Hotel Balaia Mar - Albufeira

We arrived at Hotel Rural Quinta dos Poetas on NYE 2012 and stayed for two nights. It was challenging to find the hotel even with Google maps/GPS, Recommend asking for detailed directions. Also, you must have a car as there is nothing within walking distance. We stayed for 2 nights here over New Years. The hotel has a restaraunt that served a delicious 5 course New Years Eve dinner. We were traveling with our 15 month old and the staff was very welcoming (and tolerant) of his behavior. The chef even came out to socialize with us. Overall it was a memorable experience for our family. The hotel and the grounds are quite inviting. In a rural setting, the hotel grounds are quite expansive, with lots of walking areas, pool, play area for the kids, a putting green and even 2 holes of golf. In the lobby area there is a comfortable sitting area with a fireplace and nearby a large dining room for breakfast. The room itself is modest but clean and comfortable. Wi-fi was not available in the room, only in the lobby area.

We stayed at this hotel while visiting the Algarve in November 2012. We were looking to visit Faro and opted for this hotel in Olhao since we had a rental car. This hotel is ideal if you don't mind driving to see sights and want a really nice hotel. The room itself was modern and large. Staff was friendly and helpful. There was lots of free parking out front.

You can't beat the price, the location: near the train station, the inner harbour, shopping But it us the staff that makes me want to return.

Easy to find (if you are driving)-w/in the main thourougfare. Hotel furnitures are somewhat outdated. Very helpful staff. wifi is not free and house computers in the lobby (fees).

Very enjoyable stay. One observation...my room was serviced only two days out of my five day stay.