There are so many wonderful places to stay along the Algarve coast in Portugal. You really are spoilt for choice. On my visit last month, my partner and I stayed at the Alba Suites over the long weekend. Perched on sunburnt cliffs overlooking Albandeira beach, Alba Suites is a little sanctuary away from the hustle and bustle of the more busier areas.

The hotel is spread out over 8 low rise peach coloured buildings which feels more like a little community than a hotel. Once checked in, the staff drive you around the complex in a golf cart for a hotel tour before arriving at your suite.

We stayed in a 2 bedroom ocean facing suite which was bigger than some apartments in London. There was a generous sitting room, kitchen and dining table and a large bathroom with a shower and bath tub. The decor was a little more rustic than modern, however the suite style gave it a nice Portuguese charm. My favourite addition to the suite was the outdoor dining on the terrace and sun beds perched ever so nicely on the fresh green grass.

Here are a few of my highlights from the stay:

LOCATION, LOCATION

Alba Suites is about a 30 minute drive from Faro airport and will cost you around 60 euros in a taxi. It’s very secluded with its own beach below however the hotel is close enough to walk/cycle to go exploring. It’s a 15 minute drive into the city centre of Carvoeiro, which has loads of restaurants, shops, cafes and nightlife.

POOLS, POOLS and more POOLS

The hotel features 3 pools: a wet edge infinity pool, an indoor pool for the cooler months and a smaller quieter outdoor pool. Along with your choices of pools, there are many places to sit and chill. Choose from the four poster day beds that are sprinkled throughout the hotel, the sun chairs dotted around the main pool or the white lounges next to the bar. The choices are endless.

SPA + WELLNESS AT YOUR HANDS

The hotel has a mini gym downstairs that is flooded with natural light and is good enough to work off the holiday treats. They also have a sauna and fully serviced spa at your disposal which includes a traditional turkish hammam. Do yourself a favour and get a massage during your stay. We were treated to a couples massage which was just what the doctored ordered after a long day out exploring the beaches.

THE FOOD + GREEN SMOOTHIES

Alba Suites has an ocean facing restaurant, buffet style breakfast, an all day menu around the pool and of course room service. We tried all three and were delighted at the standard of food, choices of wine and wellness options like green smoothies and energy juices.

THE BEACHES

Right outside the hotel, you have a collection of amazing cliffs, stunning rock archways and Albandeira beach nestled down below. Take some towels from the hotel and a picnic and you’ve got yourself a private little beach for your enjoyment. And if you need any refreshments, there’s a little cafe that sells salads, pizzas and drinks on the walk down.

COMPLIMENTARY BIKE HIRE

Having recently joined the London bike gang, I love getting around on a bicycle. I was so happy to find out that Alba Suites offered complimentary bike hire. We took the bikes (and locks) and rode off on an adventure. With no wifi or google maps, we meandered through the back streets of Carvoeiro looking for some fun.

DON’T MISS OUT ON….

Our first stop after leaving the hotel with the bikes was Benagil beach. We were told that you could enjoy an incredible caves and grotto tour, so we did just that. It will cost you 17 euros for an hour tour and be prepared to get wet! And I wouldn’t say its for the faint hearted. It was more of a thrill seekers adventure zooming over the choppy waves and in and out of the caves and grottos. But if you’re up for it, it was a whole lotta fun! If you’re more of a go-slow kinda person, you can rent a kayak from the beach or book a guided tour. You just have to be lucky with some calm sea conditions (we weren’t).

After your boat tour, ride for another 20 minutes and have a beachfront lunch at O Stop cafe at Centeanes beach. The cafe is laid back and relaxed and will cost around 40 euros for two people with drinks. It was the perfect way to unwind with some seafood and vino in the glorious sun.

FINAL REMARKS ON ALBA SUITES

Last but not least, the staff at Alba Suites were so warm and friendly and were more than happy to help us out with our plethora of questions and requests. From the room service attendant, to the front desk, they all greeted us with big smiles.

A weekend at the hotel starts at 480 euros, based on a weekend bed and breakfast package over Summer. For more information or to book your holiday in Portugal, visit the Alba Suites website.

Check out my Portugal Travel Vlog which includes my stay at the Alba Suites.

Big love

X

Phoebe