NAU Sao Rafael Suites

The staff were very accommodating, and the rooms were spacious, clean and had heating and air conditioning, with a view of the pool. The gardens need some attention, though, and the hotel itself looks tired and could use a revamp. The food was mediocre, and you may be ready for a change after a few days. Still, it’s a pleasant place for a quick break. Many thanks.

The location was a major letdown: the hotel is far from both the beach and city center, and there’s no complimentary shuttle. Other hotels in similar locations often offer regular transfers, but this one didn’t. I expected a genuine five-star ultra all-inclusive stay, but this felt closer to four stars at best. Basic things came with extra charges, including an omelette at breakfast, and indoor pool access wasn’t included. There also wasn’t a proper outdoor snack bar. Snacks were only available inside the restaurant, which limited the all-inclusive experience. For me, the UALL package didn’t provide the service or convenience I expected. I’d think carefully before paying extra for it, and would keep these points in mind before booking.

What made our stay was the staff. From the warm welcome at lunch after we checked in, which the restaurant manager continued throughout our visit, to all the friendly, helpful hospitality staff, we felt looked after and spoiled by the little details and genuine smiles. The restaurant and reception were bright and contemporary, and the food was delicious and high quality. The public areas and our room were clean and tidy, with thoughtfully decorated seating spaces and a calm atmosphere. We were there over Christmas, outside the busy season, so I don’t think the hotel was full. Guests ranged from couples to young families and larger family groups. The games room and bar were well used, and the all-inclusive drinks list was good. We enjoyed free access to the indoor pool on our first day, though I found its mixed pool and spa use confusing. We couldn’t use the outdoor pools because it was too cold, but they looked well kept, with plenty of seats and loungers. It was a shame the sauna and steam rooms were single-sex and attached to the changing rooms, since we usually enjoy those together. Two beautiful beaches, typical of the Algarve coast, are a short walk away. The Marina is a 20-minute walk and the old town takes 40 minutes to reach, though taxis are available too. We loved our stay at Sau Raphael Suites and would recommend it. Thanks for looking after us.

The green grounds were pleasant, with a small playground, and the beach and coastline are about a 10-minute walk away. Breakfast was good. We didn’t try lunch or dinner, though the hotel has a buffet lunch and a restaurant. We stayed as two adults and one child in February 2026. Despite the five-star rating, the rooms felt very worn. The linens had blood stains on the bed sheets, the towels were unpleasant to use, and the furniture had stains too. There are three outdoor pools and a spa that costs extra. The spa got so crowded there weren’t any sunbeds available, and guests were leaving towels on the floor. We spent 40 minutes trying to sort it out. It took a third employee to bring us sunbeds from outside, and nobody wiped them down. The stay didn’t leave us wanting to return or recommend the hotel to friends.