Apartamentos Turisticos da Orada

The distinctive and characterful Apartamentos Turisticos da Orada were designed by renowned Portuguese architect, Tomás Taveira, and completed in 2004. They comprise eight separate apartment blocks decorated in wonderfully bold and vibrant colors, arranged in rows or curving around a series of interlinked lagoon pools. The lobby area is bright, spacious, and contemporary with a relaxed feel; tables and chairs next to floor-to-ceiling windows give views out over the gardens, while colorful leather sofas sit among numerous potted palms and large modern artworks adorn the walls. Manicured lawns dotted with various species of trees are lined with a network of cobbled footpaths that link up the various corners of the extensive grounds. 

Clientele tends to be an even split between couples and families with kids, with retired vacationers tending towards long-term stays. Many come to the Apartmanentos Turisticos for its quiet vibe; many other competing properties have animation teams, poolside music, and nightly performances, all lacking here. It's probably slightly better suited to older couples than families with kids, who might get a bit bored.  

Those who don't mind being a farther from the marina might prefer the similarly priced Alfagar II Aparthotel, which has more features (including a kid-friendly water park), an all-inclusive option, and a location that's walking distance to a beach. Its apartment-style units are more modern, but lack the washer/dryers found here. 

The aparthotel is located on the western outskirts of the popular tourist destination of Albufeira, just a few minutes' walk from its pleasant marina district. During the high season the Albufeira Marina bustles with activity, but otherwise it can feel rather empty and lifeless. There are a few bars and restaurants within a short stroll, as well as various cruise and tour companies and a small supermarket. The cobbled streets of Albufeira's Old Town are under a 10-minute drive, but a bit too far to reach on foot for most (about 30 minutes). There's a free shuttle bus several times a day that also runs to the nearest beach -- San Rafael (seven-minute drive). The long stretch of sandy beach that starts with Praia do Peneco is a five-minute drive away. Faro Airport is around a 35-minute drive from the hotel.

The complex comprises 220 apartments ranging from studios to three-bedroom units. While decor in the lounge and bedroom areas is bright and minimal, with simple furnishings and only the odd splash of color, bathrooms and kitchens feature blue, yellow, and multicolored tiles more in keeping with the hotel's flamboyant design. The overall look is a bit spare -- especially as many of the beds lack headboards -- and falls short of the advertised four-star status. 

Still, the units are spacious, clean, and have particularly well-equipped kitchens. Even in studio apartments, kitchens come with gas hobs, ovens, dishwashers, large fridges with freezers, and even washing machines. Other amenities do feel a bit dated though, like the tube-style TVs in somer rooms -- with just one English-speaking channel; rooms also lack of Wi-Fi. Glass doors slide open to furnished terraces or balconies with views over the gardens or pool, though there are no sea views. Bathrooms are clean and well maintained, with shower/tub combos, bidets, and simple toiletries.

The complex lacks an on-site restaurant (with most guests making use of self-catering facilities), but it does offer a poolside snack bar with outdoor seating. The main pool is large and surrounded with plenty of sun loungers, while a network of waterways links it to smaller pools and water features. There's also a separate small children's pool. There is a reading room with books, quiet seating, and two computers. Wi-Fi is only free in the lobby area (though this can stretch to the snack bar, which is next to reception). Free underground parking is available to all guests.