103491 - Apartment in O Pindo

The beds are comfortable and the apartment is clean, but the photos give a misleading impression. Only two apartments have a sea view, yet the owner, who wrote that initial very favorable review, presents them as if they all have beachfront access. There's also a nauseating swampy smell from a river with less-than-clean water flowing into the sea between the house and the sea. The apartment itself is basic and sparsely furnished. The attic bedrooms feel claustrophobic, with tiny windows and very little natural light. One is on the spiral staircase landing and doesn't even have a door. That's the sad reality.

We chose the apartment with a sea view and no balcony, even though nearly all the others have a side balcony overlooking the sea. We booked through Rentalia, and the owner sent photos of the available apartments so we could pick the one we wanted. We had seen a review mentioning a stagnant-water smell and hesitated because this apartment was right across the street, but we didn't notice any smell during our stay, even with everything open. We didn't cook, so I can't say much about the kitchenware, though I did see an iron, a juicer, pots, and pans. Pets are allowed, and we brought our dog at no extra charge. The apartment was quiet, with the beach just across the street. Ours had sea views, plenty of storage, comfortable beds, and a spacious, very clean bathroom. Rita, who handles the keys, is lovely. A fantastic stay.

The apartment has the basics, including six plates of each type, cutlery for six, a coffee maker, and an iron. The problem was the owner's lack of honesty. She was quick to get in touch before our stay, and when I asked about the negative reviews, she offered to call right away to explain. But she didn't tell me our dates overlapped with the town festival, with music stages literally next to the apartment. I'd also told her I was traveling with three small children. We had to find somewhere else and leave.

The value for money is good, and they let you bring your dog. The kitchenware is ridiculously limited, though. A toaster and a few fans for the really hot days would be easy improvements.