Carvi Beach Hotel Algarve

In a region where many of the three- and four-pearl hotels are dated and drab, the Carvi Hotel is a simple and modern option. This hotel is situated in a six-story whitewashed building with balconies across its facade. Guests climb a few stairs to reach the lobby and enter through glass doors. The lobby is modern and bright, with gray sofas and aqua chairs where guests can hang out. Sketches of famous men accent the walls, and modern lamps keep things bright. Additional seating is available outside, and those outdoor areas are one of the hotel's main draws according to previous guests. After all, most of the hotel's terraces have views across the cliffs and beaches of Lagos' coast. There's even a little garden area out back that has hanging chairs and benches, and the atmosphere throughout the hotel is relaxed and quiet. This spot is most popular with couples of all ages, though more mature couples are most frequent in the autumn months.

This hotel is located right above beautiful Praia Dona Ana beach, atop the cliffs that help make this one of Lagos' most popular and stunning stretches of sand. A restaurant and a convenience store are next door, as well as a couple low-key bars and other small hotels. Unfortunately, there's an unsightly, abandoned hotel construction project directly adjacent to the Carvi. A peddler next to the parking lot sells beach supplies. Free public parking is available in front of the hotel, but on busy beach days it may be hard to get a spot. Expect a 15-minute walk down into Lagos' charming old town, where there are tons of cafes, bakeries, bars, restaurants, and shops. However, it's a steep walk back to the hotel, all of which is uphill.  The tourist train passes by every hour, and there is a bus to Meia Praia and Porto de Mos every half-hour. Faro Airport is about an hour away by car, and Lisbon and its airport are a two-and-a-half-hour drive from the hotel.

Although small, rooms are modern and fresh, with contemporary, clean-lined gray furniture, gray accent walls behind the bed, tile floors, and blue bed toppers. Blackout drapery comes in a soft shade of purple. Small flat-screen TVs hang on the wall, and modern art adds a splash of color. Wi-Fi is free, though it can be spotty, and guests should expect fees for safes. Tile bathrooms are likewise small, with wall-hung sinks, shower/tub combos, contemporary fixtures, hairdryers, and toiletries. Junior Suites are larger and have sitting areas with loveseats. All rooms feature a balcony or terrace, with views of the sea or garden. Unfortunately, some look out onto the parking lot. 

Guests can start their day with a free breakfast buffet served in a sunny breakfast room that doubles as a TV and billiards room, bar, and library. Breakfast can also be taken on the terrace with gorgeous sea views. After breakfast, the bar serves salads, sandwiches, snacks, and beverages throughout the day and evening. There's a happy hour in the evening, and a restaurant on the fourth floor serves dinner. The rooftop pool is small, with limited deck space, but the views of the sea are spectacular. Lounge chairs and a few umbrellas surround the pool, but guests complain that there are not enough to accommodate the number of people during peak times. Steep stairs lead down to the beach, which is considered one of the most picturesque in the area. Guests must pay a fee for a beach towel, plus a security deposit.Wi-Fi is free throughout the hotel, although it can be spotty at times. A computer is set up in the lobby for guests to use.