Hotel Luar

The Hotel Luar makes an attractive first impression, particularly when viewed from behind, where shelved balconies and angular detailing are surrounded by lush green lawns. In fact, the outdoor spaces here are quite lovely -- unfortunately, the style inside the hotel is dated. The lobby is large, with a similar geometric style to the hotel's exterior, centered around an octagonal water feature, plus several pockets of sofas and armchairs. Views reach right across the bay to Lagos, and guests can watch the sun set over the ocean. Perhaps its greatest asset is its location -- with a front entrance on the main road through Praia de Rocha, and gardens backing onto the beachfront path. The hotel has a quiet setting that's just far enough away from the nightlife of Praia da Rocha, and the atmosphere is relaxed throughout. Depending on the season, you're liable to see either mature couples or families here. 

Hotel Luar is located at the western end of Praia da Rocha, right on the seafront road and a one-minute walk from the steps down to the beach. This part of town is just slightly removed from the busier areas, though the bars and restaurants along the main drag are only a few minutes away by car. It's about a 20-minute walk along the beach promenade to the marina at the other end of town. There's a bus stop within a 10-minute walk of the hotel that connects to central Portimao in 30 minutes, or the same trip can be made in five minutes by car. Lagos -- a harbor town that has way more charm than Portimao -- is about a 30-minute drive away, and Faro's airport takes 50 minutes to reach by car. Budget around two and a half hours to reach Lisbon and its airport.

Rooms are fairly spacious and come in basic twin or double configurations. All feature a balcony, though the layout of the hotel -- in a U shape -- means that there are limited ocean-facing rooms. With that in mind some have partial ocean views while others look onto the town or other rooms. Decor is dated and the floral curtains are a bit chintzy -- particularly alongside the mid-tone wood furniture -- but there's an ample amount of storage space. Standard features include flat-screen TVs (though these are small and hidden in the wardrobe), air-conditioning, desks, mini-fridges with a small selection of minibar drinks, and safes -- which require a fee. Unfortunately, Wi-Fi isn't free in rooms and the signal is weak. Extra beds for children can be arranged. Bathrooms are tired and showing wear, though all feature shower/tub combos, toiletries, and towels.

Hotel Luar has a large outdoor are that includes a kids' pool, a main pool with a mushroom waterfall, and a patio area with loungers and table seating. Food is available from the cafe throughout the day, either by the pool or inside where there's also a bar with sofas, vending machines, TVs, and a large screen that shows sporting events. The daily buffet breakfast is a bit of a let down, and previous guests have been especially disappointed in the lack of fruit. There's a separate TV and chill-out area off the lobby with pockets of comfy chairs, sofas, and some board games. Wi-Fi is free here, though it can be slow (and costs extra in rooms). The reception desk is manned 24 hours a day and offers useful services such as laundry and transfers.