Janelas do Mar Apartments

This apartment-style hotel is housed in three white-washed nine-story buildings that don't look much different from the countless aparthotels that dot the suburbs around Albufeira. Janelas do Mar is on the cheap-and-cheerful end of the spectrum, and travelers shouldn't expect much in the way of style or polish. The hotel offers games and entertainment throughout, including in the lobby, which has a pool table, table tennis, and arcade games. A mini-golf course sits in the middle of the buildings. The lobby also has wicker sofas and chairs where guests can hang out, a hint as to the dated decor found throughout the hotel. Large windows allow in plenty of natural light, but the space isn't particularly warm or welcoming. Overall, the hotel looks rather tired and dated, though it's decent enough for those who plan to be out exploring the region and basking in its abundant sunshine. The property mostly draws independent-minded couples, families, and groups looking for budget accommodations in a decent location. 

The hotel is located on a hilltop in a quiet residential area about a 10-minute drive outside Albufeira's old town, which has its own beach. Alternatively, Oura Beach is about a 10-minute drive away as well. A supermarket is within walking distance, and The Strip can be reached in about 15 minutes on foot for those who want to partake in the area's boozier trappings. Zoomarine Algarve is about 10 minutes away by car, and trips can be arranged through reception. A bus stop is close by for trips into town and the beach, though the hotel runs a free shuttle in high season. Faro Airport is about 35 minutes southeast of the hotel, and it's a two-hour-and-15-minute drive to Lisbon and its airport. 

The hotel offers studios plus one- and two-bedroom apartments, all with kitchenettes and balconies or terraces. Decor is dated and plain, with white tile floors and white walls. The few pops of color come from peach accent walls and blue upholstery. Oak furniture has a dorm-like quality, and less-inspiring maintenance issues include cupboard doors that look tenuously attached (at least when we visited). Two twin beds in living areas double as sofas, with blue bedspreads and back cushions. Beds in bedrooms also are twin size. Kitchenettes include microwaves, toasters, sinks, mini-fridges, stoves, and kettles for tea and coffee. Supplies for cooking and dining also are provided. Other amenities include mostly flat-screen TVs and safes, though the latter cost extra. There is no Wi-Fi in rooms and air-conditioning isn't offered. Bathrooms are in need of a refresh, as they show mildew and rust stains, and fixtures are old. Balconies are furnished with plastic chairs and a small table. Some have nice views of the sea in the distance. 

Although the hotel lacks style, it does offer plenty of recreation options. Its two outdoor pools are both large and suitable for swimming laps. Lots of lounge chairs surround them, but there are no umbrellas. A few trees provide a little shade, as do the buildings. There's also a smaller pool for the kids, plus an indoor pool and whirlpool. Large windows provide natural light and views of the outdoor pool. Other recreational options on-site include a multi-sports court, a fitness center (fee), table tennis, and mini-golf. For the kids, there's a sandy outdoor playground with swings, a slide, and a seesaw, but they are all quite dated. A small indoor games room offers a pool table and arcade games. A convenience store sells food items, snacks, and beverages, including beer, wine, and liquor. Another shop sells beach supplies, clothing, souvenirs, and gifts. An internet corner in the lobby has computers set up for guests to use for a fee, plus a massage chair. 

A coffee shop by the pool has indoor and outdoor seating. There's also a bar by the pool with indoor seating plus pool and air hockey tables, table tennis, and a TV. There's another bar inside that hosts karaoke a few nights a week. A buffet breakfast is served daily for a fee. Wi-Fi is available in public areas for free and parking is free as well.