Monte Rei Golf Country Club - Vila Real Santo Antonio

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.

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.

Overall very good. Furnishings need a little updating. Help was wonderful. They went out of their way to help us. Owner was extremely nice.

The Residencial Marés is a very good buy. The room is old-fashioned but charming. It allowed me to do some laundry in the shower/sink and hang it out on the back balcony for the Algarve sun to dry. The air conditioner worked like a charm but it was hard to get wxi-fi on the second floor where I was. Breakfast, served in the attached restaurant, was great. Staff was courteous and helpful. Right out the door you have an automated bank teller and access to the old town and access to the water taxis. I recommend this hotel to budget travelers.

Just ok...the beach was far away...tooooooo far.