Vila Gale Collection Figueira da Foz Hotel

We just got back from Figueira da Foz after a lovely couple of nights at Vila Gale hotel. We were very pleased with the deal: a room with an ocean view, breakfast, and a spa treatment included. The staff were friendly and efficient. A tea station in the room would have been much appreciated, as I'm a big tea drinker. At breakfast, it might also make more sense to have coffee machines for guests to use instead of table service. One tip for travelers: keep earplugs handy. Rooms facing the street get very noisy at night. I can't sleep with the windows shut because I need fresh air, so something to block out the noise is essential.

We're staying here now and couldn't be happier. We heard a previous review say the menu had only six dishes, but after talking to the staff, the chef has made us a different personalized meal each day. Everything has been fresh and delicious, and we really appreciate the flexibility. The service has been outstanding. Everyone is incredibly friendly and attentive, and they go out of their way to make us comfortable. We asked to move rooms because of noise, and it was arranged straight away without any fuss. I've never had such warm, accommodating service. I have trouble with acidity, and the wine advice I got was professional and spot on. Everyone also speaks excellent English, which makes communication easy. The hotel is right on the beach, and the location is perfect. The kind man at reception told us we could park for free on the streets behind the hotel, where there are always spaces. The pool is well maintained, the whirlpool is beautiful, and the rooftop terrace has an amazing view. We're feeling very well looked after and thoroughly enjoying our stay.

We came to town to celebrate my wife's birthday, and the hotel marked the occasion with a complimentary bottle of wine and a slice of heavenly chocolate cake. I hope we can return in the future. We were very comfortable during our two nights here. The room had lots of cupboard and drawer space, and I appreciated having real glasses in both the room and bathroom. The spacious balcony had a lovely table and proper seats, not the usual white plastic ones. We had breakfast in the main dining room, where the buffet offered a very good range of hot and cold food, breads and pastries. The omelette bar also made other things, including pancakes. Reception were very friendly and welcoming. My small check-in problem was dealt with very professionally, and it was especially nice that the receptionist came from the same southern African country where I was born. We also had very nice service at the bar one evening, but the price of a beer put us off going again. The hotel is across the road from a very wide beach. The main downside was noise and traffic from the street when we left the balcony door open for fresh air.

The rooms are fairly spacious, and the location is fantastic. The staff seem happy and proud to work here, and I can see why. A room with a view is worth it, the view is incredible. We're sorry to leave!