Albufeira Sol Hotel & Spa

There are lots of bars and restaurants within walking distance, and the strip is walkable too. The hotel also runs a complimentary bus to the old town. This was our second stay, and we found the location good. Rooms were comfortable, air-conditioned and cleaned daily. The hotel is spotless, the food is very good with plenty of choices that change each day, and there’s entertainment during the day and on most evenings.

We had a great week as a couple at the end of October and start of November. The guests were mostly from the UK, Ireland and France, and people were friendly, which made for a nice atmosphere. The room was tidy and had what we needed, including English TV channels. You can ask Reception for an iron. Food was good, and a special thanks to the Pizza Chef for being so accommodating with my dairy intolerance. The indoor bar staff were great too, especially the chatty Indian barman with excellent English. The pool team, including Vinny, Johnny Celina, Ro and the rest, kept activities going for adults and kids and get five stars from me. Their own nighttime entertainment was fantastic, and the Haunted House was great fun for Halloween. The spa was nice for massages, including sports massage, though booking early is advised. Towels were available for €20, refundable. There’s a free shuttle to the old town about every hour, with return trips too. It takes around ten minutes, and while there’s no charge, a tip for the driver is a nice gesture. A bus to Villamoura takes about 35 minutes and costs €10.80 return for an adult. Late October and early November were around 18C most days, though it can be cloudy, and it rained one day. Bring a jumper and jeans. A good hotel.

We were worried about staying with two children under two, but the clean, spacious rooms and the two cots they provided made things easy. The pool area is lovely, and the staff were amazing and helpful. There was lots of variety in the food, and it was great every day. We couldn’t fault the hotel and would definitely recommend it to family and friends travelling to Albufeira.

The location was brilliant, with plenty of restaurants nearby and a supermarket open late. If you’re up for the walk, the old town and beach are about 30 minutes away on foot. Staff were polite and informative, especially the gentleman who welcomed us when we arrived late at night. Albufeira Sol has some charm, but it didn’t quite live up to its four stars. The room was very clean, though the bedding felt cheap and it lacked basics you’d expect at a higher-rated hotel, such as a kettle. I wouldn’t rule out staying again, but a few small improvements would help the hotel earn the rating.