Solar do Sol

The basics weren’t even there: no dishwashing sponges, bin bags, salt or sugar, things you’d normally expect in an apartment. The location also felt far from the city centre, where other apartments closer in are reasonably priced. We’d hoped to have tea or coffee with family, but my brother wasn’t allowed into the amenities. The receptionist was very harsh and rude instead of simply explaining that visitors weren’t permitted. It made us feel like we were in prison, unable to have anyone from outside visit. We weren’t even allowed a cup of coffee or juice by the pool. And the apartment was much more cramped in real life than the large, spacious pictures on the app suggested.

We spent five nights at Solar Do Sol and had a disastrous stay. We wasted our 250 Euros 💶. The room and apartment were cramped, filthy and poorly equipped, and the receptionist was shockingly rude and unprofessional. Management also banned coffee cups and juice by the pool. The marketing pictures felt totally fake and the property was worse. Don’t choose this place just to save a few euros. I’d strongly advise against booking it, even if it were free.

I loved the pool, which had chairs and sunshades, and all the staff were kind and polite. The apartment was very clean and had everything we needed, including a nice bed and pillows, sofa, TV and working WiFi. The location is amazing, with parking, a big supermarket and a petrol station nearby, and the beaches were less than a 10-minute drive away. The only downside was a bad smell from the pipes.

We booked four nights and would happily come back. It’s a good fit if you want quiet most of the time but still like having things to do nearby. Shops and other places are walkable, including an amazing supermarket just around the corner. If the walk is too much or mobility is an issue, a Bolt taxi to the strip or old town costs about €3. The rooms are basic, clean and air-conditioned. There’s a main road outside, but the double glazing kept the noise out and I slept like a log. A nice option if you want to avoid the drunk groups that can ruin a holiday.