Vila Marachique

Alvor is about a 15-20 minute walk downhill. Taxis are easy to find at the town ranks, and the ride back costs no more than €5. The resort is near both Alvor and Portimao, with great facilities and a lovely pool area. Kids can stay entertained all day, and the pool bar covers food and drinks.

The gardens and lawns are beautiful and carefully maintained, with mature palm trees and planted beds. It’s all real landscaping, tended by hand every day, and the team does a great job. The pool looks stunning and is excellent for children, though the water is Arctic cold. Staff at the pool bar were wonderfully friendly and polite. One downside was the female chef, who was quite rude and ignored my good mornings and hellos throughout my nine-day stay. The rooms are amazing, and you get what you pay for. Spend a little more for a place with the right furniture and kitchenware, or you may end up eating out most of the time. Great for families or couples, but not a party place.

A fabulous holiday spot, with everything you need and the village centre and harbour close by.

Alvor is nearby, with lots of places for typical food and nightlife. The modern apartments have everything for a relaxing stay. The condo also has a large pool, one of the best around, with a shaded grassy area and a bar serving light meals. A great apart-hotel for a holiday.