Hotel da Nazaré

If socialising is what you're after, this could suit you. But anyone hoping for a good night's sleep should look elsewhere. The rooms are lovely, the beds comfortable, and the common areas are nice. It's close to the village and beach, with amazing views. Still, the noise was unbearable and spoiled our stay. We had a double room beside the kitchen and common area, with a shared bathroom against the bedroom wall. People came and went from 11 p.m. to midnight, then again from 6 to 8 a.m. Noise travelled throughout the hostel. There was talking and kitchen use late at night, including the microwave after midnight. It quieted down for a while, but at 6 a.m. people were talking loudly in the common area again, even after we asked them to be more considerate. I know hostel routines can be flexible and some guests get up early to enjoy the day. But people still need to show a basic level of consideration, or someone in charge needs to keep things under control.

We had a welcoming host who sorted out every problem without hesitation, and we'll come back next time. Our double room was quiet, with a comfortable bed and a sea view through the window. There was an equipped kitchen, plus a balcony where we could have breakfast and plenty of space to relax.

Hostels are meant to feel more relaxed, but this one had a very strict vibe. I asked to leave my bags overnight and pick them up the next morning, and got a definite no. Reception was almost always unattended. There were no curtains, no social events and no atmosphere, and it was very, very expensive. I've stayed in worse places, but this was far from one of the best. Sadly, one star.

The staff were attentive and really friendly. It was a cozy, great hostel, very clean, with plenty of comfortable lounges.