Praia D'El Rey Marriott Golf & Beach Resort

This was our second visit, and coming back felt like coming home. We spent the stay laughing, eating, drinking, taking photos and making more memories. We were glad to see familiar faces and meet new people, and it’s lovely to have built such deep connections here. The people are what make this hotel special, and we’re already looking forward to returning. We asked by email if we could check in very early, and the concierge team was responsive and gracious about it. Francisco, Tomas, Paulo and Alexandre were welcoming, attentive and genuinely helpful throughout. The front desk was warm too, and one team member gave us great suggestions for Porto. When we were leaving, Michael from the management team came over to speak with us and made us feel like family. That was a thoughtful touch. We ate well throughout the stay. Breakfast at Tempera was a highlight every day, with attentive staff who made sure we had what we needed. Dip made cappuccinos just the way I like them and suggested off-menu dishes we loved. We also spent a lot of time relaxing and meeting friends at the Contato Lobby Bar, where the food was amazing and nobody rushed us. Luis was perfect, and Fedra deserves a special mention. Her food and drink recommendations were spot on, and we enjoyed spending time with her. Housekeeping was just as good: our housekeeper was kind, attentive and quick to bring anything extra we needed.

We had a great stay and will definitely come back. The views are beautiful, and the hotel is amazing. Front desk staff Andreia and Micael greeted us with so much care. Make time for the pool and spa, and the cleaning crew added some lovely little touches too.

The setting is beautiful, the rooms are a good size with lovely views, and the decor is cool. Breakfast was delicious and good quality. The bar staff are fantastic.

My smartwatch went missing during a visit to the hotel spa. The front desk staff were fantastic, but things here in Portugal can feel bafflingly inefficient compared with the Netherlands. I don’t know that the watch was stolen. It may simply have been left in a back office that nobody checks, much like government offices. At times the country can feel like one big DMV, where minimal effort seems to be the norm. Even so, this Marriott stands out within that “big DMV” of a country. It’s clearly a step above most other places I’ve stayed here, which is why I’m giving it five stars.