RR Alvor Baía Resort

It's a nice place in a beautiful area, with a lovely pool. The food is the part that lets it down. There hasn't been much choice, and the quality is below par. It's still edible and enjoyable enough, but I think it could be a lot better.

The suite was spacious, comfortable, and just right for a relaxing visit. The hotel felt peaceful, and the staff were so friendly and welcoming that we felt at home straight away. Everything was very clean and well looked after. It's not brand new, but it's still in very good condition. We had a very pleasant stay in the Algarve and would definitely recommend the hotel.

Paulo and Fred at reception, Soria, Keldeep, and David at the pool bar, and Ines and Paesano at the restaurants all kept a smile on their faces and made my stay nicer. The hotel manager was very helpful too, though I've lost the name. I visited Alvor Baia from May 26 to June 2. As a seasoned traveller, my expectations rise each time, and I've stayed in some banging hotels lately. Alvor Baia has good and not-so-good points, but the good just about outweighed the bad. Check-in was quick, the room was nice, and the beds were comfortable, though someone had gone wild with a can of deodorant, leaving little pictures and writing on the walls and doors that housekeeping missed. The grounds were nice, the pool was spacious, and there were loads of loungers. The staff worked hard, and the food and drinks were good, if a bit repetitive, as you'd expect with all-inclusive. I liked the free shuttle to the beach. A few things annoyed me: towels cost €20, refundable, but you can't change one for four days unless you pay a €2 charge. You get one complimentary bottle of water, but the on-site shop doesn't sell any, so getting more means a trip to the shops. When I queued at the pool bar for ice and water, I was told to use the scattered water fountains, which don't provide ice. Also, make sure you wear a top if you want a drink from the inside bar. I was refused ice there because I didn't have one. Thanks for the smiles.

The hotel was better than I expected: new, very clean, with attentive and efficient staff, spacious rooms with beds and sofas, and restaurants serving tasty, varied food. I especially enjoy the wine from Casa Ermelinda. The activities were interesting, and the large pool suited everyone. My complaints are about the extra costs and snacks. The spa is usually paid for, and the gym also costs extra, which I've never seen at hotels or on cruises. The arcade machines are paid too. Snacks are simple, and you can't eat them outside the snack bar in the basement.