We are a family of 7, myself, my husband, our three boys (19, 16, and 7 years old) and my parents. A short walk and you arrive at 3 beaches, with perfect for sunsets, boogie boarding for my 7-year-old, plus offer shade in a gorgeous café for my parents to treat themselves. My dad turned 82 here and the restaurant at the end of the boardwalk to the closest beach had staff that created an unforgettable experience including a waiter that taught this land locked Canadian how to debone a fish (used this skill in later meal). My husband and I had a lunch at a beautiful view of Gale beach, (learned to make the most delicious sangria), ate sweet honey prawns, oysters, and delicious salads topped. We also were able to thoroughly enjoy an afternoon on another patio with a sea view sipping sangria, sampling muscles, and finding a playlist on Spotify that the waiter was proud to share. My parents and I found incredible gifts for our loved ones in Gale and a tourist shopping district in Albufeira and the older boys and I shared refreshments in old town where they were joined a lively game of volleyball with some young Irishmen (Being victorious they shared a “mystery” pink and brown post-match).
The house was spotless and well stocked. The pool was clean, and my 7-year-old was thrilled to have free access. Even the grandparents took a dip! We cooked delicious meals using the amazing grocery stores nearby (walk to Apolonia and a short uber ride to Albi). The kitchen had more than enough useful tools. There was even a gym in the basement for the older boys to show our youngest how to use the equipment! The washing machine and drying area was excellent. The view of the ocean and sun set from the top deck left us sipping beautiful Rose and enjoying conversations waiting to happen for years. My two older boys had the time of their lives including an incredible evening on the strip where they enjoyed the activity and friendly people, and my youngest son will be just old enough to remember the highlights with the help of the amazing pictures possible with the endless opportunity to capture the beauty around us.
In the end, what set this place aside from the others we have stayed at was the warm welcome we received from Christina when we arrived. She explained everything we would need to know and offered up her personality and beautiful smile. Her welcome set tone for a holiday that will surely not fade from our memories. Thank you.
