Vila Alba Resort

Pros: quiet location, water views, playground for kids, suite with 2 separate bedrooms, good breakfast Cons: we booked specifically because there was a heated pool and we were visiting in Dec. After arriving, they informed us the heated pool would only be open 3-7pm because the hotel wasn't very busy (pool has no lifeguard or attendants... they just refused to unlock it for us). The gym consisted of a few aerobic machines. Mattresses were terrible, could feel the springs. Lunch for a family of 4 cost 90euros and felt like a ripoff. 14e for a bad margherita pizza. 18e for a bowl of pasta. No idea how this is a 5 star hotel. If it wasn't so expensive we wouldnt have been so disappointed.

We loved the apartment, though it was a bit too jammed with furniture. Very comfortable. And the location, just a short walk to the dramatic limestone cliffs and a small, beautiful beach in the central Algarve was perfect. Less than perfect? Just getting to and from the hotel on the narrow, winding one lane roads is an adventure. And unless you never want to explore the area, you have to drive in and out since there is nothing nearby. Also, this is a very family friendly resort, which is fine, but it does result in a lot of infants, toddlers and young children running around and crying in the restaurant/breakfast room, so anything but peaceful.

The property is very unique and a beautiful gem off the beaten path. It was quiet and peaceful with stunning views. The infinity pool and dining look out to the ocean. The property is a very short walk leading to beautiful vistas and small beaches. Breakfast, dining and spa were all fantastic. Rooms are a bit dated but were clean, spacious with a full kitchen. WiFi was excellent and staff were friendly and helpful. Road leading to hotel is a single lane but with 2 way traffic so pay attention to the signs and take it slow. We rented kayaks on the small beach right off the property and loved it! Very family and couple friendly. Would most definitely come back and stay here again.

We stayed for 3 days for a family wedding. Overall, the resort is very nice, smart and clean, however we would not class it as 5* luxury as stated on their website. We stayed in a 2 bedroom suite, which sleeps 5 people. The suite was a good size and comfortable but a bit 'dated' and only had 1 bathroom and toilet for 5 people, which is not ideal. The kitchen was also very sparsely kitted out for anyone wanting to self cater. The spa area and pools are very nice but we found it strange the gym didn't open until 10am (wanted to use before breakfast) and beach towels aren't available until then either. Breakfasts and lunches were excellent though as was the wedding buffet.