.
'Monchique mountains' is a pleasant drive and views if it's not on fire up there. You can gather giant pine cones and visit little unspoilt villages.
'The market at Loule' was dissapointing. Ok for fish and local produce but a bit smelly.
'The light house' at Cape de St Vincent is worth a visit if it's not misty.
'Beaches' - Nice long uncrowded beaches at Alvor, Albufeira and Villamoura, but if you want coves and caves then your best going to Lagos area or Carviaro.

All in all, a good holiday. Portugese are generally very pro Brits, speak good English and the country has lots to offer. We'll definitely return within a few years.

Book this Hotel Direct    Package Holidays    Holidays Direct    Last Minute

Dunas Do Alvor - Alvor

Operator and Date: (Thomas Cook Direct) Thomas Cook - July 2004

Opinion submitted in July 2004 by : Graham, Sue, Ben and Sam - (40,38,10 and 6)

Resort Rating: Excellent

Accommodation Rating: Very Good

My/Our Holiday Opinion:

Firstly, a quick thank you to Thomas Cook. It was the first time we had travelled with them and their attitude was first class.
It was our third visit to Alvor but first time at Dunas. Everything was as it said in the brochure, simple but clean accommodation that was well equipped, well located for both the beach and the town. The bars within the complex were not overpriced but the better restaurants are in the town itself.
Recommendations?
Al Dente- Italian close to Dunas

El Rei- excellent selection for adults and kids

Dom Pipas- popular with the locals

Warnings?
Don't get too hung up on the hype over Vagabondo, Goodville and Hellmans. All good food, but pricier and no better than some of the less well publicised.

And if you are a light sleeper, take some earplugs. Alvor has the largest population of noisy dogs I have ever heard.

Great holiday, great weather...but why am I telling you, I want to book again for next year.

Book this Hotel Direct    Package Holidays    Holidays Direct    Last Minute

Dunas Do Alvor - Alvor

Operator and Date: (Thomas Cook Direct) Thomas Cook - 2004

Opinion submitted in Sept 2004 by : andy h-n/cle

Resort Rating: Excellent

Accommodation Rating: Excellent

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

another great holiday in alvor.4th time and it just gets better.try paddys bar for eccellent entertainment from seamie nally or anyone who's prepared to get up and sing with him.friendly staff and customers.try restaraunt bourganvilles fillet steak on the stone,comes raw on a hot stone for you to cook to your own liking at only 13 euro.eccellent!!!

one downfall in the resort are the dogs that seem to roam free,but they all seem pretty docile,i think it's just a portugese thing.

apart from that there's a great beach,lot's of nice walks and loads of bars in the village such as bolan bar for great reggea music.hope to be back there next year.

Book this Hotel Direct    Package Holidays    Holidays Direct    Last Minute

Iberotel - Alvor

Operator and Date: Holiday City - September 2005

Opinion submitted in Oct 2005 by : Lorraine (21) John (33)

Resort Rating: Good

Accommodation Rating: Good

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

Just so that you know, you must be prepared to get taxis to and from the resort centre and the beach, but its easy enough to order a taxi, just ask at the reception, they ring through for you, and the taxi is there within 5-10 mins when busy time of the day. its only 3 euros 25 cents through the day.The Hotel also provides a free bus to the resort and beach every 2 hours throughout the day.

other than that the hotel is a good standard, the staff are friendly and the pool area is great.
 
the only fault i would say would be the lack of food on offer on the dinner buffet service. And the food which was on offer was warm/cold.The bar staff are really efficient.

My boyfriend and I ate out 4 nights out of the 7. We ate around the harbour area a couple of times, and the other couple of times we went into praia de rocha, it was great there, i would really reccommend eating in the Atlantis Restaurant there, as the food was great, even if you only go there once on your stay, make that the place to go. I would even recommend to visit this resort through the day, as the beach is bigger and wider than alvor.

Book this Hotel Direct    Package Holidays    Holidays Direct    Last Minute

Iberotel - Alvor

Operator and Date: (Airtours Direct) Airtours - June 2005

Opinion submitted in July 2005 by : Geoff Baskerville - Wiltshire (54,54)

Resort Rating: Very Good

Accommodation Rating: Excellent

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

If your are looking for a relaxing holiday the Iberotel Hotel is for you, set in very nice gardens (once a golf course) and has a very large pool area with plenty of sun loungers (no early morning trips to put your towles on) Staff are wery good and the owners often at the hotel there son is Tiago Monteiro F1 driver for Jordan Team so it was a very nice to see him finish in 3rd place while we where at the hotel.

the Hotel is set just outside the village of Alvor and away from the restaurants and bars,although 20min walk, it is a long hot walk and not recomended (my wife's opinion) Hotel has a free bus into the town and beach but this does not run in the evenings,however taxies are inexpensive and hotel will arrange.

The beach is a must to vist very very long with clean golden sand and not over crowded
all very much recommended. Also Hotel good base to see much of the Algarve if you hire a car very easy driving.
If you also go with Airtours you should be lucky and your representative will be Louise very helpful.
would reccomend you visit Hotel web site iberotel  pt what you see is what you get on all pictures and statements.

Jardim - Alvor

Operator and Date: (Thomson Direct) Thomson - Just June 2005

Opinion submitted in Aug 2005 by : MB - Kent 24 + 25

Resort Rating: Excellent

Accommodation Rating: Very Good

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

We booked this as a cheap getaway & it was good value for money.  We paid just £360 for 2 weeks in June via a travel agent.

The rooms were basic, but had everything you needed - the shower curtain and toilet could have done with a clean (or replacement), but this was my ONLY complaint & I bought a bottle of loo cleaner & just didn't use the shower curtain: Remedied.  Ok not luxury, but we didn't pay for luxury, so for the price: excellent!

Pool area was nice & play music - really informal & relaxing & plenty of shades if needed.

Our room overlooked the pool, so had sunshine for breakfast on the balcony

The maids were thorough and consciensous.  The reception staff were very helpful in looking for places to go and eat and drink, and book trips, etc.

The resort is so lovely - the night we got there we went for a walk to the beach - and found a creek-like harbour, and were devastated, as we thought this was the beach for the next two weeks.  The next day we were chatting to others by the pool who said "Have you seen the beach, isn't it wonderful" and told us how to get there.  It's a bit of a walk, but it's absolutely worth it.  If we had anyone in a 30 meter radious of us, it was packed!  Miles of lovely beaches & great waves, too.  But cos of the breeze, you don't realise how hot it is & although I was careful to keep applying sun-lotion, I got a bit burnt.

There is a little souvenir shop (from main strip wih back to Harbour, turn left & it's on the right by the little square, on a corner) who has yellow leaflets to go out on a boat for sunset & have a glass of champagne - can't remember the cost but was incredibly less than the ?40 that most were charging.  The woman working in the shop recommended it, as it was her friend, which was nice.

My 2 favourite restaurants were opposite each other: walk up the main strip (so harbour is behind you) and turn right & about 50-100 yards down - one is a fish restaurant & has a trellis type patio out the back which is just lovely - the mixed fish dish is about ?9 & tastes lovely (we ate on the front on our 2nd night where they cook the fresh caught fish, and we had just one drink each & it came to ?80).

The other restaurant is opposite & to the right a bit (on a corner) and has Piri-piri chicken for about ?6 & lovely house wine.

The water park is worth going to.  Eveyone told us to go to Lagos - we went for the day & I wasn't that impressed really - nice enough, but nothing special.

Book this Hotel Direct    Package Holidays    Holidays Direct    Last Minute

Mar Alvor - Alvor

Operator and Date:  Otbeach.com - July/ August  2007

Opinion submitted in August 2007 by : Jackie, Steve, Liam, Lucy and Dan 43, 40, 11, 10 ,5

Resort Rating: Excellent

Accommodation Rating: Excellent

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

This was our first time in Alvor, and we were a bit worried that it might be too quiet. How wrong we were. Alvor seems to be a bustling little town with plenty of good quality restaurants and bars. Most were reasonably priced, and the service, although sometimes a little laid-back was very friendly.

Bars were still buzzing in the early hours. The cocktails were excellent, as was the live music in many bars. Our favourites were the 'Borala' (try a 'Barbara') and 'Happy Nights' on the main strip, and the 'Black Stove.'

Our apartment was a ten minute walk from the beach and ten minutes the other way to the town centre.  We had a two bedroom apartment which was extremely spacious and cleaned regularly. It was well equipped with a separate kitchen, washing machine and plenty of storage. The pool area was clean and never seemed too busy. Bar staff were very friendly and tolerant of children playing on the pool table and pinball etc. The barman made a mean cocktail, try the 'champagne passion'.

Beach was beautiful and expansive, but be wary of the rough waves, particularly if, like us, you have children.

All in all, we had a fantastic holiday, and expect to return some day.

Book this Hotel Direct    Package Holidays    Holidays Direct    Last Minute

Book this Hotel Direct    Package Holidays    Holidays Direct    Last Minute

Miralvor Apartments - Alvor

Operator and Date: (Sunset Discounts) Sunset - Date Not Specified

Opinion submitted in June 2004 by : Vinny Fidegul - Leeds (30,34)

Resort Rating: Excellent

Accommodation Rating: Excellent

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

Alvor is a lovely quaint resort with everything you need to enjoy yourself. The beach was gorgeous and very clean. If you're looking for a lively night time resort then this is not the place for you but if you're looking for a quite relaxing holiday with nice bars and rstaurants then I can fully recommend ALVOR.

The apartments we're a good 15 minutes walk from the Alvor but this didn't bother us as we quite liked the walk everday. For a change you can jump in a taxi and go to Portimao for great shops or Playa de Rocha for great night life (It has a strip a mile long with bars and resturants along the beach) each only costing 7 Euors (5 quid).
the apartments were extremely spaceous and clean with a lovely pool and bar which served great food.

All in all I would recommend this holiday for couples or families as it caters for both.

Pestana Atlantic - Alvor

Operator and Date: (Thomas Cook Direct) Thomas Cook  May 2006

Opinion submitted in May 2006 by : L. Whitehead  54,53.48,47.30,26. baby 9 months

Resort Rating: Excellent

Accommodation Rating: No rating

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

Just returned from 1 week holiday in Alvor, love the resort, first visited about 15 years ago with our children, this holiday went with my daughter, her husband and our baby grandson, my brother and sister in law. Alvor has something for everyone. It has Irish bars for a good night out, brilliant fish restaurants for fantastic meals. Try Goodville for a great variety of menu, can get busy so best to book.

The hotel is part of Dom Joao Village, although obviously quite an old building, set in lovely grounds only 5 minute walk to fabulous beaches and about a 15 minute walk into town. The Atlantic annexe is apart from main hotel, but their facilities are available for use. Rooms are very spacious and include small kitchenette which was very useful, especially for the baby. We all had a sea view which was great,balconies spacious, but no light. Perhaps could have done with more storage, we were fine but if there are more than two people could be a struggle. Clean rooms and grounds well maintained.

Drinks expensive in hotel bar,which is in the main building,entertainment there if you want it, as we were bed and breakfast, we went into town in the evening. Great atmosphere a little busy, buskers playing. Everything about Alvor is great we love it!

Pestana Atlantique - Alvor

Operator and Date: Escape September 2006

Opinion submitted in October 2006 by : Eric & Caroline 50 & 52

Resort Rating: Excellent

Accommodation Rating: Very Good

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

Pestana Atlantique is one a group of Pestana hotels in Alvor,the Atlantique does not have a restaurant so you use either the Dom Jao 2 or the Atlantique beachside restaurant. We only ate once beachside in the evening since it was deserted hence not a very quick turn over of food, breakfast time however it was great quiet and cool.

The Atlantique is a tower block, we were on the 9th floor, it's lovely and clean, quiet at night, free fridge and coffee maker, excellent views from the balcony, air con worked, no complaints at all (unlike guests at Dom Jao 2).
The beach is fantastic, very long and clean, the pools at the hotels are very good (salt water) free towels etc. Majority of staff very friendly and helpful. Bar expensive. Lots of Germans, Portuguese and Irish, hence Irish bars in Alvor.

Alvor is a little fishing town, felt safe, lots of restaurants to choose from, boat trips from harbour. Easy walking distance from hotel complex (taxi 4Euro if too drunk to walk home)!
We would definately return.

Book this Hotel Direct    Package Holidays    Holidays Direct    Last Minute

Pestana Delfim Hotel - Alvor

Operator and Date: First Choice - August 2006

Opinion submitted in September 2006 by : Mrs Christine Withers - Rastrick, Brighouse, West Yorks. 60,58,29,27.

Resort Rating: Very Good

Accommodation Rating: Average

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

I was very disappointed in this Hotel which should not be 4 star in my opinion! It was quite smart and clean to be fair. Also last Christmas we had gone to a fantastic hotel in Tenerife and I was comparing it.

We requested "low floor" as both our daughters had mobility problems. Our eldest is brain damaged and the youngest had a serious car accident. We were given floor 15 and when I commented I was told that I wanted interconnecting rooms. I said that we paid extra for these but it was a very "take it or leave it" attitude. We were told that one room was ready so we helped our daughters unpack. We kept going back asking if we could unpack ours as it was obviously ready but kept being refused. We were tired as we travelled on 10th August 2006 and got involved in all the chaos at Manchester Airport. Eventually I got the maid to ring them up and say the room was ready. She was the only friendly person!

My daughter tried to use the internet. There were only 2 computers and only one working. As someone was on the other one, we kept asking Reception for help (It was next to their desk) but once they had your money, they did not want to know! We asked for our money back but was told the other worked.

My husband and daughter wanted to sun-bathe but it was too hot for my eldest daughter and myself which I expected but there was nothing to do all day. Also there were not enough sun beds. People put towels on them but a lot were empty preventing them from having them.

We walked down the slope to the beach. 4 sun beds cost 20 Euros. It took me 15 mins to get my brain damaged daughter up the path and it took 45 mins for my husband to get my other daughter back to the Hotel. It is not suitable for people with mobility problems. We did not go again!
Also in the Hotel there were steps to go down in the Entertainment Bar.

The Entertainment was what we went for. At Christmas we had brilliant entertainment. This was non existant. Live music was ballroom type with no one dancing and same people every night. Official entertainment was only half an hour 3 times a week. Reps first night was the best, Folk dancing and a Comic Show which was mime. The room was full from 10 - 10.30 and when they finished everyone went to bed. At 11 there were 20 of us and at midnight only us 4! There was no atmosphere. No Reps giving out certificates. No one dancing. It was dead.

There was one snack bar to eat during the day. Part of it outside which was very windy and part inside. The waiters were not very friendly and service very poor. You waited ages for 4 cokes as I believe you took your turn with all the food orders. If you were Portugese however, you were served straight away. If you had food this was cold.

The evening meals did not cater for English tastes. Not even chips or jacket potatoes but we are difficult eaters. Everything was very expensive including bottled water. The little shop did not sell this so you had to buy it from the bar. The supermarket was too far away so you had no choice.

There was also a smell of sewage in both bathrooms.

I certainly would not recommend this Hotel.

Alvor itself is lovely. A real delight. It cost 3.5 Euros there and 5 Euros back. There were plenty of bars and shops. We ate in a Yorkshire cafe and an Irish one. We went to an Irish Bar and a Kareoke Bar. It is difficult walking down the cobbled streets to the front but well worth it. Streets are lit up and we were very impressed. It was much bigger then we thought.

I would recommend Alvor.

Book this Hotel Direct    Package Holidays    Holidays Direct    Last Minute

Pestana Delfim Hotel - Alvor

Operator and Date: Kent Escapes July 2006

Opinion submitted in August 2006 by : Bob Pears 59, 57

Resort Rating: Very Good

Accommodation Rating: Very Good

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

The hotel does look like a council high rise but once inside very nice.At reception we were asked if we would like a porter to take our luggage up to the seventh floor (room 725)We declined but staff were helpful.Good size room, twin beds good size on-suite with twin sinks.

Excellent maid service rooms made up and cleaned every day with clean towels.
We stayed bed and breakfast. Eat as much as you like. very good selection of hot and cold.My wife is veggie and enjoyed it.Large pool with bar in middle. 1.50 euros for a coke same price large bottle of water. If you lunch at the bistro next to the pool it costs more 2.80 euros but the food is good but not a great selection.Downside only two lifts working and sometimes you have to queue usually at meal times but thats being picky. Free sunbeds and umbrellas plenty for all.Read comments about noise from lifts. We were'nt near the lifts so can't say but heard nothing from other rooms. View from our room overlooked sea and estuary very nice didn't cost us any extra.Beach about ten minute walk not for someone with walking difficulty quite a slope but it is superb. Alvor very nice old and quaint narrow streets again not suitable if you have a problem walking.You can get a taxi to Harbour for 4 euros. (Taxis everywhere)

We would have no hesitation in going again.
Hope this has been helpful. Bob & Brenda

Book this Hotel Direct    Package Holidays    Holidays Direct    Last Minute

Pestana Delfim Hotel - Alvor

Operator and Date: Seguro - July 06

Opinion submitted in July 2006 by : Scott & HelenMcKirdy & Twins ( 44,40,7,7) Scotland

Resort Rating: Very Good

Accommodation Rating: Excellent

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

Transfer from Airport approx 1 hr, delighted to be first drop off!!

Hotel is lovely, rooms spacious - we had two rooms which interconnected, the twins bagged the bigger one which had a sea view and large balcony. Rooms & bathrooms immaculate and cleaned daily.

We were B&B basis, breakfast is great - loads of choice and very tasty! 7am till 10. We had one evening meal buffet which was good but expensive... better to go into Alvor. Lunch by the pool is fine too.
Pool bar is good around 3-40 euros for small beer, nice to have a "swim up" bar.

Hotel is a bit out of town.. we walked in a couple of times- 15 mins downhill.. taxi back!!! taxi's plentiful and approx 4 euros.
Very quiet and peacefull location.. no traffic noise whatsoever or loud music.
Another good point is very good sound-proofing, no noise from next rooms. All rooms carpeted which was nice.

Entertainment was fine, they have a 2 piece live music band most nights, and a show 3/4 times a week.. these were very good.
Drinks a bit expensive.

Pool is saltwater which i was dreading but actually it was fine and the twins got used to it very quickly.
There is a small indoor pool that no-ne used... no wonder - it was a bit dirty with a nice layer of scum - didnt seem to have any circulation.
Plenty of available sunloungers so no early morning towel race needed!!!!

Health suite is good with gym,sauna,steam room, massages etc.

Gardens round hotel lovely, small playpark, and games area. Plenty of activities - target shooting, volleyball, aerobics etc.

Kids club is in another hotel, our girls went one day am&pm, a mini bus picks the kids up and drops them off at reception.. that seems good too.
We went to slide and splash water park - great day out... not too big - just right, clean and well supervised.

Alvor itself is lovely, drove through Pria de Rocha on way back to Airport ... didnt like the look of that resort - very touristy and very built up and busy.

Would definately recommend Delfim hotel, and Alvor.. great holiday!!  
Beach fabby too, short walk down hill.

Book this Hotel Direct    Package Holidays    Holidays Direct    Last Minute

Pestana Delfim Hotel - Alvor

Operator and Date: (Thomson Direct) Thomson-June 2006

Opinion submitted in August 2006 by : David Rosewarne  Sheffield 62, 61

Resort Rating: Excellent

Accommodation Rating: Very Good

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

I found the Delfim very welcoming, a porter is there to take your bags to your room, this speeds up your check in. Everywhere is very clean, the rooms are very clean and comfy.the t v has 4 english chanels.We had a standard room that overlooked the pool with a sea view in the distance. The walk back from  the sea is not as steep as I expected,beach lovely and clean,you can walk in to Alvor along the beach on a wooden boardwalk if you don't like sand in your shoes.

The food had plenty of selection but was not always that hot.the sweet selection was very impresive. We were half board and found the snacks at lunch time a little expensive so we either had lunch in town or called at the supermarket for local food.A bottle of water cost 28c in town, in the swimming pool bar the same water cost 3euro.plenty of sunbeds at any time of day without the need to put a towel on them the pool attendant will bring you a brolly if you want one. 

A very enjoable holiday we will definatly go there again

Book this Hotel Direct    Package Holidays    Holidays Direct    Last Minute

Pestana Delfim Hotel - Alvor

Operator and Date: (Thomson Direct) Thomson - June 2006

Opinion submitted in June 2006 by : Les Paton - SCotland (60,60)

Resort Rating: Very Good

Accommodation Rating: Average

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

Booked this holiday as a Thomson 4* HB AoA, guaranteed 1 of 3 hotels and were placed at the Delfim. Cost us £510 vs the brochure price of around £850, I'm glad about that as had we paid the top price we would have been sorely disappointed.  If this hotel is a 4* then Elvis is alive and well and living on the 16th floor. In comparison with the average Spanish hotels I would rate it a decent 3*.

From the outside it resembles a 16-floor 70's council block and the large round, featureless pool area and many of the public areas date it to that time.  On the plus side the rooms look to have been refurbished in the not too distant past and they tick all the 4* boxes.  Spacious, modern, nicely decorated, clean, well maintained, nice bathroom, TV with some UK channels and a large balcony. We were placed on the 5th floor, no view to speak of, we requested a move and after some negotiation with the sour-faced, unwelcoming receptionist were given a room on the 16th.  Magnificent view, although the balcony got no sun at any time (room 1616, all the xx16 rooms are similar).

The negative side of a high floor is that 2 out of the 4 lifts are not working and this appears to have been the case for almost 1 year.  This results in bad overcrowding of the lifts and a lot of noise from the motors invading the rooms next to the shaft, as ours was.

The restaurant food was good but not great, certainly not 4* quality. All very eatable, but bland, repetitive and consequently boring.  We eat out several times to get some variety, the choice and price in Alvor is excellent, although the town is a good 1/2 hour walk, or taxi for 4 Euros.  The service in the restaurant was hopeless, it was common to go into the dining room and find no places prepared and then try to attract the attention of a waiter to do the necessary.  This reached a new low one night when we stood around for about 10 mins being ignored, I complained to the Guest Relations Manager and it sure improved big-time after that.  All meals are self-service buffet, chaotic grab-it-while-you-can in the morning, better in the evening. The breakfast varied from cereals/fruit to full-on English, although the bacon looked disgusting and the sausages tasted that.

The entertainment was mostly provided by the in-house amateur team, the usual miming to show-tunes, with the occasional professional act.  Sometimes good, at other times dire.
The big plus point is the magnificent beach just a few hundred yards downhill from the rear of the hotel.  Classic Algarve beach and excellent for swimming.

The opinions I have expressed were widely held by other guests who were as equally disappointed as ourselves.  However, we at least had paid less than them so had some small satisfaction to balance it out.  

Had a nice time, will not be going back.

Book this Hotel Direct    Package Holidays    Holidays Direct    Last Minute

Pestana Delfim Hotel - Alvor

Operator and Date: (Thomas Cook Direct) Thomas Cook - August 2004

Opinion submitted in Aug 2004 by : Martyn & Sue - Birmingham (44, 48)

Resort Rating: Good

Accommodation Rating: Very Good

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

Hotel ideal for a relaxing break, clean and furnished to 4 star standard.  Food good and hot food always hot - beware plates in dining room very hot!

Snacks at poolside reasonably priced e.g. 4 euros for hot dog with chips and salad, 6 euros for steak sandwich and chips.  Coffee 2.50 euros,

Plenty of sunbeds available at pool and in lovely gardens, towel and umbrella service poolside (no charge)

Beach about 3 min walk away, supermarket about 10 minute walk.  Alvor about 20=25 mins walk away.  Bus stop right outside the hotel.

Hotel abut 1 hour from airport, check with tour operator how many pick ups en route, we had to leave at 5.05 a.m. for a 9.45 a.m. flight and were travelling over 2 and half hours before reaching the airport.  In hindsight we would have booked a taxi and had an extra hour in bed!

On the whole if you want somewhere just to take it easy in the sun for a while, this could be a good choice.

Book this Hotel Direct    Package Holidays    Holidays Direct    Last Minute

Hotel Pestana Dom Joao - Alvor

Operator and Date: First Choice - June 2007

Opinion submitted in June 2007 by : Miss and Mrs Smith (44 & 27)

Resort Rating: Average

Accommodation Rating: Below Average

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

This hotel is VERY old and is in desperate need of a refurbishment. Rooms are a reasonable size and are clean with maids coming in every day to change towels and sheets and clean. There was a problem with the lock/door to our room. One morning we couldnt get out of the room and had to call reception who sent maintenance people up to help us get out. Thye said the door and swelled withthe heat! We then couldnt get back into the room the following day!! A serious breach of health and safety in my opinion and the hotel staff didnt seem concerned.
The hotel breakfast is not upto much - the cooked breakfasts are bloody awful and the bread is very dry and almost stale like. I suggest going for the fruit although most of this is out of a tin!

The hotel is in a great location - virtually on the beach but we wary of the stray dogs that wander and the locals trying to sell you sunglasses and watches as you try to get some sleep on the beach!!! Also the snackbar on the beach is very pricey. We tended to go to the supermarket (located nearby) to get fresh bread and make up our own lunch.
Alvor town itself is ok if you like tacky shops. Beware - the reads are covered in dogs mess - and the streets are generally quite dirty. Eating out - Goodvilles is a very popular restaurant and the food is great. However we did come across a very stroppy waiter whose customer service skills were non-existant!!

Overall - I feel this place is a lot of money for what it is and I personally wouldnt go back. Prob best for families with young kids!!!

Book this Hotel Direct    Package Holidays    Holidays Direct    Last Minute

Hotel Pestana Dom Joao - Alvor

Operator and Date: (Portland Direct) Portland- Dec 2006

Opinion submitted in January 2007 by : Phil Pike  (45,46 18,16,83)

Resort Rating: Excellent

Accommodation Rating: Excellent

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

Excellent Christmas programme friendly staff and comfortable rooms.

It was a good time to get away the hotel was not too busy - Gala dinner  on christmas day was a special treat.

Overall a very enjoyable break and extremely good value.

Book this Hotel Direct    Package Holidays    Holidays Direct    Last Minute

Pestana Dom Joao II - Alvor

Operator and Date: (Portland Direct) Portland direct August 2004

Opinion submitted in Aug 2004 by : 2 adults

Resort Rating: Very Good

Accommodation Rating: Good

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

Pestana is a group of hotels. There are 3 in the group close to each other in Alvor and you can use facilities of all 3. You are given a card if on half board (maybe also if b&B?) to use as a charge card so you can order food and drinks from a sister hotel and be billed at the end of your stay from the hotel you have booked into. BEWARE the cost of drinks in the hotel! The waiters cannot amend a bill if it is wrong, so check what you sign unless you want a fuss at reception on the last day. Temp at resort 32 degrees c but had been in the 40's the previous week and apparently unbearable.

Rooms very clean. we asked for a quiet room with double bed.. we got a very small room at the end of a corridor and we could hear everything from the rooms above and beside us: foorsteps, wardrobe doors sliding (and banging at 4am when people had to leave for the airport), showers running, toilets flushing, tv noise and - of course - the obvious!!! After discussions, we decided there was no point trying to move as all rooms would give the same problem. The hotel is old (although, as we said, clean, very "Shabby-Chic") and the thin walls and tiled floors are not problems that can be solved easily. The bed was H-U-G-E and we are used to a super-king size at home, this must have been approaching 7 feet wide and took up a lot of the room. Paid for sea-view - worth it, otherwise you get a nice view of the dusty car park. Air con wasnt up to much and too noisy to keep on all night. Tiny balcony.

The food is good with a huge variety. I caught the husband with a large roast pork dinner which had a chunk of spinach quiche bang in the middle of the plate - says he couldn't resist!! You do see food from one night appear in a different guise the next night  but this seems to be fairly common practice. restaurant is  very hot to eat in although it is supposed to be air conned. Eat a bit later and go to the back (lower ceiling) of the restaurant where the kids normally eat. They start to clear the kids out about 8.30pm. It is much cooler there. Lots of tinned fruit, but no whole fruit, ie apples etc as they think you will steal anything that is portable.

The beach is huge, miles and miles of sand and a slope down into the water, the rocks are a long way off at the end of the beach and have tiny coves and passages and "cut-throughs" to another beach.Stunning sunset can be seen from the beach, but other hotels obscure the view from the Dom Joao II.

LAGOS TOWN - It's 30 euros one way by taxi one way OR 11 euros by bus for two people, return. No contest then... waited for the bus. and waited and waited. It did arrive but was almost full and that was before we got to Alvor town where a lot of people were just left waiting at the bus stop as we sailed past. No explanation. Lagos was lovely. we sat at the harbour and watched huge boats, explored markets for food & fish. Bought bargain clothes, (which fell apart when we got home, so check the quality) and ate at a lovely cafe - there are loads of shops too. It appears that the shops dont shut for a long siesta, like in Spain, but they do shut for lunch for an hour or so. We went on a sunday and everything was open.

Potimao - free bus from the Dom Joao II. Nice day out. incredibly hot in the town so take a drink because when the shops shut for lunch, you will have to pay at a cafe for a drink. Talking of cafe's - avoid the "a mo". a cafe in the centre near the large millstone. cheap and nasty mass produced frozen pizzas and awful service (wrong orders, grumpy etc). we were shouted at to "WAIT!!" when we asked for the bill. lots of shops, prices similar to the UK.

THE BOAT TRIP - wow! I think it was called the riviera cruise(?). On a large boat, we went along the algarve, (commentary in English and German) until we were taken off the large boat onto smaller ones to explore the caves by boat. fascinating stuff. Tip - the little boats leave for the caves only when completely full, this means you could be split up from your family or partner.  wait till the very last trip and you will be put together - we were the only ones on a little boat with a "captain" who gave us lots of time to photograph and take in the sights. We nearly missed the lunch but that was just sardines, bread and salad with juice or wine. no great loss.  toddled back to port with our feet over the side of the boat,getting a tan. excellent. (You can go for a day or a half day, we took the half day, 5 hours)

Alvor town. small but busy,busy,busy. Ate at the Blue Reef bar to be found higher up the hill than the taxi rank. LOOK UP! it's a blue neon ringed roof terrace above a gift shop. Fantastic food, good price, slow service (seems to be a potuguese trait).

All in all a very holiday, friendly locals, great beach, (cold sea, it was AUGUST for goodness sake!),
good food, good and very quick flight, good shopping, will go back but to a newer hotel with regulation thickness walls to mute the noise.

Only one warning. there is a stadium along from the hotel,(football?/rock?) with very loud concerts. There is no escape from the noise. However, they finished by 11.30pm most nights and the pay off was... A firework display over the sea which must have cost thousands. Dont know if these are common events.

Prainha Club - Alvor

Operator and Date: (Airtours Direct) Airtours-May 2006

Opinion submitted in June 2006 by : Michelle Wilson - Cambridge (35,42,5,1

Resort Rating: Excellent

Accommodation Rating: Excellent

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

The Prainha Club Aparthotel is actually part of the Prainha Club Touristic Village. There is the main aparthotel which we stayed in and the village which seemed to be mainly privately owned villas and small apartment blocks. 

The aparthotel has a large swimming pool with bar and in the actual complex there is a supermarket, 3 restaurants,2 other bars, a children's playground and sports court along with another large pool built right on the cliff edge overlooking the sea. We preferred this pool as it was quieter. The complex is set above a beach which can be reached by steps or lift. At certain times of the day it felt private because it was cut off by the tides from the main Alvor beach. The apartments were fairly basic but this was more than made up by the frequent cleaning and towel and linen changes. 

The staff could not do enough to help (except the 1 miserable man on reception). I was extremely impressed that they managed to get hold of a travel cot free of charge when we arrived at 8 o'clock on a sunday night and the request hadn't come through in time from our tour operator. 

The only minus point for some which wasn't advised in the brochure was the distance from Alvor it took 30-45 minutes, which was fine for us because we walked up an appetite. This complex probably wouldn't be suitable if you have walking difficulties. Taxis were approx 3.90 euros one way. 

The best restaurants were Goodville on the main street, A Caravela at the end of the street which runs above the main street(very cheap and friendly) and Al Dente near Dunas Do Alvor apts. The worst restaurants were Vagabondo (unless you don't mind waiting 2 hrs for a meal, and we weren't the only ones who had that happen), Pipas (unless you want miserable service and to be ripped off) and the Stone Grill (unless you like starters you could cook better yourself)

Book this Hotel Direct    Package Holidays    Holidays Direct    Last Minute

Book this Hotel Direct    Package Holidays    Holidays Direct    Last Minute

Quinta Nova Sun Club - Alvor

Operator and Date: falcon-sep 2005

Opinion submitted in Oct 2005 by : patrick higgins(dublin 48,49)

Resort Rating: Excellent

Accommodation Rating: Below Average

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

for my age group Alvor is a perfect place to go for a relaxing holiday. the restaurents serve excellent meals and are very reasonable,there are also some good bars,for a liveler time go to Praia de Rocha 6 euros in a taxi but its more crowded and a lot noisier.

we stayed in the quinta nova eight years ago and i would have to say that they have gone downhill since then.
towels were threadbare and there was no electric kettle( not good if you like your tea or coffee). overall we had a lovely holiday nice walks to the beach( taxi back for 3.25 euros) the harbour and sea front are so relaxing. i will return to alvor but i would think twice about the quinta nova.

Book this Hotel Direct    Package Holidays    Holidays Direct    Last Minute

Quinta Nova Sun Club - Alvor

Operator and Date: Falcon- July 2005

Opinion submitted in Aug 2005 by : Cara Jones (40,41,16)

Resort Rating: Excellent

Accommodation Rating: Very Good

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

We loved Alvor and the Quinta Nova apartments. We had no problems with the accomodation. They were lovly and spacious. The facilities were excellent. Although we avoided the bar and restaurant, dodgy food and equally bad entertainment! Praia De Rocha is a worth a visit, 5 minutes in a taxi. Porimao is also a lovly place to visit, lots of shops. Praia de Rocha's beach is spectacular, definatly worth a visit. Alvor beach is also lovly. There are some gorgeous restaurents on the harbour,with very nice fish dishes, but it doesn't come cheap! It is about a ten minute walk from the apartments to Alvor centre, a good variety of shops and restaurants. 

We will definatly be returning there in the near future.

Book this Hotel Direct    Package Holidays    Holidays Direct    Last Minute

Quinta Nova Sun Club - Alvor

Operator and Date: (Airtours Direct) Airtours, sep 2004

Opinion submitted in Oct 2004 by : peter barclay - 21, 23, 22, 24

Resort Rating: Very Good

Accommodation Rating: Very Good

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

very clean, nice pool area, nice little lizard staying with us ( harmless) receptionist were helpful and nice bar snacks and beer. go there as you will like it

Book this Hotel Direct    Package Holidays    Holidays Direct    Last Minute

Quinta Nova - Alvor

Operator and Date: (First Choice Discounts) First Choice - June 2004

Opinion submitted in Nov 2004 by : Andy,Tracey and Laura May Morton - Derby.36,33,10

Resort Rating: Excellent

Accommodation Rating: Excellent

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

We booked our holiday at the end of May and travelled early June as we wanted to be in Portugal for the Euro 2004 tournament.We did not know were we were staying and when told Alvor we were a little disaponted as we wanted somewhere a bit more lively.When we got there all disappointment was forgotten - what a place !! A lovely, picturesque friendly little village with great people who made us SO welcome.

The accommodation was excellent with good entertainment (South African legend - Dave !!) My daughter loved it and was not bored at all during the holiday (which she normally is) The staff at Quinta Nova were great and spoke good English and the food was good.We had no problems at all on our holiday as the Rep was available when needed and the appartment was nice and clean.The pool and play area was well maintained and safe for kids.The sunbeds were taken quickly but you get that anywhere really.

All in all an excellent choice for resort,accommodation and the local people.Thank You Alvor and Quinta Nova !!

Book this Hotel Direct    Package Holidays    Holidays Direct    Last Minute

Quinta Nova Sun Club - Alvor

Operator and Date: (First Choice Discounts) First Choice - Date Not Specified

Opinion submitted in July 2004 by : julie and mick pontefract

Resort Rating: Average

Accommodation Rating: Poor

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

we spent a fortnight at the quinta nova ....the apartments were well below the basics, the maintenance ie leaks,the door did'nt lock the phone did'nt work towels stained balcony floor filthy,wardrobes and drawers foisty,and so on you could not get anything done i lost track of the amount of times i complained to reception...i am not one to complain but you expect a few standards on holiday 

i would recommend staying well away from the quinta nova. the resort of alvor was lovely though.

Book this Hotel Direct    Package Holidays    Holidays Direct    Last Minute

Quinta Nova Apartments - Alvor

Operator and Date: (MyTravel Direct) My Travel/Panarama - Date Not Specified

Opinion submitted in July 2004 by : Kieran/Suzanne G - N.Ireland (20, 20)

Resort Rating: Excellent

Accommodation Rating: Very Good

My/Our Holiday Opinion:

Holidays from Northern Ireland to the Algarve are usually expensive but this deal was from the internet fasttrackholidays  co  uk. The flight was with My Travel and was fairly comfortable and standard. Being in portugal before, Faro airport was finally refurbished. The journey to the hotel was approx 2 - 3 hours. It was late and the amount of 'drop-offs' at other hotels was everlasting.Arriving at the resort at night was very pleasing. Sorting apartment was quick and easy. Alvor has many good fish/steak and portuguese restaurants.The two chinese restaurants in the town are excellent value. Goodville is also recommended. 

Beach is lovely and very clean. Little shops in the main street in Alvor are cheaper than the supermarkets. Theres a market in Alvor, every 2nd tuesday of the month - GO EARLY tho as people pack up about 3- 4pm. Id go back any day to Alvor and recommend the town resort & the Zoomarine (marine park) to anyone looking for a relaxing holiday.

Book this Hotel Direct    Package Holidays    Holidays Direct    Last Minute

Santa Teresinha Apts - Monte d'Alvor

Operator and Date: Direct Holiday - September 2005

Opinion submitted in Oct 2005 by : Brian, Lynn & Andrea (58,54, 25)

Resort Rating: Excellent

Accommodation Rating: Excellent

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

Booked this 2 weeks before departure based on description only and no photo and imagined all horrors.   On arrival we just thought "wow". 

The apartments are gorgeous if you like us love the sun.  They have 2 balconies, 1 off the bedroom (which also houses the washing machine and air con unit)which gets the sun am and 1 off the lounge which gets the sun pm.   There is a large (considering there are only 20 apts)landscaped pool area  with 2 pools and this gets the sun all day and no problem with sun beds.   Somedays we had this to ourselves. There is a small friendly reception and from this they operate a free mini bus down to Alvor 3 times a day. We were on the ground floor but the views from the top floor of the surrounding countryside were amazing and all apartments face the pool area and the back face a lawned garden area.   There is a bowling green and tennis courts next door and all around are deluxe villas/apartments.  Definitely a "nice" area.  The apartments have everything and are brand new and I think elegantly furnished.   You just couldn't possible use all the cutlery/pans/crockery unless you loaded the dishwasher weekly! 

The village across the road is like stepping back 40 years with a village shop, bakery (bread cooked in wood burning oven) and the usual couple of bars/snack bars and a fish/fruit market 2 or 3 times a week which was so cheap.  We ate in the snack bar one night as we had a thunderstorm and the food was good and again cheap - a meal for 3 with 1 and half carafes of wine, coffee and brandy was less than £15.00!

We walked into Alvor every night - it took 20 minutes but the first 10 mins was on a road with no pavement (bit scarey at first)   There is another way but it took 30 mins.   As soon as you hit Alvor the pavements begin.   Load of places to walk and you could walk into Alvor along the estuary with loads of bird life.

Loads of good restaurants in Alvor - only 1 bad meal at Hellmans (stay away from the commercial ones). Find yourself a liitle Portugeuese gem tucked away in a back street - we did.   Also Lustinania and D'Angelos were very good Italian.

All in all one of the best holidays we have ever had.  Will definitely return to Alvor and just hope these apartments are available next year.   I can't speak highly enough of them.

Book this Hotel Direct    Package Holidays    Holidays Direct    Last Minute

Vitor's Plaza Apartments - nr Alvor (see Praia do Vau)

Operator and Date: Alpharooms - July 2007

Opinion submitted in August 2007 by : Taylor - Llandudno (41,40,12,10)

Resort Rating: Very Good

Accommodation Rating: Very Good

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

If you are looking for a hactic nightlife, then this is not for you! Vitors is a short taxi ride from classy Alvor or bustling Praia Da Rocha, so it is peaceful and relaxing. The other guests therefore (mostly British and Irish) also tend to be those looking to relax, so you dont have to put up with the "lager louts!". 

The apartment is huge (bigger than any 4* rooms we have had) and there is lots of space around the buildings. The swimming pool is rarely overcrowded, but you need to get to a sunlounger by 10 o'clock! We were really impressed by the staff, who went out of their way to be helpful. we had a problem with our hire car (DONT book through Bravacar!)and reception phoned for us and when they got no joy, they rang head office in Lisbon and got it sorted! The cleaners keep the place spotless. reviews on this site warned of ear infections and I did get one, but the kids spent most of the time underwater and were fine, so I was just unlucky. 

the restaurant is OK, but small and there is so much more choice in Alvor that we ate there most evenings. Our favourite was La Piazza just down from the A1 supermarket (lovely pizzas and pasta dishes for 6 euros)but if you want to bust a gut, try the Hang Zhou; all you can eat for 9.50 and only 3.90 for kids. To be honest, all our meals were good, so choose a place for yourself! A hire car will save all the taxi fares and allows you to get out and about. Cape St Vincent and the west coast beaches are really impressive. The beaches at Praia do Vau and Alvor are lovely if you can prise the kids away from the pool!

If you want a relaxing break in a clean, friendly hotel, then Vitors is for you!

Book this Hotel Direct    Package Holidays    Holidays Direct    Last Minute

Vitor's Plaza Apartments - nr Alvor (see Praia do Vau)

Operator and Date: (First Choice Discounts) First Choice May 2004

Opinion submitted in June 2004 by : Frank & June - Milngavie ( 47 x 2)

Resort Rating: Very Good

Accommodation Rating: Very Good

My/Our Holiday Opinion: 

Vitors Plaza is situated about 35 mins walk from Alvor centre, taxi 6 euro's. 

We found the apartments large and reasonably well equipped with maid service most days. Microwave, kettle, large fridge with freezer compartment, 2 electric rings and ample plates, cutlery etc. The complex is very well maintained and this is apparent on arrival. The facilities are as described on Vitors own web site, vitorsplaza.com. We used the restaurant on one occassion and found the food OK, nothing special but reasonably priced. Our apt faced the tennis court, east, so sun in morning but shade by midday, that was in block C, suggest that if you want full sun all day try for a poolside facing apartment in any of the blocks although it will be noisier. Talking of which, the bar is located underground which keeps you from being disturbed by music etc. 

I would recommend this apartment complex but recommend the hire of a car as it is not well located for walking to Alvor or Praia Da Rocha. There is a courtesy bus which goes to the beach and Rocha about 3 times daily, Car hire was via Holiday Autos using Jardim Rent a car in Praia Da Rocha well worth the expense about £13 per day but I would suggest air con for summer months.Book the car before you leave for best rates. 

Alvor itself has loads of restaurants and bars, shopping is poor unless you like tourist tack. Lagos, Cape St Vincent, and Praia da Luz well worth a visit but I found Portimao disappointing as was Faro. Albuferia has all but disappeared and is now an urban spread since when we last visited, still worth a visit. If in Albuferia eat at the Tres Palmeiras Restaurant which is towards Oura. Back to Vitors, dining, the Colibri restaurant at the roundabout as you turn in serves excellent food, the husband and wife team are attentive but you may well have to reserve a table.Slightly pricy for wine/drinks. In Alvor Adega d'Alvor, Bourganvilla, and for geat pizza/pasta L'Angolo are good choices. Hellmans at the fishermans wharf wasn't our best choice, poor service and frozen fish, go for the freshly caught stuff. If you are a golfer take your clubs. 

The Alto golf club is 400 yards from Vitors, 200 & odd yards less than the massive par 5 Gigante which is 600 metres tee to green. The course is long par 72 sss 73 but is fair. I played 4 rounds here and only lost 2 balls which I consider good for a 13 handicapper. A word of warning the greens come in two styles, quick and rolling. Alto golf club is well worth a try 56 euro's up till 3pm then 38 thereafter although the reception desk at Vitors can negotiate a discount for the earlier time. Special rates for weekends include eletric cart for 2 players at 90 euro's.

We enjoyed our stay at Vitors but for us a car was a must, we like to get around. The weather was superb for May and we only had the one poor dining experience. Other reviews tell you all about where to shop for food etc but there is a shop on site, obviously more expensive, but provides the basics. If like us you use the apartment as a base for travelling further afield I couldn't fault it. If on the other hand you are looking for all the razamattaz on your doorstep then you will be disappointed. If you want to fry by the pool all day then there was plenty of beds etc but take your own towels. 

As a package, which we don't often take, I would rate this as a 7/10. If you do intend visiting Vitors then we hope this review will be of some use as I certianly found previous reviews helpful in deciding to coose there.

Book this Hotel Direct    Package Holidays    Holidays Direct    Last Minute

This is one page from www.holidaysuncovered.co.uk

All reviews and content are the copyright of

Over 25,000 Real Honest Package Holiday Reviews

www.HolidaysUncovered.co.uk

Use of the site is subject to the Holidays Uncovered Terms and Conditions

If you feel any review is unfair or inaccurate please tell us

Site Map