Recommended for children

We stayed at the Villanova, which is a Thomson resort, close to 'the strip' (a long narrow road lined with tourist shops, cafes, restaurants and bars). The accomodation was clean, surprisingly large with it's own large pool, green lawn, bar and supermarket. Albuferia itself was a little cool when we went in May, but still warm enough for me to venture out into the sea. However, many people seemed to complain to the poor reps about the lower temperatures. The people of Albufeira were lovely. Everybody speaks English and the locals seemed surprised if you attempted any Portugues. We had a 4 year old girl with us and she was spoiled with attention by the locals. There are plenty of things to see and do in Albufeira, but there are also many things in nearby towns that are worth a look. It's not hard to find excursions arranged for tourists. I wouldn't recommend Albufeira if you are looking for culture or peace and quiet. Even in May the place was bustling with tourists and the locals were catering purely for them. I had to look hard to find anything authentic. If you are looking for something like that, then I would recomend Lagos which is further along the coast. Other places to visit from Albuferia are Monchique, Silves and the Cape of St Vincent. As a family holiday though, especially with young children or if you are looking for entertainment, I would highly recommend it.

Great for: Beaches, Scuba/Snorkeling, Nightlife, Budget Travel, Family Holidays

Last Visit: May 2007

14 July 2007 | A Yahoo! User

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Sardines

When we went to Portugal we tried the freshly caught sardines, which are grilled or BBQ'd and they are amazing! I am not a big fish eater but as far as these beauties are concerned its worth going back there for. All orange juice is freshly squeezed - its perfection on the palette!

Great for: Beaches, Budget Travel, Family Holidays

Last Visit: May 2003

5 April 2007 | A Yahoo! User

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I'd love to go back!

There was nothing I did not like! It was excellent!

Great for: Beaches, Scuba/Snorkeling, Theatre/Music, Nightlife, Budget Travel, Family Holidays

Last Visit: august 2005

7 June 2006 | A Yahoo! User

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Pateo Village

We had a great time in Albuferia. The resort - Pateo Village - was very clean, very well accomodating for most age groups (if you can't walk long distances & you want to tour - rent a car or hire one for your travels). Our check in was speedy and we were pleasantly surprised at our accomodations. For a 3* we had full bathroom, 1 bedroom with two single beds and sliding patio doors, almost full kitchen (microwave, toaster, coffee maker, kettle, sink, dishes, pots & pans, cutlery, stove & oven, mini fridge) and great sized living room with couch (converts to 2 single beds) and table and chairs. The patio doors from the living area opened up to a nice sized patio with laundry drying rack and full patio table with chairs. The patios all faced the centre court with a large grassey area for playing or resting as well as the 2 outdoor pools at the other end. The pools were chilly (unless you needed to be cooled off from sitting in the sun) but refreshing and the indoor heated pool was very easily accessible. Lots of lounge chairs by the pool and great for suntanning. The facilities included laundry, bar, pool bar, shopping ammenties with decent hours of opperation. The hotel staff were all friendly and helpful - the cleaning staff were amazing. They came in and 5 days and made beds, swept and changed towels (only a few times during the week stay) and left the resort looking very well. Internet service is available in the lobby as well as many tours, car rental info, etc. right at your fingertips. Even postal service!! I agree with the water pressure - wonderful to hop in and blast the sea salt off. Each unit has their own hot water tank (in the kitchen above the counter (hidden by a cupboard)) and so it's good for a 10 min. shower but then you have to wait for it to heat up again. Not a big deal!!! There are a few grocery stores (Alisuper) within a 5 min. walk away (not open on Sundays) and a few restaurants without having to walk too far. The walk to Fishermans beach and the 'old town' was only 15 min. max. away (mostly downhill) with some very nice scenery and very pedestrian friendly road crossings. I highly recommend the Restaurant Baguetelle which is on your way into the town past the dolphin roundabout. Very good food!!! The town has much to see and do - plenty of tourist shoppes and restaurants galore - no worry about not being able to read the menu - everything is translated into a few languages and the staff usually speak english as well. We had great weather, no problems with security or anything like that. The walk to the new town was only 15 min. from the old town and a nice change of pace. More for the bigger hotels, etc. with larger supermarkets and McDonalds (if you like that!) Great vacation, great getaway, wonderful location, had a great 8 days!!! THANKS PATEO VILLAGE - we'd love to come back!! Ola!

6 June 2005 | A Yahoo! User

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great holiday

loved the selection of shops, bars, and resterants. Our accomidation was well cleaned and the staff polite and friendly. The weather was fantastic (august)bit of a hike to the beach as we were at the top of the strip.planning to go back in may 05

6 June 2005 | A Yahoo! User

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