Akisol Cabanas Tavira Club

I’m here for one more night and can’t wait to leave. The beach is lovely, though it’s another half mile from the hotel, and the pools are okay. I did like the indoor pool, but the staff at the health facilities were rude and inconsiderate. Customer service was upsetting too: they challenged me about breakfast even though I’d paid, and I had to show my receipt. There’s no valet or bell service, so I carried my bags myself for about 15 minutes from the lobby to my room in the heat, which left me really upset. The food is horrible and the buffet breakfast was a joke. It’s loud with so many children, and there’s no adult pool. They were doing construction, emptying bins, and gardening at 7am. Couldn’t that wait until guests are up, at least around 9? If you’re travelling alone, I wouldn’t stay here. I’d never come back.

Golden Club Cabanas has a calm, welcoming feel, with roomy spaces, palm trees, and lovely pools along the Algarve coast. It seems suited to families with children, and also to people working remotely: the accommodation is comfortable, the surroundings are quiet, and there are outdoor spots to work or take a break in the sunshine. The SPA & wellness area is there for unwinding after work or a day at the beach. There’s plenty of space for families to relax at their own pace. A place for resting and enjoying a slower rhythm.

We’d book again. The apartments are lovely, with a handy kitchenette and an airer; we could wash some clothes and dry them there. Staff were polite, and the boat ride to the beach is short and lovely. We didn’t get room service during our four-day stay, perhaps because it was Christmas, but we tidied up after ourselves and it wasn’t a big deal. Food choices were limited, though we found something to eat each day. Free drinks and beer with dining were a great bonus. There were different ball activities, but fewer options in winter; I imagine it’s livelier in warmer months.

It was so calm and peaceful, and we made some wonderful memories here. The apartment was spotless and the staff were really friendly. Take the little boat over to the private island, it’s well worth it.