Monica Isabel Beach Club

We got good value for the money and would stay again. For a budget three-star hotel, I thought it was in a perfect spot, right on the beach, with a short walk along the sand to the old town. The buffet had plenty of choice and we enjoyed what we ate. The cocktails of the day were a hit too. We were there all-inclusive for three nights last week. Our room in C block on level one looked a bit dark and unwelcoming on the way in, but inside it was bright and welcoming. It was cleaned daily, and we got fresh towels every two days. The balcony and sea view were a nice extra. The rooms are a little dated, and I saw comments about slow refunds for the damage deposit. We checked out at 3:30am, and the money was back on my card that evening, so I can’t complain about that. Don’t believe every negative review.

The location was lovely, but we left very disappointed and wouldn’t recommend the hotel or stay again. The booking site photos looked nice, yet our room was nothing like what we expected, and the experience didn’t feel worth what we paid. The room had a yellow bath with visible cracks, a cracked window and a broken sliding door on the ground floor. It seemed like a serious security issue because the door could easily be opened from outside. When we told reception, someone showed us how to “lock” it, but it could still be opened from outdoors afterwards. The food was very poor and unenjoyable. We also paid a £150 deposit and got only £80 back. No explanation was given for the missing £70.

The Algarve coast has lovely nature and long, clean beaches, and Monica Isabel Hotel is just a few metres from a beautiful beach. Wooden steps take you down to it. The hotel’s top-floor restaurant has a lovely view over the beach and city. We also liked the price and the services included for it. The building is older and the grounds are large, so I want to thank everyone who looks after it. The area was clean and peaceful. Sometimes the lift took a while, and once in a while a noisy neighbour would sing in the morning. It would be nice if the bars opened earlier, so we could have the excellent coffee and drinks on the reception terrace or by the pool sooner. We were very happy with the food at the bars and during meals. There was plenty of variety, and the staff and chefs deserve praise for making mealtimes so pleasant. I’m not someone who goes looking for faults, and I’m sure there are some here too. What I’ll remember instead is the wonderful time I had on the Algarve coast and at Monica Isabel Hotel. My heartfelt thanks to the management and staff. Keep up the food quality and those ocean views. I’d happily return. Ivetka.

The staff were so friendly, and the amenities were superb. We had great food and drinks with lots to choose from. The room could use a little updating, but otherwise it was amazing. I only wish I’d booked more than 10 days.