Pestana Alvor Atlântico Residences, Portimao

Not as nice as the pictures make it look

1. No longer necessary to check in on arrival at HOTEL. It is open at Atlantico 24 hrs for check-in. 2. Appt. not totally clean. Dead. Flies on standard lamp, otherwise O.K. 3. 2 ins long plus feallers cockroach at midnight in bathroom. Killed it. 4. Next morning told reception whose attitude "We have an infiltration of them" Charmimg I said. 5. Apart from that the receptionist attitude at all times was very aggressive and not helpful.

We arrived early but couldn't get into room until three, this was then further delayed, as the cleaning hadn't been completed, so we finally got in around 3:20pm. The apartment was not as big as in the photos, however the corner apartments seemed to be bigger, but ours was in the middle. Although small, it was well equipped with everything you need, but nowhere to hang wet towels and swimwear on the balcony. The beds were lumpy and uncomfortable. It felt as if hard springs were digging into my knees and ribs. The hotel seemed a little 'tired', although clean and tidy. The view of the sea was spectacular, as was listening to the waves rolling in. The staff were helpful and our broken shower head was quickly replaced. We tried a buffet meal at the Pestana Dom Joao 11, (next door) however, on the night we went, the food was very disappointing, and we have since complained. The beach is beautiful and the wooden boardwalk makes walking the 2km into town much easier than walking along the sand. Once there, you can partake of almost any kind of food. The restaurants we tried were all excellent. The town of Alvor is pleasant and quaint.

I've been to this are as a family for about 10 years and fortunately, not much has changed. I went for 4 days on my own this time- felt totally safe. Stayed in both the Dom Joao hotel before and these apartments over the time and it's worth knowing that the description is a bit mis leading; There is no bar, restaurant or pool on site . There is a soul less pool just in front of another building but the main pool area should be considered as that connected to the hotel which is fabulous. Location is to die for. That said, the staff at the apartment block are fabulous!! Not 25 hour reception but as they explained, easy enough to gain access through an intercom. Room was amazing - studio with panoramic views. I have noticed that prices at the hotel have not increased for 3 years and a simple note to those who criticise the pool bar staff- be courteous and they're putty!! Awkward if you're flying back late as the facilities not so geared up- can shower at the indoor pool but not the best. Transfers; booked a transfer through Hoppa but beware!! Their driver refused to stop at the apartments as they are adamant the check in is at the Dom Joao hotel. That applies to late night and if this happens it could be confusing if you don't know where to go. The hotel staff were fabulous, and the reception staff called maintenance who then took me over in the hotel minibus. A big thank you to the staff and as always , I had a great time.

Great place to stay. Lovely views of the sea and beach. Hotel staff really helpful and pleasant, we will definitely go back to this hotel.