We spent 11 nights here in late September/early October, the first 8 nights shared with our daughter, son-in-law and granddaughter. We've been to Portugal a number of times but this was our first trip for 6 years and the first self catering trip for around 20 years! Portugal has definitely become busier and more expensive over the years but there is still a feeling of being relatively unspoiled. We were also fortunate in that our stay coincided with a late season heatwave and the weather was fantastic. October also meant that the complex was very quiet and there were only a few other people around on occasion. We contacted the owners on a couple of occasions and received almost instantaneous responses. That included allowing a later check out as we had a late flight - superb service. The apartment is spacious and well equipped with excellent beds and bedding. The apartment is the largest in the complex and has 3 (linked) outdoor terraces. There is a gate giving access to the pool area. Be aware this is primarily a residential complex so the beds and umbrellas around the pool typically belong to other apartment owners. However, the apartment has a number of sun beds that can be moved up and down to the pool area as needed. The area is lovely with ready access to a number of beaches and the complexes at both Vale Do Lobo and Quinta Da Lago. A car is a necessity and if you arrive late at night do a bit of pre-planning to find an open supermarket. We didn't and while we did manage to find take away food we couldn't get to a supermarket until the next morning. The owners kindly arrange to have a bottle of wine in the fridge which was great after a long days travelling. There are any number of restaurants within a reasonable distance. It is possible to walk to some close by (we used Xenia and Casa Pituxa on two occasions each) but being prepared to drive in the evening opens up any number of possibilities. For those hiring a car and coming to Portugal for the first time. Do some advance preparation to understand how the (somewhat arcane) toll charging system works and the various options. We have been to Portugal a number of times previously but hadn't driven for a number of years. Overall, a great holiday in a great apartment.

When planning a few days holiday we almost by accident started looking in Portugal and then came across our destination on HomeAway.com. It’s short transfer from the airport was one of the benefits as we had an infant with us and so keeping the traveling time down was important. We arrived in the evening and found the apartment easily. The property was well positioned for access to shops restaurants and beach. Even more convenient was the swimming pool which was just a few steps from the apartment - handy to take a break from the heat occasionally. The apartment came well equipped with washing machine, TV with satellite stations, WiFi and Nespresso machine. A car is essential but just as most things are a bit too far to walk however you don’t need to drive far for most things. We enjoyed the fact that things at this time of year (late September) were a bit quieter though the temperatures were still high enough. We had a great stay in Almancil and can recommend this property to anyone looking for a relaxing holiday

Nous avons beaucoup apprécié notre séjour en famille (5) à la Vila Alvas. L'appartement était confortable et très bien équipé conformément au descriptif. L'environnement extérieur est magnifique, bien entretenu et calme. Une belle piscine à disposition des locataires. Une voiture est nécessaire. les plages sont toutes proches et faciles d'accès. Si une difficulté est rencontrée, le propriétaire (Michael) s'est montré disponible et a répondu promptement à nos demandes. Nous pouvons recommander ce lieu. Merci Michael !

We know the area well, having lived here for a year deciding whether to buy a holiday home. We decided to rent and give someone else the hassle of maintenance and come over about 3 times a year. Michael was very patient with my queries. The apartment is in a great location, although you would need a car. It has everything you need, dishwasher, washing machine, UK tv....Some friends joined us for our last 3 days and stayed on. If I was being picky Id have liked another subbed, as there were only 3 and 4 of us. Luckily my husband isnt much of a sunbather. It is great to be able to access the pool area so easily. A few of the apartments were in use, so a nice atmosphere. Would definitely stay there again.