Apartamentos Jardins da Rocha

One of the tallest buildings in the Algarve, Apartamentos Jardins da Rocha soars into the blue sky when spotted from the busy street below. Many floors have spectacular, far-reaching views across the town and beyond. It's a large complex, though it's best suited to no-fuss, self-sufficient travelers. The style is a mix of modern and dated elements -- but it's in far better shape than many of its Portimao-area competition in this category. The large, leafy grounds are well-kept, with palm-peppered lawns beside the pools and paved pathways connecting the pool snack bar, sports courts, and kids' playground. Inside, hallways can be a little dark and there are just three elevators that serve the entire building, so there are often guests waiting in the lobbies during peak times. It's a busy place, and especially popular with families taking advantage of the facilities and beach proximity.

The Apartamentos Jardins da Rocha are on Av. das Comunidades Lusiadas, the main road running through Praia Da Rocha. It's a five-minute walk to the beachfront, which is lined with bars, restaurants, and local stores, and just a few minutes farther -- down a long flight of steps -- to the beach. A wooden promenade stretches right along to the marina at the eastern end of the beach -- it's about a 20-minute walk end-to-end. Aside from the beach and nightlife there's not a lot else nearby, but there are frequent buses to downtown Portimao, with a bus stop a two-minute walk from the hotel, and a journey time of about 15 minutes. The charming town of Ferragudo is just across the Arade River, a 15-minute drive, and it's 35 minutes to the cobbled streets of Lagos. Buses to both leave from Portimao. Faro's airport is about a 60-minute drive, depending on traffic, while Lisbon's airport is two and a half hours away by car.

Apartments at the Jardins da Rocha come in Studio or One-Bedroom configurations, and all have large balconies -- many with sea-views. They are bright and airy, with a simple style and minimal decorative touches, though some of those look a bit dated (the faded wall art and patterned seating, in particular). Even so, for families and couples that plan to be out and about most of the day, they're reliably clean and pleasant. Full kitchens include electric ovens with stovetops, sinks, refrigerators, microwaves, kettles, coffeemakers, toasters, tableware, cookware, and dining tables. Additional amenities include air-conditioning, safes, and irons. Unfortunately, Wi-Fi costs extra in rooms. One-Bedroom Apartments have large living/dining rooms which include a sofa bed, making them ideal for families. Bathrooms are nicely finished in white marble and older tilework, with shower/tub combos, towels, and toiletries. Counter space can be a bit limited. Keep in mind that housekeeping isn't provided on a daily basis.

In the sunny Algarve, the outdoors are often the most important part of a hotel, and the outdoor spaces here don't disappoint. There are two good-size pools -- including one shallow children's pool with sun loungers. More shady benches can be found around a children's playground. The grounds also house tennis courts with basketball hoops -- for which there is an extra charge. The snack bar serves a range of light meals and drinks throughout the day, with seating inside and out, and drinks can be taken poolside. There is a health clinic with a range of treatments available, including massage, physiotherapy, and podiatry. Wi-Fi is free in the lobby area, but there is a charge for using it in rooms. Parking is free.