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Albufeira Hotels and Apartments N - R Natura Sun - Albufeira Operator and Date: First Choice - Aug 2006 Opinion submitted in August 2006 by : Heather & John (25, 31) Resort Rating: Good Accommodation Rating: Poor My/Our Holiday Review: Just returned from the Algarve after a week allocation on arrival. Not impressed with the Natura Sun Appartments, our room although well equipped wasn't very clean, the sink and loo were badly cracked and glued back together. The bathroom and kitchen were old and tired and in need of a refit. They do however, provide a washing machine and microwave which were excellent. Cleaners come everyday to sweep the floor but they don't change the bed linen at all. As for the pool and bar it too wasn't bad but you couldn't get a sunbed as the usual towels were out all day even if the beds weren't being used. Bar food expensive and not very appetising. The noise from the bar kept us awake til about half past two every night even though we were facing the road, but because there is no aircon (ARGH) we had to sleep with all the windows and doors open which contributed to the noise. Out and about Albufeira is really nice, the usual strip with bars and restaurants, old town with much the same and a beautiful marina where we spent a day lazing about on the side watching the fish and boats. It is brand new and has music playing all round, hardly anyone there, very chic bars and restaurants and we loved it. The beaches are lovely, not too busy and if you walk along a bit you can find a bit of peace and quiet. I was expecting it to be busier, we went in english school hols but it wasn't like spain gets at all. Much less developed and quieter. No big groups of lads etc much more family place, not suited for 18-30s. Watch out for time share gits with the line...are you british...are you over 28? We hired a scooter one day which was great and went to Villamoura - gorgeous place, you should stay there instead, much more cosmopolitan and chic. The roads are good and it's easy to drive, no mad drivers like greece. The scooter place at the top of the road hires them out for 20 euros plus free insurance and helmet but that costs 10 euros!(not free then) All in all a good hol, wouldn't recommend allocation on arrival as we watched people being dropped off the coach to some questionable places and we were disappointed with ours; but really you get what you pay for! £200 each for a week isn't going to get the ritz..... --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Natura Sun Club - Albufeira Operator and Date: First Choice - Jul 2006 Opinion submitted in August 2006 by : Carina Bond - Middlesex (Ages 29, 22, 6) Resort Rating: Very Good Accommodation Rating: Very Good My/Our Holiday Review: After reading other reviews on this site, I was starting to dread booking this holiday, however when we got there we were pleased to find that it wasn't bad at all. We booked the property as a late deal 5 days before departure so only studios were left which we thought may be a bit small for the three of us. We were pleasantly surprised by how spacious and well-equipped the apartments were. There is a large hallway with dressing table and mirror and space for cases. The bathroom was a good size with toilet, bidet, sink and shower over the bath. It was perfectly clean, my only complaint was that the shower holder kept moving so that you had to constantly readjust its position! The kitchen was quite big with large fridge, coffee machine (dunno how to use it though!), washing machine that we used on a couple of occasions and a full oven with grill and hob. There was a good selection of cooking utensils but like most self-catering apts, the glasses were not big enough! You only get a small tumblers or tiny tumblers! There is also a boiler cupboard with more space to keep suitcases. The living room/sleeping area has two single beds and a sofabed with tv (don't expect to watch anything in English other than Sky News), a table and chairs and a large wardrobe. If you like good pillows, take your own! You only get 1 each and they're not exactly luxury! On arrival we were not too happy to find that we had been allocated a ground floor room next to the bar as we thought we would be kept up all night with noisy drunks. The First Choice rep offered to move us but assured us that the music stopped at midnight so we decided to stay put and see how it was. In the end it turned out to be fine and actually an ideal apartment for us to keep an eye on our little one while he was round the swimming pool and the pool table. We were able to walk off of our terrace straight down to the pool and get sunloungers just off our patio so we could leave our room open while we were outside to let the air blow through and it meant we didn't have to carry all our towels and stuff down everytime we wanted to go for a swim. The pool was a good size and was never overcrowded even though the apts were fully booked. There is a rope between the shallow and deep ends as the drop is quite sudden and steep so it was good for the non-swimmers. We didn't use the bar for drinks or food as we bought all our stuff from the local supermarket and sat on our balcony listening to the entertainment. It looked like the usual snack bar stuff such as pizzas, toasties, chips, etc. Dunno if it was any good cos we didn't see many other people eating there either! The nearest supermarket is Marrachino. To get there go to the top of the road, turn left and then cross over and it is under the Oura Praia Hotel. Had a good selection of local and English stuff and was pretty cheap. We went there and got stuff for lunch on several days and were able to get warm, freshly baked baguettes. There are plenty of bars and restaurants within the local area, however we did not use these as we preferred the more traditional portuguese restaurants. There are a couple of good ones along the strip, especially Portofino and O Poeta. These are both at the beach end of the strip. Otherwise I would definitely recommend getting the tourist train down to Albufeira as the square has loads of restaurants to choose from and some good entertainment by street artists in the evening. We ate in Bravo's twice which is a bit pricey but good food and service. Wouldn't recommend Pampas (should've known from the name!) as it wasn't that great. The beach was about 10 mins walk but don't go the way that the rep tells you to as it is the long way round. We found a short cut through the Clube Praia da Oura and it is good cos on the way back you don't have to walk up the hill. If you follow their signs for the shortcut to Oura Praia, you can go up in the lift and miss out the hill! We certainly wouldn't recommend the resort or most others in the Algarve if you are disabled or have walking difficulties as the whole region is quite hilly. Anyway, beach is lovely with rocky areas to sit in the shade. Be careful not to get caught in a cove when the tide comes in or you may get wet feet! We found the best time to go was in the morning when the tide is out cos you can see where the rocks are under the water and are less likely to stub your toe! There are watersports for the more adventurous. Some of the beach front restaurants looked ok but after sitting in one for 15 minutes without even being brought a menu we decided to leave. The staff were not particularly bothered so we decided to look elsewhere and found a really nice snack bar called BJ's which is by at the commercial centre by the watersports. they do tasty chicken with chips and salad for 7 euros and were very friendly. We ended up going there 3 times. We would definitely stay at the Natura Sun Apts again if we decided to return to this area. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Natura Sun Club - Albufeira Operator and Date: Falcon/First Choice June 2006 Opinion submitted in July 2006 by : Party of 3 Resort Rating: Excellent Accommodation Rating: Very Good My/Our Holiday Review: The Natura Sun apartments are excellent and I would have no complaints about them you even get a washing machine which is a god send!!! they are very spacious and the pool area is lovely. The resort is lovely too and prices are really cheap beer e1.50 average meal e9.00 per person with wine but along the strip it's more expensive so shop around all in all I would go back to the Natura Sun again but Falcon seem to have dropped them from the brochure shame. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Natura Sun Club - Albufeira Operator and Date: First Choice - June 2006 Opinion submitted in July 2006 by : J Mitchell - N Yorks (49, 38) Resort Rating: Excellent Accommodation Rating: Very Good My/Our Holiday Review: Had a great week at Natura Sun. Stayed in a studio which was HUGE! Nice peaceful location facing back of apartments overlooking residential area. No noise from bar/pool at all. Fully fitted kitchen (took our own travel kettle). Loads of wardrobe space. Decent size bathroom with LOADS of boiling hot water. FOnly fault is lack of air conditioning which made it VERY hot when getting ready to go out at night and also when trying to sleep. First Choice rep there 6 days a week and very friendly and helpful as were apartment staff. Visited Praia Oura beach daily - beautiful sand (best I have seen in Europe) and lovely breeze. 15 euros per day for two comfy loungers and straw sunshade. Beach sellers with water, melon, pineapple and not overpriced either. Great bars above beach for a meal, snack or cold beer. Strip was lively with good choice of bars and restaurants but also good restaurants on street at top of the road from Natura Sun. Paulu's Italian was very good and also recomment Geordie Pride (turn right at top of road then left at supermarket and its on right hand side on way down to strip). Had delicious home cooked Sunday lunch there...mmmm! Old town was quaint but very busy and it was quite hard to find a table in the bars where you could have a drink and watch the world go by. Didnt use the pool area at the Natura as preferred the beach (and we were not travelling with kids), having said that it seemed very nice and not too noisy at all. Would be very safe for families with young children. Loved Albufeira, would recommend the climate, the Portugeuse people were very friendly, great value for money apartments - go there..you wont be disappointed!! --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Natura Sun Club - Albufeira Operator and Date: First Choice - June 2006 Opinion submitted in July 2006 by : Neal (38) Sarah (35) Millie (9) Charlie (6) Resort Rating: Very Good Accommodation Rating: Poor My/Our Holiday Review: We have just returned from a week at the Natura Sun Club Apartments. On first impressions, the apartment seemed really large and spacious and looked quite pleasant. There was a large hallway, and off the hallway was a large bathroom, a twin bedroom with large wardrobes, a separate kitchen with microwave and washing machine, and a large living area where there were two sofa beds, a tv and a table and four chairs. Off the living area was a large balcony. So at first we thought it looked ok. After a closer inspection we realised that the cleanliness of the apartment was quite appalling. First of all, the bedroom absolutey stunk of - to put it politely - urine! and the smell only got worse after you'd slept in it all night. The bathroom was shabby, the toilet seat was a cheap thin plastic seat that slid around every time you sat on it. The taps were old and dirty and on the first night there, my husband had a shower and the bath taps just kept turning and we couldn't turn them off for about 10 minutes! The kitchen was disgusting! There was a washing machine but I would never have used it as it was filthy, the microwave was the same. There was a cooker hood that had about a 1" thick layer of grease and dust. Luckily I took some antibacterial wipes so I had a good clean around the kitchen and bathroom. And there was even other peoples 'bodily hairs' on the floor around the fridge and in the corners were the cleaners never cleaned! The worksurface was bodged around the edge with loads of silicone sealant, my 6 year old son could have done a better job. The pool area looked ok, but it was impossible to get a sunbed. People just left their towels on the beds constantly, so they were guaranteed those beds everyday! First Choice rated these apartments as 3 star plus, I would say they are more like 2 star. They are the worst apartments we have ever been to for cleanliness. We were happy with the resort and thought it was quite cheap, you can buy a bottle of rose wine from the marrachino supermarket for 1.89 euros, thats only about £1.35!! And the beaches are great, very clean and loads of space. I would recommend the resort and I would go back again, but I would not recommend the Natura Sun Apartments. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Natura Sun Club - Albufeira Operator and Date: Falcon - June 2006 Opinion submitted in July 2006 by : Tracey & Mark (37, 36) Resort Rating: Good Accommodation Rating: Excellent My/Our Holiday Review: ad a fabulous apartment on top floor (a deluxe apartment according to the map )with massive balcony and 2 sunbeds - heaven!!! Apartment was very clean and comfortable. Very well equipped. Staff very pleasant and helpful. Swimming pool was freezing but your body got adjusted to it eventually! Not enough sunbeds at pool but a good grassy area available also. Bar entertainment wasn't up to much - it seemed to be one guy singing for a few evenings and one karaoke night. Not much crack! Location very good - plenty of eating places nearby. Lovely fish restaurants in Old Town Albuferia with excellent views. Several supermarkets very nearby. Local tourist train cheap and cheerful - especially when you don't fancy walking too far in the heat. Went to AquaShow - worth the money. Slides good fun and bird show interesting. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Natura Sun Apartments - Albufeira Operator and Date: first choice feb 2006 Opinion submitted in October 2006 by : julie and billy scotland Resort Rating: Excellent Accommodation Rating: Very Good My/Our Holiday Review: apartmnents were ideal very clean we went in february. one day of rain (the day we arrived) the weather was fantastic for the time of year beautiful blue skys and sunshine, temperature drops at night though so if going in february make sure youve got a winter jacket with you. the beaches were beautiful loved portugal and would definately go back --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Natura Sun Apartments - Albufeira Operator and Date: (First Choice Discounts) First Choice - 2006 Opinion submitted in May 2006 by : me hubby and 3 kids Resort Rating: Good Accommodation Rating: Below Average My/Our Holiday Review: We returned to the natura sun exactly one year after having a fab 2 weeks in 2005, when it had been quiet and family orientated. Unfortunately now the bar is franchised out, and belts music and drunken revelry until 3.00am, and no amount of begging for the noise to be turned down makes any difference AT ALL. following 2 weeks sleep deprivation, cranky kids and matchsticks holding our eyes open, we returned home, in need of another holiday! all other aspects of these apartments were fine, if you are going there ask them for a QUIET ROOM- even though we did and got put directly above the bar!!! --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Natura Sun Club - Albufeira Operator and Date: (First Choice Discounts) First Choice Opinion submitted in Aug 2005 by : Vince (43) Cass (41) Alex (13) Ella (10) Resort Rating: Excellent Accommodation Rating: Very Good My/Our Holiday Opinion: We have just returned from a great two weeks in the Natura Sun Club Apaartments. The apartments were lovely and contained everything needed including a washing machine which was great for those "yuky" sun creamed towels!!! The bathroom was enormous although there were a few cracked tiles. The kitchen had everything needed and was very clean although perhaps a little rough round the edges. One thing to mention if you read this in time is to take your own kettle as one is not provided. The bedroom is great and has two single very comfortable beds, a dressing table and a wardrobe so large I defy anyone to fill it. There is also a safe in the wardrobe which you can get the key from in reception. It costs 15 euros per week (£10.50) and 15 euros deposit. The living room had two large sofas which are made up as a further two single beds and very confortable they are too! There is also a dining table and four chairs, sideborard, two smaller tables and a tv. The hall is spacious and there is even a cupboard/room in which to store the suitcases! The balcony is enormous and has an airer on which to hang wet stuff. The pool area is lovely and not to large so that smaller children actually get some freedom. The pool itself is freezing but you dont seem to care when you've been sitting in 45 degree heat for most of the day!! There is also a bar attached to the apartments from which you can get a very reasonable lunch for about 4 euros (£2.80). They also sell ice creams, crisps, drinks including tea and coffee and some sweets. They also have sky tv and will put on football matches, the cricket, Eastenders or anything you ask for. There are two women and two men who run it and they are so nice and so helpful - especially Luis!! The nearest supermarket is about a 3 minute walk away and is open from 8am until 10pm every day. Go to the top of the road and turn left and then cross the main road. You cant miss it its call Marrachino and has everything you want. The strip is about a 10 minute walk away and has bars, shops, cafes etc (although all of these you will also find at the top of the apartments road.) Go to the top of the road and turn right and carrry on walking for about 3 or 4 mins. You will then come to a road on your left which you need to go down and you will find yourself halfway up/down the strip. A couple of good restaurants in the strip is "O Ramos"and The Sizzling Stone (Steak). Linekers Bar is good for watching the world go by and having a game of pool. Would not recommend the Paella Restaurant. Alberferia Old Town is about a 5 minute taxi ride away and this costs around 5 euros including a tip (£3.50). Bravo's is a lovely restaurnt (we went there about 4 times!) As is the Vegas Bar which on a Wednesday night has the most fantastic singer called Tom. The staff are also great and the cocktails are fantastic - even the kids non alcoholic ones!! The Vegas Bar is definitely worth a visit. We went on four trips. The Jeep Safari - although expensive (120 euros £85.00- is well worth it. Even my 13 year old son who has no interest in anything but PS2, Football and Golf though it was good. You also get lunch on this trip which consisted of Soup (which was the best soup Ive ever tasted!) Chicken and Chips, fruit and squash and wine. You leave around 9.00am from the apartments and you get back about 5pm. A truly great day out! Zoo Marine is a mixture of mini funfair, waterpark and mini seaworld. The dolphin and sealion shows are good, the funfair is a sweet distraction from the sun (!!) and the swimming pool area is lovely at the end of the day. This trip was about 80 euros about £50.00 There are two waterparks you can go to Aqualand and Slide and Splash. We went to both and preferred Aqualand. Aqualand has sunloungers, rafata umbrellas, is slightly smaller and has a wave machine. My two children were able to go off and I didnt worry about them at all. In Slide and Spash its a bit bigger but 20 times more busy and I didnt feel I could let them go off on their own. Slide and Splash has a lovely area for smaller children but it may be too busy for real small children. Aqualand also has a childrens area and is better because its quieter. Both parks cost around the same but in my opinion Aualand is the one to go for. The waterparks and Zoo Marine are got to by catching a coach at the top of the road outside a pub called the Dubliner. If the coach you are waiting for is late or drives straight past dont worry. The coach will eventually arrive and if it goes straight past it means that its full and another coach will be along within about 5 mins. Something we weren't told by our reps!!! Us four all had a fantastic time and its the only holiday that I have been sad to come home from. In fact I am trying to talk my hubbie not only to going back to Portugal next year but also to go back to the Natura Sun Club Apartments. Its a great base - close enough to the action, but far away enough for peace and quiet. FANTASTIC!!!! --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Natura Sun Apartments - Albufeira Operator and Date: (First Choice Discounts) First Choice May 2005 Opinion submitted in June 2005 by : Pauline, Rob, Maureen, Trevor Resort Rating: Very Good Accommodation Rating: Very Good My/Our Holiday Review: we've been to these apartments before and were as impressed as much the second time around. Rooms were cleaned 5 times a week, towels and bedding twice a week. kitchen was great a washer, cooker and microwave what more could you want. when you come out of the apts turn right then left at the top down to the island and turn left it takes you to the Coyote bar, 1.25euro for large beer. if you turn right at the island its a good carvery at Susans bar (part of the hotel on the corner) also a decent chippy. if you carry on past the chippy for about 10 mins it brings you to the strip where there are loads of bars and restaurants, it's busy at night and a bit like Blackpool all lit up. Both supermarkets are reasonable plenty of cheap beer. if you turn right at top from apts and go to the supermarket on the corner there are a few bars up that road, we had a lovely sunday lunch at the Geordie Pride and if you carry on past there you can also get to the strip. so enjoy your holiday. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Natura Sun Club - Albufeira Operator and Date: (First Choice Discounts) First Choice- May 2005 Opinion submitted in June 2005 by : Jane Redding -29, 24, 3 Resort Rating: Excellent Accommodation Rating: Below Average My/Our Holiday Review: we stayed in the Natura Sun Club only last week i was dissapointed with the advertisment stating Kids Play Area which when we arrived consisted of a pool table and a foos(spelling?) ball table which i'd say have seen the best of the last 10 yrs! very bad. the hotel was ok very old and could do with a bit of a face lift the sheets as i read in another review on one of the beds were defintly not changed all week i know this as my son spilled chocolate onto one one night and at the end of the week was still there. i thought the area was lovely and would go back again i recomend Papa Jo's which is up the hill and the second set of shops on the right great service and great food and Paulus italian up the hill and left that was also lovely. BEWARE of Gheraldo's a 'steak house' which is also up the hill and directly on your right the service here was slow and although advertised a steak house there were two type of steaks on the menu, i ordered an omlette here and my partners steak came out befor mine (after 40 mins) when i did get mine i cut into it to find a giant hair in my food not very nice at all the staff were not pleseant and very rude when i pointed out what i had found otherwise the area was lovely nobody to bother us i did not see one time share tout up here where as in the old town they are everywhere we just walked by them i would recommend this area of Portugal unfortunatly not the Natra Sun Club...sorry!! --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Natura Sun Apartments - Santa Eulalia (nr Albufeira) Operator and Date: (First Choice Discounts) First Choice - April 2005 Opinion submitted in June 2005 by : Emma Barker - Stoke on Trent (27,29,3) Resort Rating: Very Good Accommodation Rating: Very Good My/Our Holiday Review: I booked this holiday as a cheap holiday so was a bit warey of what it would really be like, however i need not have worried at all. The apartments were lovely, very clean and the staff friendly, we were overlooking the carpark which was a bit noisey as the dustbins were there so heard the bin men coming very early in the morning to empty them but not too bad really. The only other thing was that i had booked a late check out which in the brochure stated until 6pm, the reception however tried to say it was only until 2pm. First choice agents in the resort sorted it out though but just beware and take the brochure with you to prove what it says. We enjoyed the resort and liked the strip the only thing really is the beaches are not that easy to get to the main beach is down a hill called cardiac hill and believe me that is how you feel when youve pushed a pushchair up it in the heat, the only other way to get to it was through some apartments that seemed to be mainly timeshares so got hassled a bit by people trying to sell us one. In the end we just said we were under 25 as they cant sell you one then. Would recomend this resort and apartments though especialy if can get them cheap enough. First Choice excellent tour operator --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Natura Sun Apartments - Santa Eulalia (nr Albufeira) Operator and Date: (First Choice Discounts) First Choice- March 2005 Opinion submitted in Apr 2005 by : Angela and Peter - Staffs (50, 49) Resort Rating: Very Good Accommodation Rating: Very Good My/Our Holiday Review: We stayed at the Natura Sun in March 2005. I have just read another review from a couple that were there at the same time as us. My opinion differs entirely from theirs.The room we had was on the second floor. It was great, roomy and clean with a full sized kitchen which is something I've not had before. It was nice to have the kitchen seperate from the living area.We both had showers twice a day, following on from each other and had no trouble at all with the water supply. We ate out at Annabels which was just up the hill, turn right and cross the road. The food was good and prices reasonable. The beaches were lovely and the weather was perfect. Having said all that I wouldn't go again simply because of the time share touts. Something needs to be done about them, they are ruining the Algarve. Most were persistant but Ok but some were very rude. Please don't scratch any cards off or go with them. Just say "NO" firmly even rudely if you have to. In the square in the old town we counted 8 time share touts that we could see, never mind the ones hiding ready to pounce.It got to the stage that myself and my husband walked seperately on different sides of the road! (they only approach couples)It's not what you need when you are on holiday and to be honest we nearly came to blows with one guy who told us something nasty when we said we weren't interested. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Natura Sun Apartments - Santa Eulalia (nr Albufeira) Operator and Date: (First Choice Discounts) First Choice february 2005 Opinion submitted in Mar 2005 by : sophie manchester (26,40) Resort Rating: Average Accommodation Rating: Poor My/Our Holiday Review: Myself and my partner booked an allocate on arrival and we were put in the Natura Sun Apartments. First impressions were it looked ok. we reached are apartment which was spacious with a hugh balcony all was going well, but the cleanliness of the room was very poor. We only booked to stay for a week so we just managed and got on with it. Although the cleaners(who were all friendly) did come in every other day, but it didn't seem to make any difference. the room had its own washing machine we thought what a great idea but i wouldn't reccommend anyone to use it, it was in a disgusting state. After an early flight we both wanted to freshen up (have a shower)unfortunatly there was only enough hot water to last for one shower so the other person had to wait 6 hours!!yes 6 hours!!! before it heated up again. we couldn't belive it. we told reception that there must be a fault with the boiler in the room and they said they would send someone to have a look at it. wether anyone came or not we will never know but the problem was not fixed and we had to rota in who was going to have a shower in the morning and who was going to wait until the evening. very annoying. apart from that we hired a car from the top of the road (very friendly) and we also ate alot at the country kitchen (if you love your english food this is the place to eat the steaks are hugh)!! weather was very pleasent for the time of year we went (64 degrees). I would like to point out that the reception staff at the Natura Sun were friendly it's just a shame the standards of there rooms were so poor. Would i reccommend anyone to stay at the Natura Sun? simple answer NO!! --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Natura Sun Apartments - Santa Eulalia (nr Albufeira) Operator and Date: (First Choice Discounts) First Choice - 2005 Opinion submitted in July 2005 by : mum john kim tracey steph 72, 50 48 45 16 Resort Rating: Excellent Accommodation Rating: Excellent My/Our Holiday Review: apartments great. maid service good no problem with anything.go and enjoy --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Natura Sun Apartments - Santa Eulalia (nr Albufeira) Operator and Date: Falcon Oct 2004 Opinion submitted in Oct 2004 by : Resort Rating: Good Accommodation Rating: Good My/Our Holiday Review: We booked this holiday last minute, and we really enjoyed it. The staff at the Natura sun were very friendly and helpful and the rep was good also. The apartments were of a good size and very comfortable and quiet at night . I thought the advertised 'childrens play area' was a disappointment as this was one of the things we were looking for for our 2 yo son. The metal slide was literally boiling to touch at 10am in the morning and the swings were too high of the ground to be safe. Also the tiles around the complex were quite slippy-especially when it rained! The beach at Praia Da Oura was lovely, though you have to be reasonably fit to get to it! The tourist train from the strip to the old town was a winner with our son as was Zoo marine which was a great day out. We also enjoyed the jeep safari. Old Albufeira town was quaint and atmospheric. Our favourite restaurant was El Bolera, lovely mexican food and we found it better quality and value for money than some of the restaurants down on the strip. If you are looking for night entertainment or 'childrens disco' try Oura Praia or Club Praia da Oura complexes nearby. In the month that we went there was little entertainment in the complex where we were. They did have a short parrot show on the Friday night though which our son liked . WE enjoyed the holiday and I would like to go back to the Algarve again. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Natura Sun Apartments - Santa Eulalia (nr Albufeira) Operator and Date: (First Choice Discounts) First Choice Sept 2004 Opinion submitted in Oct 2004 by : Corbin Family with party of 11 ages from 50 to 7 Resort Rating: Below Average Accommodation Rating: Below Average My/Our Holiday Review: On arrival at the above apts, we were greeted by a fab pool area,only to find that the apt itself was nothing to write home about,there was 4 of us in a one bed apt and the only storage we had was 6 small drawers and 1 wardrobe, bathroom was quite shabby but pretty clean the only good thing was we had a pool view. We did see the cleaners, but I am convinced that our bedding was never changed in the whole 2 weeks!. There is really nothing to do at night a part from going to THE STRIP!!! oh joy of joys, only can describe it as the same tat different day, the blackpool front of the Algrave!!!, not impressed as you can tell. The Old Town was really lovely and a must visit both day and night taxi fare form hotel is only 5euros each way but its a lovely place. During the day there is a free coach from the hotel that leaves about 10am and returns at 4pm. We had some nice meals. The Chinese at the top of the road was really good value, the Geordie Pride was excellent and we went here for my husbnds 50th, but the very best place was Frog's pizzas on the strip fantastic!!!!, three days before we came home we found the bar called Two Fat Ladies where we went for breakfast absolutley fabulous and the ladies there we a screem a must visit but don't leave it till your due to come home like we did!!!! --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Natura Sun Apartments - Santa Eulalia (nr Albufeira) Operator and Date: (First Choice Discounts) First Choice Sept 2004 Opinion submitted in Oct 2004 by : (65,42) Resort Rating: Average Accommodation Rating: Average My/Our Holiday Review: We were put on the second floor which seemed fine but the balcony was tiny and at night there were some very inconsiderate people who banged their doors when entering /leaving their rooms and the noise would echo very loudly causing many sleepless nights. Local courtesy bus to Old Town was excellent as was beach there too.Many good restaurants just up the road from accomodation ie Country Cockerels Whale and chips was excellent and the Golden Palace Chinese at bottom of main road and Bomgarfos.Local supermarket supplied most things and had a reasonable choice.First Choice rep Ellen was superb and a great ambassador for First Choice. Do not go to the Algarve if you do not like hills or the occasional steep walk as there are plenty. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Natura Sun Apartments - Santa Eulalia (nr Albufeira) Operator and Date: (First Choice Discounts) First Choice - sept 2004 Opinion submitted in Oct 2004 by : jenny witts - bristol (51,34,15months) Resort Rating: Excellent Accommodation Rating: Good My/Our Holiday Review: the apartments were very spacious and clean. we had a cot which didn't cost us anything. major problem we had (apartment 124)was the sewerage pipe blocked so we had a flood twice in one day on our second day. We had to move to a different complex (by montechoro hotel) for 3 days this caused a great inconvenience as we had a 15 month old baby. So if you stay in that apartment and notice water through the hallway and toilet don't assume it came from the sprinklers outside like we did. The pools are nice although cold at first plenty of inflatables to use. We didn't have a problem with sunbeds or umbrellas. Didn't eat at the bar we thought it was overpriced and the beer was 2.50 euros. Good place to eat if little ones in tow is Rovers Return they have a ball pond, tele and a few toys to keep them occupied. Annables do a good lasagne. Geordie Pride does vegetables and mash if you get fed up with chips with everything (turn left by the Alisuper and its further down from the Cockerel on the right) you can also go down this road to get to the strip. Turn left at the top of the road from the apartments bear left at the roundabout and go to coyotes, the beer is only 1 euro (cheapest place around) and the staff are really nice) the food ain't too bad neither. the beach is ok to get to but bit of a hike to get back. Very nice once there but the sand do tend to stick to you quite badly , the sand at fishermans beach is very soft, don't park yourself too close to the sea it creeps in on you we nearly got washed out 3 times. We got to fishermans beach by the tourist train (3 euros, kids under 5 free)this is half way up the strip on the left side and runs every 20mins right through the night so its cheaper than a taxi! don't get conned by the girls with scratch (promotions) cards they say you've one and that nobody else have, you will have to go to a hotel and watch a video for one hour about holidays and then gives you the option to buy (you will get pressured) don't go it is a con you will only win holiday vouchers of which you use towards one of their holidays. Anyway to sum it up albuferia is very nice, weather was excellent, apartments were nice, shame about the mishap we had which quite spoilt the holiday for the first week but this haven't put us off of going again sometime. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Natura Sun Apartments - Santa Eulalia (nr Albufeira) Operator and Date: (First Choice Discounts) First Choice-Sept 2004 Opinion submitted in Sept 2004 by : Diana, Peter and Patricia Turner ( 55, 46, 12 ), Resort Rating: Excellent Accommodation Rating: Excellent My/Our Holiday Review: We booked our holiday at the Nutura Sun Club after reading all the positive reviews. Peter has M.S and is partly paralysed down the left side, which causes difficulty walking, and he tires very easily. We had read many other hotel reviews, all which mentioned steep hills so the fact no mention of any hills when we booked made Natura seem the ideal choice. We explained over Peter's condition to the Travel agent when booking asked them to check there was no hill and that we could have a ground floor room. First Choice help line said there was a slight incline and we were given the impression ground floor room would be guaranteed after booking. After paying for our holiday we were not guaranteed a ground floor room. This upset us so we e-mailed first choice to ask why a ground floor room could not be guaranteed. There were no lifts and I could not carry Peter and his wheelchair up flights of stairs. We were then sent a disclaimer from First Choice to sign. They had decided The Natura was now on a hill and was not suitable for the less mobile, as there were no lifts. We could not have a refund and had to pay extra if we wanted a different place to stay. Also if we did not sign the disclaimer we could not have airport assistance. Luckily we did get a ground floor room guaranteed before our holiday and it was perfect. We just had to walk out of the door over a bit of grass and we were on a sun bed round the pool. We were very happy at the Natura everyone was so nice. The First Choice rep Ellen Nash was fantastic. Nothing was too much trouble for her. She had lots of knowledge on the Algarve and could answer any queries you had. She booked all our trips and was always friendly and helpful. We should have talked to Ellen before attempting the walk to Santa Eulalia beach. That was a bad mistake. I thought that it was going to be impossible to keep hold of the wheelchair it was so steep just before the last turn. I got very upset but a lady who did not speak a word of English was taking her children on the beach took one handle and I held the other and we managed it between us. We were then charged twenty euros to hire two sun beds and parasol for the day. I only expected it to be about ten euros. We could not stop for the day. The toilets and restaurant were up many steps. It would be a good idea to take a cool bag for days on the beach if you are less mobile. It was impossible to get a taxi back so Patricia and myself pushed Peter up the hill. I still do not know how. We did not have the energy to go back to the Natura to get showered and changed so went to Annabells for our tea straight off the beach. We must have looked a bit rough but they still made very welcome and we enjoyed a lovely meal and cold drink. Albuferia is not wheelchair friendly, the incline is quite steep in parts from the Natura to the main road. The Kerbs are even worse once the front wheels were up I had to lift all Peter's weight up. I did not find this easy but it did not spoil our holiday. I am not very strong but we did get lots of offers of help, which was very appreciated. The courtesy bus to old Albuferia stops at the top of a lot of steps so that is not easy for the less mobile. We found it easier to get a taxi. Well worth the five euros. We enjoyed trying out all the restaurants on these reviews. The Cockerel did a full English breakfast with cuppa P.G tips or ground coffee very tasty and only three euro fifty cents. The hotel bar also does a good breakfast but charges six euros and your drink is extra. To get to the Cockerel you go to the top of the road from the Natura, cross over and walk right until you reach the Alisuper. The Cockerel is just down that road. Another restaurant we liked was Mary Ann's. Carry on down the road passed the Cockerel to the Kelt and Kilt. Mary Ann's is behind that. The food is lovely and with two adult meals you get a free child meal. That pleased Patricia as she could have one of the lovely desserts. The Airport staff were fantastic both on Outbound and Return flights. Only problem we found at Faro airport was that once you go to your gate there is only one toilet. If your plane is delayed and you need to go there could be a long wait. I would recommend Alberferia and the Natura Sun Club so long as you are reasonably mobile. You need to be fit or have a fit carer to assist you if you use a wheelchair. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Natura Sun Apartments - Santa Eulalia (nr Albufeira) Operator and Date: August 2004 Opinion submitted in Sept 2004 by : Julie (44), Mark (41), Kevin (15), Kelly-Marie (9), Mum, Dad & David (29) Resort Rating: Excellent Accommodation Rating: Excellent My/Our Holiday Review: Returned back three weeks ago from yet another fabulous holiday at Natura Sun Club Apartments. This time we were given an apartment up the top in the three storey blocks which was much better as last year we were down near the bar and it was a bit noisy. We noticed that there was still a shortage of sunbeds but it did not bother us too much as we just got lilos and grabbed a bed whenever we could. One good thing we noticed was that people weren't getting up at the crack of dawn to place their towels on the beds, it was all very civilised and people were waiting until about 8.00am before going down giving more people a chance of having a bed. We noticed this year a change in the entertainment at the bar, for the better I have to say. Last year we had to endure 5 nights of karaoke (which is OK if you are a fan of it which we were not), but this year it was only a Friday which was bearable, this time they had a singer one of the nights and a bongo player another night which were new additions to last year, both very good. For eating out and good old fashioned english food I still highly recommend Annabells. For those of you who have not seen my review from last year you leave the hotel and turn to the right at the top of the road, turn left and its on the opposite side of the road next to the Danish restaurant. The food is fabulous at Annabells and as always the staff very friendly and hospitable. We still went to the Royal Chinese restaurant as well because that is also another place which is well worth a visit (out of hotel, turn right at the top of the road, turn left walk straight down to the roundabout and it is in front of you). If you enjoy a good old english roast dinner there is a restaurant called Susans Carvery (I think!!) which does a carvery and all you can eat for 8 euros on a Wednesday and Sunday. Susans is at the back of the Oura Praira restaurant. To get to it you go to the top of the road, turn left and cross the road as if you were going to Annabells, walk straight past Annabells towards the Marachino supermarket. Next door to the supermarket is the Oura Praira hotel, you can get to Susans by going in the front entrance of the hotel or stay on the path and walk towards the roundabout and turn right, you will see the back entrance to the Oura Praira and you can get to Susans from there. It was absolutely delicious and you had the choice of chicken, beef, lamb or pork. Try for yourselves, you won't be disappointed. One restaurant to avoid is the Mexican El Bolero. WHAT A RIP OFF!!! Had to wait literally ages and ages for the food and when it came it was so miniscule that we went away feeling extremely hungry. A total waste of money, don't bother with it. The strip is the place to visit if you are into buzzing nightlife. We use to go down there each night just for a walk really and to look in the shops. Don't be taken in by the beggars on the street, they are more well off than you think. They make themselves dirty and scruffy just to get the sympathy vote. Last year we done an excursion to Zoo Marine which was fantastic. This year we decided to go to slide & splash. Now if you enjoy waterparks this is a must. We had a brilliant time. Well worth the trip. Myself and my mother-in-law also went to Quarteira market but I would not do that trip again, it was a nightmare, very crowded and extremely hot. Some cheap bargains but if you don't like crowds then I wouldn't bother. We decided to grab a taxi one day and went along to the Algarve shopping centre. We were pretty disappointed as there was not that much there really but if you are missing your McDonalds, KFC, Burger Kings etc, you can get all that there, apart from that we found the products in the shops quite expensive. Fishermans beach we think is still the best beach to go to. You get the courtesy bus from outside the hotel which leaves at 10.00am Monday to Friday and brings you back at 4.00pm. This takes you to the top of the square at old Albufeira, you can see the beach with the beautiful white golden sand. Sunbeds and umbrellas are the same price as last year, (15 euros for 2 beds and one umbrella), be warned though you are not allowed to put up your own umbrella, there are certain areas of the beach where that is allowed. I put one up for my daughter in front of my bed for my daughter to play in the sand but was made to take it down but was told I could buy another one of their umbrellas and put that up - NO THANKS!!, she had to make do with finding shady bits by the beds instead. St. Eulalia beach which is close to the hotel I am told is nice but cannot comment on it as we never went to it, but I do know and will stress there is quite a hill to walk to reach it, so not really advisable if you have a disability of any kind or are in a wheelchair. Taxi's have not gone up in price either the minimum price is 5 euros. If you were to go into old Albufeira in the evening and were getting a cab from the hotel that is what you would pay. Once again we were not disappointed in anyway with our stay again this year and are returning yet again next year for the third year in a row, this time with my sister and her family. I may be a saddo returning again but we enjoy it so much we just want to keep going back. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Natura Sun Apartments - Santa Eulalia (nr Albufeira) Operator and Date: (First Choice Discounts) First Choice - August 2004 Opinion submitted in Aug 2004 by : Sarah (14)Janette (39) Gary (38) Mandy (14) Resort Rating: Excellent Accommodation Rating: Excellent My/Our Holiday Review: Just got back from an amazing holiday. We all had a great time as it is in the perfect location for me and my friend to go off without the parents. It was a peaceful place, however if you fancied a bit of excitement you could walk 10 minutes down the road to the lively strip, which was full of gift shops, resteraunts and bars! There were some lovely restaurants, one in particular that looked over the 10minute walk beach, which was an oriental resteraunt. There are some fantastic days out that you have to take advantage of, especially Zoomarine, where you can also swim with dolphins, which is a real highlight to the holiday! It was definately my best holiday ever and i think everyone elses to. We may even be going again next year! For anyone who is considering going, GO! you won't regret it! --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Natura Sun Apartments - Santa Eulalia (nr Albufeira) Operator and Date: (First Choice Discounts) First Choice august 2004 Opinion submitted in Aug 2004 by : jacki linzi grant 47 13 14 Resort Rating: Excellent Accommodation Rating: Excellent My/Our Holiday Review: we booked a superior studio for 3 excellent size very clean..extra large terrace. could even play football on the terrace it was so big. John the bar manager very helpful and also Fabiana who cooked our food at lunch times very nice. we tried Papa Joes at the top of the road excellent. The complex is full of families which was great for making friends. we met friends from manchester and also derby and dublin.The pool is very nice just the right size for the amount of people staying there. Ellen the rep very helpful always on site. John the bar manager organized football so all the boys played a match which help them to make friends. The location of Natura Sun Club is ideal nice quiet residential within walking distance of the strip and also good choice of restruants.I felt it was a safe place for children even the pool maintenance man Walter was friendily. Most people shopped at the supermarket at the top of the road which was convenient, bar prices for soft drinks were 2 euros for fanta or coke which you can buy in supermarket for 50 cents, the weather was excellent it reached 45degrees when were there so at night it was very very hot to sleep. Whilst we were there we were told Sir Cliff Richard would be playing live on the beach we went to the concert and had a great evening which ended in a fantastic firework display. The fishermans beach is lovely every day a free bus takes you to beach at 10am and collects you again at 4pm. We went to the algarve shopping centre not that impressive though. Quite expensive, though some lovely jewellery and shoe shops. We would be happy to go back. The Portugese people are very nice a nd very welcoming --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Natura Sun Apartments - Santa Eulalia (nr Albufeira) Operator and Date: (First Choice Discounts) First Choice - july 2004 Opinion submitted in Aug 2004 by : sheila hawkins-southampton41,41,41,40,19,15,14,13 Resort Rating: Excellent Accommodation Rating: Excellent My/Our Holiday Review: Just arrived back from a fab holiday,accomadation had everything you needed apart from a kettle so if you want early morning cuppa take a travel one, staff were very welcoming and friendly, the whole resort was kept very clean and tidy. the strip which was a 10 min walk was buzzing at night with clubs pubs and restaurants try to eat off the strip as it is cheaper. if you turn right out of sun club go to top and straight across the road you will see the rovers return they do a fab sunday roast, but anything spicy on the menu is spicy and will blow your head off. if you can hire a car, we had a deal pay for 3 days get car for 5. also if you want to go to the waterparks shop around up in the town they offer 10-15% off ticket prices.zoo marine is well worth a visit. anyway have a great time we did, and if you ask john the bar manager to sing you a song he will(great voice) bon voyage xxxx --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Natura Sun Apartments - Santa Eulalia (nr Albufeira) Operator and Date: (First Choice Discounts) First Choice-June2004-July2004 Opinion submitted in July 2004 by : G-Lancashire 20, P-Staffordshire-21. Resort Rating: Excellent Accommodation Rating: Good My/Our Holiday Review: We just arrived back from our hols yesterday.-We had booked to go through allocation on arrival but garenteed 3 * in Albuferia area, We arrived at Natura Sun Apartments it had an ideal location.It was literally 2 minutes from bars and resturants or about a ten minute walk from the nightlife of the strip. It was secluded enough that it was not noisy at night times but was not far away if you wanted a night on the town. The beach was about a 15 minutes away which was not too bad but up a bit of a hill on the way back!. I would advise anyone to go to the resort of Albuferia. It had plently for kids, families, couples and groups of friends. The negatives regarding our apartment was that whilst we were there two families had there studios broken into - so sleep with the balcony doors and windows shut!!!! that was how they got in whilst they were sleeping! Our room was very basic although we did have satelite tv and a washing machine! but we did have a problem with little bugs that looked like centipedes! Other than this, the maids were great and cleaned everyday bar tuesday, reception staff were very friendly and helpful as was the barman John. It was little for evening entertainment on the site, karaoke and a live one-man band. No kids club at all. The pool was nice and always seemed clean althought there was a lack of sunloungers and we had to be up at half 6 to put towels down. I would advise people to stay in this resort and there wasn't anything major wrong with the apartments as long as you sleep with the doors locked! enjoy your holiday. P & G. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Natura Sun Apartments - Santa Eulalia (nr Albufeira) Operator and Date: (First Choice Discounts) First Choice - May 2004 Opinion submitted in May 2004 by : Michael, Esme & Louise Weston - Bath (28, 26, 2) Resort Rating: Very Good Accommodation Rating: Excellent My/Our Holiday Review: Had a great two weeks and didnt want to come home. The resort has everthing most people would require, it caters for all ages. There are loads of resturants (all v good), in particular, Papa Joes, which conveniently was just up the road. The accomadation was suberb, it's located just off the main road and 10 minutes walk from The Strip. The rooms are cleaned 6 days per week and are of good size. The pool is clean and safe with plenty of sunbeds or chairs. The snack/drinks bar is open very early to very late and offers a good variety. The staff are very friendly and that applies to all portugese people outside the hotel. The complex is totally British and all rooms are via First Choice. A rep is on site full time, 6 days per week. If you have chosen or thinking of choosing the Natura Sun Club, you wont be dissapointed. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Natura Sun Apartments - Santa Eulalia (nr Albufeira) Operator and Date: (First Choice Discounts) First Choice - March 2004 Opinion submitted in Apr 2004 by : Davies Family (51,53) Resort Rating: Excellent Accommodation Rating: Excellent My/Our Holiday Review: We have just got back from a wonderful week. The accomodation is the best I have had in Europe (long term budget holidaymaker). The food is wonderful and the best we found was the one at the top of the road, Bom Garfo. This is a Portugese resteraunt that is for the locals. They have a self service area where you fill your plate then they weigh it. This can work out very economic. We ate of the al'carte menu and didnt have a bad meal. The Cliff top walk is very much a euphamism!!! It is a track over the cliffs with sometimes no other way round than to hike up your shorts and get your knickers wet!!! Good job it was warm. Everything everyone else has said is true. The only downside is the noise from scraping furniture from the rooms above you. Oh and if you want pie and chips then the Strip is the place for you. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Natura Sun Apartments - Santa Eulalia (nr Albufeira) Operator and Date: (First Choice Discounts) First Choice - March 2004 Opinion submitted in Mar 2004 by : D J & A Mansell - 52 and 49 Resort Rating: Good Accommodation Rating: Excellent My/Our Holiday Review: The appartments are in the Santa Eulalia area of new Albufiera. There are at least 20 bars and restuarants within a 5 minutes walk. A ten minute walk will take you to the strip (bars, restauarants, clubs) whilst Albufiera old town is about 2 km away. With the exception of the old town the area is more functional than picturesque, but if you hire a car (we hired one from Prudente car hire about 25 yards from the appartments) there are some lovely places to visit - Cape St Vincent,Lagos and Sagres for example. we had lots of good food during our holiday and only one infifferent one - that was in a place called the Silver Pint almost opposite the appartments. We enjoyed Annabells (English food and proprietors, El Bolero (Tex-Mex), Cafe Martinique and several others. The studios are beautiful, clean, spacious, well appointed and well maintained - we would go back there without a doubt. The First Choice reps were all very good and had a welcome presence at the airport. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Natura Sun Apartments - Santa Eulalia (nr Albufeira) Operator and Date: (First Choice Discounts) First ChoiceDownes - 2004 / 5 Opinion submitted in May 2005 by : Downes family-Dundee/Arbroath {52,48,47,30,28,27,23,22,4,2} Resort Rating: Good Accommodation Rating: Good My/Our Holiday Opinion: It was a pleasant suprise ,on arrival.Appartments were clean and tidy and roomy.Staff were friendly and very helpful.It was child friendly,swimming pool for adults and one for the kids. "It's Twoperfect",I said to my husband,big mistake.Three days after arriving ,water started to leak from the bathroom roof, in three separate area's.Report it to reception and staff member,duely arrived ,looked at it and said just keep an eye on it.Bathroom at this point sailing with water.Towels placed all over the floor and two bucket placed ,to cacth the water.Toilet and bath could not used , due to water,had to use the facilities in other members of our party.But on awaking it was much worse, water was now not only running down bathroom wall's but also enterancewall.As we were going out for the day ,we told reception that this was not exceptable and wanted moved.They said they would sort the problem out and they did. but room remained very damp and a musty smell developed.So if you are unluck , you are unluck enough you may get our room 103, let's hope not. This how ever did not deter us from having a great holiday, so much to see and do in the area.But for a great place to eat, go to G,rasshoppers , which is at the top of the road,on the other side.All the locals eat there,which to me is a great recommedation. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Natura Sun Apartments - Santa Eulalia (nr Albufeira) Operator and Date: first choise - Date Not Specified Opinion submitted in July 2004 by : mick hughes. southhampton Resort Rating: Very Good Accommodation Rating: Very Good My/Our Holiday Review: great area for a first ever holiday abroad, it was better than we had expected, food, go to hoff van holland,left at the main road and on the right (2 mins)or sunset on the strip left at the main road to the roundabout right and about 200mts on or just passed that the sizzling stone, beaches try Santa Eulalia beach, at the roundabout left for 300mts and right at the signs, tours we recomend the jeep safari and the boat trip..have fun we did!!!!!!!!!! --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Naturmar - Albufeira Operator and Date: (Direct Holidays) Direct Holidays - June 2004 Opinion submitted in June 2004 by : M Phillips - leeds Resort Rating: Very Good Accommodation Rating: Good My/Our Holiday Review: The apartments were a good size and in a great location only 5 mins from the beach. There was a bit of a hill back to the apartments so it would not suit people who have trouble walking. Although the apartments need a bit of TLC they are clean and tidy and quiet. The resort is great - there are some lovely places to eat and although it is not lively, there are still some great bars with great atmospheres. I would recommend it to anyone and will be going back. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Novochoro Apartments - Albufeira Operator and Date: (Panorama Direct) Panorama-may2006 Opinion submitted in May 2007 by : paul gorwood-clogherhead 44,4,10,36 Resort Rating: Good Accommodation Rating: Good My/Our Holiday Review: we went to albufeira in may and had a great time after they moved us from the novochoro apartments. when we got there we thought this looks nice ,the apartments are new and a good size but the place is in the middle of nowhere they told us at panorama that it was a ten minute walk to the beach, it took us forty five and on the way back it's all up hill. at night the dogs that are kept by the people living near the apartments barked all night. in the morning there was no hot water.then there was the building site overlooking the pool. we were moved after two days and on the way home met a couple who were staying at the same place as us who paid to go home a week early because the place was so bad . and they also told us after we left everyone started to come down with food poisoning so not the ideal place to spend your holiday. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Novochoro Apartments - Albufeira Operator and Date: June 2005 Opinion submitted in July 2005 by : Irene Booth Cheshire 58,59 Resort Rating: Excellent Accommodation Rating: Very Good My/Our Holiday Review: These one bedroom apartments are lovely and brand new.Huge bedroom and large living room separate kitchen with microwave electric kettle toaster and brand new modern cooker top, fridge and all crocery pots and pans were new.Big balcony which stretched passed the living room and balcony. If only the area it was in was as ideal. From the balcony to the left you could see the small swimming pool and the reception and bar area which opened at 9am and closed at 8pm.Straight ahead you had the full view of the rear yard to a car hire firm with a car wash at the end of the building facing us this was very noisy at times if we happened to be resting before getting ready for our evening out. To the right of the balcony was a patch of waste land on this and in full view was all i can discribe as an old wooden caravan patched up with pieces of wood and board and someone was living in it.From the kitchen window you had a patch of dried land and on the other side of it was the Cemetary.What a shame it was where it was like an oasis in a desert and quite a long walk to the Strip approx 20mins if you can find the best way to go. The cleaning service was exellant every other day the appartments were cleaned beds made and new towels can not fault it.Albufeira and the beaches and the Montichoro Strip with plenty of good places to eat and drink is my favourite place and we will definitely go back but not to the Novochoro. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Oceanus Aparthotel - Albufeira Operator and Date: july 06 Opinion submitted in March 2007 by : carol and john newcastle Resort Rating: Very Good Accommodation Rating: Very Good My/Our Holiday Review: the hotel is very clean and the staff are freindly. olhos d agua has lots of good resterants, the ambrosia was very good try there chicken and prawn kebab, its the best ive had.the gallean bar down by the beach is run by sharonne and dena, they really do try to help with where to eat and trips to go on.they have the best entertainment in the village and cater for all ages, a must. we will be back --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Oceanus Aparthotel - Albufeira Operator and Date: Style holidays June 2006 Opinion submitted in June 2006 by : Donna Niman - manchester (33,32,4,2) Resort Rating: Very Good Accommodation Rating: Excellent My/Our Holiday Review: The Oceanus was a well run, clean and modern apartment block. we went self catering and found the facilities more than adequate. also the staff were great. My parents joined us for our second week and they were half board. My mum is vegetarian and was concerned about the lack of veggie food on the Al Cantina restaurant . However the rep was great and the staff at Al cantina went all out and cooked great veggie food forher every night. The reort is nice, pretty quiet with a couple of british bars but some great restaurants - try Blues and Fratellis. We would walk to Marie Luisa beach some days for a change but both that and Olhos dagua beach are nice. We did the historical algarve half day trip and zoomarine - both excellent. the kids loved zoomarine and we found it great value. the oceanus is locateed in a great place for both buses and taxis and we visited Vilamoura - lovely, Albufeira - ok, and the strip - rubbish! The downsides... there is nothing much for kids in this resort ... it could really do with a play park and some kids entertainment. the weather was not so great which they said was unusual for this time of year but 3 days of cloud and rain was grim. there is also a lot of building work going on which mean that by next year the resort will be getting bigger and might lose some of that small town charm. Was really impresse with syle holidays too. Would go back on holiday with them. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Oceanus Aparthotel - Albufeira Operator and Date: (Thomas Cook Direct) Thomas Cook March 2006 Opinion submitted in Apr 2006 by : linda geof smith-swinton Resort Rating: Very Good Accommodation Rating: Excellent My/Our Holiday Review: as our holiday was in march the area was quiet, and the weather was mixed.but we spoke to the bar and restaurant owners who were very nice and helpfull.if you stay at the oceanus pay a visit to the top 10 bar stuart the owner will give you a warm welcome and provide you with lots of nibbles on your tables. a visit to tiffanys for an indian meal just turn left out of the hotel and walk down the road for a few minutes.allan and ann have just taken over the sol bar next to the top 10 bar a lovely couple so take yourself down there as we left before it opened we are sure it will be a success. hotel great area quiet but it was march, people lovely cant wait to go back for the second time. if you go down the strip look out for the timeshare boys and girls if your in a group split up they seem to make a beeline for couples or families. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Oceanus Aparthotel - Albufeira Operator and Date: Sunworld - July 2004 Opinion submitted in Aug 2004 by : A Anderson - Craigavon (46,41, 16,12) Resort Rating: Excellent Accommodation Rating: Excellent My/Our Holiday Review: Hotel staff very helpful & friendly. Accommodation spotless, cleaned every day.Everything provided for in kitchen area, inc oven, kettle and toaster.Cutlery and crockery spotlessly clean. Maintenance around aparthotel excellent. Snack bar at pool area very good value. Excellent local restaurants (eg Tavertinos & Fratelli's), good value for money, good variety of restaurants. Area (olhos d'agua) in general small and quiet, but growing. Olhos d'agua beach small. Short walk to Falesia/Biliruchas beach worth the walk (as it is a blue flag beach)- superb!! A secret l really dont want to share!!! --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Onde Verde - Albufeira Operator and Date: Sunny Seek Holidays July/August 2007 Opinion submitted in August 2007 by : Keith,Sue,Steph ,Carl.Yorkshire.46,41,16,14 Resort Rating: Below Average Accommodation Rating: Below Average My/Our Holiday Review: We booked through the internet, flight with Jet2, no problems.We organised the apartment and transfers with Sunny Seek Holidays,on arrival we were met by the driver who informed us that " we would be going to another complex first so that our apartment could be cleaned " , i pointed out that nobody had been in " our " apartment the previous week , but this had no effect. We were taken to this other complex and told he would be back in " about " 2 hours.When he did turn up over 2 hours later he sat down and had his lunch with the owners/staff of the complex ( obviously he was on friendly terms with them ).It may be my cynical nature but i got the impression that dropping guests at this complex was a well used tatic , get the guests to buy some food while they wait so that the driver gets a free lunch !, we may never know. On arrival at the apartment block the driver took us up in the lift , i pointed out that the apartment we booked was on the ground floor and opened straight out onto the pool area, he would not be convinced !, expecting him to try the door and not being able to gain entry i let him carry on, i could not believe what happened next, the key fit the door !, the dog inside went berserk !.When i asked if the same key fit all the apartments in the block the driver said " the door was already open " , the doors could only be opened with a key so he was mistaken , again.We eventually got into " our " apartment , on the ground floor with direct access to the pool ( as i said )some five hours after landing. The apartment was advertised as a two bed / two bath apartment with satellite t.v.,cooker,bbq etc,there was no satellite t.v because the set top box had been removed so you were left with five channels of Portugese t.v.,there was no no cooker just an empty space below the hob !, the bbq had not been cleaned all year by the look of all the cobwebs on it !, an outbreak of food poisoning waitng to happen. The pool and sunbathing area were always clean, no sun beds with this apartment though, if you sat on any that were scattered around the pool area the owners of these sunbeds would soon let you know that they belonged to them ( even though they did not intend using them !). The Old Town is very busy at most times of the day , especially in the evening, the various restuarants around the square are always touting for your business.The Bank restuarant serves good food but struggles with its service, i had to ask three different waiters for the bill the one time we went there !,O Fernando's next door has a smaller menu but the food and service is much better, the Oasis next door to that is no more than a cafe bar serving evening meals so avoid that one.If you like chinese food go no further than Alibaba's, one of the best we have had , home or abroad , just off the old town square, fast attentive service.If your a curry fan go to Tandoori Knights, also off the old square, but the other side to Alibaba's.Once again good food and attentive service, very welcoming.For that afternoon snack try Augusto's Bar on the street down to the old square.The Lemon Tree, a british run bar, up the steps away from the old square serve good british food and draught beer.If self catering try the Modelo supermarket for your weekly shop , very competative. And finally if you have a disabled son/daughter ( as we did )with you, be prepared for the locals and some of the tourists to stare at you like you were aliens !, the staff at Alfredo,s restaurant just off the old square were especially ignorant.The driver redeemed himself somewhat on the pickup back to the airport , he was on time and did not deviate on the way to the airport ! --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Orada Apartments - Albufeira Operator and Date: Fly Globespan - June 2007 Opinion submitted in July 2007 by : Dobson/Mitchell 31/33/27/23/3 Resort Rating: Excellent Accommodation Rating: Excellent My/Our Holiday Review: Stayed in these apartments for 2 weeks from 18th june - 2nd july. Stayed in a 3 bedroom apartment room G124 and it was amazing. 3 bedrooms 3 bathrooms 6 balconys over 2 levels. These apartments are located in the marina area of albuferia and about 20mins walk to the old town or 5 euro taxi fare. The old town has some of the best resturants to eat from and i would recommend "the bank" resturant situated in the square. Best beach from these apartments is the san raphael beach which is about 15mins walk away. Note however that the restaurant at this beach is very expensive so would suggest taking your own drinks and snacks,we were stung for 20 euros for 2 hamburgers and fries with 2 cans of cola.... For nightlife you need to go to the old town or the strip "oura" where there are plenty of pubs and clubs. All in all we will be back at these apartments again and would recommend them to anyone. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Orada Apartments - Albufeira Operator and Date: Globespan - September 2005 Opinion submitted in Oct 2005 by : David H - Scotland Resort Rating: Very Good Accommodation Rating: Excellent My/Our Holiday Opinion: First impression of the Orada Apts. tends to be a bit of a shock. The complex is a multi coloured eyesore from any angle. It looks as if the architect came up with the idea during a nightmare involving Lego. Once inside though, it soon becomes apparent that it is actually a very spacious and well designed place. The 2 bedroom apartment that we stayed in was on 2 levels on the second and third floors. The lower floor comprising the lounge/dining area, kitchen, one of the three bathrooms and a balcony. The upper floor comprising the (huge) en suite master bedroom with seperate dressing room and small balcony, second en suite bedroom with small balcony to the rear and access to a massive balcony overlooking the gardens with space for sun beds(unfortunately not supplied). The ground floor houses the one bedroom and studio apts. A word of warning here, the balconies are surrounded by rails that a toddler could very easily crawl through. They could be VERY dangerous of you are travelling with young children. That said, the apt. we stayed in was well equiped with dishwasher, washing machine, toater and iron but oddly, no kettle. All the apts. are individually owned and furnished so there may be some variation in equipment etc. The gardens and pool areas are nice and well tended, with a main pool and a couple of smaller ones for the kiddies. There is a snack bar adjacent to the pool which serves the usual drinks as well as omelletes, sandwiches, burgers, ice lollies and so on. There are a further three restaurants, a snack bar, amini market and a stationary shop within the marina developement adjacent to the apts. but not much else, as this is a new 'developing' area. Trvel into the Old Town is easy with a twice hourly bus service stopping just outside the apts. Cost is a reasonable 1 euro each. A minibus taxi is also available on site, and costs 5 euros into the old town, well worth it as it can seat 6 people. The other alternative is to walk. A 25 minute stroll will take you into the town square, but involves a steepish hill both ways. Perhaps not a good option unless you are reasonably fit. As Globespan is a 'budget' carrier, you are on your own when you get there. No welcome meetings, no evening entertainment, no reps on the bus or anything. It's the sort of place that would suit independant travellers who have been to Portugal before and know their way around a little. Overall, a nice quiet place that I think will improve as more restaurants, bars and shops open up. But definitely not suited to those who want to be at the centre of the action, or enjoy 24/7 organized entertainment. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Orada Apartments - Albufeira Operator and Date: Globespan - June 2005 Opinion submitted in July 2005 by : Hazel Jess (31,31,34) Resort Rating: Very Good Accommodation Rating: Excellent My/Our Holiday Review: Apartments were excellent. Huge living space in 1 bedroom apt. Kitchen equipped with Hob/Oven, Microwave, toaster, large fridge freezer, washing machine, dish washer, ironing board and all the utensils you could need. Large swimming pool with little pools to the side for younger kids and good snack bar serving the usual salads, omelettes etc at reasonable prices. Down side was area is newly built and still lacks atmoshphere. In the Marina there are a couple of bars and restaurants open, lovely shop that has fresh bread and pastries and a small supermarket, however a lot of empty units still. Once the area is better developed I'm sure it will get a bit more lively at night,(perfect for families), however, for the time being people appear to all head for the Old Town or Strip. Old Town is 5 Euros in a taxi ( pretty much everywhere seems to be 5 euros), only problem is on busy nights you might have to wait a while (Waited 30 minutes on a Sat night). Didn't attempt the walk to the Town as we were only there a long weekend, it looked quite a trek up a fairly steep hill and back down again. Taxi from Airport to resort was 45 Euros - on the way back the receptionist booked us a transfer which was 30 Euros. This worked out slightly cheaper than the transfer with Globespan and gave us about an hour extra in the resort at each side of the weekend. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Apartment Orion (Valmangude III) - Albufeira Operator and Date: sunweb september 2004 Opinion submitted in Oct 2004 by : liz,peter,kirst&john(36,41,33,47) Resort Rating: Excellent Accommodation Rating: Average My/Our Holiday Review: We have JUST returned from what can only be described as the best holiday we have ever been on!!! Albufeira was amazing from the food to the water sports.The accomodation was in need of a revamp but was cleaned thouroughly every day.We have to mention Angelus bar which gave us lots of entertainment and laughs also Tom who does the karaoke whats the secret ingredient of the white sangria?The walks along the beach and some rocks to the little secluded bays were perfect as was the cruise to the grottos.I have to say that all the food was superb but if I have to reccommend 1 it would have to be The Three Palms(in Portuguese). I will end by saying I cannot do the resort justice so just GO there!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Oura Praia - Albufeira Operator and Date: June 2007 Opinion submitted in August 2007 by : Natalie (from eldest being 56 to youngest at 6months) Resort Rating: Good Accommodation Rating: Good My/Our Holiday Review: We all (20 of us!!) arrived at the Club Praia da Oura to begin our holiday in Portugal only to discover we were not to stay there, that we had to stay in the Oura Praia. We were a bit dissapointed as it was the beginning of our holiday, after 2 hours trying to get our luggage from the CPO to the oura praia we were exhausted and sweating buckets cos we did luggage for 20 and three buggies!! We checked in and had to pay 100 euros, and a given a card to use as a tab! The rooms at the hotel were great, spotless and i had no problem getting a cot, the rooms had air con and were cleaned and beds changed every second day. the food in the hotel was a bit expensive. The pool area was nice and i'm glad we ended up in this hotel rather than the CPO as it was mobed down there, and we couldnt get into the entertainment at night with a buggy, so what was i supposed to do with a six month old baby?? hold her all night!! We didnt bother going back down there, no point really the hill walk up was a nightmare. Up the strip there is fantastic entertainment in a family pub called COCONUTS, it starts about 9pm, but you need to be in there for 8.30 to guarantee seats. The games are excellent for children from 1 to 12 and then afterwards there is bingo and adult entertainment, hypnotist, cabaret etc til about 2 or 3 in the morning. When we checked out we had no probs getting our deposit back, they didnt even check the room!! I would recommend the Cockerel for a meal, its on the way up to the strip, all homemade food,mmmmm!!! I wouldnt rush back to Albufeira, but i would recommend this hotel before i would the CPO!! --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Oura Praia - Albufeira Operator and Date: Panarama - May, June 2007 Opinion submitted in June 2007 by : M O'Neill - Cork (40,39,9,5) Resort Rating: Excellent Accommodation Rating: Very Good My/Our Holiday Review: We stayed at Oura Praia apts, which were close to the Club Praia da Oura complex. We had a nice apt, well equiped, with a distant view of the sea but we couldn't help feeling disapointed that we weren't in the Club Praia da Oura apts as they were closer to the sea and had a lively atmosphere which would have been better for our kids. As it was we spent a lot of time walking over the road to get to the kids club and swimming pools which were set in beautiful gardens. I suppose we did have air cond. in our apt which was a relief as the temp went up to 30C. We hired a car for 4 days for 110euro, fully insured which was great value and had air cond. We drove to Sagres(very windy, bring a jumper!) Lagos - lovely town, Silves - interesting town with castle. Brought the kids to AquaLand which was brilliant. We got our tickets from the agents next door to the Oura Praia and it worked out cheaper than it would have if we'd bought them at Aqualand. Rides were brilliant, but there were a few not in use. My son went to Zoomarine with the kidsclub and thought that was brillaint too. Everyone was raving about it. Great places to eat : Neto's for chicken Piri piri, Bord d'Agua on seafront nr Club Praia da Oura- lovely Monkfish Cataplana only 20E for two sharing, lovely atmos, with good musician. Eurasia for great vegetarian buffet - 8.00E eat as much as you like, just off the Strip. We went for 2 weeks which we found a bit long as we felt we'd done everything and we're not mad into sunbathing. Kids loved it in the pools however and the beach was great although the waves were scary! Albufeira town was being dug up so not very attractive, but the beach was nice, if rather crowded. We caught the little touristtrain for 3E from the strip, great fun for the kids. Great bargains to be had on the strip- real leather belts for 4.50E and pretty straw hats. This is a great resort as there is something for everyone. Enjoy! --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Ourasol Apartments - Praia da Oura, Albufeira Operator and Date: 24 April to 8 may 2007 Opinion submitted in June 2007 by : laurence 65 jean 63 Resort Rating: Very Good Accommodation Rating: Poor My/Our Holiday Review: The apartments are ideally located for the beach and the strip where all the bars and restaurants are, but there is a steep winding hill to climb to get to the strip.The staff are friendly and helpful. When we arrival we were allocated room 401,on entering the room we stepped back into the sixties it was like a bare whitewashed garage with no balcony and small windows it was damp dark and dingy smelt as if it had not been opened for a long time We refused the room and were allocated room No 10 this was still sixties style with old wooden furniture and fittings but it had a balcony and it was clean. During our stay we had to ask to get the towels and bed sheets changed.Alot off the rooms in these apartments do not have balconys and do not get any sun in them,other people complained that their clothes were damp. These apartmemts were advertised as 3 star by Med hotels in our opinion they would struggle to be rated 1 star. These apartments urgently need refurbishing to bring them up to the 3 star standard. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Ourasol Apartments - Praia da Oura, Albufeira Operator and Date: August 2005 Opinion submitted in Sept 2005 by : Leighton Phillips - Port Talbot, South Wales (37,33, 12) Resort Rating: Excellent Accommodation Rating: Average My/Our Holiday Review: The apartments are ideally located, although they are on a hill - the beach and "The Strip" are in close proximity. We were given Room 102, which was basically grotty: smelling of damp; the fridge door wouldn't shut; the smoke alarm was hanging off the ceiling etc. We complained and were given Room 103 which was not a palace, but was was cleaner with a nice balcony and a more homely feel. Nevertheless, the apartments do need an overall paint and gutting, but they are basic and adequate. They are 3 star without a shadow of a doubt,and for me, not altogether family-orientated. The resort itself is excellent and will cater for all groups. The beaches are wonderful and clean, even if they suffered from extremely high tides during the daytime. We stayed in the New Part, which has had mixed reviews. There are a marvellous array of restaurants, souvenir shops and bars/clubs. Wild & Co (a very plush restaurant, but expensive), Renos and the Golden Garden Chinese Restaurant (which is right off the main Strip, opposite Wild & Co, and is immaculate) are advisable places to eat. The choice is good. The Old Town is well worth a visit and is quaint - we really only "scratched the surface" but it has plenty to offer, if you fancy a bite to eat or to buy something for your holiday or some souvenirs. It needs patience to explore and this might be better done during a cooler day. Some of the main attractions are found well away from Albufera. Algarve Zoo is certainly worth a visit (under 12s go in for free), biut Slide 'n' Splash was our favourite - it is a great Water Park, with plenty to do; patience may be needed during peak periods because the queues do get quite large (although we were waiting on average 10-15 minutes). The expensive way to travel to these isolated destinations is via a taxi (there was a taxi rank just to the left of the entrance to the Strip). From there to the Zoo was about 35 Euros return, whilst Slide 'n' Splash was 70 Euros return. However, it is the most convenient way and avoids the time dictations and numerous pick ups caused by arraning it through a travel shop/operator. The Portugeuse people are, in the main, very friendly (especially in the restaurants). I would certainly go back, but not to Ourasol Apartments. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Ouratlantico Apartments - Albufeira Operator and Date: First Choice - June 2007 Opinion submitted in June 2007 by : 28, 26 Resort Rating: Good Accommodation Rating: Very Good My/Our Holiday Review: These apartments are located at one end of the 'strip' but not so near as to be disturbed by any of the late night noise. They are clean, spacious and the facilities are up to a decent standard. As stated in the brochures, towels were changed twice during the week and sheets once. You can request additional changes throughout the week but these will be charged for. Facilities include outdoor pools, pool tables, pool bar, games room (although this consists of a pool table and 3 very outdated arcade machines), tennis, indoor pool, gym, internet, jacuzzi and sauna. There is no night time entertainment, but the location is only a couple of minutes walk from the strip so this isn't a real problem. Safety deposit boxes are located in the wardrobes and can be hired for 25 euros - of which you get 10 back at the end of the week. The strip is a bit 'Blackpool-like' - you will have seen it all before... karaoke, neon lights, names such as 'Matt's Bar' with the menu consisting of X plus chips, shops full of the same souvenirs with 'Algarve' stamped all over them. Not a problem if this is what you're looking for, but if your expectations are higher then you are likely to be disappointed. The old town however is better and has a bit more about it. There are some good restaurants, including El Ruino which is on the sea front and Bravo(?) - an Italian place approaching the square. The beaches are very impressive - beautiful and clean, although the sea is a bit rough for young children. At the time of writing, there is still some building work going on in the old town, but it was nowhere near as bad as we had been led to believe before we arrived. It's certainly not enough to spoil anyone's holiday. Please beware of the scratchcard fiends - "Are you English?" they ask on the first day you get there, and then proceed to tell you about all the wonderful things you could win if you get 3 symbols that match on the card, and surprise surprise, we did. Best just to ignore them! Also the pavements are very slippery when it's hot, depending on what shoes you are wearing at the time! Only other issue was that of the beggars in the street - either children sitting on the pavements or mothers holding babies. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Ouratlantico Apartments - Albufeira Operator and Date: First Choice - April 2007 Opinion submitted in April 2007 by : Bill 53, Alison 50 and Thomas 5 Resort Rating: Excellent Accommodation Rating: Very Good My/Our Holiday Review: 1 week at Easter 2007 Just returned from our 2nd stay at the Ouratlantico. Great location, very near "The Strip" but far enough away not to be disturbed at night.( 5 minutes ) Outdoor Pool a little bit cold at this time of year but the indoor pool and jacuzzi were 1st class. Suggest that the Ouratlantico could do with a little entertainment on, even a barbecue night. Many places to eat and drink all close by. Try Mary Janes at the side of the Scottish bar Kilt & Kelt, good food very friendly staff, ( half way along the strip ) Call in and say hello to Guario at the Oura Bar, over the road from the new Happy Hour Chinese Buffet. Still trying to teach me Portugese, great place to watch the world go by, only small but Guario and his staff make up for it. Everyone is made to feel welcome. Try Annabelles just around the corner, for good quality English food. If you like Chinese Food try The Royal at the top of the road. ( Excellent ) At the moment all of the area around fishermans beach is dug up and undergoing a big refurbishment, should be nice when completed, could be summer this year. The Wally Train is 3 euro's for a day ticket, worth every cent. We will be going again in a year or so. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Ouratlantico Apartments - Albufeira Operator and Date: First Choice_August 2006 Opinion submitted in August 2006 by : Nobby - 46,46,17 Resort Rating: Very Good Accommodation Rating: Excellent My/Our Holiday Review: Hotel room was excellent & clean, pool was good but missing tiles on the bottom (this includes the indoor pool). Sunbeds around the pool were always in short supply and you had to pay for the use of the cushions. Pool bar is small and there is no evening entertainment. The "Strip" has many Bars and restaurants, and I would recommend The Kilt & Kelt & American Diner for burgers, Senhor Frog for pizzas and salads. For live music visit The Wild One and Macs Bar. Nearly all Pubs/Bars put there prices up after 10pm. The fisherman beach is very good and gets very busy, be warned theres a steep hill to reach it. Old town is worth a visit, lots of history and character (start at the Main square). Now the bad side !, The pavements are awful where we were, there very slippery and we witnessed 3 people fall (incluing my wife) and not through drink.!! The other is the "scratchcard touts" who will drive you mad if your British with your family, they will be found at the end of the strip by the bus stops/phone boxes or driving around on mopeds hunting there victims down. They will not bother the locals so I walked around with a Portugese paper. Cab drivers don,t hang about and the Train bus is good fun. I would go back again. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Ouratlantico Apartments - Albufeira Operator and Date: (First Choice Discounts) First Choice - December (New Year) Opinion submitted in Jan 2006 by : John & Sue Hodgetts Worcester 50-46 Resort Rating: Very Good Accommodation Rating: Very Good My/Our Holiday Review: This was the first time we had been to Portugal during the winter so we didn't know what to expect but the friends we were with had been the year before and raved about it so we gave it a try,we were not disapointed the hotel was very clean and well laid out the indoor pool was very clean and I am told quite warm although I didn't try it the staff were always very helpful I'm sorry but I thought the welcome party was a bit of a waste of time The pool bar and the onsite supermarket were both closed for the winter but it didnt matter as there were bars and a supermarket close by The Beach was about 10 minutes walk away and very clean the bars along the beach were very good with a good selection of food and drinks A few of the larger bars on the strip were open but many were closed for the winter New years eve the whole place came to life. New Years Eve we went to the Old town on the train 3euros each the train ran all night so when we were ready to come home at 3am we got back on the train All the people we saw seemed to be having a good time we didn't see any trouble Overall the food was very good the beer was good value and the weather was excellent We had such a good time we are going back this New Year 2006/7 --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Ouratlantico Apartments - Albufeira Operator and Date: Falcon/Sunway - June 2005 Opinion submitted in Jan 2006 by : Deirdre - Cork (28, 31) Resort Rating: Good Accommodation Rating: Excellent My/Our Holiday Review: These are absolutely fantastic apartments! We were lucky enought to stay in a duplex, kitchen/living area (with 1 balcony - with a table and chairs) downstairs and bedroom (with 2 balconies - 1 with a table & chairs) upstairs. It was v hot for the first two days, 39ºC so we figured out that the best idea was to leave the two doors to the balcony open otherwise it was way too hot to sleep. The apartments are fitted out with everything you'd need, they were very well maintained - as was the whole complex. We went to the meeting with the rep on the first day (weren't given any choice really as she dragged people off their sun loungers...). Wasn't very impressed in that she brought in some other girl who tried to push some free tours on us after which we'd just have to look at a little video about their product??? Needless to say this turned us off booking any tours with the rep at all... Booked a day long jeep safari with the shop just at the corner of the strip. The staff there were extremely helpful and pleasant, their prices were also lower than those suggested by the rep. The safari was excellent, the guide was brilliant, we really saw parts of the Algarve that you'd never see in a car or wandering around by yourself. A word of warning about the beach, maybe it was just the week that we were there but the sea was REALLY strong. Getting in and out needed great timing. I saw loads of people knocked, there was no way young children could have swan safely there. Would have no hesitation in recommending these apartments to anybody. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Ouratlantico Apartments - Albufeira Operator and Date: (First Choice Discounts) First Choice - April 2005 Opinion submitted in May 2005 by : Andrew & Donna - Mansfield (41,41) Resort Rating: Very Good Accommodation Rating: Very Good My/Our Holiday Review: This was our first holiday in Portugal and decided on this accommodation after reading reviews of other hotels and apartments. We arrived around midday and our studio was available at 1 pm. We ended up in the studio above the on site mini-market. The other studios are located in the main part of the complex with the apartments. This studio, designed for 2 adults and 1 child, was large and octagonal with a well equipped kitchen (toaster, coffee maker, fridge, microwave, oven and hob). There was plenty of storage space and a reasonably sized bathroom. There is an onsite pool bar, although you will pay more than at bars and cafes off site. There are 2 pools (1 for children) which are cold and only for the brave or foolhardy (they may get warmer as the season progresses). There is however an indoor heated swimming pool along with a jacuzzi and sauna. There was not a problem getting a sun lounger at this time of year. Reception was clean and tidy and all staff were helpful and polite. To get to the "Strip", turn right out of the complex and it is 2-3 minutes walk. There you will find a roundabout which is at the top of the cardiac hill way to the beach on the left and the "Strip" on the right. Straight on takes you to old Albufeira. Timeshare touts of all nationalities litter the strip and generally leave you alone if you are polite and firm with them. Alternatively turning left out of the complex takes you past the Club Praia de Oura (CPO) and a gentler road down to the beach and a quieter part of Albufeira. The strip comprises of the more livelier bars, restaurants and shops, the better of which are El Ranchero and Rick's bar. About half way to the strip is the Sizzling Stone, which is a holiday must to try their speciality of serving your meal (steak, fish or chops) on a sizzling stone, which you then cook to your own liking. First time visitors should not be too alarmed at the giant bib they wrap around you neck. You can also have the same meals cheaper without the sizzle if you prefer and the kebabs are also worth trying. Next to the Sizzling Stone is the Sunset bar and restaurant which is equally as nice - the kebabs are wonderful. In the quieter side of Albufeira is the Oura Bar, which is Portugese and cheap and is located down a few steps or ramp on the same side of the road as the Ouratlantico just after you have passed the CPO on the right. Following the road round you come to Annabels which is an English bar/bistro which caters for people wanting british food. We found it very good for breakfast/lunch. A liitle further is the Rovers Return (another English bar) and the Silver Pint, which is a very nice Portugese restaurant. The beach is clean and made up of coves with a few beach front cafes and restaurants for you to while away the time. Better beaches can be found in old Albufeira, especially Fishermans. This is about a 30-45 minute walk or a 5 minute taxi ride. The bus is 1 euro with stops just before the strip in each direction. A cautionary word about First Choice. At the welcome meeting they go through the usual sales patter for their tours and phone cards. Their tours were significantly dearer than those advertised in the apartment and local agents. Although we didn't go on any, other holiday makers there at the same time did and found them value for money. Phone cards were available for e15 from First Choice, but a Galaxy phone card could be obtained from the shop immediately outside the complex on the left. This cost e5 and gets you 146 minutes to landlines in the UK and is very easy to use. It lasts for 60 days and we have brought ours home for a friend to use on their holiday next month. We were also advised (but didn't bother) to pre book adjoining seats at e11 each on the plane due the check in procedures at Faro airport. Apparently they are supposed to open a lot of gates and it is a free for all. We found no problems, with the usual 2 check in desks being used with an additional one for the premium seats (which was then used once all premium passengers had booked in). Overall we had a very nice time in the Algarve, which was helped by 7 days of sunshine - it had rained during the previous week. We wouldn't hesitate in returning to this resort and these apartments in the future. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Ouratlantico Apartments - Albufeira, Praia D'oura Operator and Date: (First Choice Discounts) First Choice - 2005 Opinion submitted in June 2005 by : John Croft - west Yorks 58,58,37,37,35,29,6,2 Resort Rating: Very Good Accommodation Rating: Very Good My/Our Holiday Review: The apartments are very clean, roomy and the staff are very helpful. The complex is compact and has a very friendly feel to it. Eating out:- Sizzling Stone & El Rancho at the bottom of the strip are both Ok. We avoided the strip as it is is not our scene really. There is a wonderful Japanese restaurant -turn left at the gate and it is next to the supermarket 5 mins walk. Next to it is a good Italian. We also found the Sands salad bar in the parade of shops at the bottom of Cardiac Hill. The lady (from England) has only just opened this year but it absolutely brilliant. Ideal for a midday snack when on the beach The restaurants in Old Albufeira town are all good. We ate at Ruina's fish Restaurant one night. Expensive at (£120 for 4 plus e4 ew for taxi)but the best I have ever had. Also try the sardines anywhere. Phoning home. My wife bought a Galaxy card for e5 at the wine shop just left out of the gate. You get 145 mins and can use it on your apartment phone for no extra charge. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Ouratlantico Apartments - Albufeira Operator and Date: (First Choice Discounts) First Choice - August 2004 Opinion submitted in Oct 2004 by : Karen and Alan (50, 41, 15 and 12) Resort Rating: Very Good Accommodation Rating: Excellent My/Our Holiday Review: Had 2-weeks in August 2004. Apartments were clean, spacious and adequate. No air conditioning as stated in the brochure. Pool, too small. No enough loungers, but is there ever in August anywhere in the Med. The strip was like Blackpool in the Med. The beach was lovely. Rep at the hotel was great, Kaz, always there and would do anything. Would not go back, but would recommend, we do not normally go back to same place. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Ouratlantico Apartments - Albufeira Operator and Date: (First Choice Discounts) First Choice-april 2004 Opinion submitted in Apr 2004 by : sisson-colchester(51,47) Resort Rating: Good Accommodation Rating: Very Good My/Our Holiday Review: Very clean complex,pool outside very cold,but most are,indoor pool very warm,only faults on holiday were we were told building work should end march04 but there was alot going on 7am-7pm. Also large group of yobs arrived after couple of days,upset a lot of guests,lots of local places to eat La-bamba,sizzling stone to name a few, --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Ouratlantico Apartments - Albufeira Operator and Date: (First Choice Discounts) First Choice March 2004 Opinion submitted in Mar 2004 by : Hugh Morrison, London 32, 32 Resort Rating: Average Accommodation Rating: Very Good My/Our Holiday Review: I was very pleased with the Ouratlantico apartments. We had a very spacious two storey apartment with three balconies, very nicely decorated with good quality furniture and fittings. The kitchen was excellent. There is a good sized outdoor pool (beware the icebergs in March) and an indoor pool and jacuzzi. The staff were helpful. There is not much in the way of entertainment so if you want non stop bingo etc go somewhere else. Clientele mostly elderly British couples. Praia D'Oura is part of Albufeira, not a seperate resort as some information makes out. It is about one mile from Albufeira old town and five minutes walk from the excellent beaches. They are quite rocky so remain relatively unspoilt. The sea can be quite cold and rough though. Now...as for Albufeira itself...the old town is quite nice and by some miracle retains a fishing industry, there are a few nice old buildings but its mostly given over to tourism for the older British, German and Dutch people. The newer part, based around 'the strip' is basically 'Romford on Sea' - a neon lit playground for what might be politely termed 'British Other Ranks'. If you like wall to wall karaoke, fish and chips, non stop football and tatooed men with their guts hanging out, it's the place for you! If you don't, then I'd suggest hiring a car and exploring the rest of the Algarve - you can even drive to Lisbon or Seville in 2 or 3 hours. To be fair, there are some quite nice bars in Albufeira (Rhythm and Blues Bar and the Caico, a Brazillian bar). Other places of interest are Eddy's cafe (best cooked breakfast I've ever had, all for 3 Euros, and a nice little second hand bookshop in an arcade on the strip). The atmosphere seems friendly enough - basically something for everybody except those looking for the 'real' Portugal. It would make a good family holiday destination for those on a budget who just want relaxation, or for younger people who want to drink as much as humanly possible. The two groups seem to co-exist happily, at least in the low season. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Ouratlantico Apartments - Albufeira Operator and Date: (First Choice Discounts) First Choice - March 2004 Opinion submitted in Mar 2004 by : William McCallum Northants (55' 55) Resort Rating: Very Good Accommodation Rating: Very Good My/Our Holiday Review: No complaints whatsoever with the accommodation,it was spotlessly clean.All the utensils were supplied including microwave and toaster.As usual with self-catering the pool area was a let down with only 24 sun loungers(and no parasols)for over 60 rooms. The location is excellent,only a short walk to "The Strip",but far enough so that no noise is heard late at night.Do'nt worry about "Cardiac Hill" as you are at the top and to the right.Fisherman's wharf is roughly a 45/50 min.walk,and 5euros in a taxi.The nearest restaurant to the apartments is "The Sizzling Stone", which does excellent meals, especially the steaks. All in all for a self - catering 3* holiday booked late from teletxt we had no complaints. Must give a mention to the rep,Sarah Ronan, though we did not attend the welcoming meeting she still called on us 3times during the week to check that everything was going ok.So well done to her,and First Choice. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Oura Estrela Apartments - Albufeira Operator and Date: Via Directa - 2004 Opinion submitted in Aug 2004 by : Alan Tucker-Birkenhead(35,44,8,7,6) Resort Rating: Very Good Accommodation Rating: Excellent |