Orbitur Ilha de Armona

We spent an hour tucked away under a little tree on a quieter stretch of beach, then headed back to the ferry. Getting there from olhão was easy and reasonably priced. The colourful flowers and picturesque houses along the road from the port made the walk lovely. Such a blissful time, so, so beautiful.

Orbitur has a top location and staff, and we loved the charming, vintage bungalows. I understand that people ask for updates, but so many places in Portugal have been renovated lately and lost what made them special and memorable, trading it for neutral Scandinavian design without soul. This place is about nature, being in the moment, and enjoying a simple summer without all the amenities we’re used to. We’ll remember our stay as one of summer’s highlights. A few things I’d bring next time: a good knife for tomatoes, bread and chouriço, a small cutting board, and little bottles of olive oil, vinegar and sea salt. You can find those things on the island, too. Bring cash, since there’s no ATM there and most places don’t have Multibanco. Enjoy it!

I visited on a boat trip, rather than staying here. The walkway down to the beach is nice, and the bungalows are colourful.

The restaurants are great, and the place itself feels so peaceful and friendly. You should go.