Albufeira has been blessed with an abundance of beaches varying from long, sprawling sandy ones to tiny, rocky coves. Formerly a fishing town that transformed into a tourist spot in the mid-’60s, this town has gone through many identities and still changes dramatically with the seasons. Visitors coming in the height of summer will experience a buzzing city with loud music and clubs galore, packed with restaurants and more activities than you can pack into a fortnights break.
Should you choose to visit Albufeira off-season, you’ll find a somewhat different atmosphere. It’s so much more relaxed, and visitors can discover the other side of Albufeira, with horse rides on the beach, spa and wellness retreats, inland adventures and even as a base to explore different regions. There’s always something to do in Albufeira whether it’s cultural, gourmet, luxurious, artistic, budget, upbeat or tranquil, they’ve been mastering the art of delivering multi-faceted tourism for nearly 60 years, and there truly is something for everyone here.
If a day of banana boats, riding a bucking bronco, dancing until 6 am and grabbing a kebab on your way home is your thing, then come in the summer. Alternatively, you can enjoy 2 Michelin star dining and total tranquillity. Albufeira has it all.
Hotel California
Created by a local architectural studio, Hotel California Urban Beach is an Adults only, four-star hotel slap bang in the centre of the old town and just a 2-minute walk to the famous Praia dos Pescadores Beach. A rooftop pool and views overlooking Albufeira complement this modern, funky downtown hotel.
With elegant air-conditioned rooms that are contemporary in style, featuring Smart TVs with some rooms including a seating area.
Enjoy a visit to the onsite D’Spa, with its heated indoor pool and a water circuit along with a good range of massages and beauty treatments using Organic & Vegan products. Cocktails and refreshments are available at the pool bar, lounge bar and also in the onsite restaurant Wine & Sushi Califórnia.
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© Epic SANA
EPIC SANA Algarve Hotel
This five-star resort hotel has everything you could hope for when looking for comfort, facilities and excellent service. Located in the Falesia area of Albufeira, in a highly privileged cliff top position surrounded by perfectly manicured gardens you’ll find this haven away from the summer crowds. The accommodation is varied with a selection of sea-view and resorts view hotel rooms, studios and apartments in the residences with a children’s club, and then there are the gorgeous sea-view, garden suites all decorated very tastefully. Every room has an oversized bath and rain shower with gorgeous toiletries, robes and slippers.
With direct access to the award-winning Falesia beach, there are two large outdoor pools, one adult only that is standing level, so perfect for both laps and those who prefer just to cool off next to the Open Deck restaurant serving delicious Portuguese dishes in a relaxed atmosphere.
The SAYANNA Spa is divine and definitely worth a visit. Breakfast shouldn’t be missed and offers the perfect balance to start your day. The jewel in the crown here is the Al Quimia Gourmet restaurant, which is a must-visit for lovers of excellent food and wines. Naturally inspired decor envelopes an instant feeling of comfort and relaxation throughout.
Luna Solaqua
Right in the middle of the Old Town and the Oura strip lays this large, central aparthotel. With modern air-conditioned rooms with free WiFi, along with both an indoor and outdoor swimming pool make this a great choice.
The suites feature a balcony with table and chairs, a kitchenette, en-suite bathroom with toiletries and a hairdryer. As an aparthotel, you get the best of both worlds, being able to prepare light meals and having refreshments in your studio or one-bedroom apartment or at the onsite restaurant.
Other onsite facilities include a hot tub; bar kids play area and communal lounges where you can get to know your fellow holidaymakers.
Jupiter Albufeira Hotel – Family & Fun
Newly renovated five-star Jupiter Albufeira Hotel – Family & Fun is located in Montechoro, in a quiet area just a 10-minute drive by complimentary free shuttle service to and from Oura Beach and Albufeira’s centre. A water park, many outdoor pools, a spa area and entertainment program giving the hotel a resort feel.
Modern décor, with private balconies, en-suite bathrooms with a walk-in shower and large rooms make this hotel perfect for families. Restaurants serving buffet, Italian and a la carte are available on room-only or all-inclusive board. The rooftop bar is the cherry on the cake with stunning views over Albufeira and the ocean.
Santa Eulalia Hotel & Spa
Great location for beach lovers, the Santa Eulalia is only 500 meters from two of Albufeira’s famous beaches, Praia da Oura and it’s namesake Santa Eulália. This hotel has a mixture of air-conditioned studio and suite accommodation that comprise of a kitchenette, seating and dining area, bedroom and bathroom with all amenities along with a private outside terrace.
Communal features include indoor and outdoor swimming pools, evening entertainment, including live music, karaoke and there’s an onsite restaurant too. The hotel is located just off the road and surrounded by gardens.
Pine Cliffs
The name says it all. Set amongst mature pine trees in the stunning cliffs of Falesia, The five-star Pine Cliffs is a luxury, award-winning family resort managed by Marriott International. The resort offers many styles of accommodation with Pine Cliffs Ocean Suites, Pine Cliffs Residence, Pine Cliffs Terraces, Pine Cliffs Deluxe Villas, Pine Cliffs Townhouses.
The beautiful, natural location, 800 m from the Atlantic beaches with private access, the 9-hole golf course, Anabel Croft Tennis academy, Serenity Spa, two swimming pools and many dining and socialising option make this a perfect resort for those with a taste for the finer things in life.
Vila Recife Hotel
You’ll find Vila Recife a short 5-minute walk away from Fisherman’s Beach. A large terrace welcomes guests to this budget option where you might be surprised to find an outdoor swimming pool with a bar and loungers.
The rooms are basic but comfortable, and they all have air-conditioning along with satellite TV and are equipped with a refrigerator, telephone, a work desk and a private bathroom with shower. Enjoy the outdoor areas relaxing on sun loungers by the pool area, and enjoy a drink at the garden bar. A lounge area and games room add to the facilities making the hotel a good choice for a short break.
Albufeira Beach Hotel
In the middle of Albufeira’s historic centre, just around the corner from Fisherman’s Beach, Albufeira Beach Hotel is ideally located for those wanting a crash pad. Comfortable rooms, some with balconies are spread over the four floors with comfortable en-suite rooms have air-conditioning, satellite TV and a safe.
Free wifi and a 24-hour reception help plan excursions and look for local recommendations. The rooms can be reached by stairs or lift. This hotel is located in the middle of a busy bar street with an excellent variety of restaurants, bars and clubs within a stone’s throw.
Hotel Ondamar
A selection of studio, one and two-bedroom apartments make up this aparthotel. All apartments are fully equipped with fitted kitchenettes and large balconies and bright, airy decor.
Slightly set back in a more residential area, and around a leisurely 15 minutes’ walk from the main Albufeira beaches and the old town. With an indoor heated pool, and two outdoor pools (one just for children) and set in landscaped gardens with bridges and water features.
The onsite Restaurante, A Lota where guests can enjoy a continental breakfast or traditional Portuguese cuisine in the evening. The complimentary shuttle bus is available to and from the beach, and downtown Albufeira.
Salgados by Vidamar Hotel
Salgados by Vidamar Hotel
Beautiful restaurants, a variety of crafted outdoor swimming pools, outdoor and indoor bars and sculpted gardens create the mood here in the Salgados area of Albufeira.
Designer rooms and suites come in a range of pool or garden views, right next to the sea with large balconies and great amenities. Interconnecting family rooms are also available.
This five-star resort is on the Marina side of Albufeira and is set in a tranquil location, perfect for a week or so to recharge your batteries in luxurious surroundings. The surrounding area has many of the Algarves’ best restaurants and pristine beaches. There’s a kid’s club for the children along with room service to add to your comfort.
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