Alvor Studio Apartment Amoreira Mar by Holiferias

The balcony view is fantastic, both day and night, and the apartment's air conditioning works brilliantly. The owner is welcoming and friendly, and the service is second to none whenever you need support. Residents and apartment guests can use the private pool, which is medium-sized and a good depth. There are lots of thoughtful touches: drinks in the fridge, Irish/UK plug adapters, tea, green tea, coffee and a coffee machine, plus Netflix and Wi-Fi. The kitchen and bathroom are stocked with cleaning supplies, dishes, cups, cutlery, towels, soap, shower gel, and shampoo, which helps if you're on a budget. The shower isn't electric, but it works perfectly well. There are local tour pamphlets in the room too. The only downside is the steep walk or drive up the hill to get there, but it's worth it.

The apartment was lovely and well located, about 10 minutes from the beach and just a minute from the supermarket, cafes, and restaurants. I stayed in one of the listed apartments for three months. The website gave its size as 75sqm, but it was definitely under 50sqm. It had all the equipment I needed, though the kitchen cupboards and an entire bedroom closet were full of old stuff, leaving little room for my own belongings. The owner is friendly, caring, and understanding. Both times I met him, he arrived more than 40 minutes after the time he promised, but I guess that's Portuguese standards.

The owner was super friendly. He came to hand over the keys at 6 am and showed us around the city. The flat was cozy, fully furnished, and had a nice balcony view. I liked the stay overall.

Good value, with a nice view from the fourth-floor balcony across the harbour and beaches.