Where To Stay In The Algarve
In this blog post I’m going to share my recommendation on where to stay in the Algarve. We decided we wanted to book something a little nicer than we usually go for. However, we wanted to maintain something relatively budget friendly. As I’m sure you know, these things don’t always go hand in hand. We wanted something a bit more relaxing and quiet, with access to the beach. We opted for Alvor instead of the more popular Portimoa because it was not as touristy. After doing a bit of research, we came across Hotel Pestana Dom Joao II.
Situated only a stones throw from Praia da Torralta (the main selling point for us when choosing where to say when visiting the Algarve), Hotel Pestana offers both and indoor heated pool and outdoor saltwater pool, a spa which offers massages and facials, mini golf, a sauna, bar and pool bar, fitness centre, and many other things. Included is the most spectacular buffet breakfast I’ve ever seen from 7:30-11am. Pretty much anything you could ever want is provided for you.
In addition, the staff is excellent. I’m talking 5 star service. They were incredibly friendly and helpful with activity and restaurant suggestions, and even helped us book a boat trip to visit Bengali Cave (a boat tour I highly recommend you do).
Now lets move into the actual aesthetic of the hotel.
I’ve stayed in many hotels throughout my life, from 1 star to 5 star. Hotel Pestana is a 4 star hotel, but in my opinion it is much nicer than most of the 5 star hotels I’ve stayed in. Especially for the price in comparison to other hotels we looked at when decided where to stay when visiting the Algarve. The lobby, dining areas, and pool are incredible. Everything was pristine and clean, with attractive décor and greenery all around.
We booked the deluxe superior sea view, which was absolutely incredible. We had a balcony with a stunning view of the sea (as advertised), and a spacious room with all the amenities we needed with a full bathroom. Everything was clean, and we were never disrupted by any noise. Being able to lounge on the balcony, or listen to the waves crash at night is truly such an underrated experience.
Most mornings we would go down and enjoy the buffet breakfast, on occasion opting to explore other breakfast options. Then we would either lounge by the pool, or take the boardwalk down to the beach. We usually opted for the latter, as the pool was usually full of children.
At the beach we chose to pay €12 for a half day to use two sun chairs with an umbrella, although this isn’t necessary and you can choose to lounge on your towel in the sand. There are restrooms nearby, so you don’t have to go all the way back to the hotel which is nice. In addition, there are beach bars scattered along the boardwalk, so you have the option to grab a drink or a snack at any time while at the beach.
Overall, the entire experience exceeded all our expectations. There was not a single thing I would change! So make sure you consider this hotel when choosing where to stay in the Algarve!
Still looking for more? Check out my blog post on The Best Affordable Luxury Hotel in Santorini!
